How to Use “Whatever Happens” Effectively in IELTS Writing and Speaking?

The phrase “whatever happens” is a versatile expression that can add depth and nuance to your English language skills, particularly in the context of IELTS exams. This article will explore the meaning, usage, and application of this phrase in various IELTS tasks, helping you to enhance your grammar and vocabulary for better performance in the test.

Understanding “Whatever Happens”

“Whatever happens” is an idiomatic expression used to convey a sense of resilience, determination, or acceptance in the face of uncertain outcomes. It implies that regardless of future events or circumstances, a particular action or decision will remain constant.

In IELTS, this phrase can be particularly useful in Writing Task 2 essays and Speaking Part 3 discussions, where you might need to express opinions on hypothetical situations or discuss future possibilities.

Whatever Happens Concept

Grammatical Structure and Usage

The basic structure of sentences using “whatever happens” is:

[Subject] + [Verb] + [Object/Complement], whatever happens.

Examples:

1. I will finish this project, whatever happens.
2. She’s determined to attend the meeting, whatever happens.
3. We’ll support you, whatever happens.

In these sentences, “whatever happens” acts as an adverbial phrase, modifying the main clause by emphasizing the certainty of the action regardless of circumstances.

Applying “Whatever Happens” in IELTS Writing

Writing Task 2

In IELTS Writing Task 2, using “whatever happens” can help you express strong opinions or discuss resilience in the face of challenges. Here are some examples:

1. Topic: Environmental Protection
   “Governments should prioritize environmental protection, whatever happens to the economy.”
   Analysis: This sentence uses “whatever happens” to emphasize the importance of environmental protection, regardless of economic consequences.

2. Topic: Education
   “Quality education should be accessible to all children, whatever happens in terms of technological advancements.”
   Analysis: Here, “whatever happens” underscores the enduring importance of education, irrespective of technological changes.

3. Topic: Healthcare
   “Healthcare workers deserve fair compensation, whatever happens with budget constraints.”
   Analysis: This example uses the phrase to argue for the importance of fair pay for healthcare workers, regardless of financial limitations.

Writing Task 1

While less common in Writing Task 1, “whatever happens” can still be used effectively in certain contexts:

“The graph shows that energy consumption is projected to increase steadily over the next decade, whatever happens with renewable energy adoption.”

Analysis: This sentence uses “whatever happens” to indicate that energy consumption will rise regardless of changes in renewable energy use.

IELTS Writing Task Example

Enhancing IELTS Speaking with “Whatever Happens”

In IELTS Speaking, particularly in Part 3 where you discuss abstract ideas, “whatever happens” can be a powerful tool to express determination or certainty.

1. Question: How do you think people will commute in the future?
   Answer: “I believe that, whatever happens with technology, people will still need some form of personal transportation. Whatever happens, the demand for convenient travel will remain.”

2. Question: What challenges might remote work present in the future?
   Answer: “Whatever happens with remote work trends, companies will need to ensure effective communication. Team cohesion must be maintained, whatever happens to the physical workplace.”

3. Question: How might climate change affect agriculture in your country?
   Answer: “Farmers will need to adapt their techniques, whatever happens with the climate. Whatever happens, ensuring food security will be crucial.”

Achieving Higher Band Scores with “Whatever Happens”

To achieve higher band scores in IELTS, it’s important to use phrases like “whatever happens” accurately and in context. Here’s how the usage might differ across band scores:

• Band 5-6: Basic use of the phrase in simple contexts.
  “I will study hard, whatever happens.”

• Band 7-8: More nuanced use, often in complex sentences.
  “Whatever happens with the economic situation, the government must prioritize education funding to ensure long-term prosperity.”

• Band 9: Sophisticated use in various contexts, often combined with other advanced structures.
  “Irrespective of technological advancements and whatever happens in the job market, the fundamental skills of critical thinking and adaptability will remain invaluable.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect placement:
   Incorrect: “Whatever happens I will finish this project.”
   Correct: “I will finish this project, whatever happens.”

2. Overuse:
   Avoid using “whatever happens” too frequently in your responses. Once or twice per task is usually sufficient.

3. Misunderstanding the meaning:
   Incorrect: “Whatever happens, I hope it will rain tomorrow.” (This doesn’t make sense as “whatever happens” implies certainty, not hope.)
   Correct: “I’ll go for a walk tomorrow, whatever happens with the weather.”

4. Forgetting the comma:
   Incorrect: “We’ll continue with our plans whatever happens.”
   Correct: “We’ll continue with our plans, whatever happens.”

Conclusion

Mastering the use of phrases like “whatever happens” can significantly enhance your IELTS performance. It demonstrates a good command of idiomatic expressions and the ability to express complex ideas clearly. Practice incorporating this phrase into your writing and speaking to boost your language proficiency and achieve better scores in your IELTS exam.

Remember to use it appropriately and in context, and always aim to combine it with other advanced grammar structures and vocabulary for the best results. Whatever happens in your IELTS journey, consistent practice and attention to such details will undoubtedly improve your language skills.