While “it reviews that” might sound plausible at first, it’s actually an incorrect construction in English. This phrase often stems from confusing similar structures and misunderstands how the pronoun “it” functions. As an aspiring IELTS high-scorer, recognizing and rectifying such grammatical errors is crucial for achieving a Band 7 or higher.
Here are some examples of how such an error might appear, contrasted with correct usage:
Incorrect: It reviews that climate change is a serious threat.
Correct: Research reviews demonstrate that climate change is a serious threat.
Incorrect: The report, it reviews that plastic pollution is harming marine life.
Correct: The report reviews the impact of plastic pollution on marine life.
Let’s break down why “it reviews that” is grammatically incorrect and explore how to use similar structures accurately.
Understanding the Problem with “It Reviews That”
The issue lies in the verb “review.” “Review” functions as a transitive verb in this context, meaning it requires a direct object. It cannot directly precede “that.”
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“It” as a Placeholder: The pronoun “it” typically replaces a specific noun or noun phrase mentioned earlier. However, in the incorrect examples, “it” doesn’t have a clear referent.
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“That” as a Conjunction: “That” often introduces dependent clauses. However, simply placing it after “reviews” creates an ungrammatical sentence structure.
Alternatives and Correct Usage
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Using Subjects Directly:
- The study reviews the evidence for climate change. (Subject – Verb – Object)
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Employing “It” Correctly:
- It is evident from the report that plastic pollution is a problem. (Here, “it” refers to the general situation)
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Other Verbs with “That”:
- It is suggested that governments take immediate action. (Verbs like “suggest,” “indicate,” “show” often use “that” to introduce information)
IELTS Writing Exam Structure
IELTS Writing Applications
Mastering these structures is vital for various IELTS sections:
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Task 1 (Academic): When describing data, use clear subjects and verbs:
- The graph illustrates that…
- The data reveals a trend…
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Task 2: In your essays, ensure your sentences follow grammatical rules:
- It is my firm belief that education is key to progress.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
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Dangling Modifiers: Be careful about misplaced phrases that create illogical connections:
Incorrect: Reviewed by experts, the report was deemed accurate. (Who reviewed it?)
Correct: After being reviewed by experts, the report was deemed accurate. -
Subject-Verb Agreement: Ensure your verbs agree with your subjects:
Incorrect: The review of the data show…
Correct: The review of the data shows…
Conclusion
“It reviews that” is a common error that can affect your IELTS score. By understanding the function of pronouns, verbs, and conjunctions, you can express your ideas with clarity and grammatical accuracy. Practice using these structures in various contexts to strengthen your writing skills.
