Coherence and cohesion

Many linking words do not mean the essay progresses.

Coherence is about whether the reader can follow the sequence of ideas; cohesion is about how sentences and paragraphs connect.

Short answer: fix the relationship between ideas first, then choose the linking device.

Wrong relationship marker

Therefore is used without cause-effect; however is used without contrast.

Unclear reference

This, they, or it points to an unclear noun, so the reader has to guess.

Paragraph topic drift

Each sentence is readable, but the paragraph does not move around one central topic.

Real IELTS essay diagnosis

First of all, technology saves a lot of time in our daily life. For example, when we go to a new place, we do not need to ask people or remember the way, we just use the map App on the phone. Besides, we can pay by phone, buy things online and talk with friend…

Marked line: where the diagnosis located the main blocker in this learner-written essay.Coherence & cohesion 6

Main blocker

Body paragraph role is unclear

6–7conservative band range

268 words

Sample diagnostic, not an official IELTS score.

Diagnose my IELTS essay first View the full sample report

Why mechanical cohesion caps the score

The criteria consider progression, accurate cohesive devices, clear reference, and paragraph focus. Mechanical linking makes blockers more visible.

Ask the relationship before choosing the word

Before linking, decide whether the next sentence adds, contrasts, explains a cause, shows a result, gives an example, or returns to the stance.

Sentence relationship
Paragraph focus
Essay progression

What to revise next

If the essay uses many linking words but still feels loose, remove them temporarily and check whether each sentence naturally follows the previous one.

FAQ

What problem does Linking mistakes solve?

Coherence is about whether the reader can follow the sequence of ideas; cohesion is about how sentences and paragraphs connect.

What evidence should I check first for Linking mistakes?

Therefore is used without cause-effect; however is used without contrast.

What should I redo after reading Linking mistakes?

This, they, or it points to an unclear noun, so the reader has to guess. Before linking, decide whether the next sentence adds, contrasts, explains a cause, shows a result, gives an example, or returns to the stance.

Is Linking mistakes an AI essay checker?

Banfen Writing focuses on targeted score-gap repair. Use a real essay to pinpoint your conservative band range, core blockers, text evidence, and next revision steps.

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