IELTS Handbook by Asad Yaqub

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By: Asad Yaqub Pakistani, Cell:0092-300-9466533
Chapter 1: IELTS Listening

The IELTS Listening Test is the same for the Academic and General Training modules. You
listen to language spoken in a social or academic context and answer a series of questions. The
tape is played only once so you have to practice sufficiently beforehand to pick up whats being
said the first time around.
The listening test is divided into four sections with 10 questions in each part (a total of 40
questions). This module lasts about 30 minutes. You get an extra 10 minutes at the end to
transfer your answers to the answer sheet.
Types of Listening
Listening for Global or General Information (News, Movies etc.)
IELTS Listening is listening for main ideas, specific information, supporting

information, facts and opinions.
Listening Test Defined

4 Sections
10 Questions in Each Section
Level of difficulty increases by each section
All the Audios are played once only
Time is given a) to read the questions and b) to check your answers.
At the end of IELTS listening Test 10 minutes are given to transfer your answers to
the answer-sheet.
Your answer should not contain more than three words
The Questions and the Audios will be in the same order
IELTS LISTENING - QUESTION TYPES

The listening test measures how well you can listen for main ideas, specific information,
supporting information, facts and opinions. You will find a variety of question types:
multiple choice
short answer
sentence completion
notes/diagram/flow chart completion
matching
classification
The variety of question types means that you sometimes need to write in the answer in your own
writing, versus simply choosing the right answer. This is important because in such cases, you
also need to spell correctly or the answer will be marked wrong. Even a small error can cause
For further details call or mail at 0092-300-9466533, asad_2002pk@yahoo.com
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you to lose marks. For example, if the answer is "hat"; and you write "hats", it may be marked
wrong.
You also have to make sure you include the correct information. If the answer is "Green hats"
and you write only "hats", you may also lose points.
You will get a better sense of how precise you need to be by doing as many practice listening
exams as possible before your actual test. Believe it or not, you will improve with practice,
though it might seem impossible at first. Your ear and your concentration can be trained. Over
time, you will improve but only if you remain patient and move steadily towards your goal of
the highest score possible.
IELTS Listening SPEECH STYLES
Each of the four sections of the IELTS Listening Test focuses on a different type of speech, as
shown below:
Section 1 A social or transactional dialogue 2 speakers

Section 2 A topic or short speech on a general topic 1 speaker
Section 3 A conversation in an academic context 2-4 speakers
Section 4 An academic lecture 1 speaker
Pre-Listening Tips
Practice to Improve your Listening Skill
Be Familiar with different Dialects of English i.e. British, American, Australian,
Canadian, Irish, Scottish, African and non-native accents and dialects.
Listen to the Audios with the transcript in hand.
Use your Imagination to understand the dialogues better.
Read the questions with clear Understanding.
Underline the key words with pencil.
Use the time wisely to read the questions and check your answer.
While-Listening Tips
Tune your ears with the Audio.
Use the example at the beginning of the first section to familiarize yourself with the
sound, the situation, and the speakers.
Follow the questions and statements given to keep track with the Audio.
Follow the Instructions very carefully.
Develop the skill to read, write and listen at the same time.
Use Pauses to prepare for the next set of questions
When the time to read questions terminates stop reading immediately and begin to listen.
Don't leave blanks because there is no negative marking.
Dont waste your time in checking your answers if you are sure about them instead read
on.
Dont rush to jot down your answer, wait for the answer to come in the audio.
Keep two questions in mind while listening
rd
th
In 3 and 4 Section Learn to distinguish opinion from fact
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Overall IELTS Listening Tips
The accents of the speakers on the tape are primarily British. This means you must
become accustomed to understanding the nuances of such accents. If you have been
watching a lot of American television, (shows such as Friends, for example) it will not
really help you. British accents are quite different and it is better to spend time in the
months before the test listening to British radio stations and podcasts or watching the
BBC, British shows, and movies. This is one of the major difference between the
IELTS exam and the TOEFL, which features more American accents.
Get used to the way letters and numbers are pronounced in British (and American)
English. Sometimes, in the listening section, you are asked to write down the spelling of
a name, place, or address. If you make a mistake in the spelling while writing it down,
you will get the answer wrong.
The expressions used also tend to be taken from British rather than American
English. This means you may hear unfamiliar idioms, which can confuse you. Speakers
may also use British words for common items such as "flat" for "apartment", "lorry" for
"truck", or "advert" for advertisement. Make sure you study the most common
differences in British and American vocabulary and listen to as many IELTS exercises as
possible before your exam to prepare you for the actual test experience.
Learn to distinguish opinion from fact. In the third and fourth listening passages, you
will probably be tested on what one of the speakers thinks or what his / her view is. This
may or may not be stated outright, but as an underlying theme in the whole conversation
or in the tone of the speakers voice, rather than the words themselves.
Don't worry if your classmates or friends get higher listening scores than you. Each
one has his or her strengths and weaknesses, just like you. Each one also has his or her
own language goals. Just focus on your own needs and don't compare yourself to others.
Follow instructions very carefully. If the instructions state, "Write no more than three
words",then you must not write more or you will receive no marks for your answer, even
if some of the words you wrote were part of the correct answer. Similarly, read each
instruction carefully. Sometimes, you are asked to circle two answers, sometimes three,
and so on. You must read the instruction each time as it may differ from the previous
ones. Remember, the ability to follow instructions in English is a test in itself.
Problems During Listening
Getting Lost
Be careful of letters and numbers that sound similar i.e. A-H-8, C-G, W-OO-EE, 80-18,
30-13
Spelling
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Chapter 2: IELTS Reading

