#IELTS Writing Task 2: progression right from the introduction

Just like many of my posts, this one is based on a common weakness I see.

I'll take a ridiculous made-up topic for illustration purposes.

"Some people believe apples are the best fruit. Others say that tangerines are better. Discuss both these views and dove your own opinion."

1. Weak

"Opinions are divided on whether apples or tangerines are the best fruit. While there are those who consider the apple to be the superior fruit, I side with those who claim that it is the tangerine.

Yet, admittedly, the apple might be considered the best fruit by some. ... "

This introduction is spinning wheels: it is repeating the same thing over and over again. Yes, there are no mistakes in it, but it shows no skill - so it's likely to place you in the lower score pile.

2. Stronger

"Opinions are divided on what the best fruit is. While some consider the apple to be one, I side with those who believe the tangerine is better.

The proponents of apples might cite their sweet taste as the reason for the superiority. ... "

This essay is progressing - it's moving forward with every sentence.

Help your essay move in three simple steps:

1️⃣ take one step back

2️⃣ state the actual topic

3️⃣ take one step forward

Or, in other words, tell the reader something new with every step you take.

💡 The bonus part of this technique is that it allows you to avoid repetitions naturally. With the weaker structure, you will end up using all the possible synonyms in the first three sentences and then end up either with repetitions or with awkward phrasing later on.

Try out this technique in the comments with this topic and then compare with my version by checking out the IELTS collection in the post below.

"Some people believe that children that commit crimes should be punished. Others think the parents should be punished instead. Discuss both views and give your own opinion."

🐸 https://t.me/irinalutsenko/551

#ieltswritingtask2