Part 5WritingSection 5 of 8
5.5Linking phrases that are worth using
| Function | Phrases |
|---|---|
| Adding | Furthermore, In addition, Moreover, What is more |
| Contrasting | However, On the other hand, Nevertheless, While it is true that |
| Giving reasons | This is because, The main reason is that, Owing to, As a result of |
| Showing results | Consequently, As a result, This means that, Therefore |
| Giving examples | For instance, To take one example, This can be seen in |
| Conceding | Admittedly, It is certainly true that, Although some may argue |
| Concluding | In conclusion, To sum up, Having considered both sides |
Linking words are seasoning, not food
Starting every sentence with Moreover or Firstly lowers your score rather than raising it. Examiners describe this as mechanical. Two or three well placed linkers in a paragraph is plenty. The strongest cohesion comes from ideas following each other logically, not from the words glued between them.