Academic Reading Test Structure
Duration: 60 minutes
3 sections, 40 Questions
Each section has a passage containing 700 to 1000 words and all the three passages have
almost 2100 to 3000 words.
Passages are take from newspapers, books, magazines, journals, articles, research papers
or other sources
General Training Reading Test Structure
Duration: 60 minutes
3 sections, Total 40 Questions, 13 or 14 Questions in each section
Each section has a passage containing 700 to 900 words and all the three passages have
almost 2100 to 2700 words.
Passages are taken from notices, advertisements, official documents, booklets,
newspapers, instruction manuals, leaflets, timetables, books and magazines etc.
TIME Management
17 minutes on section 1
Warning: No Extra Time will be given to transfer the answers to the answer sheet.
IELTS READING Question Types
Multiple choice
Multiple matching
Short-answer
Sentence completion
Tables, diagrams, flow charts
Summary completion
Paragraph headings
Locating information
Identifying writer's views or claims
Classification
Matching
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IELTS Academic READING CONTENT

Section
Number of Texts
Questions
Types of Texts
1 long text
13
general academic content
1 long text
13
one passage presents a logical argument.
1 long text
14
one passage includes a diagram, graph or

illustration
IELTS GENERAL READING - CONTENT

Section
Number of Texts
Questions
Types of Texts
2-3 short texts
13
Notices, advertisements, publicity booklets,

timetables, etc.
2 texts
13
College catalogues, course descriptions, rules and

regulations, library guides, etc.
1 long text
14
Newspapers, magazines, journals, books, etc.
3 KEY REDING SKILLS

Skimming
Scanning
Reading for detail
SKIMMING TECHNIQUES
Skimming is reading fast to get the "gist" or the general idea of the text
Run your eyes over the text getting the general meaning
Do not stop at words that you don't understand
Skim Speedily
Another way to skim is to just read the first and last paragraphs
Read the title, subtitles and illustrations
SCANNING TECHNIQUES
Scanning the dictionary or Telephone directory.
Dont start from the top and read every line
Move your eyes around the text back and across and up and down
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Read the question and then you search for key words or ideas associated with the
question
TIPS TO IMPROVE READING SKILLS

Increase your reading speed
The only secret to improve reading is Practice, Practice and Practice
General Reading Tips
Have Interaction with the passage
Keep in the mind the two questions about the text
a) What subject is the text about?
b) Why was this text written?
Retain the Questions
Get the gist of unfamiliar words
Experiment with both strategies Questions First or Passage First
1 set of questions usually follow the order of the information
Spelling matters
Grammar counts
In sentence completion tasks, focus on the meaning
Do many practice tests
Read widely and habitually
Look out for key synonyms
Use only the stated number of words
STEP BY STEP ACTION PLAN
Step 1: Read the Questions to get the gist of passage and underline the key words.
Step 2: Retain 2 or 3 questions and Scan the text to find the relevant information.
Step 3: Find the paragraph and then the lines which are related to the question.
Step 4: Find, match, confirm and write the answer.
Step 5: Go to step 2 again.
GENERAL READING TIPS
Beat the fear read as much as possible
Improve key skills i.e. skimming and scanning and reading in detail
Time Management
Focus on the question avoid careless errors
Train yourself, dont test yourself
Learn how to underline or encircle the key words, phrases, facts and figures.
The questions follow the text normally
The questions or the text which do you read first?
Fill out the answer sheet
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Chapter 3: IELTS Writing Task 1

WRITING TEST DEFINED
Task 1: Report Writing for Academic Candidates
(150 Words-20 minutes)
Task 1: Letter Writing for General Training Candidates
(150 Words-20 minutes)
Task 2: Essay Writing for Academic and General Training (250 Words-40 minutes)
Total Writing Test Duration:
1 Hour
WRITING TASKS CRITERIA

Task Achievement - how thoroughly you do what is asked
Coherence (Connection) and Cohesion (Organized) - how connected and organized
your written expression is.
Lexical Resource - the range of vocabulary you use
Grammatical Range and Accuracy - how correct your grammar is
5 STEPS TO MASTER ACADEMIC WRITING TASK 1

