Writing cohesively
Good academic writing has a clear flow. Each phrase or sentence is linked to those that come before and after. Let's explore what makes academic writing cohesive.
Write cohesively by using:
- Organic structure: used as the basis for paragraph organisation.
- Cohesive devices: repetition, substitution, and linking words are then used to further enhance the flow.
- Avoid ambiguity: good sentence structure prevents confusion.
These strategies help to build a 'lexical chain', which creates a natural flow.
Organic structure
An organic structure is used as the basis for paragraph organisation. Each new point relates either directly to the last part of the previous point, or back to the main idea.
Read the following paragraph, then open the Organic structure example folder to see how each sentence complements other sentences in the paragraph.
Complete paragraph
Screen reader users, this text uses visual highlights to indicate different features of the text. Each highlight is explained for your convenience.
In recent years, researchers have identified two main types of environmental sustainability strategies: mitigation and adaptation.1 As Nguyen (2021) highlights, mitigation strategies aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through the use of renewable energy sources.2 Adaptation strategies, on the other hand, focus on adjusting to climate impacts, such as developing drought-resistant crops (Patel, 2022).3 However, the line between these strategies is not always clear-cut.4 For example, Garcia (2023) points out that urban green spaces can help both reduce heat and adapt cities to climate change.5 This overlap challenges the traditional separation of sustainability strategies, showing their complexity and interconnectedness.6
Paragraph structure example
Sentence 1: Introduces the two main types of environmental sustainability strategies, setting the context for the paragraph.
Sentence 1: Introduces the two main types of environmental sustainability strategies, setting the context for the paragraph.
Sentence 2 (relates to Sentence 1): Explains mitigation strategies with an example of reducing emissions, building on the first type introduced.
Sentence 3 (relates to Sentence 1): Describes adaptation strategies with an example, expanding on the second type mentioned.
Sentence 4 (relates to Sentence 1): Notes the unclear distinction between the two strategies, connecting back to the initial introduction.
Sentence 5 (relates to Sentence 4): Provides an example of initiatives serving both strategies, reinforcing the blurred lines mentioned in Sentence 4.
Sentence 6 (relates to Sentence 5): Concludes by highlighting the challenge of categorisation, linking back to the overall theme of interconnected strategies.
Cohesive devices
Here are some of the cohesive devices that can be used to create greater cohesion in your writing.
Keyword and phrases
Keywords and concepts should connect the topic and linking sentences in each paragraph to the next. This can be done through the repetition of keywords or terms, and by using synonyms (words and phrases that have a similar meaning).
Linking words and phrases
Using linking words and phrases explains to your reader the connection between your ideas. For example, some linking words and phrases show contrast (e.g. however, in spite of), while others show addition (e.g. additionally, moreover) and others introduce examples (e.g. to illustrate, for example).
For more information, visit the Linking words page.
Demonstrative adjectives
This, that, these and those are used to refer to something that has previously been mentioned. For example:
- Pemberton (2023) describes a system that could be implemented into the education of high school students. This system has many benefits.
Relative pronouns
Words such as which, that, who and where are relative pronouns. They are used to link parts of a sentence together, creating cohesion in the sentence. In the following example, the first part of the sentence mentions micromanagement. Later, which also refers to micromanagement:
- Micromanagement is a management style which can lead to inefficiencies and high turnover rates in an organisation.
Example of language features and cohesion
In the following paragraph, the language features that give the paragraph cohesion are highlighted.
Screen reader users, this text uses visual highlights to indicate different features of the text. Each highlight is explained for your convenience.
The integration of technology2Screen reader users, this is a key word. in contemporary art and design has transformed traditional practices, creating new opportunities for innovation2Screen reader users, this is a key word.. Artists and designers now have access to digital tools2Screen reader users, this is a key phrase. that4Screen reader users, this is a relative pronoun. allow for greater experimentation and expression. For instance1Screen reader users, this is a linking phrase., 3D printing2Screen reader users, this is a key phrase., which4Screen reader users, this is a relative pronoun. is a revolutionary technology2Screen reader users, this is a key phrase., enables the creation of intricate sculptures that4Screen reader users, this is a relative pronoun. were previously unimaginable. According to Nguyen (2020), this3Screen reader users, this is a demonstrative adjective. technology2Screen reader users, this is a key word. has allowed artists to push the boundaries of form and function in unprecedented ways. Consequently1Screen reader users, this is a linking word., this3Screen reader users, this is a demonstrative adjective. technological advancement2Screen reader users, this is a key phrase. not only broadens the scope of artistic possibilities but also challenges conventional boundaries.
Avoid ambiguity
By using clear sentence structures with well-defined subjects and objects, and providing specific information, you can remove ambiguity from your writing, which improves the flow and meaning of your text.
Example 1: Clarify pronouns
Clarify pronouns: In the original sentence, it is not clear who he refers to. The revised sentences uses a more specific term instead of he to avoid ambiguity.
Wrong Original
The manager organised a performance review meeting with the staff member but he did not attend.
Right Revised
The manager organised a performance review meeting with the staff member but the staff member did not attend.
Example 2: Who did what?
The passive voice is frequently used in academic writing to avoid mentioning who or what performed an action. However, in some cases it is necessary to mention the agent to avoid ambiguity or confusion.
Wrong Original
After the initial testing, feedback was provided.
Right Revised
After the initial testing, feedback was provided by the lead scientist.
Example 3: Be specific
Avoid vague terms like many, a lot, few, etc. Give your reader more specific information so that they won't misinterpret your meaning.
Wrong Original
Some of the test subjects were unable to complete the task.
Right Revised
A third of the test subjects were unable to complete the task.
