Cohesion and coherence: connect sentences without hiding the logic

🔗 A paragraph can be cohesive but still incoherent

Therefore, however, moreover create visible links, but they cannot repair ideas that do not follow. Coherence is the meaningful progression of the argument; cohesion is the language that helps readers track it.

Tools for cohesion

• Reference: pronouns and demonstratives need an unmistakable antecedent.
• Lexical chains: repeat a key term or use a precise related expression.
• Given–new order: begin with shared information, then add the new point.
• Connectors: mark contrast, cause, concession, example or result accurately.

⚠️ Avoid connector inflation

Not every sentence needs a linking adverb. Sometimes repeating the subject or using a clear cause–effect verb is more precise.

Example revision

Weak: The city added buses. However, ridership rose. If the second fact supports the first, use As a result; if it is surprising despite a limitation, state that limitation before however.