Recognize and Identify different graphics i.e. line graphs, bar charts, pie charts, etc.
Look out for key information, comparisons and trends.
Practice the specific vocabulary to describe those trends.
Learn how to start, complete and finish your answer.
Finish Writing in 15 minutes and proofread in 5 minutes.
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Step 1
Recognize and Identify different graphic forms
Line graphs
Bar charts
Pie charts
Flow Charts
Statistical Tables
Process Diagram
etc
Steps 2
Look out for key information, comparisons and trends.
Bar Chart
A bar chart consists of rectangular bars arranged horizontally or vertically from the x or y
axis.
Look for the following Information
Which is the tallest bar?
Which is the shortest bar?
Have the bars changed over time? How?
How do the bars compare to each other?
Pie Chart
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A pie charts is a circular chart divided into sectors or pie slices. It presents information in
segments of a circle or pie, which together add up to 100%.
Which is the largest segment?
Which is the smallest segment?
How do the segments compare with each other?
Line Graph
A line graph plots the changes in data over time:

What is the highest level / point?
What is the lowest level / point?
Is there a point till when the trend was increasing or decreasing?
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When did the trend change?

Tables
A table presents information in different categories, making it easy to compare.

Look out for the following
What is the highest figure?
What is the lowest figure?
What is second highest, etc.?
Comparisons and Contrasts
Process Diagrams
The process diagram represents the whole process that how something is done.
Look out for the following
How does the process start?
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What are the key features?

How the sub-processes linked to the main process?
How does the cycle of the process accomplish?
Step 3
Vocabulary of Trends
Learn a range of vocabulary to describe and interpret statistical information.
Use the appropriate verbs, nouns, adjectives and adverbs to provide precise descriptions.
IELTS Writing - Academic Task 1 Vocabulary
The following words and phrases will help you describe trends:
Nouns
a rise, an increase, a surge, a growth, a peak, a fluctuation, a variation, a period

of stability, a plateau, a fall, a decrease, a decline, a dip
Verbs
to rise, to increase, to surge, to grow, to peak, to skyrocket, to fluctuate,

to vary, to fall, to decrease, to decline, to dip, to dive, to plunge
Phrases
to show an upward trend, to show a downward trend, to hit the highest point,
to hit the lowest point, to reach a peak, to show some fluctuation, to fluctuate
wildly, to remain stable, to remain static, to remain unchanged, to stay
constant, to reach a plateau, to level off, to flatten out, the highest, the lowest
the second highest, the third highest compared to, compared with, relative to
Adverbs
Sharply, suddenly, rapidly, abruptly, dramatically, significantly, steadily,

considerably, markedly, slightly, gently, gradually, wildly
Adjectives
Sharp, sudden, rapid, abrupt, dramatic, steep, significant, steady, considerable

marked, slight, gentle, gradual
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Step 4
Write your answer according to a plan
Paragraph 1
Write one sentence to introduce the subject and graphic.
Write one or two sentences to show the relationship between the data or to comment on
the main trend.
Specimen Phrases to start your report according to the type of graphic:
The table compares/identifies...
The line graph shows
The pie chart represents
The bar chart describes
The diagram illustrates
Paragraph 2
Write an in-depth description of the information given. Include details from the most
important to the least important, depending on time. Give comparisons and contrasts but
do not define all the statistics as mentioned in the graphic.
Paragraph 3
Write few sentences to conclude your answer.
Specimen Phrases to conclude your report:
To sum up
Overall
In the final analysis
In summary
In conclusion
It can be clearly seen that
Step 5
Donts of Academic Writing
Dont describe only the data.
Dont give your interpretation.
Dont give your opinion.
Dont write anything which is not even mentioned.
Avoid informal language.
Don't repeat ideas, words or phrases in a different way.
Don't memorize model answers
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Chapter 4: IELTS Writing: General Training Task 1-Letter Writing

Task Description
Letter Writing on Formal, Semi-formal and Informal situations.
Length:150 words
Time: 20 minutes
Letter Planning and Layout
A. What is in the letter?
1. What is the purpose of the letter? Why am I writing? Who am I writing to?
2. What is the tone of the letter? This depends on who I have to write to. Is it formal,
informal or neutral? What kind of language can I use to start and finish the letter?
3. What are the bullet points that must be included? There are normally three or four
things you must include in your letter
B. How can I write it?
This is a possible structure for the letter. Remember it is very short only 150 words so you
dont need to write much for your introduction and conclusion.
Paragraph 1 Introduction
Tell the reader who you are and why you are writing to them
Paragraph 2 Message
Give your message, including all the things the question tells you to include. Add a little detail
for each one sentence on each point is probably not enough.
Paragraph 3 Conclusion
Summarise what you have said and then finish your letter with the right ending, depending on
the tone.
Letter Writing Tips 12 Ways to Get Higher Marks on the IELTS Letter Writing Task
1. Visualize the situation of the letter and put yourself at the place of writer. Imagine if
actually you were in that situation how would you write.
2. Brainstorm the whole scenario keeping in view the bulleted points and make a strong
interesting story.
3. Identify the type of letter you are being asked to write. Is it a formal, semi-formal or
informal letter? The entire tone of your letter is based on your answer to this question.
Adjust your style and choice of words according to the type of letter you have been asked
to write.
4. Open and close the letter correctly. Remember that each type of letter requires a
different opening and closing. The chart below will help you remember this:
Style
Characteristics
Opening
Ending
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Formal
To someone you have not met,

