OET Writing Tips: Learning About Conjunctive Adverbs

1. OET Writing Tips: Learning About Conjunctive Adverbs Developing your letter-writing skills is one of the most critical factors in acing the Occupational English Test. As a test taker enrolled in a review center for OET, it is crucial to seek various writing tips and techniques that can help enhance not only your letter-writing skills but also your learning abilities. For instance, learning about conjunctive adverbs is a practical writing tip that you can apply in your OET exam preparation.

2. What Is a Conjunctive Adverb? A conjunctive adverb is a modifier that shows the connection between two independent clauses in a sentence. When using a conjunctive adverb to connect two clauses in one sentence, it is preceded by a semicolon and followed by a comma. If you’re a test taker attending review classes in an OET center, it is vital to know everything about the conjunctive adverb, which includes these two functions of conjunctive adverbs:  There are conjunctive adverbs that display the relationship between ideas in two separate clauses. They can be used to compare, contrast or to conclude ideas in a sentence. Some examples of these conjunctive adverbs are also, likewise, otherwise, instead, and therefore. See the examples below: Meg is a talented pianist; also, her sister is a good guitarist. (Compare) The main course was excellent; likewise, the dessert was delicious. (Compare) Our law does not allow drunk and drive at all costs; otherwise, there would be many more road accidents. (Contrast) I didn’t call Bryan; instead, I sent him an e-mail. (Contrast) Stewie kept talking in our class; therefore, he got in trouble. (Conclude) Jason did not study; hence, he failed the test. (Conclude)  There are conjunctive adverbs that are transitional. They are used to show sequence, indicate time, or to present an idea in a sentence. Some examples of these conjunctive adverbs are then, afterward, meanwhile, in the meantime, in fact, and moreover. Check these examples: Snowbell, the cat, ate a bowlful of tuna; then, the girl saw the fat feline fell asleep in the rocking chair. (Show sequence)

3. You should travel and see the world; afterward, you will be able to put your problems in perspective. (Show sequence) You start cooking the pork steak; meanwhile, I will make the dessert. (Indicate time) The next program starts in ten minutes; in the meantime, here’s some booklet to read while waiting. (Indicate time) Joy likes you a lot; in fact, I think the two of you could be best friends. (Present an idea) Your research is accurate; moreover, you made some compelling arguments. (Present an idea) Hungry for more writing tips? Visit the nearest OET center and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog so you can get exclusive test-taking strategies and study tips today!