Write Insight Newsletter · · 11 min read

How to Make Academic Writing more Coherent (7 Methods)

Enhance clarity, coherence, and cohesion in your academic writing for more persuasive papers. Explore techniques for effective academic communication.

A glowing laptop screen with a flowing, connected web of ideas for your writing.
A glowing laptop screen with a flowing, connected web of ideas for your writing.

Make Your Writing Coherent

In today’s newsletter, we'll be discussing how to make your writing more coherent. As you know, effective communication is crucial to success in academia. Writing with clarity and coherence is crucial to convey ideas and research effectively to readers. One of the most important skills for writers is to make their writing coherent. Cohesion helps readers understand complex ideas and arguments, and facilitates the construction of rigorous and nuanced arguments. Therefore, producing work that is both persuasive and impactful is vital to succeed in academic writing.

However, many writers struggle with coherence in their writing. Their writing suffers from unclear connections between ideas, poor organization, and a lack of cohesion within paragraphs. These issues can cause confusion and frustration for readers, making it difficult for the writer to get their point across and potentially decreasing the effectiveness of their work. However, there are techniques and practices that can be used to overcome these issues. This newsletter issue provides some strategies and methods that help you create writing that is clear and interesting.

A well-written paper ties together different ideas and concepts in a way that makes sense. Cohesion and coherence are achieved by linking ideas well within and between paragraphs, reiterating the main point, and, if necessary, giving detailed explanations. Transitions are the most obvious way to show how different ideas are related to each other, but there are other ways and examples that writers can use to do the same thing.

So, before I dive into transitions below with a great list of examples that you can use right away, let’s discuss some other ways to make your writing more coherent.

Parallelism

Parallel sentence structure is a technique that can make academic writing easier for readers to follow. You essentially repeat similar phrase structures, which may help generate a feeling of rhythm and balance in your paper. By adopting parallel sentence patterns, you are able to emphasize significant ideas and facilitate the comprehension of difficult issues.

Consider using parallel sentence structures as you write your paper to create a sense of progression in your ideas. For example, you can use parallel sentence structures to describe different aspects of a complex concept, such as "The first aspect of X is..., the second aspect of X is..., and the third aspect of X is...". This breaks down the concept into manageable parts and makes it easier for readers to understand.

Another way to use this technique is to emphasize key points or arguments. For instance, you might use parallel sentence structures to describe different examples that support your argument, such as "Example A demonstrates..., Example B illustrates..., and Example C confirms...". This can help reinforce your argument and make it more persuasive for the reader.

Parallel sentence patterns support readers in digesting complicated ideas and following the progression of ideas. They also create a feeling of rhythm and balance in your writing, emphasizing key themes in within your paper structure.

📝
Example:
Generative AI models learn patterns from data, produce novel content based on those patterns, and refine their outputs through iterative processes. For natural language processing tasks, generative AI can draft coherent articles, generate human-like responses in chatbots, and assist in translation tasks across multiple languages.

Repetition

Repetition of essential words, ideas, or phrases is an effective method that can strengthen the structure of an academic paper and make it simpler for the reader to follow the argument's major themes. By consistently using these core phrases throughout the document, authors can establish coherence and unity that reinforce the overall message.

For instance, when you are discussing a complex concept like "postmodernism," you may use this term repeatedly throughout the text to help readers understand the main idea. You may also use specific terms and phrases like "postmodern philosophy" or "postmodern literature" to emphasize this concept and make the paper easier to comprehend.

This strategy may also be used by repeating significant ideas or arguments throughout the document. You may, for instance, offer an important idea in the opening and then repeat it in the conclusion to underline its significance and make a lasting impact on the reader. This may also help to generate a feeling of cohesion and unity throughout the various sections of the article.

📝
Example:
AI systems process vast amounts of data, AI systems learn from complex patterns, and AI systems make predictions based on this learning. Machine learning, a subset of AI, enables computers to improve through experience; machine learning allows for automated decision-making; machine learning drives advancements in various fields.

