Linking words & discourse markers – Error correction

Instructions:
Each sentence contains ONE incorrect or inappropriate linking word or phrase.
Identify the error and replace it with a more suitable linker so that the sentence is logical and stylistically appropriate.

  1. The experiment was carefully planned and all variables were controlled; therefore, the results were unreliable and inconsistent.
  2. Online learning platforms provide flexibility for students; moreover, they often demand strong self-discipline and time-management skills.
  3. The system failure occurred because of, outdated encryption software that had not been updated for years.
  4. The survey results varied significantly across age groups; however, further statistical analysis was required.
  5. Mobile devices are increasingly used in classrooms; although, laptops remain essential for tasks such as programming and data analysis.
  6. According to several technical difficulties during testing, the product launch had to be postponed.
  7. The software update improved system stability; as a result, several long-standing bugs were fixed.
  8. In conclusion traditional teaching approaches, blended learning encourages more student autonomy.
  9. The application supports multiple file formats, namely PDF, DOCX, XLSX, and TXT.
  10. The hypothesis was rejected after data evaluation; moreover, the original assumptions proved to be inaccurate.
  11. The company invested heavily in automation technologies; however, overall productivity increased within six months.
  12. Despite the data was incomplete and partially outdated, firm conclusions were drawn.
  13. The interface is complex and visually cluttered; therefore, inexperienced users struggle to navigate the system efficiently.
  14. The proposal initially faced strong criticism; for example, it gained widespread support after several revisions.
  15. In other words, the study summarises its key findings and outlines future research directions.
  16. The research focused on user behaviour; because, it did not examine long-term psychological effects.
  17. The device consumes less energy than previous models; although, it delivers higher performance.
  18. The training programme was redesigned; otherwise, employee satisfaction increased significantly.
  19. The data suggests a decline in engagement; on the whole, participation rates dropped among older users.
  20. The report outlines several limitations; for instance, further funding will be required to continue the project.
  21. Nevertheless the system passed all safety tests, minor performance issues remain unresolved.
  22. The experiment was repeated several times; in spite of, the results remained inconsistent.
  23. The study compares traditional and digital assessment methods; similarly, digital tools allow immediate feedback.
  24. The findings were unexpected; as exemplified by, a sudden increase in error rates.
  25. After all, the research aims to analyse data trends rather than propose final solutions.

 

Answer key

  1. however
  2. however
  3. due to
  4. therefore
  5. however / nevertheless
  6. Due to
  7. moreover
  8. By contrast
  9. such as
  10. therefore / as a result
  11. therefore / consequently
  12. Although
  13. correct – no change needed
  14. nevertheless / nonetheless
  15. In conclusion
  16. therefore / however (depending on intended meaning; therefore preferred)
  17. yet / nevertheless
  18. as a result / therefore
  19. as a result / consequently
  20. therefore / as a result
  21. Although
  22. despite this / nevertheless
  23. by contrast
  24. as shown by / as illustrated by
  25. correct – no change needed

 

Linking words- error correction task