5 Types of Complex Sentences in IELTS Writing

Complex sentences are a critical criterion for IELTS writing, but they should be balanced in complexity, clarity, and accuracy. Aim for a variety of complex structures to achieve band 7 or higher. Use simple sentences when necessary.

Complex structures in IELTS writing involve counting the number of finite verbs, which are verbs with a subject and tense. A simple sentence has one finite verb, while a complex sentence has two or more finite verbs or subject-verb combinations called clauses. Making sentences meaningful and appropriate is crucial, as well as making connections between and within sentences.

Learn how to link complex sentences together in meaningful ways, depending on your ideas and point of view. Explore examples that demonstrate the nature of complex sentences and how they can be grouped according to their intention.

Conditional sentences are used to express the relationship between two events. The use of present simple in the 'If' part indicates a direct condition, while using past tense and modal verbs in the 'If' part suggests an unreal or hypothetical situation.

Complex sentences often show a contrast or difference between two ideas. Connectors like 'although,' 'even though,' 'however,' and 'nevertheless' are used to introduce the independent clause, which makes sense by itself. Punctuation is important, with semicolons and commas used to separate clauses.

Studying causes and consequences helps in explaining or justifying events. Scientists used historical data on previous epidemics to find quick solutions by identifying the cause followed by the result or consequence.

Scientists found a solution to the problem by starting and using historical data.

The simplest way to coordinate sentences is by using 'and' or 'but'. Another method is to end the sentence with the first idea and start a new one with words like 'moreover', 'furthermore', or a phrase like 'in addition'. An advanced technique is using the complex structure of not only but also, which impresses examiners. The key to scoring band 7 lies in writing sentences with two or three clauses, avoiding overcomplication.