1.4.1 What is Coherence & Cohesion

Coherence refers to the clarity and logical flow of your ideas. It evaluates whether your writing makes sense as a whole and is easy for the reader to follow.

Key aspects 

• Logical Sequencing: Arranging your ideas in a logical order, so they build on one another naturally.
• Clarity of Purpose: Ensuring that each paragraph addresses a clear main idea relevant to the essay question.
• Paragraphing: Dividing your writing into clear, well-structured paragraphs, each with its own main idea and supporting details.
• Idea Development: Fully explaining and supporting your ideas with relevant examples, details, or explanations.

In short, coherence is about what you write and whether it is organized and easy to follow.

Cohesion focuses on the connections between your ideas and sentences. It evaluates how well you use linking words and other cohesive devices to create smooth transitions and relationships within and between sentences.

Key aspects of cohesion include:

• Linking Words: Using cohesive devices like and, but, because, however, moreover, etc., to link ideas effectively.
• Referencing and Substitution: Using pronouns (e.g., he, it, this), definite articles (e.g., the), or synonyms to avoid unnecessary repetition.
• Consistency: Avoiding overuse or misuse of cohesive devices, which can make your writing awkward or unclear.

In essence, cohesion is about how you write and whether your sentences and ideas are smoothly connected.