Smart Paraphrasing Techniques for IELTS

Module 4- lesson 2

Ahmed Abdirahman

9/30/20252 min read

Paraphrasing is often seen as a difficult task by IELTS learners, but it becomes manageable when broken down into techniques. Smart paraphrasing involves using a range of strategies to restate ideas without changing meaning. These strategies not only help in avoiding repetition but also demonstrate advanced vocabulary and grammar control. Mastering them is key to achieving a higher band score in both Writing and Speaking (IELTS by IDP, n.d.).

One of the most common techniques is using synonyms. Instead of repeating the same word, students can choose an alternative with the same meaning. For example, important can be replaced with essential, crucial, or vital. However, synonym use must be careful, because words can differ in nuance. According to Tan (2019), misusing synonyms can confuse meaning. For instance, childish and childlike both relate to children but carry opposite connotations.

Another useful strategy is changing word forms. This means altering the grammatical category of a word. For example, pollute (verb) can become pollution (noun) or polluted (adjective). Using different forms helps vary sentence structures while keeping meaning intact.

A third technique is changing word order or sentence structure. Consider the sentence: “Many people believe that technology improves communication.” A paraphrased version could be: “It is widely believed that communication has improved due to technology.” This version shifts focus but preserves the message.

Switching active to passive voice is another effective approach. The active sentence “The government provides healthcare for citizens” can be paraphrased into the passive: “Healthcare is provided to citizens by the government.” This technique is especially useful in academic writing, where passive structures are often more appropriate.

For more advanced paraphrasing, students can combine or split sentences. The original: “Many students study hard. They want to pass exams.” can become: “Many students study hard because they want to succeed in exams.” This improves coherence and avoids short, repetitive sentences.

Finally, learners can use paraphrasing templates or signaling phrases. The Preptical guide (n.d.) offers expressions like “It is widely believed that …” or “One of the key issues is …” These templates are useful in introductions and argument development. However, they should not be overused, or the writing may sound mechanical.

Practicing these techniques regularly is the best way to build confidence. Students should paraphrase IELTS prompts and sample essays, compare their versions with originals, and check if meaning is preserved. As Wordvice (n.d.) suggests, paraphrasing should be a process: understand, note, rewrite, and compare.

In summary, smart paraphrasing is about technique, not luck. By learning how to use synonyms carefully, change word forms, adjust structures, and apply templates, IELTS candidates can paraphrase effectively. This demonstrates a wide lexical range and flexibility, both of which are essential for Band 7 and above.

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