Mastering “It is observed that…” for IELTS Writing: A Guide to Impressing the Examiner

The phrase “it is observed that…” might seem simple at first glance, but in the context of IELTS Writing, it acts as a powerful tool for presenting information objectively and formally. Frequently appearing in academic writing and reports, this construction allows you to discuss trends, phenomena, and research findings without attributing them to a specific source.

Let’s see it in action within different IELTS Writing tasks:

Task 1 (Describing a graph):

“It is observed that there was a sharp increase in the consumption of fast food between 1990 and 2010.” (This sentence introduces the main trend shown in the graph)

Task 2 (Essay – Discussing advantages and disadvantages):

“While technology offers numerous benefits, it is observed that excessive screen time can have detrimental effects on children’s cognitive development.” (This sentence introduces a potential drawback of technology)

As evident from these examples, “it is observed that…” provides a structured and impersonal approach to conveying information, which is highly valued in the IELTS Writing assessment.

“It is observed that…”: Meaning and Significance

This phrase is an example of what grammarians call an “impersonal passive construction.” Here’s a breakdown:

• Impersonal: It avoids using personal pronouns like “I” or “we,” creating a sense of objectivity.
• Passive: The focus is on the action (what is observed) rather than the actor (who observes it).

In IELTS Writing, particularly in Task 1 where you analyze data or in Task 2 when presenting general observations, this construction proves invaluable for these reasons:

1. Objectivity: It presents information as factual, based on observation rather than personal opinion.
2. Formality: It elevates your writing style, making it suitable for academic and report-writing contexts.
3. Conciseness: It conveys information efficiently, allowing you to maintain a clear and focused writing style.

Mastering the Construction: Formula and Application

Here’s the basic formula for using “it is observed that…”:

It is observed that + [subject] + [verb] + [rest of the sentence].

Example:

• It is observed that (it) urban populations (subject) are growing (verb) at an alarming rate (rest of the sentence).

Let’s explore how to use this construction effectively in different IELTS Writing tasks:

Task 1 (Describing Visual Data):

• When describing trends: “It is observed that the unemployment rate steadily declined between 2005 and 2015.”
• When highlighting significant changes: “In contrast, it is observed that the sales of printed books plummeted during the same period.”
• When summarizing information: “Overall, it is observed that the data suggests a strong correlation between education levels and income.”

Task 2 (Essay Writing):

• Introducing a general trend or phenomenon: “It is observed that social media plays an increasingly influential role in shaping public opinion.”
• Presenting research findings: “Studies have shown that, it is observed that exposure to nature can reduce stress and improve well-being.”
• Discussing common beliefs or perceptions: “It is often observed that people living in multicultural societies tend to be more tolerant and adaptable.”

IELTS Writing Task 1 Graph

Beyond “Observed”: Expanding Your Lexical Range

While “it is observed that…” is effective, variety is key to a high IELTS Writing score. Here are some excellent alternatives that convey similar meanings:

• It is evident that…
• It is apparent that…
• It is noticeable that…
• It is clear that…
• It has been noted that…
• Research indicates that…
• Studies have shown that…
• Data suggests that…

Using these phrases interchangeably will demonstrate your command of a wider range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.

Model Paragraph for IELTS Writing Task 2

Topic: The internet has had a significant impact on education. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages.

Body Paragraph:

“While the internet offers a wealth of educational resources, it is observed that its impact on traditional learning methods is not without drawbacks. For instance, it is evident that excessive reliance on online information can hinder the development of critical thinking skills. Students accustomed to readily available answers may struggle when required to analyze information independently. Moreover, studies have shown that prolonged screen time can have detrimental effects on attention span and concentration, potentially impacting students’ ability to absorb and retain information effectively.”

Analysis: This paragraph effectively employs “it is observed that…” and its alternative “it is evident that…” to present balanced arguments about the internet’s impact on education. The use of these phrases maintains objectivity while conveying concerns about potential drawbacks.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Overuse: While useful, avoid using “it is observed that…” excessively. Vary your language for a more engaging and sophisticated writing style.
• Informality: Remember, this construction is best suited for formal writing. Avoid it in informal letters or essays requiring a personal tone.
• Redundancy: Don’t use this phrase if it doesn’t add any value to your sentence. For example, instead of “It is observed that the economy is growing,” simply state, “The economy is growing.”

Conclusion: Achieving Clarity and Sophistication

Mastering the use of “it is observed that…” and its variations is a valuable asset for IELTS Writing. By incorporating this construction effectively, you can present information objectively, enhance the formality of your writing, and showcase a wider lexical range—all essential ingredients for achieving a band score of 7 or higher. Remember to practice implementing this phrase within the context of different IELTS Writing tasks, paying close attention to the nuances of grammar and vocabulary. With consistent effort and strategic application, you’ll be well on your way to impressing the examiner and achieving your desired IELTS score.