The phrase “used to” is a handy tool for IELTS test-takers, especially in the Speaking section. It helps you talk about habits or states that happened regularly in the past but no longer exist. Mastering its use can significantly enhance your fluency and grammatical range, contributing to a higher band score.
Let’s consider these examples:
Speaking Part 2: “Describe a teacher who had a positive influence on you.”
- “She used to bring in real-world objects to illustrate complex concepts, which made her lessons incredibly engaging.”
Speaking Part 3: “Do you think children today spend too much time indoors?”
- “Absolutely. When I was young, we used to play outside until sunset. Nowadays, kids are glued to their screens.”
In both cases, “used to” highlights a contrast between the past and the present, adding depth and naturalness to your spoken language.
Understanding “Used To” in IELTS
“Used to” is employed to describe actions or situations that were true in the past but are no longer true in the present. This difference from the present is essential to remember. It implies a change or a contrast with your current life.
Frequency in IELTS
While not overly frequent, “used to” appears across all sections of the IELTS exam:
- Speaking: You can use it in all three parts, particularly when sharing personal anecdotes, comparing past and present situations, or expressing opinions about societal changes.
- Writing Task 2: It can be incorporated when discussing past trends, historical events, or personal experiences relevant to the essay prompt.
- Listening and Reading: You may encounter “used to” in passages or audio clips that involve narratives about the past or describe changes over time.
Mastering the Grammar: “Used To”
Formula and Application:
Positive: Subject + used to + base form of the verb
Example: I used to live in a small village.
Negative: Subject + didn’t use to + base form of the verb
Example: We didn’t use to have smartphones when I was a child.
Question: Did + subject + use to + base form of the verb?
Example: Did you use to play any musical instruments?
Applying “Used To” in Different IELTS Sections:
IELTS Speaking:
- Part 1: “Did you use to play any sports as a child?”
- Part 2: “In my childhood, we used to spend hours exploring the nearby forest.”
- Part 3: “Many people argue that family dinners used to be more common, fostering stronger bonds.”
IELTS Writing Task 2:
- “Decades ago, children used to play outdoors without constant supervision, fostering independence and creativity.”
IELTS Listening & Reading:
You’ll come across “used to” in contexts describing past routines, habits, or states. Pay attention to how it signals a change compared to the present situation.
Children Playing Outdoors
Achieving a Higher Band Score
Here’s how to use “used to” effectively:
- Varied Sentence Structures: Don’t just use simple sentences. Incorporate “used to” into complex sentences with different conjunctions (because, although, when) to showcase your grammatical range.
- Vocabulary Enhancement: Use synonyms like “formerly,” “in the past,” or “back then” to avoid repetition and demonstrate a wider vocabulary.
- Natural Pronunciation: Practice the pronunciation of “used to,” ensuring it flows smoothly in your speech.
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
1. Using “Used To” for Single Events: Remember, it’s for repeated actions, not one-time occurrences.
**Incorrect:** I used to go to Paris last year.
**Correct:** I went to Paris last year.2. Incorrect Tense with “Used To”:
**Incorrect:** I am used to wake up early.
**Correct:** I used to wake up early. 3. Confusing “Used To” with “Be Used To” (meaning accustomed to):
**Incorrect:** I used to the cold weather now.
**Correct:** I am used to the cold weather now. Conclusion
Mastering “used to” can significantly boost your IELTS score by enriching your vocabulary and demonstrating your command of English grammar. Remember to practice using it in various contexts, focusing on accuracy and naturalness. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving your desired IELTS band!