“To Sum Up”—a phrase many IELTS test-takers reach for when concluding their essays. But is it the right choice? And are there other, perhaps more impactful, ways to signal your concluding thoughts? This guide delves into the nuances of using “to sum up” and its alternatives effectively in your IELTS writing, helping you craft compelling conclusions that leave a lasting impression on the examiner.
Let’s consider these examples:
- Example 1 (Speaking): “To sum up, I believe that technology has both pros and cons, but its benefits outweigh its drawbacks.”
- Example 2 (Writing Task 2): “In conclusion, while both sides of the argument have merit, to sum up, the advantages of renewable energy far outweigh the disadvantages.”
- Example 3 (Writing Task 1): “To sum up, the graph clearly shows a significant increase in online sales from 2010 to 2020.”
In each example, “to sum up” signals the speaker or writer is presenting a final, concise statement about the topic. Notice how it naturally precedes the main point of the conclusion, creating a smooth transition and preparing the reader for the final thought.
Understanding “To Sum Up” and Its Significance
“To sum up” acts as a powerful signpost in your writing, indicating to the examiner that you’re about to present a concise summary of your main points. While seemingly simple, its effective use can demonstrate your command of cohesive devices and enhance the overall clarity of your writing – crucial aspects of achieving a high IELTS band score.
The Power of Variety: Exploring LSI Keywords
While “to sum up” is perfectly acceptable, relying solely on it can make your writing sound repetitive. This is where LSI keywords (Lexical Semantic Indexing) come in handy. LSI keywords are terms related to your primary keyword (“to sum up”) in meaning, providing a sophisticated way to express similar ideas. Using them showcases a broader vocabulary and avoids redundancy.
Here are some compelling alternatives to “to sum up” and their applications:
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In conclusion: A classic and formal option, ideal for both Task 1 and Task 2 essays.
- Example: “In conclusion, the evidence overwhelmingly suggests that climate change is a pressing global issue requiring immediate action.”
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To conclude: Similar to “in conclusion,” offering a slightly less formal tone.
- Example: “To conclude, while traditional learning methods remain relevant, integrating technology in education is crucial for preparing students for the future.”
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Overall: A concise way to signal a general summary of your points.
- Example: “Overall, the data indicates a positive correlation between education levels and income potential.”
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In summary: A direct and effective alternative to “to sum up.”
- Example: “In summary, the film explores themes of love, loss, and the human condition with remarkable sensitivity.”
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To summarize: Similar to “in summary,” suitable for both formal and informal writing.
- Example: “To summarize, the proposed solution offers a balanced and sustainable approach to addressing the city’s traffic congestion.”
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All in all: A less formal phrase, often used in spoken English and informal writing.
- Example: “All in all, it was a fantastic trip filled with unforgettable experiences.”
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Briefly: Indicates you’ll present a concise summary, often used when time or space is limited.
- Example: “Briefly, the study’s findings highlight the importance of early intervention in childhood development.”
Mastering Conclusion Phrases: Dos and Don’ts
Dos:
- Do vary your language: Employ a range of conclusion phrases to demonstrate vocabulary breadth.
- Do keep it concise: Your conclusion should be a brief but impactful summary.
- Do restate your main points: Briefly remind the reader of the key arguments you’ve presented.
- Do provide a final thought: Offer a concluding statement that leaves a lasting impression.
Don’ts:
- Don’t introduce new information: Your conclusion is for summarizing, not presenting new ideas.
- Don’t repeat yourself verbatim: While you should restate main points, use different wording.
- Don’t be overly informal: Maintain a formal or semi-formal tone throughout your essay.
- Don’t make sweeping generalizations: Ensure your concluding statements are supported by the evidence you’ve presented.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
A common mistake is using “to sum up” or its alternatives incorrectly. Remember, these phrases are transition signals, not standalone sentences. They should introduce your concluding statement, not replace it.
Incorrect: To sum up.
Correct: To sum up, the government should invest more in public transportation to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality.
Practice Makes Perfect
Let’s apply these principles to an IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
Question: Some people believe that the government should invest more in public transportation, while others think that it is better to invest in improving roads. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Example Conclusion:
“In conclusion, while investing in road infrastructure is important for economic growth, prioritizing public transportation is crucial for creating a more sustainable and equitable future. By allocating resources to improve public transit systems, governments can effectively reduce traffic congestion, air pollution, and promote social inclusion, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for all citizens.”
In this example, “in conclusion” effectively signals the concluding paragraph. The writer restates their stance, summarizing the key benefits of public transportation without simply repeating previous arguments. The final sentence provides a clear and concise closing thought.
IELTS Conclusion Tips
To Sum Up (Really This Time!)
Mastering the art of writing effective conclusions is a key step towards achieving your desired IELTS band score. By using “to sum up” strategically and incorporating a variety of its synonyms, you can ensure your essays are clear, cohesive, and leave a lasting impression on the examiner. Remember, practice is key, so experiment with different conclusion phrases and find what works best for you. For further insights on writing strong conclusions, you can explore additional resources on summarizing in IELTS. Happy writing!
