Composing written works in English can prove to be a daunting task, particularly when attempting to convey ideas in a cohesive and lucid manner. In order to produce texts that are well-written and effectively communicative, the use of English connectors, commonly referred to as linking words, is indispensable. These connectors play a vital role in enabling writers to establish logical connections between ideas and ensure that the overall message is conveyed clearly and coherently. 

You have been hearing the word ‘link’ a lot lately, haven’t you? In Portuguese, this function is performed by conjunctions, and here we’ll have an overview of why they are important and how to use them correctly to improve your communication in English. 

Furthermore, the appropriate use of linking words can also enhance one’s performance on English proficiency exams, including the TOEFL and IELTS. These assessments evaluate not only an individual’s aptitude for comprehending spoken and written English, but also their ability to communicate ideas in a clear, unbiased, and succinct manner. As such, demonstrating proficiency in the use of English connectors can contribute significantly to achieving a favorable score on these exams. 

They can be used to show contrast, addition, cause and effect, time and sequence, among other functions. Some examples of connectors, another commonly used term for linking words, include however, moreover, because, therefore, meanwhile, and finally. 

How to use linking words in English? 

Now that we have explained what linking words are and why they are important, let’s see some examples of how to use them correctly. 

• Use linking words to show contrast 

John studied hard for the exam, however, he didn’t get a high score. 

• Use linking words to add information 

Besides studying English, Maria is also learning French. 

• Use linking words to show cause and effect 

As Maria studied hard for the exam, she was able to get a high score. 

• Use linking words to show time and sequence 

After finishing the grammar exercises, it’s time to move on to reading comprehension. 

• Use linking words to make comparisons 

Like English, Spanish is also an important language to learn. 

Tips for using linking words effectively in English 

• Don’t overuse connectors. It’s important to use connectors in a balanced way to avoid an overly loaded text 

• Understand the different types of linking words and how to use them properly. It’s important to know which linking words to use in different situations to make the text more clear and coherent. 
• Review your text to check if the connectors have been used properly. It is important to ensure that connectors have been used correctly, so that the text is well written and communicative. 

You speak English well, but still struggle with Grammar? Come and check out our Mind your Grammar – a course where you will learn more about this topic and all the others that generate most of the doubts for English speakers. This course is particularly well-suited for individuals who are preparing for a language proficiency exam or intend to pursue a career in language teaching. We invite you to contact us to learn more about how we can assist you in achieving your language learning goals.