How to Use Examples Correctly in IELTS Writing Task 2

Summary

This video provides essential tips for achieving higher scores in IELTS Writing Task 2 by using effective examples. It explains common methods of presenting examples and highlights ways to enhance them for better clarity and sophistication. The video cautions against using empty phrases and repeating ideas and emphasizes extending ideas with well-chosen examples. It offers practical advice on using personal and global examples, along with advanced techniques like listing to strengthen arguments. Viewers are encouraged to practice these strategies and seek feedback to boost their IELTS scores.

Takeaways

• 📚 Including relevant examples can boost your score in IELTS Writing Task 2.
• 📝 Avoid using empty phrases before examples like 'According to a recent survey' as they don't add value.
• 🔍 Use examples from your personal knowledge or experience, as instructed in the prompt.
• 🔄 Don't simply repeat ideas with your examples—extend your points to achieve a higher score.
• 💡 Present examples in various ways, such as starting with 'For example' or integrating them within the sentence.
• 🌍 Global examples tend to be more academic and less personal, which can improve the quality of your writing.
• 📈 Listing short examples, like 'timeouts, grounding, or extra chores,' can illustrate ideas effectively without overwhelming your paragraph.
• ⛔ Avoid overcomplicating your writing with unnecessary references to articles or surveys if they don’t add value.
• 👥 Personal examples like 'When I was young' can be used, but academic examples tend to be more appropriate for higher scores.
• 🎯 Examples should be concise, directly related to the topic, and help extend your argument rather than just repeating it.

Q & A

What is one of the best strategies to boost your IELTS Writing Task 2 score?

One of the best strategies is to include a relevant example that supports your argument.

What should you keep in mind when presenting an example in IELTS Writing Task 2?

It’s important to present an example that extends your idea rather than repeating it, ensuring it supports your point effectively.

Why is it not recommended to use references like 'A recent article in the Wall Street Journal' in your examples?

Such references add unnecessary words and make it appear as though you are not focusing on the question or making a good effort to extend your ideas.

What is the difference between using a personal example and a more general example?

Personal examples use pronouns like 'I' or 'we' and are more informal, whereas general examples are less personal and more academic, which can be better for a higher score.

What’s the problem with simply repeating an idea in your example?

Repeating an idea in your example doesn’t add value to your writing. Instead, you should extend the idea to develop it further and improve your score.

How can you use short examples to illustrate your ideas effectively?

You can use listing techniques, such as mentioning several examples in one sentence, to efficiently support your point without making the example the centerpiece of the paragraph.

What’s a better way to extend an idea rather than just repeating it with an example?

A better way to extend an idea is to show the effect or consequence of the example, taking the idea further and providing a deeper level of explanation.

Why is it not recommended to rely on invented information in your examples?

Invented information can feel disingenuous, and it's better to use real or plausible examples from your knowledge or experience that naturally support your argument.

What should you focus on when choosing words for your examples?

You should focus on choosing words that are content-specific and directly support your idea, avoiding empty words that don't add value.

How does using content-specific vocabulary help in presenting examples?

Using content-specific vocabulary, such as 'timeouts', 'grounding', and 'extra chores', helps make your writing more precise and demonstrates your understanding of the topic.