Coherence
Coherence means sticking together. In writing we stick
our ideas together by showing how each sentence relates to the sentences
around it. If we do not clearly show the relationship between sentences,
our writing will not be clear. Writers use several devices to show the
connections between sentences.
Key Words and Synonyms
We can use key words and synonyms to show connections. Notice the bold-faced terms in the
paragraph above. They are the key expressions that tie the paragraph together.
Pronounds
Pronouns can stand in for key words. "They" in the paragraph above stands in for
"key words and synonyms"
in the previous paragraph.
Transitional Words
Transitional words and phrases reveal the type of relationship that exists between
sentences. Here are some examples of the kinds of relationship that transitional
expressions can reveal;
ILLUSTRATION: for example, for instance
ADDITION: also, moreover
RESTATEMENT: in other words
CONSEQUENCE : as a result, therefore
CONTRAST: however, but
TIME: then, afterwards, next
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