📝 7 Ways to Improve Your IELTS or Academic Writing
The good news? You can learn a clear format to help you organise your ideas. Here are 7 ways to help you write better essays.
1. The Plan
Before you write, think about what you want to say. This will help your writing follow a logical order.
English academic writing usually goes in a straight line:
→ Start with an introduction
→ Then give examples, reasons, advantages, or disadvantages
Note: In writing like this, we have a separate paragraph for each topic.
2. The Structure
For IELTS essays, you can use a version of the ‘5-Paragraph Format’:
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Paragraph 1: Introduction
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Paragraph 2: Body (a)
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Paragraph 3: Body (b)
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Paragraph 4: Body (c)
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Paragraph 5: Conclusion
This structure helps the reader understand your ideas easily.
More extended essays may need more paragraphs, but you should still follow the rule: ‘one topic, one paragraph’.
3. The Introduction
The introduction tells the reader your main idea or position. It should not yet list your points.
You can:
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Say something general about the topic.
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Or paraphrase the question (use different words, but do not copy)
A good introduction should grab the reader’s attention and make them want to read more.
4. Body Paragraphs
Start with your strongest argument in the first paragraph.
When planning, write down your points. These will become your 'topic sentences' (see point 5).
In academic writing, it is also essential to present a counterargument, or an opposing point of view.
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If the question asks for your opinion, the counterargument does not need to be 50/50.
However, if the question asks for a discussion or presents advantages and disadvantages, then your answer should be balanced (50/50).
Think about this during planning. If you add points later, your argument may become unclear.
5. Topic Sentences
Each paragraph needs a clear topic.
After your topic, add a 'controlling idea'. This shows the reader the direction of your argument.
You will see this in the model below.
6. Conclusion
The conclusion is similar to your introduction. It should restate your position (using different words).
But do not add new ideas here.
You can:
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Give your opinion
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Sum up your main points.
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Add a general prediction or call to action.
Your final sentence should be a 'global statement' or a 'call to action' (see an example in the model).
7. Linking Words
To help your writing flow, use words that:
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Introduce ideas
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Sequence points
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Give results, reasons, and examples.
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Contrast different views
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Conclude your essay
There are many linking words, so it’s essential to learn their function.
You should also know:
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Some connect clauses (complete sentences)
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Some connect noun phrases.
Here is a brief, simplified — and somewhat silly — model of an academic essay about cats.
Introduction
Many people say that dogs are man's best friend, but they are not the only pet whose company people enjoy. Cats too…
(This introduction is a general statement, and we now know that the essay will be about the advantages of having a cat.)
Body 1
Firstly, cats can be just as affectionate as dogs. For example…
(Sequencing word + the controlling idea 'affectionate'. Linking words, for example)
For instance, they often purr and cuddle up when they are being stroked
(Example word + example of cats being affectionate)
Furthermore, when they are not being affectionate, they can be very playful.
(Addition information word + another example)
Body 2
In addition to being affectionate, cats also require less care than dogs. For instance…
(New topic ‘less looking after’ + Examples ‘for instance…’)
Body 3
However, many people claim that cats are cold. In some cases… on the other hand…
(Contrast word introducing a counter-argument + example +)
Note: Other 'body' paragraphs would follow a similar pattern.
Conclusion
To sum up, with their affectionate, playful nature, cats make an ideal pet
(Conclusion word and a summary, ending with a general statement)
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