Coherence Case

Let us move on to the first C -Coherence. A coherent letter connects ideas smoothly and clearly. Coherence can be achieved through the strategic use of language. The 5 aspects of coherence that we will be looking at today includes the usage of linking words, pronouns, parallel structure, giving the right amount of emphasis, maintaining unity in sentences and paragraphs.

Let us start with the usage of linking words. Linking word shows the connection between the first idea and the second and allows the reader to understand the message quickly. This reduces abruptness and allows the writing to flow well. An example is given on the slide. Instead of saying that the prototype is good. It has some problems. We use the word however. The prototype is good however, it has some problems. Linking words can be used within sentences, paragraphs or even between paragraphs.

Now, on to pronouns. Pronouns achieve much the same effect as linking words. They connect ideas. Lets see an example. There is a group of people who have to attend the workshop. The people have to be ready tomorrow. So, replace the words the people with they. The sentence sounds better now.

Coherence is also achieved through the use of parallel structure. In fact , many of us are not very aware of this and we do not consciously practice writing in a parallel structure. But, we should as it appears more coherent to the readers when they are expressed in similar grammatical patterns. As per this example, we can clearly see the difference. When I emphasize on the Cs, you as the audience will remember it better if it is in the parallel structure-Clear,Concise,Correct as opposed to clarity, concise and correctness.

The next important thing in Coherence is giving the right amount of emphasis. One way in which this can be achieved is through the use of short sentences. In example A, the sentence is so long such that we tend to wonder whether the focus is on staff working for long hours, or being unhappy, or even going home late. In example B, the short sentence clearly focuses on the fact that the staff is unhappy.

Emphasizing the right things can also be achieved by focusing on the right part of the sentence. Structuring the sentence in a way that the more important ideas are concentrated upon. The independent clause of the sentence should contain the main idea. Assuming, I want to let my readers know that Mary wanted to be an investment banker I should write the sentence as in example B rather than like that of example A. Note that both sentence structures are correct. They just emphasize on different things.

Furthermore, emphasizing ideas can be achieved through numbering and tabulating ideas and using bold or italic fonts, underlining headings and so on. Most of you should be familiar with this what with our widespread usage of the computers and laptops.

The last thing under coherence that we are looking at today is maintaining unity in sentences