Question 1

What are the most commonly tested linking words at B1-B2 level?

Accepted Answer

The connectors that appear most frequently in B1-B2 exams are: "although" vs "despite" (testing clause vs noun grammar), "because" vs "because of" (same contrast), "however" (testing punctuation — needs a full stop or semicolon, not a comma), "therefore" and "consequently" (formal result connectors), and "so that" vs "to" (purpose with same vs different subjects). These five question types account for the majority of linking word test items. In all cases, the examiner is testing whether you know what grammar follows each connector — not just whether you understand the meaning. Practising the grammar rules is more efficient than memorising sentences.

Question 2

Why is it important to vary your linking words in writing?

Accepted Answer

Using the same connector repeatedly — for example, writing "but" in every paragraph — signals a limited vocabulary range and can lower your writing score. Cambridge and IELTS marking schemes explicitly reward "a range of cohesive devices used appropriately." This means examiners want to see different connectors from the same category: instead of three "however" sentences, use "however," "although," and "despite." Varying your connectors also makes your writing more interesting and easier to read. A good target is to avoid using the same connector more than twice in one essay. This does not mean forcing rare words — accuracy still matters more than variety.

Question 3

What is the fastest way to answer a linking word gap-fill question?

Accepted Answer

Use a three-step approach. First, read both parts of the sentence and identify the logical relationship: are the ideas surprising or contradictory (contrast), does one explain why (cause), or did one lead to the other (result)? Second, look at the grammar after the gap: a clause (subject + verb) means you need a conjunction like "although" or "because"; a noun or gerund means you need a preposition like "despite" or "because of"; a full stop before the gap means you need a sentence connector like "however" or "therefore." Third, check formality — if the text is formal, choose "consequently" over "so." This method works for Cambridge Use of English, IELTS, and most grammar textbook exercises.

Linking Words Review Test

Quick Rule

All 25 questions

Continue Practising

Contrast Part 1

Cause & Effect Part 1

Addition

-ed vs -ing Adjectives

Conditionals

Present Perfect