whose name you don't know
Dear Sir / Madam
Yours faithfully
Semiformal
To someone you may or may not

have met, whose last name you
know & use
Dear Mr Brown,
Dear Ms Stone,
Yours sincerely
Informal
To someone you know well,

whose first name you know and
use
Dear John,
Dear Anita,
Best regards
Warm wishes
5. Open a formal and semi-formal letter with a formal sentence. Don't try to be friendly,
as you do not know the person you are writing to. Get right down to business and indicate
the reason you are writing, as shown below:
Dear Sir / Madam,
I am writing to inquire about / I am writing in connection with...
Dear Mr. Jones,
I am writing to inform you ... / I am writing in connection with...
6. Open an informal letter with a general, friendly paragraph. With friends whom we
know, we care about the whole person. We have a broader relationship in the context of
which this communication is taking place. So it is best to acknowledge that friendship
first, before getting down to the reason for your letter. In fact, the first paragraph could be
purely friendly small talk, unrelated to the reason for your writing. Look at the example
below:
Dear Jane
I hope you and your family are all well. It was such a pleasure to see you again last summer. We
sure had a great time catching up with each other after so many years. You have always been a
cherished friend, no matter how much of a gap there has been since we met.
Anyway, the reason I'm writing is that I have some good news - I am getting married this
summer...
7. Identify the main purpose of the letter. Are you asking for help, apologizing, inviting
someone, complaining or thanking someone? Learn appropriate and polite expressions
that will support what you need to say.
8. Learn and use standard written phrases. Students sometimes struggle to finish their
writing in time. This happens when you are trying to write every sentence from scratch.
The fact is, in conventional letter writing in English, we use a number of standard
expressions and phrases and add on to them the specific information we wish to
communicate. By learning how to use these expressions, you will find the letter writing
task much easier and will never have to fight for time.
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9. Make sure you write at least 150 words. Practice writing letters till you know what 150
words feels like and looks like. You will lose marks if you write less. You will not lose
marks if you write more; the only restriction on writing more is in terms of time, not the
number of words.
10. Learn the correct spelling of commonly used words. It is surprising how many IELTS
students make a mistake when spelling words such as "sincerely", "faithfully", "in
connection with" and so on. You can prevent yourself from losing marks by learning the
correct spelling of these words and expressions which you are highly likely to use on
your exam.
11. Stay on topic. In order to complete your letter within 20 minutes or less, practice writing
letters where you stick to the point. The General IELTS Task 1 does require you to make
up a bit of a story to complete your letter, but don't make your story so complicated that
you run out of time.
12. Include all three bulleted points. If you exclude even one of the points given to you in
the question prompt, you will lose valuable marks. Practice writing letters that include the
three points and go back and check that you have included them in each practice exercise
you do.
IELTS Letter Writing - Useful Words & Expressions

To complete your IELTS letter writing task within 20 minutes, it is helpful to know some
common phrases and set expressions. Being able to use these will allow you to express your
ideas quickly and effectively, without thinking about each and every word. While you're learning
their meaning, also make sure you can spell them perfectly.
Letter Writing Useful Phrases
Salutation
Starting
Dear Mr. Brown

Dear Ms. White
Dear Sir
Dear Sirs
Dear Madam
Dear Sir or Madam
Gentlemen
We are writing to inform you that ...

to confirm ...
to request ...
to enquire about ...
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EASY IELTS Notes
I am contacting you for the following reason.

I recently read/heard about . . . and would like to know . . .
Having seen your advertisement in ... , I would like to ...
I would be interested in (obtaining/receiving) ...
I received your address from ...
and would like to ...
I am writing to tell you about ...
Thank you for your letter of March 15 ...

Thank you for contacting us.
In reply to your request ...
Thank you for your letter regarding ...
With reference to our telephone conversation yesterday ...
Further to our meeting last week ...
It was a pleasure meeting you in London last month.
I enjoyed having lunch with you last week in Tokyo.
I would just like to confirm the main points we discussed on
Tuesday . . .
Making a request
We would appreciate it if you would ...

I would be grateful if you could...
Could you please send me . . .
Could you possibly tell us/let us have...
In addition, I would like to receive ...
It would be helpful if you could send us ...
I am interested in (obtaining/receiving...)
I would appreciate your immediate attention to this matter.
Please let me know what action you propose to take.
Offering help
We would be happy to ...

Would you like us to ...
We are quite willing to ...
Our company would be pleased to ...
Giving good news
We are pleased to announce that ...

I am delighted to inform you that ...
You will be pleased to learn that ...
Giving bad news
We regret to inform you that ...

