How to Write Strong Reasons in English Essays for IELTS and TOEFL

Many children living in the U.S. may need to take the IELTS or TOEFL for university application. Additionally, taking the TOEFL is often mandatory when applying to American universities. In the writing section of both IELTS and TOEFL, it is important not only to express your opinion but also to clearly provide "reasons" to support it. This article will explain key strategies for writing strong reasons in English essays.

Manami's English Lessons

1. Provide Two to Three Reasons

In essay writing, it is common to present two to three reasons to support your argument. A single reason may lack persuasive power, while four or more may exceed the word limit. Maintaining balance is key. Consider structuring your reasons as follows:

Example Question

"Do you agree or disagree with the idea that online learning is better than traditional classroom learning?"

Example Reasons

• Flexibility – Students can learn at their own pace.

• Accessibility – There are no geographical limitations, allowing learning from anywhere.

• Cost-effectiveness – Students can save on commuting and textbook costs.

2. Include Specific Examples

Simply stating reasons may not be convincing enough, so adding concrete examples is crucial. For example, to support the reason that "online learning provides flexibility," you could write:

"For example, students who work part-time can adjust their study schedules according to their jobs."

By illustrating who benefits and how, your argument becomes more compelling.

3. Use "Because," "Since," and "As" Correctly

When explaining reasons, words like because, since, and as are frequently used. Each word has a slightly different nuance, so use them appropriately.

• Because → Used for general reasons

  • "Online learning is beneficial because it provides flexibility."

• Since → Used when the reason is obvious

  • "Since online education does not require commuting, it saves time."

• As → Used for smooth, casual explanations

  • "As online classes are available anytime, students can study at their convenience."

4. Ensure Logical Flow Between Reasons

A logical flow between reasons makes the essay more coherent. For example:

"Online learning is cost-effective because students do not have to spend money on transportation. In addition, many online courses offer free resources, which reduces the overall cost of education."

By developing one reason into the next, the essay flows smoothly.

5. Address Counterarguments

In high-level writing tasks, such as IELTS Task 2, considering opposing viewpoints strengthens your argument. For example:

"Some people argue that online learning lacks direct interaction with teachers. However, video conferencing tools such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams allow real-time discussions, making online education as interactive as traditional classes."

By presenting a counterargument and then refuting it with evidence, you create a more persuasive essay.

6. Expand Your Vocabulary

Avoid using repetitive vocabulary in essays. Instead of overusing basic words, consider synonyms:

• important → crucial, essential, significant

• good → beneficial, effective, advantageous

• bad → harmful, detrimental, disadvantageous

Using a variety of words enhances expression and improves essay quality.

7. Diversify Sentence Structures

Overusing the same sentence structure can make your writing monotonous. Try variations like these:

• Basic structure: "Online learning is effective because it allows flexibility."

• Using participial phrases: "Providing flexibility, online learning is an effective method."

• Using relative clauses: "Online learning, which allows flexibility, is an effective method."

Diversifying sentence structures results in a more polished and sophisticated essay.

Conclusion

When writing reasons in IELTS or TOEFL essays, keep the following points in mind:

• Provide two to three strong reasons.

• Support arguments with specific examples.

• Use appropriate linking words.

• Ensure logical flow between reasons.

• Address counterarguments effectively.

• Expand vocabulary for varied expression.

• Diversify sentence structures.

By mastering these strategies, you can write logical and high-scoring essays. Practice these techniques to maximize your test performance!

Manami’s English supports your English learning journey in the U.S.!

Manami's English Lessons

Author: Manami Palmini

• Teaching Experience

  • Studied theater and scriptwriting while taking intensive English courses at the Graduate School of International Christian University.

  • Three years of experience as an English instructor at a private tutoring school in Japan.

  • Earned a Master’s degree in Arts Education from New York University (NYU), researching the effects of artistic activities on language learning.

  • Certified in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages).

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Past Support Experience

• Daily English conversation support for children attending local and Japanese schools.

• Preparation for Eiken, junior high school, high school, and university entrance exams.

• Business English for expatriates.

• Small talk and school-related communication support for parents with children.

• Presentation coaching for researchers who have relocated to the U.S.