IELTS Grammar and Expression Practice

Model answer: Although

Although public transport is often crowded, it remains the most efficient option.

A concessive structure places contrasting information in the same sentence and adds nuance to an argument, but do not add but before the main clause.

Model answer: Having considered

Having considered both arguments, I believe the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

This structure shows that an action was completed before the action in the main clause. It reduces repeated subjects and makes writing more concise.

Model answer: Not only does

Not only does regular exercise improve physical health, but it also reduces stress.

When Not only begins a sentence, the first clause requires partial inversion. This structure emphasizes two parallel benefits.

Model answer: had invested earlier

If cities had invested earlier, they would now face fewer transport problems.

A past hypothetical condition can explain a present result, making it useful for expressing a more precise cause-and-effect relationship.

Model answer: What matters most

What matters most is whether the policy can be implemented fairly.

A What-clause can place the factor being emphasized at the beginning of the sentence, making the point more focused.

Model answer: It is widely believed that

It is widely believed that education should prepare students for practical life.

The impersonal passive can introduce a widely held view objectively, but the writing should still provide supporting evidence afterward.

Model answer: plays a pivotal role

Public transport plays a pivotal role in reducing urban congestion.

More concise than play an important role, this expression is suitable for explaining the central role of something in Task 2 writing.

Model answer: From my perspective

From my perspective, remote work gives employees greater flexibility.

Suitable for naturally introducing a personal judgment in speech, and also usable in semi-formal writing.

Model answer: in the long run

Renewable energy can reduce household costs in the long run.

Used to discuss the long-term results of policies, education, or environmental measures; it is common in both speech and writing.

Model answer: take the needs of rural communities into account

Governments should take the needs of rural communities into account.

Used to show that a factor needs to be considered when making a decision; it has a clearer structure than simply using consider.

Model answer: has given rise to

The rapid growth of tourism has given rise to concerns about overcrowding.

A formal expression meaning “cause” or “lead to,” suitable for discussing cause-and-effect relationships in social issues.

Model answer: make a significant contribution

Better public parks can make a significant contribution to community health.

Suitable for evaluating the positive impact of a measure; note that contribution is followed by to.

Model answer: put this in context

To put this in context, last year's growth was three percent.

Providing background information to help explain something.

Model answer: forecast to exceed

Operating costs are forecast to exceed the annual budget.

be predicted to go beyond a specified amount

Model answer: Based on this analysis

Based on this analysis, we recommend extending the pilot.

to use an analysis as the basis for a recommendation

Model answer: consider an alternative

Could we consider an alternative that requires fewer resources?

think about a different option

Model answer: main finding

The main finding is that response time improved.

Introducing the most important result of a study or analysis

Model answer: based on

This forecast is based on the latest sales data.

used to indicate what something is founded on or supported by

Model answer: There is a risk that

There is a risk that the shipment will arrive late.

indicating that an undesirable event may happen

Model answer: compared with

Revenue increased by eight percent compared with last quarter.

Used to show the result of a comparison.