As an IELTS instructor with over two decades of experience, I often encounter students grappling with the question: “Can I use ‘I’ or ‘my’ in my IELTS writing?” The use of the first person in IELTS writing, particularly in Task 2 essays, is a common point of confusion. While there’s no outright ban, understanding when and how to use it effectively is crucial for achieving a high band score.

The Dilemma of First Person in IELTS Writing

The hesitation around using the first person stems from the desire to maintain a formal and objective tone, often associated with academic writing. Many believe that using “I” makes their writing sound too personal and less credible.

However, the IELTS exam, especially the writing section, aims to assess your ability to present your viewpoints clearly and cohesively. Sometimes, using the first person can actually enhance your writing, making it more engaging and impactful.

When First Person Can Be Effective

1. Expressing Personal Opinions:

In Task 2 essays, you’re often asked to present your opinion on a given topic. Using phrases like “I believe…” or “In my opinion…” can be a natural and effective way to express your stance directly.

Example:

“While technology has undoubtedly brought many benefits, I believe its impact on our social skills has been largely negative.”

2. Sharing Personal Experiences:

Occasionally, using a personal anecdote can provide strong support for your argument, making it more relatable and convincing.

Example:

“Growing up in a rural area, I experienced firsthand the disadvantages of limited access to quality education.”

Rural Education Disadvantage

When to Avoid First Person

1. Presenting General Truths:

When stating widely accepted facts or general truths, using the first person can weaken your argument.

Instead of: “I think climate change is a serious threat,”

Write: “Climate change is a serious global threat.”

2. Overusing First Person:

While using “I” strategically can be effective, overusing it can make your writing sound repetitive and informal. Aim for a balance between personal viewpoints and objective analysis.

Tips for Using First Person Effectively

• Use sparingly: Only use “I” when it adds value to your writing by strengthening your argument or making it more persuasive.
• Maintain a formal tone: Even when using “I”, ensure your language remains academic and avoids slang or colloquialisms.
• Focus on clarity and coherence: The primary goal is to present your ideas clearly and logically. Don’t let the use of first-person pronouns distract from the overall message.

Conclusion

The key to using the first person effectively in IELTS writing lies in understanding its purpose and using it judiciously. By following the guidelines outlined above, you can leverage the power of “I” to enhance your writing, making it more engaging and impactful while maintaining the required level of formality and objectivity. Remember, the goal is to communicate your ideas effectively and demonstrate your language proficiency.