The article ‘What is Coherence and Cohesion (CC) for writing task 2?‘ mentions that one key aspect of coherence and cohesion (CC) is the “flexible use of reference and substitution.” This means using pronouns and definite articles effectively to keep your writing smooth and connected. Pronouns and definite articles can be a bit complicated in English grammar, but we don’t need to master everything. Just knowing some common cases can lead to significant improvements in your writing.
Pronouns Representing People
Let’s start with pronouns that refer to people. These include words like “he,” “she,” “they,” and “we.” Let’s say, if you mention “John” in one sentence, you can refer to him as “he” in the next. Similarly, if you talk about “students,” you can follow up with “they.” This way, you avoid repeating names or titles, making your sentences clearer and more engaging. Other examples include “them” and “someone” , they are both forms of pronouns in English.
Example Paragraph:
“… Many students believe that a university education is crucial for their future. They often feel that it opens doors to better job opportunities. Additionally, young professionals who pursue higher education frequently report higher levels of job satisfaction. Individuals like them recognize the value of continuous learning in an ever-evolving job market…“
Pronouns Representing Things
Next up, we have pronouns that represent things, like “this,” “that,” “it,” “these,” and “those.” Imagin, if you write about “the environment,” you can say, “This is a pressing issue.” When you mention “the car,” you might follow with “It runs fast.” Using these pronouns helps link back to ideas you’ve already discussed, creating a smoother flow.
Example Paragraph:
“…The rise of technology has transformed the way we communicate. This shift has made it easier for people to connect across distances. However, it has also led to concerns about privacy and data security…”
Definite Articles for Context Linking
Finally, let’s talk about definite articles (“the”). These little words might seem simple, but they play a crucial role in linking your ideas together. If you mention “a teacher” in one sentence, you can later refer to “the teacher” to specify who you’re talking about. When discussing “the city,” you’re likely referring to a specific place that’s already been mentioned.
Example Paragraph:
“…The government should prioritize public transportation to reduce traffic congestion. The current infrastructure is often inadequate for the growing population. Investing in the expansion of bus and train services would not only alleviate congestion but also encourage more people to use public transport…”
Conclusion
Using pronouns and definite articles effectively can seriously improve the cohesion of your writing. Remember to use pronouns that represent people and things to avoid repetition, and don’t underestimate the power of definite articles to link your ideas.
