“As clarified by” is a phrase often used in academic writing and formal speech to introduce further explanation or evidence from a specific source. While it’s not a grammar point tested directly on the IELTS, understanding its correct usage can significantly enhance your vocabulary and ability to express complex ideas clearly, particularly in the Writing and Speaking sections.
Let’s look at some examples of how “as clarified by” can be used in different IELTS sections:
IELTS Writing Task 2:
- Original statement: The impact of social media on youth is often debated.
- Sentence using “as clarified by”: The impact of social media on youth, particularly its potential for addiction and cyberbullying, is often debated, as clarified by recent studies from the University of Oxford.
IELTS Speaking Part 3:
- Examiner: What are the benefits of learning a new language?
- Candidate: Well, there are numerous advantages, both cognitive and social. For instance, studies have shown that bilingualism can improve memory and problem-solving skills, as clarified by Dr. Bialystok’s research on the subject.
Understanding “As Clarified By”
“As clarified by” signals to the reader or listener that you are about to introduce information from a specific source that supports or explains a previous statement. It helps you:
- Attribute information: It clearly shows where your supporting evidence or explanation comes from.
- Add credibility: Citing sources strengthens your arguments and demonstrates academic integrity.
- Improve coherence: It creates a smooth flow of information by connecting your claims to supporting evidence.
Structure and Grammar
The phrase “as clarified by” is often followed by:
- A noun phrase: This could be the name of a person, an institution, a study, a report, etc.
- A possessive pronoun: For example, “his,” “her,” “its,” “their.”
Formula:
[Statement] + , + as clarified by + [Source of clarification]
Example:
The government’s new policy aims to promote renewable energy sources, as clarified by the Minister of Energy in a recent press conference.
Renewable Energy Sources
Using “As Clarified By” in IELTS
IELTS Writing
- Task 1 (Describing graphs, charts, or diagrams): While less common in Task 1, you might use “as clarified by” when referring to specific data points or trends explained in a caption or accompanying text.
- Task 2 (Essay writing): This phrase is highly valuable for introducing supporting evidence from your research or knowledge.
Example:
Original: Many experts believe that climate change is the most pressing issue of our time.
Improved: The urgent need to address climate change, as clarified by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report, demands immediate global action.
IELTS Speaking
- Part 2 (Individual Long Turn): Use it when recounting information from an article, book, or lecture.
- Part 3 (Two-way Discussion): It can be used to refer to studies or experts’ opinions to support your viewpoints.
Example:
Candidate: Well, I think the benefits of technology in education are undeniable. Take, for example, the use of educational apps; they can make learning more engaging and interactive, as clarified by several studies on the effectiveness of gamified learning.
Achieving Higher Band Scores
- Vary your language: Instead of overusing “as clarified by,” consider synonyms like “as explained by,” “as highlighted by,” “according to,” or “as demonstrated by.”
- Choose credible sources: Referencing well-known institutions, studies, or experts adds weight to your arguments.
- Integrate smoothly: Ensure that the phrase fits naturally within your sentence and doesn’t disrupt the flow of your ideas.
Common Errors to Avoid
- Incorrect punctuation: Remember to use a comma before “as clarified by.”
- Overuse: Using the phrase too often can make your writing sound repetitive.
- Irrelevant sources: Ensure the source you cite is directly relevant to the point you are making.
Incorrect: The economy is expected to grow next year as clarified by the recent report on consumer spending.
Correct: The economy is expected to grow next year, as clarified by the recent report on consumer spending, which shows a significant increase in consumer confidence.
Conclusion
Understanding how to use “as clarified by” effectively can add sophistication and clarity to your IELTS writing and speaking. By using this phrase appropriately and incorporating the tips provided, you can demonstrate your ability to express complex ideas with precision and support your arguments with credible evidence, ultimately boosting your overall band score. Remember to practice integrating this phrase into your IELTS preparation materials to gain confidence and mastery.