Concept 6
Improve coherence by combining, splitting, or rephrasing sentences to reduce abrupt shifts.
Core Idea
Revise sentences so the reader can follow the relationship between ideas in one pass. The best revision keeps the meaning and removes awkward repetition or sudden jumps.
Understanding
Rule: Revise sentences so the reader can follow the relationship between ideas in one pass. The best revision keeps the meaning and removes awkward repetition or sudden jumps.
- Some sentences are choppy because they repeat the same subject or break one thought into pieces.
- Others feel abrupt because they cram several moves together without showing how those moves connect.
- Check: keep the needed information while making the flow smoother and the relationship more obvious.
Step by Step
- Find the main actions the sentences express.
- Decide whether those actions form one smooth sequence or need separation.
- Choose the revision that keeps the meaning while reducing repetition or abruptness.
- Reject choices that add the wrong relationship word, such as contrast when there is no contrast.
Misconceptions
- Choosing the longest revision because it seems more complete.
- Adding a contrast or cause connector that changes the meaning.
- Keeping repeated subjects and verbs when a cleaner sentence can do the same work.
Question
Worked Example
A student wrote the following sentences:
"The history club recorded interviews with longtime residents. The club later turned the recordings into a short podcast series."
Which choice most effectively combines the sentences?
Select an answer to see the explanation