Placement & Style in Linking Words

Where you should put linking Words

Ahmed Abdirahman

10/1/20251 min read

Knowing different linking words is not enough; IELTS candidates must also know how to use them in sentences. Placement, punctuation, and style (formal vs. informal) all matter. A small mistake in usage can lower the clarity of writing and reduce coherence.

Placement in Sentences

Linking words can appear at the beginning, middle, or even end of sentences (Englishan, 2025).

  • Beginning: “However, many students prefer online learning.”

  • Middle: “Many students, however, prefer online learning.”

  • End: “Many students prefer online learning, however.”

Each position slightly changes the emphasis, but all are correct if punctuation is used properly.

Punctuation Rules

When a linking word starts a sentence, a comma follows it.

  • “Therefore, schools should invest in technology.”
    When it is in the middle, commas go before and after.

  • “Technology, therefore, plays an important role in education.”

Style: Formal vs. Informal

In IELTS, style is critical. Some linking words are suitable for academic writing (moreover, consequently, nevertheless), while others are fine in speaking (and, but, so). For example:

  • Academic essay: “Governments should therefore increase funding for education.”

  • Speaking: “I was tired, so I stayed at home.”

Using informal connectors in IELTS essays makes writing look casual. Conversely, overusing formal ones in speaking may sound unnatural.

Short vs. Long Expressions

Short linking words (and, but, so) are simple and clear. Long expressions (on the other hand, in addition to, as a result) add variety and sophistication. A strong IELTS candidate mixes both.

Why Placement & Style Matter in IELTS

A candidate who uses linking words correctly will score higher in coherence. Incorrect punctuation or inappropriate style (like writing kids, so, and stuff in Task 2 essays) signals weak lexical control (7ESL, 2024).

In conclusion, placement and style transform linking words from simple vocabulary into effective communication tools. The right word in the right place, with correct punctuation, demonstrates maturity in English use.

References


Englishan. (2025, September 8). Linking words in English: Definition, rules, and examples. https://englishan.com/linking-words/


7ESL. (2024, October 31). Linking words, connecting words: Full list and useful examples. https://7esl.com/linking-words/