What does coherence in writing refer to?

Coherence in writing refers to the logical flow of ideas within a piece of writing. This means that the different parts of the text connect seamlessly and that the reader can easily follow the author's thoughts and arguments. Coherence is vital as it helps to guide the reader through the material and reinforces the main message or point being communicated.

When writing is coherent, each sentence and paragraph builds upon the last, establishing clear relationships between ideas. This often requires the effective use of transitional words and phrases, as well as a clear organizational structure that logically progresses from one point to the next.

In comparison, clarity of individual sentences, varied vocabulary, and the length of the writing piece, while significant to overall writing quality, do not directly define coherence. Coherence focuses specifically on how all parts of a written work connect and support a unified whole, making it essential for effective communication.