Are you also working on your skills for the IELTS? Then, you need to know about linking words for IELTS that can have a great impact on your band score. These words will assist you in improving your writing as well as your speaking skills. In addition, it is not hard to ace them if you do regular practice with an IELTS writing mock test online. So, let’s find out what these words are and how they can help you.
Meaning of Linking Words or Connectors
The English grammar has several groups of words that serve different functions. One such variety of terms is called linking words or connectors. As the name suggests, these are terms that help you connect sentences, ideas or paragraphs with each other. These connectors also enhance the quality of your work. Moreover, these linking terms are also important when you are taking proficiency tests such as the IELTS. Hence, it is vital that you are aware of linking words for IELTS, their functions and types.
Function of Linking Words in IELTS
The IELTS is a crucial exam for those planning on studying or working abroad. Thus, you need to fathom its structure and criteria to ace the test. In addition, the following are some other uses of connectors:
In the writing section, you will need connectors for task 1 to
· showcase the features of different visuals
· compare and contrast the main trends
· highlight any details from the visuals
Similarly, the connectors for task 2 will help you
· express your opinion
· move from one paragraph to the other
· give reasons
· give different examples
· explain the results from different situations, etc.
Next, take a look at some of the different types of linkers that you can use.
Types of Linking Words in IELTS
The group of connecting words is further bifurcated into several categories depending on the situation they are used in or denote. Hence, the following are some types and examples of linkers that will help you improve the quality of your language:
Contrast
If you want to highlight two opposing ideas or differences, then you can use these connectors. For example: however, whereas, while, in spite of, etc.
Listing
To denote the order of things or list down something, you make use of connecting words of this type. These include terms such as first, next, third, finally, etc.
Addition
These linkers help you add extra details or ideas. These terms will also aid you in expanding an idea that you have stated before. These include terms like, and, also, in addition, etc.
Reason
If you want to give the reasons or cause of something you can use these connectors. These inculcate the following since, because, due to, for, etc.
Clarification
The linking words for IELTS that you can use to ensure that the idea or message you want to give is clear belong to this type. These are terms such as, what I mean, as I was saying, etc.
Conclusion
Giving a proper closing to your ideas is crucial in the IELTS. Hence, these linking words can help you give your writing or discussion closure. These are words like, in a nutshell, to sum up, all in all, etc.
Process
These are connectors in IELTS that help you link the steps of a process with each other. Some of the words that come in this group are, initially, next step, after that, etc.
Examples
Making use of examples is vital if you want to keep the interest of the examiner. Hence, these words can help you give instances in a proper way. You can use words like, such as, for example, namely, etc.
Comparison
If you want to show how two things are similar to each other you can use these linking words. They will help you point out what makes them the same. For example: likewise, unlike, whereas, etc.
Alternatives
These linkers for IELTS are used to show different choices or possibilities. Some of the examples of these are instead, otherwise, rather than, etc.
Importance of Linking Words in IELTS
While prepping for the IELTS, you should know that the linkers are very essential for this test. Hence, the following are some of the reasons to prove this:
· Coherence: This is one of the parameters to assess the test takers. If you are not able to express your idea in a logical manner you will not get higher scores. Moreover, connectors for IELTS aid with the cohesion of thoughts making it easier to fathom them.
· Variety: When you use different connectors, it further shows your enhanced word power. It also shows that you are quite flexible and have the ability to use English.
· Clarity: Linkers also help you to covey your message clearly. They further ensure that the connection between different ideas is clear.
Now take a look at some of the tips by experts to use the linking words.
Tips to Ace the Use of Linking Words
These are some of the tips that you can utilize when adding linking words during the test:
· Use different types of linkers, instead of repeating the same one.
· The connector must align with the context and meaning of the sentence.
· Do not overuse them, as it may sound unnatural.
· To use them properly, take regular practice with the IELTS mock test before the exam.
· In writing, make sure to review the work to spot any errors.
Conclusion
On the whole, using linkers for IELTS will make your language more cohesive and clear. It will further keep the flow of the text smooth, keeping the examiner engaged. In addition to this, if you need more advice for taking the IELTS exam, you can connect with the expert mentors at Gradding. They can provide you with personal feedback and tips to work on your weak areas. Also, they have a range of resources and materials for test preparation such as an IELTS reading mock test and others.
