✦ IELTS Topic: Linking Words for Summarising & Concluding – 10 Useful Phrases

1. In conclusion
   e.g., In conclusion, education plays a vital role in shaping society.

2. To sum up
   e.g., To sum up, technology has both benefits and drawbacks.

3. In summary
   e.g., In summary, the report suggests that pollution levels are rising.

4. On the whole
   e.g., On the whole, students did well in the exam.

5. Overall
   e.g., Overall, the new system was more effective than the old one.

6. All in all
   e.g., All in all, it was a successful event.

7. In short
   e.g., In short, regular exercise improves both body and mind.

8. Altogether
   e.g., Altogether, about 300 people attended the meeting.

9. Finally
   e.g., Finally, I would like to stress the importance of teamwork.

10. In brief
    e.g., In brief, renewable energy is essential for the future.

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✦ Why These Words Are Important in IELTS

• They signal closure and help finish essays or answers strongly.

• In Writing Task 2, they are essential for a clear conclusion.

• In Speaking Part 2 and 3, they help you summarise your key points naturally.

• They improve Coherence & Cohesion, which examiners always look for.

Without them, your answers can feel unfinished or weak.

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✦ IELTS Speaking Practice – Summarising & Concluding

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

1. How would you describe your city, in summary?

2. What do you usually do at the weekend, all in all?

3. Can you describe your favourite book in brief?

4. Do you think technology is helpful in education, overall?

5. What is your daily routine like, to sum up?

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Part 2: Cue Card

Describe an event you enjoyed. Summarise your experience at the end.
You should say:

• what the event was

• where and when it happened

• who was there
  and explain why it was enjoyable, using at least three linking words for summarising/concluding.

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✦ Sample Answers Using the Phrases

Part 1

1. My city is large and busy. In summary, it has both opportunities and challenges.

2. I usually meet friends and play football. All in all, my weekends are relaxing.

3. My favourite book is about history. In brief, it explains how culture has developed.

4. Yes, technology makes learning easier. Overall, it’s a positive tool in education.

5. I wake up early, work, study, and relax. To sum up, my days are quite productive.

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Part 2 Sample Answer
One event I enjoyed was a music festival in my city last summer. There were many bands, food stalls, and thousands of people. I went with some friends, and we had an amazing time. On the whole, the organisation was excellent, and the music was unforgettable. Finally, I would say that it was one of the best events I have ever attended. In conclusion, it gave me great memories and I hope to go again next year.

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✦ Comprehension Test: Linking Words for Summarising & Concluding

1. "In conclusion, education plays a vital role in shaping society."
Q: What does the speaker say about education?

2. "To sum up, technology has both benefits and drawbacks."
Q: What does technology have?

3. "In summary, the report suggests that pollution levels are rising."
Q: What is happening to pollution?

4. "On the whole, students did well in the exam."
Q: How did students perform?

5. "Overall, the new system was more effective than the old one."
Q: Which system was better?

6. "All in all, it was a successful event."
Q: How was the event?

7. "In short, regular exercise improves both body and mind."
Q: What does exercise improve?

8. "Altogether, about 300 people attended the meeting."
Q: How many people attended?

9. "Finally, I would like to stress the importance of teamwork."
Q: What does the speaker want to stress?

10. "In brief, renewable energy is essential for the future."
Q: What is essential for the future?

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✦ Answer Key

1. It is vital in shaping society.

2. Both benefits and drawbacks.

3. Pollution levels are rising.

4. They did well.

5. The new system.

6. Successful.

7. Body and mind.

8. About 300 people.

9. Teamwork.

10. Renewable energy.