The phrase “as suggested by” is a common sight in academic writing and often appears in IELTS reading passages. Understanding its usage and grammatical structure can be incredibly beneficial, particularly for achieving a higher band score in your IELTS writing and speaking. This guide will delve into the intricacies of “as suggested by”, providing you with the tools to wield it confidently in your IELTS exam.

Let’s consider a few examples to illustrate its application across different IELTS sections:

Writing Task 2:

As suggested by recent studies, climate change is accelerating at an alarming rate, necessitating immediate global action.

Speaking Part 3:

Well, as suggested by many experts, the future of work will be heavily influenced by automation and artificial intelligence.

Listening Section:

(From a lecture) “… and as suggested by Professor Smith’s research, early intervention is key to addressing learning difficulties…”

In each of these cases, “as suggested by” is used to introduce evidence or support an argument by referencing a source, highlighting a trend, or citing expert opinion.

Understanding “As Suggested By”

“As suggested by” is a prepositional phrase that functions as a linking device to introduce evidence or support a claim. It indicates that the following information originates from a particular source or is based on a specific suggestion. This source could be anything from research findings and expert opinions to statistical data or historical trends.

Grammatical Structure and Usage

The typical structure for using “as suggested by” is as follows:

[Information or Claim] + as suggested by + [Source]

For example:

The company’s profits have significantly increased, as suggested by the latest financial report.

Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

• Information or Claim: This is the main point you want to convey.
• As suggested by: This phrase connects your claim to the source of the information.
• Source: This specifies where the information or suggestion originates (e.g., a study, an expert, a report).

Applying “As Suggested By” in IELTS

Writing Task 2:

“As suggested by” is invaluable for presenting evidence and reinforcing your arguments. Consider this example:

Some argue that traditional teaching methods are becoming obsolete. However, as suggested by a recent study by the University of Oxford, students taught using a combination of traditional and modern techniques demonstrated a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

In this example, the phrase effectively links the claim (traditional methods are not obsolete) to a credible source (a study by Oxford University), thereby strengthening the argument.

Speaking Part 3:

You can use “as suggested by” to demonstrate a wider range of vocabulary and articulate your thoughts more effectively.

When asked about the potential benefits of online education, you could say: “Well, as suggested by various educational platforms, online learning offers flexibility and personalized learning experiences, which can be particularly beneficial for working professionals.”

Listening and Reading:

Being able to quickly identify and understand the function of “as suggested by” in these sections is crucial for identifying key information and answering questions accurately.

linking-words-ielts|Linking Words for IELTS|A mind map illustrating different categories of linking words used in IELTS writing, such as “addition,” “contrast,” “example,” “reason,” and “result,” with examples for each.

Achieving Higher Band Scores

Using “as suggested by” effectively can contribute to achieving a higher band score by:

• Lexical Resource: Demonstrating a wider range of vocabulary and using less common phrases.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Showcasing your ability to use complex sentence structures correctly.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Using linking devices effectively to create a smooth flow of ideas.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Incorrect Preposition: Using prepositions other than “by” after “suggested.” Remember, it’s always “as suggested by.”
• Misplaced Phrase: Ensure the phrase is placed correctly to maintain sentence clarity. It usually appears after the information it supports.
• Lack of Source: Always provide a specific source after “as suggested by.” Don’t leave it hanging without specifying where the suggestion comes from.

Conclusion

Mastering the use of “as suggested by” can be a valuable asset in your IELTS journey. By understanding its grammatical structure, practicing its application, and being mindful of potential pitfalls, you can confidently incorporate this phrase to present well-supported arguments and achieve your desired IELTS band score. Remember, consistent practice and familiarity with such linking devices will significantly enhance your overall language proficiency.