I'm afraid it would not be possible to ...
Unfortunately we cannot/we are unable to ...
After careful consideration we have decided (not) to ...
I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with ...

I am writing to complain about ...
Please note that the goods we ordered on (date) have not yet
arrived.
We regret to inform you that our order n--- is now considerably
overdue.
I would like to query the transport charges which seem unusually high.
Referring to
previous contact
Complaining
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EASY IELTS Notes
Apologizing
We are sorry for the delay in replying ...

I regret any inconvenience caused
I would like to apologize for (the delay/the inconvenience) ...
Once again, I apologise for any inconvenience.
Orders
Thank you for your quotation of ...

We are pleased to place an order with your company for ...
We would like to cancel our order n...
Please confirm receipt of our order.
I am pleased to acknowledge receipt of your order n...
Your order will be processed as quickly as possible.
It will take about (three) weeks to process your order.
We can guarantee delivery before ...
Unfortunately these articles are no longer available/out of stock.
Prices
Please send us your price list.

You will find enclosed our most recent catalogue and price list.
Please note that our prices are subject to change without notice.
We have pleasure in enclosing a detailed quotation.
We can make you a firm offer of ...
Our terms of payment are as follows :
Referring to payment
Our records show that we have not yet received payment of ...
According to our records ...
Please send payment as soon as possible.
You will receive a credit note for the sum of ...
Enclosing documents
I am enclosing ...
Please find enclosed ...
You will find enclosed ...
Closing remarks
If we can be of any further assistance, please let us know

If I can help in any way, please do not hesitate to contact me
If you require more information ...
For further details ...
Thank you for taking this into consideration
Thank you for your help.
We hope you are happy with this arrangement.
We hope you can settle this matter to our satisfaction.
Referring to future
business
We look forward to a successful working relationship in the future

We would be (very) pleased to do business with your company.
I would be happy to have an opportunity to work with your firm.
Referring to future contact
I look forward to seeing you next week

Looking forward to hearing from you
"
"
to receiving your comments
I look forward to meeting you on the 15th
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EASY IELTS Notes
Ending
I would appreciate a reply at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely,
}
Yours sincerely, } (for all formal letters)
Sincerely yours, }
Regards,
(for informal letters)
More Phrases to Give Your Letter a Fantastic Touch

Apologizing
I'm sorry about...
I am sorry that...
I'm very sorry about...
I'm very sorry for...
Please forgive me for...
I'd like to apologize for...
Please accept my apologies.
Please accept my sincere apologies. (very formal)
Asking for Help
I'd be grateful if you could...
I would be grateful if you could...
I would appreciate it if you could...
Could you please...
I was wondering of you could help me.(informal)
I would like to know...
Asking for Information
I am writing to enquire about...
I am writing to find out about...
What I am looking for is...
I would like to know about/if...
Closing
I look forward to seeing you.
I look forward to hearing from you.
I look forward to meeting you.
Complaining / expressing dissatisfaction
I'm writing to express my dissatisfaction with...
I'm writing to express my annoyance with...
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I am not happy about...

...was very disappointing.
Conveying regards
Please give my best regards to your family.
Please pass on my best wishes to your wife and children.
Please give my regards to your parents.
Expressing satisfaction
I was delighted to hear that...
I was very happy to learn that...
I was thrilled to find out that...
I was glad to hear that...
...was very enjoyable.
Expressing concern / sympathy
I was sorry to hear about... (your accident/ illness)
I am writing to express my concern about...
Giving bad news
I regret to inform you that...(semi-formal)
I am sorry to tell you that...(informal)
I regret to advise you that...(formal)
I am afraid I have some bad news.(informal)
Giving good news
I am pleased to inform you that...(semi-formal)
I am delighted to tell you that...(informal)
I am happy to advise you that...(formal)
I thought you might like to know that...
Giving reasons
This is because...
This is because of...
This is due to... (formal)
This is as a result of...(formal)
This is owing to...(formal)
Making suggestions
Would it be a good idea to...
Perhaps it would be a good idea to...
Thanking
Thanks.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
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Thank you kindly.

I can't thank you enough.
No words can express my gratitude.
I am extremely grateful for...
I very much appreciate your ______ing
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Chapter 5: IELTS Writing Task 2-Essay Writing

Task Description
Letter Writing on Formal, Semi-formal and Informal situations.
Length:150 words
Time: 20 minutes
Task 2: Essay Writing
Essays are written to:
A. Persuade
B. Offer Suggestions
C. Compare and Contrast
D. Give Causes and Effects
E. Give Advantages and Disadvantages
Parts of an Essay
Introduction (First Paragraph)
Body (Second, Third and Fourth Paragraph)
Conclusion (Last Paragraph)
Note: There must be 4 or 5 (recommended) paragraphs in your essay.
5 Steps to Write an Essay
Step 1: Read the Topic
Step 2: Underline the Key Words
Step 3: Brainstorming for 3 Key Ideas
Step 4: Decide Layout
Step 5: Write
Introductions
One easy way to write the introduction for an argument or opinion essay is to write THREE
sentences:
two about the topic