Synonyms

Synonyms are a way to improve the flow of academic writing by varying word choice. Synonyms are words that have the same or a similar meaning. They can prevent repetition in a document while maintaining emphasis. This method can also add variety to a document, making it more interesting for the reader.

You have to be careful though with core concepts in your paper, those should be used consistently throughout for clarity. Repeat your key words for clarity (but do not do this excessively). So, for anything directly relevant to your experiment or theory, I do not advise switching out synonyms because this will just confuse your reviewers. However, when it comes to words that clarify important ideas, feel free to use different terms to add diversity to your paper.

📝
Example:
Artificial Intelligence systems analyze vast datasets, while these computational models interpret complex patterns, and such intelligent algorithms generate insights from the processed information. Machine learning, a key component of AI, enables computers to improve their performance; this adaptive technology enhances decision-making capabilities, and these self-optimizing systems drive innovation across various domains.

Lexical Chains

Lexical chains are sequences of related words that illustrate the consistency and relevance of vocabulary choices to the paper's topic. Using lexical chains creates variety in writing and prevents monotony. For your paper, consider using synonyms, antonyms, hyponyms, superordinates, and other related words to create lexical chains that maintain coherence within a paragraph or section.

For instance, when discussing user interface design, you could use a lexical chain such as "usability - user experience - user satisfaction - user engagement - user loyalty" to maintain coherence and emphasize the significance of these related concepts. Similarly, when discussing artificial intelligence and machine learning, you might use a lexical chain like "data processing - algorithms - learning models - neural networks - deep learning" to illustrate the various stages of the machine learning process and ensure coherence in your discussion.

Lexical chains create coherent flow in your academic paper, making it easier for readers to follow your argument and understand the relevance of your vocabulary choices to the topic at hand.

📝
Example:
AI systems process raw data, apply sophisticated algorithms to extract patterns, use machine learning models to interpret these patterns, and employ neural networks to make predictions, ultimately leading to actionable insights. In natural language processing, AI starts with text input, performs tokenization to break down the language, applies syntactic analysis to understand structure, conducts semantic interpretation to grasp meaning, and generates appropriate responses based on this comprehensive linguistic understanding.

Topic Sentences

Topic sentences establish order in your writing. You begin each paragraph with a clear and succinct topic sentence. This helps your readers comprehend the paragraph's key point and its relationship to your main research question or hypothesis. Consider using topic sentences to establish a focused framework that takes the reader through your argument as you compose your paper.

For instance, if you are addressing the design principles of user interfaces, you may begin a paragraph with a subject phrase such as "The concept of simplicity is an important factor in user interface design." Afterwards, you may add supporting data and specifics to explain how this idea pertains to the design of user interfaces. In the same way, if you are addressing the ethical implications of artificial intelligence, you may begin a paragraph with a subject phrase such as "The potential misapplication of AI creates a huge ethical concern." You might then provide supporting information and evidence to show the possible hazards and difficulties involved with the use of artificial intelligence.

The topic sentence sets the tone for your paragraph. It ties each paragraph back to your overarching question. Start each sentence or paragraph with information that hints at the content of the next sentence. Using this structure in your writing may not only make the entire paper more coherent but also help you be more convincing in your argumentation.

📝
Example:
The rapid advancement of natural language processing (NLP) in AI systems has significantly transformed human-computer interaction. Recent studies show that NLP-powered chatbots can now engage in conversations that are increasingly indistinguishable from human dialogue. According to a 2023 report, 87.2% of users have given their chatbot experiences a positive rating. The global NLP market is expected to reach $16.9 billion by 2023, showing significant growth in the industry. This improvement in NLP capabilities stems from the development of more sophisticated language models and the integration of contextual understanding. AI systems can now interpret nuances, recognize context, and generate responses that are not only grammatically correct but also contextually appropriate. This leap in performance has enabled AI to handle complex queries, understand implicit meanings, and even detect emotional undertones in text-based communication. As NLP continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more profound changes in how humans interact with technology, potentially redefining the boundaries between human and machine communication in various domains such as education, healthcare, and customer service.

