There are several ways to link sentences and ideas in IELTS graph writing, and using a variety of linking words and phrases can help to make your writing more interesting and cohesive. Here are some examples of linking words and phrases that mean "and then" and how they can be used to connect the sentences in the example paragraph:
"Following this": This phrase is used to indicate that the next event or action is a direct result of the previous one. For example, "Following this increase in income, the company invested in new equipment to expand their production capacity."
"At this point": This phrase is used to indicate a specific moment in time or a turning point in the narrative. For example, "At this point, the company realized that they needed to focus on marketing to increase sales."
"Next": This word is used to indicate that the following sentence or idea is a continuation of the previous one. For example, "Next, the company hired a new CEO to help turn the business around."
"Subsequently": This word is used to indicate that the following sentence or idea happens after the previous one, but is not necessarily a direct result of it. For example, "Subsequently, the company implemented new policies to reduce costs and increase efficiency."
"Then": This word is a simple and common way to indicate that one thing happens after another. For example, "The company expanded their product line, then launched a new advertising campaign to promote it."
Using linking words and phrases is important in IELTS graph writing because it helps to create a clear and logical flow of ideas. This can make your writing easier to understand and follow, and can also demonstrate your ability to organize information effectively. Additionally, using a variety of linking words and phrases can help to make your writing more interesting and engaging for the examiner.