one thesis sentence
You can write either Situation or Opinion introductions. There's not much difference between
them.
Situation Introductions
Opinion Introductions
Situation Introductions
Write two sentences to describe the two sides of the present situation. The third sentence - the
Thesis sentence - will describe what you are going do in your essay.
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Sentence 1
One side of the present situation
Sentence 2
The other side of the present situation
Sentence 3
Thesis: What you are going to do in your essay
Who should take care of our old people?
Sentence 1
In my country, most old people live happily with their children.
Sentence 2
Increasingly however, many families cannot take care of their parents
Sentence 3
(Thesis)
This essay will describe some of the problems involved with taking care
of old people, and discuss who should be responsible.
Does Aid to Poor Countries Work?
Sentence(s) 1
For the last fifty years, poor countries have been receiving huge sums of
money from rich donor countries.
Sentence 2
Some of this money has improved lives, while much of it has disappeared
or made no difference.
Sentence 3
(Thesis)
In this essay, I will discuss some arguments for and against foreign aid.
EASY IELTS Notes
25
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Should dangerous sports be banned?

Sentence 1
Every year, thousands of people are injured or killed in sports such as

boxing or motor-racing.
Sentence 2
Because of this, many people are opposed to such sports, and want them
to be stopped or controlled.
Sentence 3
(Thesis)
This essay will look at some of the arguments for and against banning
dangerous sports.
Opinion Introductions
In this kind you give two opposite opinions in the first two sentences. The third sentence says
what you are going to do.
Does space exploration benefit mankind?
Sentence For
Sentence Against
Sentence 3
(Thesis)
Many people are excited about space exploration.

However, others feel it is a massive waste of money
This essay will look at some of the arguments for and against space
exploration.
Does space exploration benefit mankind?

Sentence For
Sentence Against
Sentence 3
(Thesis)
Space, for many people, really is the final frontier. They are excited by
the exploration and potential of space.
However, not everyone agrees that this money is well-spent. Many people
feel that we should solve problems here on earth before beginning our
journey to space
This essay will look at some of the arguments for and against space
exploration.
26
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EASY IELTS Notes
Do Athletes Deserve Their High Salaries?
Sentence(s) 1
Every day, we read about new record contracts and salaries earned by
sportsmen and women. Some people do not agree with these huge
payments
Sentence 2
Others believe that our sports heroes deserve every penny.
Sentence 3
(Thesis)
This essay will look at some of the arguments for and against the high
salaries of athletes.
Finally, if you are having problem thinking about an introduction, leave some space and write it
later - AFTER you write the body or conclusion.
Thesis Sentence
A thesis statement is a sentence (or two) that states what you are going to do in your essay. It is a
kind of signpost or map that shows the reader what direction you will take. It usually comes at
the end of the Introduction.
In this essay, I will outline the arguments for
and against physical education in schools.
In this essay, I will examine some reasons for
the growth of the tourism industry.
You can leave out "I."
This essay looks at ideas in favour of and against early marriage.
This essay will discuss the benefits of having universal free health care.
Be Strong
Sometimes you don't need a "will" or "going to". Your thesis statement is so strong that it is clear
what your opinion is.
Beating children brutalizes parents, damages the parent-child relationship, and is completely
unnecessary.
In an essay with the thesis statement above, there will clearly be three parts - one on the effects
of corporal punishment on parents, one part with the effects relationship, and another which
claims that beating is not needed.
27
BBy
EASY IELTS Notes
Words to use in the thesis sentence

analyze, look at, examine, discuss, outline, consider, describe
Essay Layout for Further Understanding.
Introduction
Present
situation
Many crimes and social problems are caused by children.

Despite the damage these teenage criminals cause, parents are not held
responsible in most countries.
What this essay

This essay will discuss whether parents should be forced to pay for their
will do (Thesis
children's crimes.
sentence)
Paragraph 2:
Against
Topic Sentence There are many reasons why parents should not be responsible for crimes
committed by teenage children.
Reason 1:
Independence
Reason 2:
Parents
working
Reason 3:
Parents have
done their job
First of all, teenagers today are independent. They often move out of the
parent's house at 18 years of age or younger. They are expected to learn to
take care of themselves and make their own decisions, and not stay like
small children attached to their parents.
Secondly, parents are working. They cannot watch their adolescent
children all the time.
A third point is that even children from good families can sometimes
commit crimes. Parents should not be responsible if they have worked
hard to raise their children properly.
Paragraph 3:
For
Topic Sentence However, because of the many problems young troublemakers cause, I
feel we should make parents responsible.
Reason 1: Lack Firstly, most juvenile crimes are committed by adolescents whose parents
of Parental
do not care or make any effort to control their children. If parents had to
Control
pay fines, they might make more effort.
Reason 2:
Children not
mature
Another point is that even though the children may seem mature, they are
not really able to make good decisions. Parents should be responsible for
raising and teaching their children until they are fully grown.
28
BBy
EASY IELTS Notes
Reason 3:
Children will
think
Furthermore, if children know that their parents will have to pay, they will
think carefully before doing getting into trouble
Conclusion
Summary
In summary, there are good reasons both for and against making parents
pay for acts committed by their children.
Future/Personal However, I feel strongly that if we want to reduce the number of such
Opinion
crimes, we need to make parents take more responsibility.
The example below could be for or against.
Introduction:
Present situation and/or Both sides of Argument (1-2 sentences)

