Linking words show how one idea connects to another: addition, contrast, reason, result, example or sequence. In IELTS Writing Task 2 and Speaking, choose a linking word only when the relationship is real, punctuate it correctly, and avoid using one in every sentence.
What linking words do
A linking word tells the reader how two ideas relate. Without it, the reader has to guess. With the wrong one, the reader is misled. This is why accuracy matters more than the number of linking words you use.
In IELTS, clear links help the reader follow your argument. They are part of the coherence of an answer, but they are not a list to repeat. A paragraph can be very clear with only two or three well-chosen links, and a paragraph with a link in every sentence usually sounds mechanical.
The main types
Group linking words by the job they do. Learn two or three in each group, and use them well.
Many of these words work differently in grammar. Some are conjunctions (but, because, although), and they join clauses. Others are linking adverbs (however, therefore, moreover), and they begin a new sentence or follow a semicolon. A few, such as despite, because of and due to, are prepositions and need a noun phrase after them.
- Addition: in addition, also, moreover, furthermore
- Contrast: however, although, whereas, in contrast, on the other hand
- Reason: because, since, as, due to
- Result: therefore, as a result, consequently, so
- Example: for example, for instance, such as
- Sequence and summary: first, then, finally, in conclusion
Punctuation and position
Linking adverbs at the start of a sentence are followed by a comma: However, the cost is high. As a result, fewer people drive. In the middle of a sentence, put them between two commas or after a semicolon: The cost is high; however, many people still pay it.
Conjunctions do not need a comma after them. Although the cost is high, many people still pay it. The comma comes at the end of the dependent clause, not after although.
Do not join two full sentences with only a comma and a linking adverb. The cost is high, however, many people still pay it is a comma splice. Use a full stop or semicolon before however.
Using them accurately
Check the meaning first. However, but and although show contrast, so they must join two ideas that really contrast. Therefore and as a result show a result, so the second idea must be a consequence of the first. Moreover and in addition add a similar point, and they do not fit a contrast.
Then check the form. Despite and in spite of need a noun or an -ing form (Despite the cost, Despite being expensive), and not a full clause. Because of and due to need a noun phrase. Because and although need a full clause. On the contrary does not mean on the other hand; it denies the previous statement and is rare.
A last check is for fixed phrases. Say in contrast or by contrast, not on contrast. Say in conclusion or to conclude, not at conclusion. Say for example, not by example.
Avoiding overuse
Many learners memorise a list and put one in every sentence: Firstly, Secondly, Moreover, In addition, Furthermore. This makes the writing sound mechanical, and it can hide weak ideas. Use a linking word when the connection is not already obvious, and leave it out when the order of ideas is clear.
A good test is to remove the linking word and read the two sentences. If the meaning is the same, you may not need it. Another way to link is to repeat a key word or use a pronoun, such as this trend or these problems, which keeps the paragraph smooth without adding a linker.
Linking in Speaking
In speech, linking sounds different. Because, so, but, and, although and which carry most of the work: I like my city because it is small, although it can feel boring. Natural phrases such as for example, as well as, to be honest and actually are helpful when they come at the right moment.
Avoid formal written links like furthermore or consequently in a conversation, since they sound unnatural. Keep your speech smooth with short linking words, and pause instead of filling gaps with the same word again and again.
Who finds this hard?
- Chinese speakers: Chinese often uses paired linking words and joins clauses with commas, so learners double up conjunctions or join full sentences with only a comma.
- Arabic speakers: Arabic often joins ideas with and, so learners may write long chains and skip varied linking words.
IELTS tip
In Writing Task 2, use a few well-chosen linking words where the relationship is not obvious, and check punctuation after each one. In Speaking, rely on because, so, but, although and which to extend your answers, and add for example when you give an example.
Frequently asked questions
How many linking words should I use in an essay?
There is no set number. Use one when the relationship between ideas is not already clear, and avoid putting one in every sentence.
Is however the same as but?
Both show contrast, but however starts a new sentence and is followed by a comma, while but joins two clauses in one sentence.
Can I use firstly and secondly?
Yes, but do not use them mechanically. Often a topic sentence is a clearer way to organise your ideas.
Do linking words matter in Speaking?
Yes. Short links such as because, although and which keep your answers connected. Formal written links sound unnatural in speech.
Sources
- Swan, M. (2016). Practical English Usage (4th ed.). Oxford University Press.
- Biber, D., Johansson, S., Leech, G., Conrad, S. and Finegan, E. (1999). Longman Grammar of Spoken and Written English. Longman.
- Carter, R. and McCarthy, M. (2006). Cambridge Grammar of English. Cambridge University Press.