{"id":171,"date":"2024-12-29T10:30:18","date_gmt":"2024-12-29T10:30:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/writingchex.com\/blog\/?p=171"},"modified":"2025-07-24T09:57:12","modified_gmt":"2025-07-24T09:57:12","slug":"ielts-writing-how-to-use-complex-sentences-without-making-mistakes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/writingchex.com\/blog\/ielts-writing-how-to-use-complex-sentences-without-making-mistakes\/","title":{"rendered":"IELTS Writing: How to Use Complex Sentences Without Making Mistakes?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/writingchex.com\/blog\/ielts-writing-how-to-use-complex-sentences-without-making-mistakes\/#Introduction\" >Introduction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/writingchex.com\/blog\/ielts-writing-how-to-use-complex-sentences-without-making-mistakes\/#1_What_Are_Complex_Sentences\" >1. What Are Complex Sentences?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/writingchex.com\/blog\/ielts-writing-how-to-use-complex-sentences-without-making-mistakes\/#2_Why_Complex_Sentences_Are_Crucial_for_IELTS_Writing\" >2. Why Complex Sentences Are Crucial for IELTS Writing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/writingchex.com\/blog\/ielts-writing-how-to-use-complex-sentences-without-making-mistakes\/#3_Common_Mistakes_with_Complex_Sentences\" >3. Common Mistakes with Complex Sentences<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/writingchex.com\/blog\/ielts-writing-how-to-use-complex-sentences-without-making-mistakes\/#4_Types_of_Complex_Sentences_You_Can_Use_in_IELTS_Writing\" >4. Types of Complex Sentences You Can Use in IELTS Writing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/writingchex.com\/blog\/ielts-writing-how-to-use-complex-sentences-without-making-mistakes\/#5_How_to_Improve_Your_Use_of_Complex_Sentences\" >5. How to Improve Your Use of Complex Sentences<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/writingchex.com\/blog\/ielts-writing-how-to-use-complex-sentences-without-making-mistakes\/#6_Linking_Devices_and_Cohesion\" >6. Linking Devices and Cohesion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/writingchex.com\/blog\/ielts-writing-how-to-use-complex-sentences-without-making-mistakes\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Introduction\"><\/span>Introduction<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>When preparing for the IELTS Writing test, one of the most effective ways to increase your score is by using <strong>complex sentences<\/strong>. Complex sentences allow you to express more detailed ideas, demonstrate your grammar range, and show the examiner that you can handle more advanced writing structures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, using complex sentences can be tricky. If not done correctly, they can lead to mistakes that might lower your band score. In this post, we will discuss how to use <strong>complex sentences<\/strong> effectively in your IELTS writing, focusing on grammar tips, sentence structures, and cohesive devices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_What_Are_Complex_Sentences\"><\/span>1. <strong>What Are Complex Sentences?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why This is Important:<\/strong><br>A <strong>complex sentence<\/strong> contains at least one independent clause (a complete thought) and one dependent clause (a part of a sentence that cannot stand alone). By using complex sentences, you can combine ideas and show a deeper understanding of the language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What You Need to Do:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Identify the structure<\/strong>: Complex sentences consist of a main clause and a subordinate clause. For example, \u201cAlthough it was raining, I went for a walk.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use subordinating conjunctions<\/strong>: These words connect independent and dependent clauses. Common subordinating conjunctions include &#8220;although,&#8221; &#8220;because,&#8221; &#8220;since,&#8221; &#8220;while,&#8221; and &#8220;if.&#8221;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip from WritingChex:<\/strong><br>Complex sentences are powerful, but only if they\u2019re grammatically correct. A sentence like \u201cShe was happy, when she passed the test.\u201d is incorrect because the comma is not used correctly. Be mindful of punctuation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Why_Complex_Sentences_Are_Crucial_for_IELTS_Writing\"><\/span>2. <strong>Why Complex Sentences Are Crucial for IELTS Writing<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why This is Important:<\/strong><br>IELTS Writing Band descriptors reward candidates who demonstrate <strong>range<\/strong> and <strong>accuracy<\/strong> in their use of grammar. If you only use simple sentences, it may be difficult to score above a Band 6 or 7 for grammar. Complex sentences, when used correctly, show the examiner that you can handle a variety of sentence structures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What You Need to Do:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Use complex sentences strategically<\/strong>: You don\u2019t need to use complex sentences in every single sentence, but incorporating them where appropriate will showcase your grammatical range.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Avoid over-complicating<\/strong>: While complex sentences are important, clarity is key. Don\u2019t use them just to impress the examiner\u2014ensure that your sentence structure enhances the meaning of your ideas.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip from WritingChex:<\/strong><br>Remember that quality trumps quantity. It\u2019s better to use a few well-constructed complex sentences than to use many complicated sentences that are unclear or contain mistakes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Common_Mistakes_with_Complex_Sentences\"><\/span>3. <strong>Common Mistakes with Complex Sentences<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why This is Important:<\/strong><br>Although complex sentences can make your writing more sophisticated, they also increase the risk of mistakes. These mistakes can affect your <strong>grammar accuracy<\/strong> score, which can be detrimental to your overall band score.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What You Need to Do:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Watch out for comma splices<\/strong>: A comma splice occurs when two independent clauses are joined by just a comma without a coordinating conjunction. For example: \u201cI wanted to go shopping, I had no time.\u201d To fix this, you can add a conjunction (\u201cand,\u201d \u201cbut\u201d) or use a semicolon: \u201cI wanted to go shopping; however, I had no time.