“It states that” is a phrase many IELTS candidates overuse in their writing, hoping it will make their language sound more academic. However, using it incorrectly or too often can actually lower your score. This article will guide you on how to use “it states that” and its alternatives effectively to enhance your IELTS writing.
Let’s look at a few examples:
- The article states that climate change is a serious threat to the planet. (Formal, referencing a specific source)
- It is stated in the report that the economy will grow by 2% next year. (Formal, referencing a specific source)
- The author argues that social media has a negative impact on young people. (Formal, focusing on the author’s opinion)
These examples demonstrate how “it states that” and similar phrases can be used to cite information and present arguments in a clear and concise way.
Understanding “It States That”
“It states that” is used to introduce information presented in another source, like a book, article, or report. It’s a formal phrase signaling that you are referring to information from an external source.
Using “It States That” and Its Alternatives
Formal Writing:
Structure:
- It + reporting verb (states, argues, suggests, etc.) + that + clause
Examples:
- It is stated in the report that the company’s profits have increased. (Formal, referencing a specific source)
- The study suggests that there is a link between diet and longevity. (Formal, referencing research findings)
Alternatives:
- According to…
- The author/report/article notes/indicates/observes…
- As [source] mentions…
Formal Writing Structure Example
Achieving a Higher Band Score
Overusing “it states that” can make your writing repetitive. To achieve a higher band score, diversify your language using synonyms and alternative structures:
- Paraphrasing: The graph illustrates the growth of online shopping between 2010 and 2020.
- Reporting verbs: The author contends that social media has a detrimental effect on mental health.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Incorrect Verb Tense:
Incorrect: The article stated that the Earth is flat.
Correct: The article states that the Earth is flat.
Explanation: Use the present tense (“states”) when referring to information presented as a fact in the source.
2. Lack of Clarity:
Incorrect: It states that pollution is a problem.
Correct: The report states that air pollution in cities has reached alarming levels.
Explanation: Be specific about the information being presented. Don’t leave the reader guessing what “it” refers to.
Conclusion
While “it states that” can be a useful phrase, it’s essential to use it judiciously and accurately. Vary your language, paraphrase information, and ensure your writing is clear and concise to achieve a higher band score in your IELTS writing exam. Remember to practice using these phrases in your writing to improve your fluency and accuracy.
