IELTS Writing Task 2 Linking Words for Band 7–8 (With Examples)
Short answer: Linking words alone do not raise your IELTS score — Band 7 Coherence requires clear paragraph structure plus varied, accurate cohesive devices used only where they add logic, not in every sentence.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
Table of Contents
- Why Linkers Are Not Enough
- Adding & Sequencing
- Contrasting & Conceding
- Examples & Results
- Concluding
- Band 6 vs Band 7 Cohesion
- 20 to Use, 5 to Limit
- FAQ
Structure first: Task 2 essay structure. Then upgrade cohesion below.
Why Linking Words Alone Do Not Raise Your Score
Examiners mark Coherence & Cohesion — not linker count. A Band 6 essay with Moreover in every sentence stays Band 6. Band 7 needs:
- One main idea per paragraph
- Logical order of ideas
- Mix of linking, reference, and substitution
Adding Information and Sequencing
| Word/phrase | Example |
|---|---|
| In addition | In addition, remote work reduces commuting stress. |
| Another | Another benefit is lower office costs. |
| Firstly / Secondly | Use sparingly in body paragraphs |
| Similarly | Similarly, rural clinics face staffing shortages. |
Contrasting and Conceding
| Word/phrase | Example |
|---|---|
| However | However, flexibility can blur work-life boundaries. |
| Although | Although costs rise initially, long-term savings are significant. |
| While | While some favour bans, others prefer taxation. |
| Despite | Despite this policy, emissions remained high. |
Giving Examples and Showing Results
| Word/phrase | Example |
|---|---|
| For example | For example, Nordic cities invest heavily in cycling lanes. |
| For instance | For instance, tuition fees fund research infrastructure. |
| Therefore | Therefore, governments should prioritise public transport. |
| As a result | As a result, air quality improved within two years. |
Concluding
| Word/phrase | Example |
|---|---|
| In conclusion | In conclusion, balanced regulation benefits both sides. |
| Overall | Overall, the advantages outweigh the drawbacks. |
| To sum up | Acceptable; do not combine three conclusion phrases |
Band 6 vs Band 7 Cohesion Comparison
Band 6 paragraph opening:
Furthermore, technology is important. Moreover, people use phones. Furthermore, this is bad.
Band 7 rewrite:
Technology simplifies many daily tasks. However, constant notifications can reduce concentration. For example, office workers report frequent interruptions during deep work.
20 Linking Words to Use (and 5 to Stop Overusing)
Use (with variety): however, therefore, although, while, in addition, for example, similarly, consequently, despite, overall, in contrast, as a result, namely, alternatively, thus, meanwhile, in particular, on the other hand, in conclusion, such
Limit (often overused): furthermore, moreover, in this day and age, it is undeniable, on the one hand… on the other hand (in every essay)
Frequently Asked Questions
How many linking words per essay?
No fixed number — aim for natural connections; 6–10 different devices in 280 words is typical for Band 7.
Are informal linkers OK?
Avoid Also at sentence start too often; And/But at start is acceptable occasionally in modern formal writing but do not overuse.
Do linkers help Task 1?
Yes — especially for trends (however, similarly, respectively).
Check your Cohesion score — free Task 2 scoring.
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