Using complex sentences is an important skill for anyone who wants a high score on the IELTS Writing test. Complex sentences show that you understand English grammar well and allow you to share ideas in a more detailed way.

In this explanation, we’ll cover what complex sentences are, why they matter for IELTS, and how to use them effectively for both IELTS Academic and General Training.

Why Complex Sentences Are Important for IELTS

The IELTS Writing exam evaluates candidates on various aspects of language use, and “grammatical range and accuracy” is a key part of this.

If you want to get a band 6 or higher, you need to use a variety of sentence types, including complex sentences. This is because examiners look for a mix of sentence structures, and using complex sentences shows you have a higher level of English.

For example, to reach a band 6 in “grammatical range and accuracy,” you must use both simple and complex sentences. For band 7, complex sentences should be used frequently and accurately, with very few mistakes.

Having this variety shows that you can use English in different ways, which is necessary for success in the IELTS Writing test.

Understanding Complex Sentences

A complex sentence has at least one independent clause (a complete thought) and one dependent clause (a part of a sentence that cannot stand alone). Dependent clauses are introduced by words like because, although, if, while, or when.

• Independent clause: A sentence that makes sense on its own (e.g., “I went for a walk.”)
• Dependent clause: A sentence that doesn’t make sense on its own (e.g., “because it was raining.”)

When combined, they form a complex sentence: “I went for a walk because it was raining.” Here, the independent clause (“I went for a walk”) provides the main idea, while the dependent clause (“because it was raining”) adds extra information.

Types of Complex Sentences

Here are three common types of complex sentences that you can use in IELTS to help your writing stand out.

1.Adverbial Clauses

Adverbial clauses answer questions like how, why, when, and where. They are connected to the main clause using words such as because, although, if, while, and when.

Examples: “Although it was late, he continued studying.”“I took my umbrella because it looked like rain.”

Adverbial clauses can appear at the start or end of a sentence. If the dependent clause comes first, use a comma after it: “Because it looked like rain, I took my umbrella.”

2. Relative Clauses

Relative clauses add information about a noun in the main clause and start with who, which, that, or where. They allow you to give more detail in a single sentence.

Examples: “The school, which is over 100 years old, recently renovated its classrooms.”“Students who practice regularly tend to score higher.”

Here, “which is over 100 years old” and “who practice regularly” give more details about the nouns (“school” and “students”) in the main clauses.

3. Noun Clauses

Noun clauses act as the subject or object of the main clause. They usually follow verbs of thinking or saying, like think, know, believe, and say, and start with words like that, what, why, and how.

Examples: “I believe that everyone deserves a quality education.” “They didn’t know why the meeting was canceled.”

In formal writing, it’s essential to keep the word “that” in noun clauses, even if it’s often left out in casual speech (e.g., “I believe that everyone deserves a quality education” instead of “I believe everyone deserves a quality education”).

Using Complex Sentences in IELTS Writing Task 1

In IELTS Writing Task 1, complex sentences help you describe data and trends in a more detailed way. Task 1 differs depending on whether you’re taking the Academic or General Training exam:

• Academic: You may have to describe a graph, table, or process. Complex sentences help you explain relationships between data points. Example: “While the number of students studying abroad increased significantly, the percentage attending local universities stayed the same.”
• General Training: You’ll write a letter, and complex sentences help you add details and show the right tone. Example: “Although I applied for the position last month, I have not yet received any updates regarding my application.”

Using Complex Sentences in IELTS Writing Task 2

In Task 2, where you give your opinion on a topic, complex sentences help you present balanced arguments, compare ideas, and make your points stronger.

Example 1: “Although fast food is convenient, it is important to maintain a balanced diet to promote long-term health.”
Example 2: “Despite the advancements in technology, many people believe that traditional skills should still be preserved.”

These kinds of sentences allow you to show multiple viewpoints within one sentence, which adds depth to your argument and shows a wider range of skills.

Tips for Using Complex Sentences

Here are some simple tips for using complex sentences effectively in IELTS:

1. Mix Sentence Types
   Don’t overuse complex sentences; combine simple, compound, and complex sentences to make your writing feel natural. Too many complex sentences can make your writing confusing, while too many simple sentences can make it sound basic.
2. Practice with Connecting Words
   Get familiar with connecting words like although, because, if, and while. These words help you link ideas smoothly and make your sentences flow naturally.
3. Use Relative Pronouns
   Practice using words like who, which, that, and where to add extra information to sentences. This is especially useful in Task 1 descriptions and Task 2 essays.
4. Add Appropriate Transitions
   Use words like however, consequently, and moreover to connect ideas. These words help clarify the relationship between sentences and improve the overall flow.
5. Check for Accuracy
   Complex sentences can be tricky, so make sure to check for mistakes with clauses or punctuation. Reviewing your work carefully can help catch errors.

Example Complex Sentences for Practice

Here are a few examples that you can practice using in IELTS Writing:

• “In order to reduce pollution, the government should implement stricter regulations on industries.”
• “While some argue that technology has made our lives easier, others believe it has led to increased dependence.”
• “The company, which was founded over a century ago, is now one of the largest in the industry.”
• “Despite the challenges of learning a new language, many students find it rewarding and essential for career growth.”

Each of these examples shows different ways to include complex ideas and relationships, which can improve your writing score.

Final Thoughts

Learning to use complex sentences is essential if you want to get a high score in the IELTS Writing exam. These sentences allow you to express more detailed ideas, show a good range of grammar, and make your writing sound more advanced. By practicing the three main types of complex sentences – adverbial, relative, and noun clauses – you can strengthen your writing skills for IELTS.

Remember, a good mix of sentence types is key: balance complex sentences with simple and compound ones to keep your writing clear and well-organized. Regular practice and attention to detail are essential, and our app, ELSA Speak, is a great tool to help you build these skills. With interactive exercises and instant feedback, ELSA Speak guides you through pronunciation, grammar, and fluency to support your IELTS preparation every step of the way.

More on IELTS here