In IELTS Writing, particularly in Task 2 essays, many candidates frequently use the phrase “this is why” to explain causes or results. Although it is grammatically acceptable, this expression often sounds too simple and conversational for academic writing. To achieve a higher band score, candidates are expected to use a wider range of formal linking words. This article introduces advanced alternatives to “this is why” and explains how to use them effectively in IELTS Writing.
The Purpose of “This Is Why” in IELTS Writing
The phrase “this is why” is mainly used to introduce a result or consequence. For example:
People place great importance on work-life balance. This is why remote work has become increasingly popular.
While this sentence is correct, it may appear too basic for an essay designed to demonstrate academic ability. IELTS examiners expect candidates to show lexical variety and logical precision. By replacing simple connectors with more formal alternatives, your writing will sound smoother, more professional, and more coherent—key factors in achieving a higher band score.
Formal Alternatives to “This Is Why” in IELTS Writing
Below are several academic alternatives to “this is why,” each illustrated with IELTS Writing Task 2–style examples.
1. Therefore
“Therefore” is a classic and formal connector suitable for both body paragraphs and conclusions.
Education plays a crucial role in national development; therefore, it should receive greater public investment.
This connector clearly presents logical reasoning and enhances the academic tone of your essay.
2. Consequently / As a Result
These expressions are particularly useful when describing direct outcomes.
The population is aging rapidly. As a result, healthcare costs are increasing significantly.
They are commonly used in cause-and-effect and analytical essays and help your writing sound more polished.
3. For This Reason / For These Reasons
These phrases work well when summarizing ideas at the end of a paragraph or in a conclusion.
Many young people choose to work abroad. For this reason, international mobility has risen in recent years.
They are slightly formal and elegant, making them ideal for IELTS Writing Task 2 conclusions.
4. Hence / Thus
“Hence” and “thus” are concise academic connectors often found in high-band IELTS essays.
The city expanded its public transport system; thus, traffic congestion was reduced.
These words allow you to express cause-and-effect relationships with clarity and precision, which IELTS examiners value highly.
5. This Explains Why / This Shows Why
When you want to emphasize reasoning or analysis, these options are particularly effective.
People are becoming more health-conscious. This explains why fitness centers are busier than ever.
They help demonstrate deeper analytical thinking, strengthening arguments in opinion and discussion essays.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in IELTS Writing
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Overusing basic connectors such as “this is why” or “because”
Repetition reduces lexical variety and makes writing sound simplistic. -
Using informal or emotional expressions like “that’s why I think” or “this is the reason I feel”
IELTS Writing requires a neutral and academic tone. -
Ignoring punctuation rules
Formal connectors such as therefore, thus, and hence are often preceded by a semicolon or a full stop. -
Failing to vary linking expressions
Using a range of connectors (e.g., as a result, consequently, for this reason) improves coherence and cohesion.
How to Practice Using These Alternatives
To master these expressions, regularly rewrite your practice essays using different linking words. For example:
People prefer online education. This is why e-learning platforms are growing rapidly.
Improved version:
People prefer online education; therefore, e-learning platforms are growing rapidly.
Systematic rewriting helps you naturally incorporate advanced connectors into your IELTS Writing.
Recommended Resources for Practice
To improve confidence and accuracy when using formal linking words, practice with reliable resources such as:
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IELTSWritingAI — an AI-powered IELTS writing platform that provides detailed feedback on grammar, coherence, cohesion, and linking words in both Task 1 and Task 2 essays.
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IELTS.org — the official IELTS website offering band descriptors, sample answers, and examiner insights.
These resources allow you to observe how native-like linking words are used in real Band 8–9 IELTS Writing samples.
Conclusion
Using “this is why” occasionally is not incorrect, but relying on it too heavily limits the range and sophistication of your IELTS Writing. By replacing it with advanced alternatives such as therefore, consequently, for this reason, thus, or this explains why, your essays will sound more academic, cohesive, and professional.
To improve further, study high-band IELTS Writing Task 2 samples, pay close attention to connector variety, and practice rewriting sentences using different structures. Over time, your writing will become more fluent and academic—exactly what IELTS examiners expect from Band 8 and Band 9 candidates.
Mastering these alternatives, especially with targeted practice using IELTSWritingAI, will help you express logical relationships more precisely and impress examiners with your command of academic English.