Connectors

Connectors are words that link together full clauses, sentences and ideas. Let's look at two types of connectors; conjunctive adverbs and sequencers.

Conjunctive Adverbs

These are adverbs that connect two independent clauses. There are two main forms for you to master (these are not the only way to use these words, but the best in academic writing). 

1. The adverb comes after a semi-colon or comma. 

Young people are adapting quickly to the rate of technological progress; conversely, many older people are struggling. 

2. A conjunctive adverb can also introduce a single main clause. You need a comma to separate the adverb from the rest of the sentence.

Young people are adapting quickly to the rate of technological progress. Conversely, many older people are struggling.

Here is a list of common conjunctive adverbs. In bold I have given the function of the adverbs.

To show the result

Therefore / Consequently

To provide more information

In addition / Additionally

Also

To Compare

Similarly

In comparison (to)

To contrast

However

In contrast / Conversely

To state an unexpected result

Instead (of)

Otherwise 

⇨ Look at these examples.

The internet is often lauded as one of man’s greatest inventions; however, not all of the effects of this new technology have been beneficial.

Fast food can lead to obesity; therefore, children should be discouraged from eating it. 

The government shouldn’t waste money investing in the arts. Instead, it should invest more money in public services. 

The internet provides cheaper opportunities for students from developing countries to access quality education. In contrast, traditional educational institutions are becoming more expensive.

The cost of international transport has dropped over the last few decades; consequently, more people can afford to move abroad.

Steps need to be taken to tackle global warming now; otherwise, future generations will suffer the consequences.

Sequencers

To build an argument, you need to link your points together. Here are the words you need:

To introduce your first point

Firstly

First of all

To introduce your second point

Secondly

To connect your points

Furthermore

Moreover

To introduce relatively important points

More importantly

To show your most important point

Above all

To introduce your final point

Finally

⇨ Look at how these sequencers are used in this passage about solar energy.

What are the factors in favour of solar energy? First of all, solar energy is renewable because there will always be sunlight. Secondly, solar energy is reliable as the sun shines every day and the solar panels are dependable. Furthermore, solar panels offer individuals energy independence as companies cannot monopolise the usage of sunlight. Most importantly, solar energy is clean as it produces virtually no greenhouse gases. This not only results in cleaner air, but helps to mitigate the disastrous effects of global warming and help to save the planet. Finally, solar energy is likely to save individuals money over a long period of time. Once the cells have been paid for, the energy generated is then virtually free.

My ebook 'IELTS Essay Writing'  contains exercises to go with this lesson - Click here -  https://ieltsdavid.com/shop/ols/products/ielts-essay-writing-by-david-richards