“For this reason” is a transition phrase that indicates a cause-and-effect relationship. It signals to the reader that the following sentence will explain a consequence of the previous statement. Mastering the use of such transition phrases is essential for achieving a higher band score in IELTS Writing, particularly in demonstrating cohesion and coherence.
Let’s take a look at a few examples of how “for this reason” might be used across different sections of the IELTS exam:
Example 1 (IELTS Writing Task 2):
Many people believe that technology has made our lives easier. For this reason, there is less need for physical interaction and traditional ways of life are disappearing.
Example 2 (IELTS Writing Task 1):
The graph shows a steep decline in newspaper subscriptions between 2000 and 2010. For this reason, advertising revenue for newspapers also plummeted during this period.
Understanding “For This Reason”
“For this reason” acts as a bridge connecting two ideas, making it clear that the second idea is a direct result of the first. It helps guide the reader through your line of reasoning, improving the overall flow and clarity of your writing.
This phrase is particularly useful in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays, where you need to present clear and logical arguments. It can be used to:
- Explain the consequences of a trend or phenomenon.
- Show the impact of a particular action or event.
- Justify your opinion or stance on a given issue.
Using “For This Reason” Effectively
Formula and Grammar:
“For this reason” is generally placed at the beginning of a sentence and followed by a comma. The sentence structure follows this pattern:
[Independent clause stating a reason or cause]. For this reason, [independent clause stating the result or effect].
Applying the Phrase:
Here’s how you can utilize “for this reason” effectively in your IELTS Writing:
Task 1 (Report Writing):
- Use “for this reason” to link trends and their effects as shown in data. For instance, when describing a graph showing a decrease in car ownership and a simultaneous increase in public transport use, you might say:
“The cost of owning a car has risen dramatically in recent years. For this reason, more and more people are opting for public transportation.”
Task 2 (Essay Writing):
- Use it to connect your arguments logically and explain consequences. For example, when discussing the benefits of learning a new language, you could write:
“Being multilingual opens up a world of opportunities, from enhanced career prospects to richer travel experiences. For this reason, schools should prioritize foreign language learning from a young age.”
Elevating Your Writing: Synonyms and Variations
While “for this reason” is a useful phrase, varying your language can make your writing more sophisticated and engaging. Here are some synonyms and alternative phrases you can use:
- Therefore
- Consequently
- As a result
- Hence
- Thus
- Due to this
- Because of this
For example, instead of saying, “The internet provides access to a vast amount of information. For this reason, it has become an indispensable tool for students,” you could say:
“The internet provides access to a vast amount of information. Consequently, it has become an indispensable tool for students.”
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
One common mistake is using “for this reason” when the second sentence does not actually state a result of the first. Make sure the cause-and-effect relationship is clear and logical.
Incorrect: Many people enjoy spending time outdoors. For this reason, some people prefer to stay indoors.
Correct: Many people find peace and tranquility in nature. For this reason, they prioritize spending time outdoors.
Another error is using commas incorrectly. Remember to place a comma after “for this reason” when it appears at the beginning of a sentence.
By understanding the correct usage of “for this reason” and its synonyms, you can strengthen the clarity and cohesion of your IELTS writing, ultimately boosting your band score. Remember to practice implementing these phrases in your writing to improve your fluency and natural use of language.