How to Say “This is Why” in IELTS Writing?

In IELTS Writing, many test-takers often use the phrase “this is why” to explain causes or results. While this expression is acceptable, it can sound too simple or conversational for an academic essay. In IELTS Writing Task 2, using a variety of formal linking words can significantly improve your coherence and vocabulary score. This article introduces several advanced alternatives to “this is why” and explains how to use them naturally in your writing.

Understanding the Function of “This is Why” in IELTS Writing

The phrase “this is why” is typically used to explain a result or consequence. For example:

People value work-life balance. This is why remote work has become increasingly popular.

Although this structure is grammatically correct, it may appear too simple for an essay intended to display academic ability. IELTS examiners expect more advanced language that demonstrates flexibility and precision. By diversifying your linking words, you can make your writing sound smoother, more professional, and logically coherent — all of which contribute to a higher band score.

Formal Alternatives to “This is Why” in IELTS Writing

Below are several academic alternatives to “this is why,” along with examples that you can use in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays.

1. Therefore

A classic, formal connector suitable for both introductions and conclusions.

Education plays a vital role in national development; therefore, it should receive more public funding.

“Therefore” signals logical reasoning clearly and professionally, helping your writing flow naturally.

2. Consequently / As a result

These phrases are particularly effective when you need to describe direct outcomes.

The population is aging rapidly. As a result, healthcare expenses are increasing dramatically.

They add a polished and academic tone, which fits well in analytical or cause-and-effect essays.

3. For this reason / For these reasons

This expression works perfectly when summarizing ideas in the final sentence of a paragraph or conclusion.

Many young people choose to work abroad. For this reason, global mobility has risen in recent years.

This alternative is elegant and slightly formal, making it ideal for IELTS Writing Task 2 conclusions.

4. Hence / Thus

Both are concise and formal linking words frequently used in high-band essays.

The city has expanded its public transport network; thus, traffic congestion has been reduced.

These words help you present cause-and-effect ideas with brevity and precision, which examiners value in Band 8–9 IELTS Writing.

5. This explains why / This shows why

If you want to emphasize analysis or logical reasoning, these options are perfect.

People are more aware of their health. This explains why fitness centers are busier than ever.

They allow you to demonstrate deeper analysis, which can strengthen your argument in opinion or discussion essays.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in IELTS Writing

l  Avoid overusing simple linking words like “this is why” or “because.”
Repetition can make your writing sound basic and reduce lexical variety.

l  Don’t use informal or emotional phrases such as “that’s why I think” or “this is the reason I feel.”
IELTS Writing requires a neutral and academic tone.

l  Be careful with punctuation.
Formal linking words like therefore, thus, or hence are often preceded by a semicolon or full stop.

l  Use a range of linking words and phrases (e.g., as a result, for this reason, consequently) to improve coherence and cohesion.
Variety in linking language shows your ability to connect ideas logically and enhances your Coherence and Cohesion score.

How to Practice Using Alternatives in IELTS Writing

To master these expressions, rewrite your practice essays using different linking words. For instance:

People prefer online education. This is why e-learning platforms are growing rapidly.

Can be improved to:

People prefer online education; therefore, e-learning platforms are growing rapidly.

Regularly reviewing and rewriting your sentences helps you naturally integrate advanced linking words.

Recommended Resources

To build confidence and fluency in using formal linking words, practice with reliable resources such as:

1.       IELTS Writing.AI — an AI-powered platform that provides feedback on grammar, coherence, and linking words in IELTS Writing tasks.

2.       IELTS.org — the official IELTS website, featuring sample essays, band descriptors, and examiner insights.

3.       IELTS Writing Task 2 Two-Part Question Essay Samples: 5 Band 9 Model Answers with Analysis — a helpful set of high-scoring essays that you can use for reference when studying how top performers structure ideas and connect arguments effectively.

These materials allow you to observe how native-like linking words are used in real high-band IELTS Writing samples.

Conclusion

Using “this is why” occasionally is not wrong, but relying on it limits your range and sophistication in IELTS Writing. By replacing it with advanced alternatives such as therefore, consequently, for this reason, thus, or this explains why, you make your writing more formal, cohesive, and professional.

To improve further, read high-band IELTS Writing Task 2 samples, pay attention to connector variety, and practice rewriting sentences with different structures. Over time, your essays will sound more fluent and academic — exactly what examiners are looking for in Band 8 and Band 9 responses.

By mastering these alternatives, you will express logical relationships more precisely and impress examiners with your command of academic English.