“As For” is a versatile phrase that can significantly enhance the flow and clarity of your writing and speaking in the IELTS exam. It’s particularly useful for transitioning between topics and adding information smoothly. Mastering this phrase can help you achieve a higher band score by demonstrating a wider range of grammatical structures and cohesive devices.
Let’s examine some examples of how “as for” can be used effectively in different sections of the IELTS:
Speaking Part 2: “Describe a time you had to overcome a challenge.” … “It was difficult to stay motivated, but as for my strategy, I started setting small daily goals to track my progress.”
Writing Task 1: “The graph shows the percentage of people using public transportation in four different cities.” … “As for Paris, the city saw a steady increase in public transportation usage throughout the decade.”
Writing Task 2: “Some people believe that technology has made our lives easier. Others disagree. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.” … “While technology has undoubtedly brought about convenience, as for its impact on our social connections, the results are more debatable.”
In each example, “as for” introduces a new subject or shifts the focus to a different aspect of the topic, ensuring a logical and easy-to-follow structure.
Understanding “As For”
Meaning and Usage
“As for” is a prepositional phrase that means “concerning,” “regarding,” or “with regard to.” It is used to introduce a new subject or to return to a subject that was mentioned earlier. This phrase is particularly useful for connecting ideas and maintaining coherence in your writing and speaking.
Frequency in IELTS
While not overly common, “as for” and its variations appear frequently enough in high-scoring IELTS responses to be considered a valuable tool for test-takers. Using it appropriately demonstrates a strong command of grammatical structures and cohesive devices, which are key factors in achieving a band score of 7 or higher.
Grammar and Structure
Formula:
As for + noun/noun phrase + , (comma) + sentence
Analysis:
- “As for” is followed by the noun or noun phrase that you want to shift the focus to.
- A comma is usually used after the noun phrase to separate it from the rest of the sentence.
Variations:
- As to: This phrase is synonymous with “as for” and can be used interchangeably.
- Regarding: A slightly more formal alternative to “as for.”
Using “As For” in IELTS
Writing Task 1
When describing data in graphs, charts, or tables, use “as for” to transition between different data points or trends:
Example:
“The sales of product A saw a sharp decline in the second quarter. As for product B, it remained relatively stable throughout the year.”
Writing Task 2
In essays, “as for” can be used to:
- Introduce a counter-argument: “Some argue that space exploration is a waste of resources. As for the benefits, they argue…”
- Present a contrasting viewpoint: “While city life offers excitement and convenience, as for peace and quiet, it often falls short.”
- Shift focus between different aspects of an issue: “Technology has revolutionized communication. As for its impact on education…”
Example:
“Many believe that globalization has led to job losses in developed countries. As for developing nations, it is argued that…”
Speaking Test
“As for” can be particularly helpful in Part 3 of the Speaking test, where you are required to discuss more abstract ideas and express opinions:
Example:
“Well, I think social media can be a great tool for staying connected. As for its impact on mental health, that’s a complex issue…”
As For IELTS Example
Achieving a Higher Band Score
To achieve a band score of 7 or higher in IELTS, it’s crucial to demonstrate a wide range of grammatical structures and vocabulary. Here’s how “as for” can help:
- Cohesion and Coherence: Using “as for” effectively links your ideas together, making your writing and speaking more fluent and coherent.
- Grammatical Range: It demonstrates your ability to use a variety of grammatical structures beyond simple conjunctions like “and” or “but.”
- Lexical Resource: Using “as for” and its synonyms like “regarding” or “as to” showcases a broader vocabulary.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overuse: Don’t use “as for” too frequently in your writing or speaking, as it can sound repetitive.
- Incorrect punctuation: Remember to use a comma after the noun phrase following “as for.”
- Informal context: While acceptable in spoken English, be mindful of the context. In very formal writing, “regarding” might be a more suitable choice.
Conclusion
“As for” is a valuable phrase that can significantly improve the flow and clarity of your IELTS responses. By understanding its usage and practicing its application in various contexts, you can effectively demonstrate your language proficiency and aim for a higher band score. Remember to focus on using a variety of cohesive devices and grammatical structures throughout the exam to showcase your full range of language skills. For more tips on using cohesive devices effectively, check out this helpful resource: https://ielts.net/how-do-i-use-commas-correctly/.