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ensure subject-verb agreement<\/strong>: A common mistake in complex sentences is forgetting that the subject and verb must agree in number. For example, \u201cAlthough she <em>go<\/em> to the store, she forgot to buy milk\u201d should be corrected to \u201cAlthough she <em>goes<\/em> to the store.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Avoid confusing sentence fragments<\/strong>: Make sure that both the independent and dependent clauses express a complete thought. For example: \u201cBecause she wanted to go home.\u201d is not a complete sentence. It should be \u201cBecause she wanted to go home, she left early.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip from WritingChex:<\/strong><br>When you\u2019re practicing, always check your complex sentences for these common mistakes. With enough practice, you\u2019ll start noticing these issues more easily and correcting them on the spot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Types_of_Complex_Sentences_You_Can_Use_in_IELTS_Writing\"><\/span>4. <strong>Types of Complex Sentences You Can Use in IELTS Writing<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why This is Important:<\/strong><br>There are different types of complex sentences, each of which can be used to express different kinds of relationships between ideas. Understanding when to use each type will help you vary your sentence structure and make your writing more engaging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What You Need to Do:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cause and effect<\/strong>: Use sentences that show cause and effect. Example: \u201cThe government increased taxes because the economy was struggling.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Contrast<\/strong>: Show how two ideas are different. Example: \u201cAlthough the company was profitable, it struggled to increase its market share.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Condition<\/strong>: Express a condition or hypothetical situation. Example: \u201cIf I had more time, I would travel more.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Time<\/strong>: Show when something happens. Example: \u201cWhile I was at the store, I met an old friend.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip from WritingChex:<\/strong><br>To create variety in your writing, try to use different types of complex sentences. This will show your ability to link ideas in diverse ways and demonstrate a higher level of language proficiency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_How_to_Improve_Your_Use_of_Complex_Sentences\"><\/span>5. <strong>How to Improve Your Use of Complex Sentences<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why This is Important:<\/strong><br>Mastering complex sentences takes practice. The more you practice using them correctly, the easier it will be to incorporate them naturally into your writing during the exam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What You Need to Do:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Read high-quality model essays<\/strong>: Look at IELTS Writing samples that score highly (Band 7 and above) to see how complex sentences are used effectively. Pay attention to how the writers use different sentence structures and punctuation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Practice writing complex sentences<\/strong>: Take a simple sentence and practice turning it into a complex sentence. For example, \u201cShe studied hard. She passed the test.\u201d can be combined into \u201cAlthough she studied hard, she still found the test challenging.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use writing exercises<\/strong>: Find IELTS writing exercises focused specifically on complex sentences. This could include exercises that involve combining two sentences into one, or correcting errors in complex sentence structures.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip from WritingChex:<\/strong><br>Focus on <strong>accuracy<\/strong> first, and then try to increase the variety in your complex sentences. Practicing with a balance of both will help you improve more quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Linking_Devices_and_Cohesion\"><\/span>6. <strong>Linking Devices and Cohesion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why This is Important:<\/strong><br>In addition to using complex sentences, linking devices (or cohesive devices) play a crucial role in making your writing flow smoothly. Without appropriate linking devices, your complex sentences may seem disconnected or unclear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What You Need to Do:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Use subordinating conjunctions<\/strong>: Words like &#8220;although,&#8221; &#8220;because,&#8221; &#8220;even though,&#8221; &#8220;if,&#8221; and &#8220;when&#8221; will help you connect ideas in a meaningful way.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use relative pronouns<\/strong>: \u201cWho,\u201d \u201cwhich,\u201d \u201cthat,\u201d and \u201cwhom\u201d are useful for adding more detail to sentences. Example: \u201cThe author, who is well-known, wrote a best-selling novel.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use adverbials<\/strong>: Words like &#8220;however,&#8221; &#8220;therefore,&#8221; &#8220;consequently,&#8221; and &#8220;moreover&#8221; can help link your ideas logically and give your writing more coherence.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip from WritingChex:<\/strong><br>Make sure that your linking devices don\u2019t sound forced or repetitive. Use them naturally to connect related ideas and make your writing more cohesive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Mastering the use of <strong>complex sentences<\/strong> is essential for achieving a high band score in IELTS Writing. By following the tips in this post\u2014avoiding common mistakes, using a variety of sentence structures, and practicing regularly\u2014you\u2019ll be able to incorporate complex sentences more effectively into your writing. Remember that complex sentences are not just about impressing the examiner; they should serve to improve the clarity and depth of your writing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At <strong>WritingChex<\/strong>, we offer detailed feedback and corrections for IELTS Writing, helping you refine your grammar and sentence structures. Let us help you develop the skills you need to succeed in the IELTS Writing exam.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Introduction When preparing for the IELTS Writing test, one of the most effective ways to increase your score is by 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