Mastering Linking Words for IELTS and TOEFL Speaking Exams

In the journey of mastering English for the IELTS and TOEFL Speaking Exams, the art of using linking words can play a pivotal role. Not only do they help create coherence and fluency in your speech, but they also showcase your ability to logically connect ideas, a skill highly valued in the exam. In fact, it is one of the criteria that examiners look out for in both exams. This blog post aims to guide you through the effective use of linking words, elevating your speaking skills for a higher score.

What Are Linking Words

Linking words, also known as transition words or connectors, are used to link different ideas in your speech. They help create a natural flow, making your speech sound more fluent and well-structured. Examples include ‘however’, ‘furthermore’, ‘consequently’, and ‘meanwhile’. Understanding the context in which to use these words is crucial for effective communication.

Categories of Linking Words

Linking words can be categorized based on their function:

Category	Function	Example
Additive	Introducing additional information or similar ideas.	and, also, moreover, furthermore, in addition, likewise, similarly
Contrastive	Showing contrast, contradiction, or unexpected results.	but, however, although, though, whereas, while, on the contrary, on the other hand, despite, in spite of, nevertheless, nonetheless
Causal	Indicating cause, effect, or reasons.	because, so, therefore, thus, consequently, hence, as a result, due to
Sequential	Providing order, sequence, or a timeline of events.	first, second, third, then, next, finally, after, afterwards, subsequently, previously
Conclusive	Summarizing or indicating a conclusion.	in conclusion, to sum up, in summary, overall, thus, therefore
Comparative	Drawing comparisons or highlighting similarities.	similarly, likewise, in the same way, equally, just as
Exemplifying	Giving examples to clarify a point.	for example, for instance, such as, like, in particular, to illustrate
Emphasizing	Underlining or stressing the importance of something.	indeed, in fact, obviously, clearly, importantly, notably
Clarifying	Making something clear or easier to understand.	in other words, that is to say, to clarify, to explain, to put it another way

How to Use Linking Words Effectively

To use linking words effectively:

1. Understand the Context: Ensure the linking word fits the context of your sentence.
2. Avoid Overuse: Overusing linking words can make your speech sound mechanical. Use them judiciously.
3. Vary Your Choices: Use a variety of linking words to demonstrate a wide range of vocabulary.
4. Practice: Regular practice in different speaking scenarios can help you become more comfortable using these words naturally.

How to Practice Using Linking Words

Section 4: Practice Exercises

1. Fill in the Blanks: Practice sentences where you fill in the blanks with appropriate linking words.
2. Rephrasing: Take simple sentences and rephrase them using linking words.
3. Mock Speaking Sessions: Use linking words in simulated speaking sessions, focusing on fluency and coherence.

Try these practice exercises using linking words

Linking Words Practice Exercises and Answers 1

Linking Words Practice Exercises and Answers 2

Don’t Forget to Use Linking Words

Linking words is a small yet significant part of your speaking toolkit for the IELTS and TOEFL Speaking Exams. By understanding and practising their use, you can greatly improve the coherence and complexity of your speech for a higher score. Remember, practice and familiarity with these words will make their use more natural and effective.

If you found this post helpful then check out our other Grammar Study Guides