“With this in mind” is a versatile transitional phrase frequently employed in English, particularly in academic and formal writing, to bridge ideas and demonstrate a clear flow of thought. Understanding its correct usage and nuances can significantly enhance the coherence and cohesion of your writing, ultimately contributing to a higher band score in the IELTS writing exam.
Here are a few examples of how “with this in mind” can be effectively used in various sections of the IELTS writing test:
Essay (Task 2): “Governments invest heavily in infrastructure to stimulate economic growth. With this in mind, it’s clear that efficient transportation networks are crucial for attracting foreign investment and facilitating trade.” (This connects the previous statement about government investment to the importance of transportation networks.)
Report (Task 1): “The graph illustrates a sharp increase in online shopping between 2010 and 2020. With this in mind, businesses must adapt their strategies to cater to this growing demographic of digital consumers.” (This links the trend shown in the graph to the need for businesses to adapt.)
Understanding “With This in Mind”
This phrase acts as a transitional expression, signaling to the reader that you are about to present a conclusion, implication, or further development of a previously mentioned idea. It demonstrates that you are considering the information you’ve just shared and are now drawing a logical connection or consequence from it.
Usage and Grammar
“With this in mind” is often placed:
- At the beginning of a sentence: to introduce a new sentence that builds upon the previous one.
- After a semicolon: following a clause that presents the information you want the reader to bear in mind.
Grammatical structure:
- “This” refers to the previously mentioned idea, argument, or piece of information.
- “In mind” indicates that the reader should remember and consider this information.
Using “With This in Mind” for IELTS Writing Task 2
Example: “Many argue that globalization leads to a loss of cultural identity. With this in mind, it’s crucial to implement policies that preserve local traditions and heritage alongside economic integration.”
Analysis:
- The first sentence presents an argument about globalization.
- “With this in mind” acts as the bridge, prompting the reader to consider the argument.
- The second sentence proposes a solution based on the potential problem highlighted in the first sentence.
Other examples in IELTS context:
- Discussing solutions to climate change: “The alarming rate of deforestation directly contributes to rising global temperatures. With this in mind, widespread reforestation efforts and sustainable land management practices are essential.”
- Analyzing the impact of technology: “The digital revolution has transformed the way we communicate and access information. With this in mind, it is crucial to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to technology for all.”
IELTS Writing Band Scores
Achieving Higher Band Scores
Using “with this in mind” effectively can help you achieve a Band 7 or higher in the IELTS writing exam by:
- Cohesion and Coherence: It creates a seamless flow of ideas, making your writing more organized and easier to follow.
- Lexical Resource: It demonstrates your ability to use a range of cohesive devices and sophisticated vocabulary.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Using it correctly showcases your command of complex sentence structures.
LSI Keywords and Phrases
Here are some synonyms and related phrases that can be used interchangeably with “with this in mind” to showcase a broader vocabulary:
- Considering this
- Given this information
- In light of this
- Taking this into account
- Bearing this in mind
- Therefore
- Thus
- Consequently
Remember to choose synonyms that fit the context and maintain the intended meaning of your sentence. You can find examples of how some of these phrases are used in various IELTS topics by exploring resources like The Effects of Violent Video Games on Youth, Should You Change Your Mind Call Me, and The Importance of Fostering a Growth Mindset in Students.
Common Errors to Avoid
- Using it too often: Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language.
- Incorrect pronoun reference: Ensure “this” clearly refers to the specific idea you want to highlight.
- Using it in informal contexts: “With this in mind” is more appropriate for formal writing styles.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of transitional phrases like “with this in mind” is essential for achieving a high band score in the IELTS writing exam. By understanding its function, grammatical structure, and how to effectively incorporate it into your essays and reports, you can significantly enhance the clarity, coherence, and overall quality of your writing. Remember to practice using this phrase alongside its synonyms to demonstrate a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, ultimately impressing the examiners and achieving your desired IELTS score.