Some notes about formal writing styles

by Cindy

Task 2 of an IELTS test requires to be written in formal style in which you should use:

• Passive voice, impersonal constructions
  • It is argued that...; It cannot be denied that...
• A range of advanced vocabulary (verbs, adjectives, abstract nouns...)
• Formal linking words/phrases
  • Furthermore, however, nonetheless...
• Complex sentences with a variety of links, dependent clauses...
  • Although...which...
• Inversion
  • Were this true, we would...; Never has this been more obvious...; Only if...
• Generalisations
  • In most developing countries...

And you should avoid:

• Short forms (abbreviations):
  • I'm, It's...
• Colloquial expressions, phrasal verbs, idioms
  • Lots of, put up with, be over the moon about...
• Simplistic vocabulary
  •  Think, good, bad, say...
• Short sentences
  • It is true. I think so...
• Repeated simple linking words
  • And, but, or...
• Personal examples
  • In my school, in my office...
• Strong personal opinions
  • I know...
• Over generalisations
  • All people, all teachers...
• Very emotional language
  • I absolutely detest...