Final answer:
Coherence in writing refers to the logical and consistent flow of ideas, ensuring that every part of the text contributes to the overall message. It includes linked concepts, smooth transitions, and the logical sequence that supports the main argument.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of coherence pertains to the quality of being logical, consistent, and forming a unified whole. In the context of written content or speech, coherence refers to the way ideas are organized and progress in a manner that makes sense to the reader or listener. It involves the carrying a line of thought from sentence to sentence in logical order, ensuring that all parts of the writing or discussion contribute meaningfully to the overall message or argument.
When discussing coherence in academic or professional writing, several key aspects are important to consider, including how one idea connects with another, the logical sequence of events or arguments, the application of vivid details where appropriate, and the maintenance of tone and mood throughout the piece. Additionally, in narrative writing, coherence extends to ensuring that there is consistent and specific characterization, along with a narrative voice that supports the text's purpose.
Coherence is not just about having a set of beliefs or ideas that are consistent among themselves; as seen in the concept of coherentism, it also concerns how well connected and mutually supported beliefs are within a broader system, much like the interconnected strands of a web. Therefore, when we ask, 'What is coherence?' in writing, we refer to the skillful linkage of concepts, the seamless transitions between paragraphs, and the overall logical flow that supports the thesis or main argument of the paper.