Linking Words for IELTS Writing Task 2

The linking words list below is essential for IELTS writing task 2 for high score. The examiner needs to see a range of linking words in your essay to award you a high score for the criterion of Coherence and Cohesion which is 25% of your marks. You will be checked on your range, accuracy and your flexibility of linking words in IELTS writing task 2. These connecting words are suitable for all types of essay writing as well as GT IELTS writing task 2

Listing

This is often used to either put your paragraphs in order or used inside the paragraph to list your supporting points.

firstly

secondly

thirdly

fourthly

lastly /last but not least / finally

Adding Information

You will need to support your main points in your IELTS essay. These linkers inform the read that extra information is about to be presented.

in addition

additionally

furthermore

moreover

also

not only … but also

as well as

andGiving Examples

It is often useful to give examples to support your ideas in IELTS writing task 2. Make sure you use this range of linking words to do so.

for example

one clear example is

for instance

such as

namely

to illustrate

in other wordsTo learn how to put examples in sentences for essay writing, please follow this link: How to Add Examples to Essays.

Results and Consequences

These linking devices can be used for solution essays or any essay when you need to explain the consequences of something.

as a result

consequently

therefore

thus

hence

so

for this reasonHighlighting and Stressing

It is important to be clear about what you mean in your essay. These linking words help you stress particular points.

particularly

in particular

specifically

especially

obviously

of course

clearly

Concessions and Contrasts

You often need to give opposite ideas, particularly for discussion essays so the linking words below will help you show the reader when you want to introduce an opposite point. Also you might want to give exceptions to a rule for a concession.

admittedly

however

nevertheless

even though

although

but

despite

in spite of

still

on the other hand

by contrast

in comparison

alternatively

another option could beReasons and Causes

These connecting words will help you explain reasons and causes for something which is very common in IELTS writing task 2, especially for cause / solution essays.

because

owing to

due to

since

as

Giving your Opinion

in my opinion

I think

I believe

I admit

in my view

I concur / agree

I disagree / I cannot acceptDon’t make a mistake with the way you express your opinion. Watch this video for useful tips on giving your opinion and how to avoid mistakes: IELTS: Presenting your Opinion

Concluding Linkers

in conclusion

to conclude

to sum upTo get more tips and advice on linking words to start your IELTS conclusion, please watch this video lesson: IELTS Conclusion Linkers

Practice with Linking Words

Improve your use of linking words by fill in the gaps below with linking words from the above list.

There are a number of drawbacks to people using Facebook as a way of

communicating (1)………………… it is (2)…………….. one of the most

common social networking platforms for both individuals and

businesses.

(3)……………………….. the lack of exercise taken by average people,

obesity and other weight related problems is on the rise.

Unemployment and poverty, (4) ………….. in urban areas, is often

deemed to be the cause of rising crime rate.

(5) ……….. the rise in urban crime, more and more people continue to

move to cities looking for a better life.

More children are becoming obese and (6)…………….. schools should be

encouraged to provide more sports lessons and outdoor activities.

Answers

1. even though

2. admittedly

3. Due to / Owing to ( you can’t have “because of” because it is at the

beginning of a sentence)

4. particularly / especially / specifically

5. despite

6. therefore / so / for this reason