How to Write Cohesively?
3 Effective Tips for Cohesive Writing and Achieving Flow
One of the most crucial aspects of good writing is cohesion. It binds your ideas together and creates flow in your content.
Writing cohesively is something a lot of new writers struggle with. I for one, am still learning the nitty-gritty of cohesive writing.
It comes with practice and technique. But most advice available out there is for a specific type of writing. It’s what we were taught in school and university — academic writing.
Online writing is different from academic writing.
You should follow the fundamentals for writing cohesively but when it comes to writing online, some of that advice might not work.
In this issue of “The Writing Experience”, I’ll share 3 tips for writing cohesively online and achieving flow.
Online Writing vs Academic Writing
Cohesion is required in all forms of writing, be it academic, online, or fictional.
However, the usual cohesive writing techniques may apply to one form but not necessarily the other.
For instance, the connecting words and phrases method has been overused now.
Here’s an example from the “Academic Writing University Center” on cohesive writing:
While it may work perfectly for a student or in a formal requirement, overuse it and it’ll quickly become a cliche for an online reader.
You see online reading has changed, and using such techniques seems more like a clutch than an aid now.
Even if it appears cohesive to some degree, it doesn't ensure flow in your content.
And that brings us to the much-awaited tips. Let’s have a look.
3 Effective Tips for Writing Cohesively Online & Achieving Flow
Converse With Your Reader
Photo by Volodymyr Hryshchenko on Unsplash
Look, I understand that if it’s a piece of collateral or a corporate document, you’re bound to stick with a formal voice.
But if you’re writing online and want to build a connection with the readers, you must write conversively.
Write as if you’re speaking directly to your reader. This helps your content feel natural and engaging, which is especially important online.
For example, instead of writing:"Subsequently, it is imperative to consider the factors that influence writing quality."
Try a more conversational tone, like:
"Next, let's look at the practices that will improve your writing quality."See the difference?
This second sentence uses everyday language and pulls the reader into a dialogue.
Pro Tip: Ask a rhetorical question wherever suitable. This brings back your reader’s attention if they drift away. (That is what I just did here 😉)Diversify Your Transitional Techniques
The common transitional phrases like furthermore, moreover, and additionally are so bland, that only AI would use them.
You on the other hand, should diversify your transition, either by technique or by effective language.
You can use thematic links, pronoun references, or varied sentence structures, instead of the dreary one-word transition.
Let’s understand this better with examples:Thematic Link:
Instead of:
"Cohesion in writing is essential. Furthermore, using connecting words enhances flow."
Try:
"Cohesion in writing is essential—similar to how a single thread keeps a necklace of beads intact.. Without it things crumble."Pronoun Reference:
Instead of repeating the subject, use a pronoun:
"Good writing requires cohesion. Good writing also demands clear transitions."
Try:
"Good writing requires cohesion, and it also demands clear transitions."Varied Sentence Structures:
Instead of a series of similar sentences:
"XYZ company launched a new product. XYZ increased its market share and increased its revenue."
Try:
"After launching a new product, XYZ increased its market share, which in turn boosted their revenue significantly."Read Aloud and Edit for Natural Flow
Reading your piece aloud sharpens your writing by revealing clunky phrasing and awkward transitions that might be overlooked in writing.
When you listen, your ear picks up on the rhythm and flow of your words, highlighting areas that disrupt cohesion.
This active process reveals missing punctuation and verbose dialogue as you speak.
You identify stumbling blocks that disrupt your narrative flow, allowing you to edit and refine your work effectively.‘When we read writing aloud it increases our chance of noticing any mismatches or friction between the outer physical experience of hearing the sound of our words and the inner mental or cognitive experience of feeling the meaning.’
- Peter Elbow, ‘How Does Revising by Reading Aloud Actually Work?’
So after drafting your content, revise it by reading aloud or asking a friend to review it. (Believe me, having a different pair of eyes look at your work is worth it.)
This helps you catch awkward transitions or overly formal language that disrupts the natural flow.Example:
You might write:"Cohesion is the key to effective writing. In addition, it is important for guiding readers through your text."
When read aloud, it might sound stilted. Revise it to:
"Cohesion is the key to effective writing as it naturally guides your readers through your text."
Long story short, reading your work aloud makes it easier to hear where the flow stumbles, allowing you to adjust your transitions and language for a smoother read, aka achieving flow.
Alright, that’s all for this issue.
If you’ve read it till here, I truly appreciate it. 🫡I hope you found this insightful and use these tips in your work. If you do, please share it and I’d love to read it.
And if you have anything to add or share on cohesive writing, let me know in the comments.
I’ll see you in the next issue of “The Writing Experience”.
Until then, keep writing and keep inspiring! 🚀
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