Academic Writing – Cohesion & Coherence

A. Cohesion: Creating Links Between Ideas
Cohesion in academic writing refers to the seamless connection between different parts of a text, ensuring that ideas are linked in a manner that facilitates reader comprehension. One of the primary tools for achieving cohesion is the use of transition words and phrases, such as “however,” “therefore,” and “in addition,” which help to signal the relationship between sentences and paragraphs. These linguistic connectors guide readers through the narrative, indicating contrasts, causations, or additions to the argument. Additionally, the repetition of key terms throughout the text reinforces central themes and concepts, fostering a sense of unity and continuity. Pronoun reference further enhances cohesion by substituting pronouns for previously mentioned nouns, thereby reducing redundancy and maintaining a smooth flow of information. Collectively, these cohesive devices contribute to a text’s readability by linking ideas in a coherent and understandable way.
B. Coherence: Logical Flow of Ideas
While cohesion focuses on the connection between textual elements, coherence pertains to the logical progression of ideas throughout the text. Coherence is achieved through clear topic sentences that define the main idea of each paragraph, providing a roadmap for the reader to follow. These sentences set the stage for the subsequent discussion, ensuring that each paragraph contributes meaningfully to the overall argument. Consistent argument structure is another critical component of coherence, as it ensures that ideas are presented in a systematic and organised manner. This involves the logical sequencing of claims, evidence, and analysis, allowing readers to easily track the development of the writer’s thesis. Appropriate paragraph organisation also plays a vital role in maintaining coherence, as it ensures that each section of the text builds logically upon the previous one. By adhering to these principles, writers can craft academic texts that not only present information clearly but also engage readers through a well-structured and persuasive narrative.