Understanding Linking Words and How to Use Them
Linking words are essential for clear and concise writing. They help you to connect your ideas and make your writing flow smoothly. However, if you don't use them correctly, they can actually make your writing more confusing.
In this post, we’ll discuss the different types of linking words and how to use them correctly. Then we’ll give you some examples of how linking words can be used in different types of writing.
Types of Linking Words
There are many different types of linking words, but they can be divided into two main categories:
Coherence linking words: These words help to connect your ideas and make your writing flow smoothly. They include words like "however," "in addition," and "therefore."
Consequence linking words: These words show the relationship between two ideas. They include words like "because," "as a result," and "so."
How to Use Linking Words Correctly
The key to using linking words correctly is to choose the right word for the job. You need to consider the relationship between the two ideas you are trying to connect.
For example, if you want to show that two ideas are related, you could use a coherence linking word like "also" or "in addition." If you want to show that one idea is the result of another, you could use a consequence linking word like "because" or "as a result."
It is also important to use linking words in the right place. You should usually place them at the beginning of the clause or sentence that they are connecting.
For example, you could write:
I went to the store. I bought some milk.
or
I went to the store because I needed to buy some milk.
In the first sentence, the two clauses are not connected. In the second sentence, the linking word "because" shows the relationship between the two clauses.
Examples of Linking Words in Different Types of Writing
Here are some examples of how linking words can be used in different types of writing:
In an essay, you might use linking words to connect your paragraphs. For example, you could write:
In conclusion, the evidence suggests that global warming is a real and serious threat. We need to take action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect our planet.
In a business report, you might use linking words to show the relationship between different parts of your report. For example, you could write:
The results of the survey show that customers are generally satisfied with our products. However, there are some areas where we can improve, such as customer service.
In a creative writing piece, you might use linking words to create a more vivid and engaging story. For example, you could write:
The wind howled outside, rattling the windows. I was alone in the house, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. I went to the kitchen to get a glass of water, and as I passed the window, I saw a figure standing in the shadows.
As you can see, linking words are an essential part of clear and concise writing. They help you to connect your ideas and make your writing flow smoothly. By using linking words correctly, you can improve the quality of your writing and make your ideas more persuasive.