Which technique best improves cohesion in writing?

• A. Using transition phrases and consistent pronoun/reference.
• B. Writing shorter sentences only.
• C. Including more technical jargon.
• D. Avoiding any transitions.

Answer: (A)

Cohesion in writing comes from linking ideas across sentences so the text reads as a connected whole. The best approach is to use transition phrases and keep pronouns and references consistent. Transition words and phrases—like "in addition," "however," "therefore," and "as a result"—signal how ideas relate, helping readers follow the logic from one sentence to the next. At the same time, using consistent references (clear pronouns and noun anchors) prevents confusion about who or what is being talked about, which keeps the thread of the argument intact. Together, these techniques act as glue that ties sentences and ideas together, making the writing flow smoothly.

Shorter sentences can aid clarity, but they don’t inherently connect ideas across sentences. Relying on more technical jargon can also hinder cohesion if the connections aren’t made explicit for the reader. Avoiding transitions removes the explicit cues that show relationships, weakening the flow.