“As a result of” is a powerful phrase that can significantly enhance your IELTS writing by adding sophistication and clarity to your sentences. It indicates a cause-and-effect relationship, signifying that one event directly leads to another. Mastering the correct usage of this phrase is crucial for achieving a higher band score in both the IELTS Writing Task 1 and Task 2.
Let’s examine a few examples of how “as a result of” can be effectively used in different sections of the IELTS Writing test:
Task 1:
- “As a result of the increasing demand for oil, prices have skyrocketed in recent years.” (This sentence clearly illustrates how a rising demand has directly impacted oil prices.)
Task 2:
- “Many argue that social media has led to increased isolation among young people. As a result of this, rates of depression and anxiety have risen significantly.” (Here, the consequence of social media on mental health is effectively highlighted.)
Understanding “As a Result Of” in IELTS Writing
“As a result of” is a prepositional phrase that demonstrates a causal relationship between two events or situations. Its presence signifies that the outcome mentioned is a direct consequence of the preceding event. Understanding this cause-and-effect relationship is vital for both interpreting data in Task 1 and constructing persuasive arguments in Task 2.
This phrase is frequently used in both academic and everyday English, showcasing a high level of grammatical proficiency to IELTS examiners. Using synonyms like “consequently,” “therefore,” or “thus” can further diversify your language and showcase a broader vocabulary. For more insights on using these synonyms effectively, check out these helpful resources: use of consequently for results, use of thus for results, and use of as a result for results.
Mastering the Grammar: “As a Result Of”
Grammatical Structure:
[Cause] + “as a result of” + [Effect]
Explanation:
- [Cause]: This is the event or reason that leads to the outcome. It can be a noun phrase, a verb phrase, or even a complete clause.
- “as a result of”: This phrase acts as a connector, directly linking the cause and effect.
- [Effect]: This is the outcome or consequence directly caused by the event mentioned in the ’cause’ section.
Example:
- Cause: The implementation of stricter environmental regulations
- Connector: as a result of
- Effect: a significant decrease in air pollution.
Complete Sentence: As a result of the implementation of stricter environmental regulations, there has been a significant decrease in air pollution.
Applying “As a Result Of” in IELTS Writing Tasks
Task 1:
- Describing Trends: “As a result of increased investment in renewable energy sources, the use of fossil fuels has steadily declined.”
- Highlighting Changes: “The graph shows a sharp drop in unemployment rates in 2010 as a result of new government policies.”
- Comparing Data: “Country A has a much higher life expectancy than Country B, likely as a result of its superior healthcare system.”
Task 2:
- Presenting Arguments: “Some people believe that globalization leads to cultural homogenization. As a result of this, many unique traditions are at risk of disappearing.”
- Supporting Claims: “Studies have shown that children who grow up in bilingual homes tend to develop stronger cognitive skills as a result of their early language exposure.”
- Drawing Conclusions: “In conclusion, while technology offers numerous benefits, it’s crucial to acknowledge its potential drawbacks and mitigate their impact. As a result of responsible technological advancement, we can strive towards a future that is both innovative and sustainable.”
Achieving a Higher Band Score: Advanced Usage
To impress the IELTS examiner and potentially achieve a band score of 7 or higher, consider these strategies:
- Vary your Language: Instead of repeatedly using “as a result of,” incorporate synonyms such as “consequently,” “thereby,” “hence,” or “thus” to demonstrate a wider range of vocabulary.
- Complex Sentence Structures: Combine “as a result of” with other grammatical structures to create more sophisticated sentences. For example:
- “Despite the government’s efforts to promote healthy eating, obesity rates continue to rise, partly as a result of the widespread availability of processed foods.”
- Formal Register: Maintain a formal tone throughout your writing, especially when using “as a result of” to present arguments or draw conclusions.
Common Errors to Avoid
- Incorrect Word Order: Ensure that the cause precedes the effect.
- Incorrect: A significant decrease in crime was the result of increased police patrols.
- Correct: As a result of increased police patrols, there was a significant decrease in crime.
- Overuse: While a useful phrase, avoid using “as a result of” excessively. Vary your language with synonyms for better flow and vocabulary range.
- Informal Language: Remember that IELTS writing requires a formal register. Avoid using colloquialisms or informal language when using “as a result of.”
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “as a result of” can significantly enhance the clarity and sophistication of your IELTS writing. By understanding its grammatical function, practicing its application in various contexts, and exploring its synonyms, you can effectively demonstrate your ability to articulate cause-and-effect relationships, ultimately boosting your band score.