Coherence
and emphasis are two of the main tools to write effectively. There are many
devices that are used to bring coherence and emphasis in writing. These devices
are also called tools to paragraph writing. They are used to create a smooth
flow of ideas and highlight important points within a text. They also help readers
to follow the logic and understand the key messages easily. Here are a few
key categories of coherence and emphasis devices:
Coherence Devices:
1. Transitional Words and Phrases:
These words or phrases explicitly connect ideas between sentences and paragraphs, indicating relationships like addition, contrast , cause and effect, time sequence.
Examples: ‘Moreover’, ‘in addition’, ‘clarify’, ‘as a result’, ‘despite this’, etc.
2. Pronouns and Reference Words:
Using pronouns like ‘he’, ‘them’, ‘this’, ‘that’, these, etc to refer-back to previously mentioned nouns helps maintain continuity and avoids repetition.
Example: I saw a monkey. He was furious.
3. Related Words:
Using synonyms, related words, and repeated key terms throughout a text to create a the topic.
Example: I like colourful paper hence I bough bright red blue and dark green covers.
4. Parallelism:
Structuring sentences with similar grammatical patterns to create rhythm and emphasis.
Example: This student gets up early, does yoga and visits temple everyday.
5. Correct sequencing:
Presenting ideas in a logical sequence, such as chronological order, cause-and-effect, or problem-solution, to facilitate understanding.
Emphasis Devices:
1. Strong Verbs and Specific Nouns:
Choosing verbs and concrete nouns helps convey ideas clearly and forcefully.
Example: My teacher proudly announced the victory. (strong verb). My teacher told about the victory.
2. Short Sentences:
Short sentences draw attention to important points. Short sentences can be a strong phase pause or punchline effect.
3. Active Voice:
Constructing sentences with the subject performing the action emphasizes clarity.
Example: The Principal has adopted a new policy.
4. Rhetorical Questions:
Rhetorical questions does not require a direct answer and can engage the reader. Such questions highlight a crucial point.
5. Climax:
A strong climax with important information brings emphasis in a paragraph. Explore various devices of coherence and emphasis in writing.