Cohesive Nouns

Cohesive nouns, also known as "umbrella nouns," summarize multiple related words or concepts into one term. For example, the cohesive noun "family" encompasses a group of individuals who are related by blood or marriage and who live together in a household unit. By using cohesive nouns, you can reduce wordiness and improve the clarity and flow of your writing by condensing multiple related ideas into a single, broad term.

Using cohesive nouns can help you avoid repetition and create a more sophisticated tone in your writing. For example, when discussing the various components of a user interface, you can use the cohesive noun "interface elements" to refer to buttons, menus, and other related components. This not only avoids repeating the same words multiple times but also creates a more concise and polished sentence. Similarly, when discussing the impact of technology on society, you can use the cohesive noun "digital technologies" to refer to computers, smartphones, and other related technologies.

With cohesive nouns, you can create a more efficient and streamlined paper that avoids unnecessary repetition and keeps the focus on your central argument. Additionally, cohesive nouns can also help to clarify complex topics and make them more accessible to a wider audience by simplifying the language and reducing confusion.

📝
Example:
AI technologies have revolutionized various sectors of the economy. In healthcare, diagnostic tools analyze medical images, predict disease outcomes, and assist in treatment planning. Financial institutions employ predictive models for risk assessment, fraud detection, and portfolio management. Meanwhile, the transportation industry utilizes autonomous systems for route optimization, traffic management, and vehicle safety. These AI applications demonstrate the transformative potential of intelligent systems across diverse domains.

Transitions

Transitions are crucial in academic writing, as they play a vital role in connecting different parts of a paper and making the writer's argument clear and easy to follow. In addition to using simple words (e.g., "however", "therefore", "in addition", "on the other hand") to indicate relationships between sentences or paragraphs, full transition sentences and templates can be extremely helpful in crafting an effective academic paper. These templates provide writers with a clear structure and framework for their writing, helping them to maintain coherence and clarity throughout the paper.

To this end, I have compiled a comprehensive list of transitions that I use in my paper writing. Each of these transitions is the start of an example sentence, providing me with a solid starting point to create structure and better coherence in my writing. By using these transitions, I can help my readers follow the flow of my argument, understand how my ideas are connected, and ultimately create a more convincing and compelling academic paper.

