Cohesion: linking sentences and paragraphs

A cohesive piece of writing flows: each sentence and paragraph connects to the last, so the reader never gets lost. Cohesion is what turns a list of points into a clear argument or story.

Practise this lesson free (7 questions)

Cohesive devices

DeviceExample
Discourse markers (connectives)However, Furthermore, As a result, Meanwhile, Finally
Pronouns that refer backThe council closed the library. It said costs were too high.
Synonyms instead of repeating a wordthe dog ... the animal ... the terrier
Deliberate repetition of a key wordWater is precious. Water is life.
Topic sentencesThe first sentence of a paragraph says what it is about

Choosing the right connective

Different discourse markers do different jobs:
Adding: furthermore, in addition, also
Contrasting: however, on the other hand, despite this
Cause and effect: therefore, as a result, consequently
Time: later, meanwhile, eventually
Using the wrong one confuses readers: 'It was sunny. However, we went to the beach' does not make sense.

Linking paragraphs

Start a new paragraph with a sentence that looks back and forward: 'Cost is not the only problem; safety matters too.'
In stories, link paragraphs with time ('Two hours later...'), place ('Across town...') or a change of focus.
Check: watch out for unclear pronouns. In 'Ben told Sam he was late', who was late?
Worked example

Improve the cohesion: 'Mobile phones can distract pupils. Mobile phones can help pupils find information quickly.'

  1. The two ideas contrast, so add a contrasting discourse marker.
  2. Replace the repeated 'Mobile phones' with a pronoun or synonym.
  3. Check the meaning is clear.

Answer: Mobile phones can distract pupils. However, they can also help pupils find information quickly.

Key idea

Cohesion links ideas. Use discourse markers that match the job (adding, contrasting, cause and effect, time), pronouns and synonyms to avoid clumsy repetition, and topic sentences that link paragraphs.

Key words
Paragraph
A group of sentences about one idea. Start a new one when the time, place, topic or speaker changes (TiPToP).
Argument
Writing or speech that gives reasons and evidence for a view, and often answers the other side.
Repetition
Using a word, phrase or idea more than once to make it stand out.

All KS3 English key terms and definitions →

Quick check

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Extra practice

2 more questions

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  1. Which discourse marker adds a similar point?

    1. However
    2. On the other hand
    3. Nevertheless
    4. Furthermore
    Show the answer

    Answer: Furthermore

    "Furthermore" adds.

  2. Which discourse marker shows time?

    1. As a result
    2. Meanwhile
    3. For instance
    4. However
    Show the answer

    Answer: Meanwhile

    "Meanwhile" shows time.

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Sources and references

Checked by the GCSE-ready editorial team, 17 October 2026. Last updated 2 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us and we will fix it.

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