“As Illustrated By” is a powerful phrase that can elevate your IELTS writing, particularly in the Writing Task 2 essay. It’s often used to introduce evidence or examples that support a claim or argument. Understanding its usage and nuances can significantly enhance your ability to express ideas clearly and convincingly.
Let’s look at some examples of how “as illustrated by” might appear in different sections of the IELTS exam:
Writing Task 2:
- “The increasing reliance on technology has led to a decline in social interaction, as illustrated by the rising popularity of online gaming and social media platforms.” (Here, the phrase introduces examples that support the claim about technology’s impact on social interaction.)
Speaking Part 3:
- “Well, I do believe that technology can be a double-edged sword. As illustrated by the rise of cyberbullying, it can have negative consequences alongside its benefits.” (In this case, the phrase is used to introduce an example that demonstrates the potential downsides of technology.)
Understanding “As Illustrated By”
“As illustrated by” functions as a prepositional phrase that connects a general statement with specific examples or evidence. It signals to the reader or listener that you are about to provide concrete support for your claim.
This phrase is particularly valuable in academic writing and formal speech because it:
- Enhances Clarity: It provides a smooth transition between your general statement and the supporting evidence.
- Adds Authority: Using this phrase makes your writing sound more academic and persuasive.
- Improves Cohesion: It helps to create a logical flow in your writing, making it easier for the reader to follow your line of reasoning.
Using “As Illustrated By” Effectively
Formula and Grammatical Structure
The basic formula for using “as illustrated by” is:
[General Statement], as illustrated by [Specific Example(s) or Evidence].
Example:
- “Regular exercise offers numerous health benefits, as illustrated by the reduced risk of heart disease and improved mental well-being.”
Reduced Risk of Heart Disease and Improved Mental Well-being
Application in IELTS
Writing Task 2:
- “Many argue that globalization has exacerbated income inequality, as illustrated by the widening gap between the richest and poorest individuals in many countries.”
Speaking Part 3:
- “The impact of climate change is undeniable, as illustrated by the increasing frequency of extreme weather events like hurricanes and droughts.”
Achieving a Band 7+ Score
To score highly in IELTS, it’s crucial to demonstrate a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. While “as illustrated by” is useful, it’s also beneficial to use synonyms and variations to showcase your language proficiency.
Here are some alternatives:
- as demonstrated by
- as evidenced by
- as shown by
- a case in point is
- for instance
- for example
Example:
- “The importance of early childhood education cannot be overstated, as evidenced by studies showing its long-term impact on cognitive development and social skills.”
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
-
Incorrect Punctuation: Remember to use a comma after the general statement before introducing “as illustrated by.”
Incorrect: “The economy is struggling as illustrated by the rising unemployment rate.”
Correct: “The economy is struggling, as illustrated by the rising unemployment rate.”
-
Lack of Specificity: The examples you provide after “as illustrated by” should be specific and directly relevant to your general statement.
Weak: “Social media can be harmful, as illustrated by its negative effects.”
Strong: “Social media can be harmful, as illustrated by the increased prevalence of cyberbullying and body image issues among young people.”
Conclusion
“As illustrated by” is a valuable phrase that can significantly enhance the clarity, authority, and sophistication of your IELTS writing and speaking. By understanding its function, mastering its usage, and incorporating synonyms for variety, you’ll be well-equipped to achieve a higher band score. Remember to practice using this phrase and its alternatives in various contexts to boost your confidence and fluency.
