“To my mind” is a phrase that often trips up IELTS test-takers, yet it’s a powerful tool for expressing opinions effectively. Used correctly, it can add sophistication and nuance to your speaking and writing, boosting your band score.
Let’s analyze a few examples of how “to my mind” functions within IELTS:
Speaking (Part 3):
Examiner: “Do you think technology has made our lives more stressful?”
Candidate: “Well, to my mind, technology has brought both advantages and disadvantages. While it simplifies many tasks, it also creates constant pressure to be connected and available.”
Writing (Task 2):
Topic: “Some people believe that the government should fund art and culture. Others believe that this is a waste of money. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
Response: “While investing in public services like healthcare and education is undoubtedly crucial, to my mind, supporting the arts is equally important for a thriving society.”
In both examples, “to my mind” seamlessly introduces the speaker’s viewpoint, indicating a personal belief or perspective.
Understanding “To My Mind” in IELTS
“To my mind” is an idiom synonymous with “in my opinion” or “I believe.” Although less formal than “in my opinion,” it maintains a neutral tone suitable for IELTS.
Grammatical Structure and Application
To my mind, + Subject + Verb
Examples:
- To my mind, online education can never fully replace traditional classrooms.
- To my mind, the benefits of exercise far outweigh the risks.
IELTS Task 2 Application:
“To my mind, governments should prioritize investment in renewable energy sources to combat climate change.”
IELTS Speaking Part 3 Application:
“To my mind, social media can be a powerful tool for connecting people across borders.”
IELTS Speaking Test
Achieving Higher Band Scores: Alternatives and Elaboration
To achieve Band 7 and above, diversify your language. Here are alternatives to “to my mind”:
- In my view…
- From my perspective…
- It seems to me that…
- I am of the opinion that…
Example:
“While some argue that globalization leads to cultural homogenization, it seems to me that it can also foster greater understanding and appreciation for diverse cultures.”
Furthermore, elevate your responses by elaborating why you hold that opinion.
Example:
“To my mind, the benefits of learning a foreign language are numerous. Not only does it enhance cognitive abilities, but it also opens doors to new cultures and experiences, fostering empathy and cross-cultural understanding.”
Common Errors to Avoid
- Incorrect preposition: Using “in” instead of “to” (e.g., In my mind… – incorrect)
- Overuse: Employ a variety of expressions to avoid repetition.
Conclusion
Mastering idiomatic expressions like “to my mind” adds finesse to your IELTS responses. Remember to use it appropriately, vary your language, and provide clear justification for your opinions to achieve a high band score. Continue exploring other opinion-expressing phrases and practice incorporating them into your speaking and writing to further enhance your linguistic prowess in English.
