How to Use ‘As a Result’ Effectively in IELTS Writing and Speaking?

‘As a result’ is a crucial transitional phrase widely tested in IELTS examinations, particularly in Writing Task 2 and Speaking Part 3. Similar to Use of ‘therefore’ for results, this expression helps candidates demonstrate sophisticated language use while maintaining logical flow in their responses.

Using as a result effectively in IELTS writing task

Understanding ‘As a Result’ in IELTS Context

‘As a result’ functions as a cause-and-effect connector, showing the consequence of a previous action or situation. When compared to Use of ‘thus’ for results, it offers a more natural and less formal alternative.

Basic Structure and Usage

[Cause/Action] + As a result, + [Consequence/Effect]

Examples:

1. “The city invested heavily in public transportation. As a result, traffic congestion decreased significantly.”
2. “Many students neglected their studies. As a result, their grades suffered.”

Application in IELTS Writing

Task 2 Implementation

Similar to Use of ‘for this reason’ for results, ‘as a result’ helps develop coherent arguments:

Example paragraph:
“Environmental pollution continues to rise in major cities. As a result, governments worldwide are implementing stricter regulations on industrial emissions. These measures have led to improved air quality, and as a result, public health indicators have shown positive trends.”

IELTS essay structure using result phrases

Task 1 Application

While less common in Task 1, ‘as a result’ can effectively describe cause-effect relationships in graphs and charts:

“Factory production decreased by 30% in 2020. As a result, unemployment rates rose sharply in the manufacturing sector.”

Speaking Test Integration

Part 3 Usage Examples:

1. Question: “How has technology affected education?”
   Answer: “Technology has made information more accessible. As a result, students can now learn at their own pace.”

2. Question: “What are the effects of urbanization?”
   Response: “Cities are becoming increasingly crowded. As a result, housing prices have skyrocketed.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect Punctuation:

   • Wrong: “The weather was severe as a result the flight was cancelled.”
   • Correct: “The weather was severe. As a result, the flight was cancelled.”

2. Redundant Usage:

   • Wrong: “Therefore, as a result, consequently…”
   • Correct: Choose one transition word per relationship

Alternative Expressions

When aiming for higher band scores, consider alternating between:

• Consequently
• Therefore
• Hence
• Thus
• It constitutes that

Tips for Higher Band Scores

1. Vary your usage of result phrases
2. Ensure clear cause-effect relationships
3. Use appropriate punctuation
4. Maintain coherence throughout your response
5. Apply the phrase naturally in context

Remember, effective use of ‘as a result’ can significantly improve your coherence and cohesion scores in IELTS, particularly when combined with other sophisticated linking devices.