China is transitioning between poverty alleviation strategies, with results yet to be fully tested. This paper analyzes 12 western provinces from 2013 to 2021, constructing an indicator system for effective connection based on achievement consolidation, expansion, and organic connection. Using the entropy weight method and coupling coordination degree model, it finds that effective connection levels improve yearly but vary regionally. High-effective connection provinces excel in organic connection, while low-effective connection provinces focus more on consolidation. Regional development, education, urbanization, and transportation positively impact effective connection, while land constraints hinder it.