What you are going to do in this essay / Your opinion (Thesis
sentence)
Topic Sentence: Argument 1 or Reason 1

Example, Explanation, or supporting detail (2-4 sentences)


Summary
Present situation and your opinion
Future statement
3 sentences
Paragraph 2
7/8 Sentences
Paragraph 3
7/8 Sentences
Paragraph 4
7/8 Sentences
Conclusion
3 Sentences
What Makes a Body Look Good?

Paragraphs, that's the answer! If your paragraph is in good shape, your body will look good and
feel good.
Here's what you need to have in a body paragraph.
EASY IELTS Notes
29
BBy
Topic Sentence
Argument or Reason 1
Example, Explanation, or supporting detail
Argument or Reason 3 (Three is a magic number. Always aim to have 3 ideas.)
Paragraph summary (optional)
Let's look at an example.

Is Education Being Devalued?
Topic Sentence
People have several arguments against the need for degrees.
They say that having so many graduates devalues a degree.
Example, Explanation, or
supporting detail
People lose respect for the degree holder.
supporting detail
supporting detail
supporting detail (You can have
one, two, or even more of these
for every idea)
It is also claimed that education has become a rat race,...

...since graduates have to compete for jobs even after years of
studying.
Another point is that studying for such a long time leads to learners
becoming inflexible.
By that I mean that they know a lot about one narrow subject, but
are unable to apply their skills.
Employers, on the other hand, prefer more flexible and adaptable

workers.
People have several arguments against the need for degrees. They say that having so many
graduates devalues a degree. People lose respect for the degree holder. It is also claimed that
education has become a rat race, since graduates have to compete for jobs even after years of
studying. Another point is that studying for such a long time leads to learners becoming
inflexible. By that I mean that they know a lot about one narrow subject, but are unable to apply
their skills. Employers, on the other hand, prefer more flexible and adaptable workers.
EASY IELTS Notes
30
BBy
Conclusion
The conclusion is the end of the essay. It is the last part of the essay and it is the part that the
reader may remember most. It should be clear and avoid confusing the reader.
The reader expects the conclusion to do some or all of the following
rephrase the question

summarize the main ideas
give your opinion, if you haven't given it already
look to the future (say what will happen if the situation continues or changes)
The reader DOES NOT expect new information in the conclusion. Never add a new idea just
because you have thought of it at the end!
You must do all of this in just three or four sentences!
Wrapping Paper
Another way to look at the Introduction and the Conclusion is to think about gift wrapping
paper. Your intro and conclusion wrap around your essay like a piece of bright paper "wraps" a
present. They are not the main part of the essay, but they do make your essay look good.
Your conclusion 'wraps' up the essay. We don't put something valuable, like money or
gold, hidden in the wrapping paper, so don't put new information or important ideas in the
conclusion.
Specimen Conclusions
Should we test products on animals?
I agree that we need to make sure that animals who are used for testing new products have the
minimum of suffering. However, I am convinced that animal testing is necessary, and that it will
continue to benefit humans in new and wonderful ways.
Should we beat children?
In conclusion, physical punishment can be a useful method of discipline. However it should be

the last choice for parents. If we want to build a world with less violence we must begin at home,
and we must teach our children to be responsible.
Is education important?
EASY IELTS Notes
31
BBy
In conclusion, although there are undoubtedly some problems with increased levels of education,
I feel strongly that the country can only progress if all its people are educated to the maximum of
their ability.
Who are the better parents - men or women?
I think this is not an either/or question. Both men and women have strengths and skills that are
important for children's psychological growth. We need to ensure that both parents play an
important role in the family in order to give children a good start in life.
Who learns quicker - adults or children?
Finally, I feel that we cannot generalize about children or adults being better learners. It depends
on the situation and the motivation of the person, and the level of enthusiasm he or she has for
learning.
Should dangerous sports be banned?
In summary, our society would be healthier if more people took part in sports of all kinds. We
should continue to try to prevent accidents and injuries. However, we should also ensure that
sports are challenging, exciting, and, above all, fun.
KEY WORDS for IELTS Essay WRITING
Stating Your Opinion
In my opinion,
According to me,
In my view,
To me,
From my point of view,
I think
It seems to me that
I believe
From my perspective
To my way of thinking
It appears that
I suppose
I realize
I understand
I imagine
I feel
Giving Examples
For example,
For instance,
such as
In other words,
EASY IELTS Notes
32
BBy
as
like
that is
namely
To illustrate
To paraphrase
Comparing
Similar to
As...as
in common
also
Either...or
In the same way,
Neither...nor
At the same time
Just as
resemble
Contrasting
However,
But
On the contrary,
On the other hand,
Differ from
Nevertheless
Although
Though
Otherwise
Instead
Alternatively,
Even though
Generalizing
Generally,
Generally speaking,
Overall,
On the whole,
In general,
By and large,
It seems to me that
I believe
All in all,
Basically,
Essentially,
As a rule,
All things considered
For the most part
EASY IELTS Notes
33
BBy
Expressing Certainty
Certainly,
Undoubtedly,
Doubtless,
No doubt,
Definitely,
Of course,
Expressing Partial Agreement

