Opinion Essays: Useful Language (British Council Academic IELTS: Writing): Study Material

Opinion essays: useful language

Expressing opinions

• I believe that

  • Example: I believe that governments should invest more money in public services.

• In my opinion,

  • Example: In my opinion, children should learn practical skills at school.

• I agree that

  • Example: I agree that technology has made communication easier.

• I disagree with the idea that

  • Example: I disagree with the idea that university education should be free for everyone.

• From my perspective,

  • Example: From my perspective, the advantages of working from home outweigh the disadvantages.

• From my point of view,

  • Example: From my point of view, the benefits of this policy outweigh its drawbacks.

Sequencing points and ideas

• Firstly/Secondly/Thirdly/Finally

  • Example: There are three reasons why I believe that more people should use public transport. Firstly, public transport reduces the number of cars on the road. Secondly, it can help people save money on fuel and parking.

• Furthermore,

  • Example: Furthermore, better public transport can reduce air pollution.

• In addition,

  • Example: In addition, it makes it easier for people to travel to work.

• Finally,

  • Example: Finally, reliable transport systems improve quality of life.

Giving examples

• For example,

  • Example: For example, many people use online courses to develop new skills.

• For instance,

  • Example: For instance, some employees are more productive when working from home.

• A clear example of this is

  • Example: A clear example of this is the way smartphones allow instant communication.

• This can be seen in

  • Example: This can be seen in countries where public healthcare is well funded.

• Such as

  • Example: Governments should invest in essential services such as schools and hospitals.

• A good example/illustration of this is

  • Example: A good illustration of this is the widespread use of smartphones for communication.

Showing results

• As a result,

  • Example: As a result, people may enjoy a higher standard of living.

• Therefore,

  • Example: Therefore, this policy could benefit society as a whole.

• This means that

  • Example: This means that more students would have access to education.

• Consequently,

  • Example: Consequently, fewer people might live in poverty.

• As a consequence,

  • Example: As a consequence, the overall quality of life could improve.

• This can lead to

  • Example: This can lead to a reduction in unemployment rates.

Contrasting ideas

• However,

  • Example: However, this approach may not be effective in every situation.

• On the one hand/on the  other hand,

  • Example: On the other hand, some people believe that individuals should make their own choices. On the other hand…

• Although 

  • Example: Although this policy has some benefits, it could also create new problems.

• While

  • Example: While space exploration is important, public services should be prioritised.

• Nevertheless,

  • Example: Nevertheless, I believe the advantages are greater than the drawbacks.

Concluding

• In conclusion,

  • Example: In conclusion, I believe that governments should focus on services that benefit everyone.

• To conclude,

  • Example: To conclude, I agree that this is the best solution to the problem.

• To sum up,

  • Example: To sum up, this is a practical and beneficial solution.