Mistake #10 - Overusing Cohesion Devices (Mechanical Feel)
Excessive connectors = robotic writing.
❌ Example
“Firstly… Secondly… Thirdly… Additionally… Furthermore… In conclusion…”
All in one essay = mechanical = Band-6.
🎯 Why Examiners Penalise This
IELTS explicitly states:
“Over-use of cohesive devices may make the writing mechanical.”
✅ Band-8 Fix Method: “Implicit Cohesion”
Most cohesion should come from:
- logical sequencing
- pronoun referencing
- repetition of key terms
- parallel structure
✔ Quick Checklist
- Does each connector add meaning?
- Can cohesion be achieved without explicit devices?
Continue to the next part of the series.
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📖 Series Navigation: IELTS Writing in Action — The Smart Way to Band 8+
- Part 1 — Top 10 Fatal IELTS Writing Mistakes
- Part 2 — Task Response: Avoid These Common Errors
- Part 3 — Top IELTS Grammar Pitfalls
- Part 4 — Vocabulary Misuse: Words That Hurt Your Score
- Part 5 — Coherence & Cohesion: Make Your Essay Flow
- Part 6 — IELTS Essay Types: How to Approach Each One Smartly
- Part 7 — Sentence Structure: Writing Naturally and Clearly
- Part 8 — Paraphrasing: Avoid Common Pitfalls
- Part 9 — Tone & Academic Style: Sound Band 8+ Formal and Clear
- Part 10 — Practice & Revision: Build a Smart IELTS Writing Routine
Use this navigation to jump between parts of the series and **master IELTS Writing step by step**.