More or less,
To some extent,
Up to a point,
Almost,
In a way,
So to speak,
Showing Cause
Due to
Because
Because of
Owing to
Showing Effect
Therefore,
As a result,
Consequently,
For this reason,
Thus,
So,
thereby
Eventually,
Hence,
The reason why
Marking Time
First,
Last
Second,
Lastly,
Third,
Then,
Firstly,
First of all,
Secondly,
Before
Thirdly,
After
EASY IELTS Notes
34
BBy
During
While
To begin with
At the same time
Simultaneously
After this / that
Since
Meanwhile
Afterwards
Following this
When
As soon as
Adding Information
Furthermore
In addition
Also
And
Moreover
Similarly
Likewise
As well as
Besides
Too
Even
Whats more
Expressing Condition
If
Whether
In case
Unless
Provided that
So that
Concluding
To summarize
In conclusion
Lastly,
Finally,
To conclude with,
In short,

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IELTS Handbook by Asad Yaqub

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EASY IELTS Notes

By: Asad Yaqub Pakistani, Cell:0092-300-9466533

Chapter 1: IELTS Listening

Listening for Global or General Information (News, Movies etc.)

IELTS Listening is listening for main ideas, specific information, supporting

Listening Test Defined

IELTS LISTENING - QUESTION TYPES

For further details call or mail at 0092-300-9466533, asad_2002pk@yahoo.com

EASY IELTS Notes

By: Asad Yaqub Pakistani, Cell:0092-300-9466533

Section 1 A social or transactional dialogue 2 speakers

EASY IELTS Notes

By: Asad Yaqub Pakistani, Cell:0092-300-9466533

Overall IELTS Listening Tips

For further details call or mail at 0092-300-9466533, asad_2002pk@yahoo.com

EASY IELTS Notes

By: Asad Yaqub Pakistani, Cell:0092-300-9466533

Chapter 2: IELTS Reading

For further details call or mail at 0092-300-9466533, asad_2002pk@yahoo.com

EASY IELTS Notes

By: Asad Yaqub Pakistani, Cell:0092-300-9466533

IELTS Academic READING CONTENT

general academic content

one passage presents a logical argument.

one passage includes a diagram, graph or

IELTS GENERAL READING - CONTENT

2-3 short texts

Notices, advertisements, publicity booklets,

College catalogues, course descriptions, rules and

Newspapers, magazines, journals, books, etc.

3 KEY REDING SKILLS

EASY IELTS Notes

By: Asad Yaqub Pakistani, Cell:0092-300-9466533

TIPS TO IMPROVE READING SKILLS

For further details call or mail at 0092-300-9466533, asad_2002pk@yahoo.com

EASY IELTS Notes

By: Asad Yaqub Pakistani, Cell:0092-300-9466533

Chapter 3: IELTS Writing Task 1

WRITING TASKS CRITERIA

5 STEPS TO MASTER ACADEMIC WRITING TASK 1

EASY IELTS Notes

By: Asad Yaqub Pakistani, Cell:0092-300-9466533

For further details call or mail at 0092-300-9466533, asad_2002pk@yahoo.com

EASY IELTS Notes

By: Asad Yaqub Pakistani, Cell:0092-300-9466533

A line graph plots the changes in data over time:

EASY IELTS Notes

By: Asad Yaqub Pakistani, Cell:0092-300-9466533

When did the trend change?

A table presents information in different categories, making it easy to compare.

EASY IELTS Notes

By: Asad Yaqub Pakistani, Cell:0092-300-9466533

What are the key features?

a rise, an increase, a surge, a growth, a peak, a fluctuation, a variation, a period

to rise, to increase, to surge, to grow, to peak, to skyrocket, to fluctuate,

Sharply, suddenly, rapidly, abruptly, dramatically, significantly, steadily,

Sharp, sudden, rapid, abrupt, dramatic, steep, significant, steady, considerable

For further details call or mail at 0092-300-9466533, asad_2002pk@yahoo.com

EASY IELTS Notes

By: Asad Yaqub Pakistani, Cell:0092-300-9466533

For further details call or mail at 0092-300-9466533, asad_2002pk@yahoo.com

EASY IELTS Notes

By: Asad Yaqub Pakistani, Cell:0092-300-9466533

For further details call or mail at 0092-300-9466533, asad_2002pk@yahoo.com