📝
Examples for teasing fresh content:
→ This section discusses...
→ What follows is a description of...
→ Throughout the following pages, I will discuss...
→ Below is a concise summary of...
→ In the following section, it will be claimed that...
→ The next section discusses the issue with X.
→ The next section provides a more in-depth description of X.
→ The following section will describe X's structure and functionality.
→ The subsequent section of this study describes in further detail the...
📝
Examples for introducing novel topics:
→ With respects to X, …
→ With relation to X,...
→ Regarding X, …
→ In the instance of X...
→ With relation to X,...
→ With regard to X,...
→ On the subject of X,...
→ With regard to X,...
→ Concerning X,…
📝
Examples for revisiting a topic:
→ As said before,...
→ As indicated previously,...
→ As previously mentioned,...
→ As stated earlier...
→ As stated on the preceding page,...
→ As discussed in the preceding chapter,...
→ Returning briefly to the topic of X,...
→ As stated in the introduction, it is obvious that...
→ As was mentioned in the paper's introduction,...
📝
Examples for transitioning between paper sections:
→ Now, let's discuss...
→ Let us now consider...
→ Now, let us examine...
→ Now we will examine...
→ Regarding the experimental data on...
→ Before starting to investigate X, it is necessary to...
→ Before describing these ideas, it is essential to...
→ Having stated the meaning of X, I shall now proceed to explain...
→ This study has so far focused on X. The following section will address...
→ This chapter has established that...
→ It is now required to describe the progression of...
→ After discussing how to create X, the last portion of this work discusses...
→ This section examined the causes of X and claimed that...
→ The next section of this paper will...
📝
Examples for contrasting argumentation between sections:
→ Another essential/vital/crucial component of X is...
→ Also, it is essential to inquire...In contrast to Smith, Jones (2014) has suggested...
→ Jones (2014) argues, in contrast to Smith,...
→ Nevertheless, little progress has been achieved in...
→ Yet, this approach has a number of significant limitations.
→ Yet, despite these new studies about the function of...,
→ Similarly, the research of Y indicates that...
→ In comparison to X, Y's findings show...
→ However, it is important to note that there are some limitations to Y's approach…
→ On the other hand, there is evidence that contradicts this argument…
→ While X has been found to be effective in certain contexts, there are limitations to its application in other contexts…
→ Despite the criticisms of X, it remains a widely used and important tool in the field of Y…
→ While X is often viewed as the standard approach, recent research has challenged this assumption…
📝
Examples for recapping sections:
→ Another essential/vital/crucial component of X is...
→ Also, it is essential to inquire...In contrast to Smith, Jones (2014) has suggested...
→ Jones (2014) argues, in contrast to Smith,...
→ Nevertheless, little progress has been achieved in...
→ Yet, this approach has a number of significant limitations.
→ Yet, despite these new studies about the function of...,
→ Similarly, the research of Y indicates that...
→ In comparison to X, Y's findings show...
→ However, it is important to note that there are some limitations to Y's approach…
→ On the other hand, there is evidence that contradicts this argument…
→ While X has been found to be effective in certain contexts, there are limitations to its application in other contexts…
→ Despite the criticisms of X, it remains a widely used and important tool in the field of Y…
→ While X is often viewed as the standard approach, recent research has challenged this assumption…

Transitions are key to clear and coherent academic writing. Using both simple and longer phrases helps connect sentences and paragraphs, keeping your work consistent. Templates can speed up the writing process by providing a framework and structure, ensuring clarity and uniformity. This list of transitions will help you start crafting a well-structured and engaging academic paper.

Wrap-Up

To wrap up today’s issue, ensuring coherence in your writing is essential to effectively conveying your ideas and research. You can achieve cohesion and coherence in various ways, such as using parallelism, repetition, synonyms, lexical chains, topic sentences, and cohesive nouns. Additionally, transitions are crucial for connecting different parts of your paper and making your argument clear and easy to follow. Using templates and transition words helps connect sentences and paragraphs, keeping your writing clear and consistent. Think about your readers and use these tools wisely.

Curious to explore how we can tackle your writing struggles? I've got 3 suggestions that could be a great fit.

  1. Get my CHI paper writing masterclass: Unlock your potential with the How to Write Better Papers Course for HCI researchers. This course offers concise, actionable video lessons you can absorb at your own pace, saving you time. Get expert guidance tailored for CHI and HCI publications with proven strategies. Gain the skills to succeed in a competitive field.
  2. Learn how to write papers with AI ethically: Access the AI Research Tools Webinar to improve your research and writing skills. Enjoy a 3-hour tutorial with subtitles in 19 languages, 46 detailed slides, and a 1-hour ChatGPT bonus tutorial with 39 prompts. Learn from 3 app tutorials (Yomu AI, SciSpace, and Sourcely) and get a 184-page Mastery Guide on 34 AI tools. This bundle provides everything you need for AI-powered academic success.
  3. Defend your thesis with confidence: Increase your productivity and graduate success with this thesis workshop. Get instant access to a 3-hour video, 64 instructional slides, and curated productivity software. Use our online whiteboard and a 7-page workbook of checklists and prompts. Prepare confidently with a 10-page Viva questions guide and a PhD exam checklist. Optimize your thesis workflow and excel in your studies.

Read next