Why Connectors Matter So Much
CELPIP writing is scored on coherence and cohesion — how well your ideas flow together. Connectors are the glue that creates that flow. Without them, your writing reads like a list of disconnected sentences. With them, it reads like a well-structured argument.
The difference between CLB 7 and CLB 9 writing is often just better connectors. The ideas might be identical — the packaging is what changes.
Connectors by Function
Adding information: - Furthermore, Moreover, In addition, Additionally, What is more, On top of that, Not only... but also
Contrasting ideas: - However, Nevertheless, On the other hand, In contrast, Despite this, Although, Conversely, Whereas
Showing cause: - Because, Since, Due to, As a result of, Owing to, Given that
Showing result: - Therefore, Consequently, As a result, Thus, Hence, This means that, For this reason
Giving examples: - For instance, For example, Such as, To illustrate, A case in point is
Sequencing: - Firstly, Secondly, Finally, To begin with, Subsequently, Following this, Ultimately
Concluding: - In conclusion, To summarize, All things considered, On the whole, Taking everything into account
The 5 Power Connectors
If you only memorize 5, make it these — they cover most situations and sound impressive:
1. Furthermore (adding) — "The park is convenient. Furthermore, it offers free parking." 2. Nevertheless (contrasting) — "The cost is high. Nevertheless, the benefits outweigh the expense." 3. Consequently (result) — "The roads were icy. Consequently, several flights were cancelled." 4. For instance (example) — "There are many options. For instance, residents could use the community pool." 5. Taking everything into account (concluding) — "Taking everything into account, I believe the policy should be implemented."
Using these 5 correctly throughout a response signals strong coherence to the examiner.
Common Connector Mistakes
Overuse: Don't start every sentence with a connector. Use them for 40–50% of sentences, not 100%. Too many connectors make writing feel forced.
Wrong function: "Furthermore" adds — don't use it to contrast. "However" contrasts — don't use it to add. Misused connectors hurt your score more than missing ones.
Comma rules: Most connectors at the start of a sentence need a comma after them: "However, the results were surprising." Forgetting this comma is a grammar error that drops your score.
Run-on sentences: "The park is great however it needs more benches" — this is a run-on. Use a period or semicolon before "however": "The park is great. However, it needs more benches."
Practice writing 2–3 paragraphs using different connectors each time until they feel natural.