The subjunctive mood is a verb form used to express wishes, suggestions, demands, or situations that are hypothetical or not yet real. While it appears less frequently than other grammatical structures in English, mastering it can demonstrate a high level of grammatical range and accuracy in your IELTS Writing, contributing to a Band 8 score.

Let’s examine a few examples of the subjunctive mood used in the context of IELTS Writing:

Speaking Part 2:

Describe a time you had to make an important decision.

“It was crucial that I choose a university that offer a strong program in my field of interest, but I also needed to consider the financial implications.”

Analysis: Here, “choose” and “offer” are in the subjunctive mood. The speaker is not talking about a choice already made, but about the importance of the choice itself.

Writing Task 2:

“Some people believe that children should be required to learn a second language in school. Others believe that it should be a matter of personal choice. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.”

“While respecting individual autonomy is important, it is imperative that all citizens be equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly globalized world.”

Analysis: The phrase “be equipped” demonstrates the subjunctive mood. It highlights a desired state rather than a current reality, adding weight to the argument.

Understanding the Subjunctive Mood

The subjunctive mood often signals a departure from factual statements to express wishes, suggestions, or hypothetical situations. Unlike indicative mood, which deals with facts, the subjunctive mood deals with possibilities, desires, or recommendations.

Subjunctive Mood in IELTS Writing Tasks

Task 1:

The subjunctive mood appears less frequently in Task 1, which mainly involves describing factual information presented in graphs, charts, or diagrams. However, it can be used effectively in certain situations:

• Describing processes or procedures with a recommended action:

“The first stage of the process requires that the liquid be heated to a temperature of 100 degrees Celsius.”

• Paraphrasing data that suggests a recommendation:

“The significant increase in pollution levels suggests that stricter regulations on industrial emissions be implemented.”

Task 2:

The subjunctive mood is particularly useful in Task 2 essays where you are expected to present and argue for your opinions on various topics. It allows you to:

• Express opinions and suggestions emphatically:

“It is essential that governments invest in renewable energy sources to combat climate change.”

• Discuss hypothetical situations and their consequences:

“Were the government to implement stricter regulations on fossil fuels, carbon emissions would likely decrease.”

• Present conditions and their desired outcomes:

“The committee recommends that all applicants submit their proposals by the end of the month.”

Writing Samples & Analysis

Here are some examples demonstrating effective use of the subjunctive mood in IELTS Writing Task 2:

Prompt: Some people believe that the best way to improve public health is by promoting healthy lifestyles. Others believe that it is more important to focus on treating illnesses. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Sample Response:

“While treating existing illnesses is undoubtedly crucial, I firmly believe that prioritizing preventative measures through the promotion of healthy lifestyles is paramount. It is imperative that individuals be empowered to make informed decisions about their well-being. By encouraging balanced diets, regular exercise, and stress management techniques, governments and healthcare providers can create a foundation for a healthier population.”

Analysis: The sentence “It is imperative that individuals be empowered…” employs the subjunctive mood. It emphasizes the writer’s strong opinion that individuals should have the knowledge and ability to make healthy choices. This elevates the language and strengthens the argument presented.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Mastering the Subjunctive for a Higher Band Score

Using the subjunctive mood effectively can distinguish your writing and demonstrate a sophisticated grasp of English grammar. Here are some tips:

• Use it sparingly: Avoid overusing the subjunctive mood; reserve it for situations where you want to create a strong impact or emphasize a point.
• Pay attention to verb forms: Ensure you use the base form of the verb after “that” in subjunctive clauses.
• Practice makes perfect: Regularly incorporate the subjunctive mood into your writing practice to improve your fluency and accuracy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common errors students make with the subjunctive mood:

Incorrect: It is important that he studies hard for the exam.
Correct: It is important that he study hard for the exam.

Analysis: The base form “study” follows “that,” not the conjugated form “studies.”

By understanding the subjunctive mood and practicing its application in various IELTS writing contexts, you can enhance your writing style, improve your grammatical range and accuracy, and ultimately achieve a higher band score.