"Advanced Sentence Linking Techniques for IELTS Graph Writing: Using 'Despite' and 'Having' Structures"

"Advanced Sentence Linking Techniques for IELTS Graph Writing: Using 'Despite' and 'Having' Structures"

Advanced Sentence Linking

Mastering "Despite" and "Having" Structures

To reach Band 7+, you must move beyond simple "and/but" sentences. These two structures allow you to link complex trends with sophistication.

⚖️ The "Despite" Structure

Function: Highlights unexpected or contradictory trends.

"Despite a significant increase in sales, profits actually decreased due to rising costs."

Grammar Note: 'Despite' is usually followed by a Noun Phrase or "verb-ing", never a full sentence (Subject + Verb).

⏱️ The "Having" Structure

Function: Shows chronological order (one thing finished before the next started) without repeating the subject.

"Having reached a peak in 2015, sales gradually declined over the next three years."

Grammar Note: This is a Perfect Participle clause. It replaces "After the company reached..."

✍️ Rewrite Exercise

Combine the sentences below using the structure suggested.

1. Use "Despite"

Income increased steadily from $50,000 to $70,000 over three years. After that, there was a sudden drop to just $30,000 in the following year.
👁️ Reveal Answer
"Despite the steady increase in income from $50,000 to $70,000 over three years, there was a sudden drop to just $30,000 in the following year."

2. Use "Having"

The company's profits had been declining for several quarters. Then, they implemented a new cost-cutting strategy that led to a significant increase in earnings.
👁️ Reveal Answer
"Having seen declining profits for several quarters, the company implemented a new cost-cutting strategy that led to a significant increase in earnings."

3. Use "Despite"

The business had been struggling for years, with income fluctuating between $20,000 and $30,000. However, there was a sudden surge in revenue in 2018.
👁️ Reveal Answer
"Despite struggling for years, with income fluctuating between $20,000 and $30,000, there was a sudden surge in revenue in 2018."

4. Use "Despite"

The company's income had been steadily increasing for several years. Then, a major competitor entered the market, causing a significant decrease in sales.
👁️ Reveal Answer
"Despite the steady increase in income for several years, a major competitor entered the market, causing a significant decrease in sales."

Advanced Grammar for IELTS Writing Task 1