Which of these skills is critical for effective writing in the Writing section?

Clarity and coherence are essential skills for effective writing because they ensure that the ideas convey a clear message and are easily understood by the reader. This means that the writing should present thoughts in a logical sequence, allowing the audience to follow the argument or narrative without confusion. When writing is clear, it minimizes the risk of misinterpretation and engages the reader more effectively. Coherence further enhances this by connecting ideas smoothly, making the text more enjoyable and purposeful.

While creative storytelling, vivid descriptions, and humor can enhance writing and make it more engaging, they are secondary to the fundamental need for clarity and coherence. Without these critical elements, even the most creative or vividly described stories can fail to communicate effectively. The primary goal in writing, especially in an exam context, is to convey information or argument in a straightforward and organized manner, making clarity and coherence the linchpins of effective communication.