Grammar

Linking & Cohesion — Making Ideas Flow

Transitions (however, therefore, in addition) and reference words (this, it, such) are what turn separate sentences into a smooth, coherent argument.

7 min read

Key strategies

1.Use transitions to signal relationships: addition (furthermore), contrast (however), result (therefore), example (for instance).
2.Do not overload — one good linker per idea is enough; a transition in every sentence sounds mechanical.
3.Reference words (this, that, these, it, such) connect a sentence back to the previous one and avoid repetition.
4.Coherence is a scored criterion in CELPIP Writing — linkers are how the rater SEES your logic.

Two tools for flow

Transition words — signal how one idea relates to the next.
Reference words — point back to something already mentioned, so you do not repeat yourself.

A transitions toolkit

Relationship	Connectors
Adding	In addition, Furthermore, Moreover, What is more
Contrasting	However, On the other hand, Nevertheless, Although
Result	Therefore, As a result, Consequently, So
Example	For example, For instance, In particular
Concluding	In conclusion, Overall, To sum up

"The plan is expensive. However, the long-term savings are significant. Therefore, I support it."

Reference words avoid repetition

Instead of repeating a noun, point back to it:

"The council approved a new bike lane. This decision pleased commuters." (this = the approval)

Useful reference words: this, that, these, those, it, such, the former, the latter.

Do not overdo it

A linker in every sentence sounds robotic. Use them where the logic genuinely turns — to add, to contrast, to conclude.

CELPIP application

Coherence/Cohesion is explicitly part of your Writing score. Well-placed transitions make your argument easy to follow, and reference words make your writing feel mature and connected rather than list-like.

Check yourself

A quick self-check on this lesson — pick an answer, then see the explanation. Not graded.

1. Choose the best connector: "The hotel is pricey. ___, it is very central."

2. To show a RESULT: "Sales fell sharply. ___, we cut costs."

3. Which reference word fits? "The city built a park. ___ project took two years."

4. What is the risk of using a transition in every sentence?

Grow your Grammar vocabulary

The right words lift your score. Study task-specific CELPIP word lists with definitions, examples and exam tips.

All vocabulary bundles

Ready to practise for real?

Get exam-style questions, instant AI feedback on your Writing and Speaking, and a personalised path to your target CLB.

Create your free account →