In “causes and effects” type of essay, IELTS examiners expect you to discuss the causes or reasons of the problem in one paragraph and the likely effects of that problem in the second paragraph separately. It is essential to identify relevant points for causes and effects in IELTS Writing. Please note that in this question, you should not include any paragraph about solutions.

Let’s consider an example:

Obesity in children is a serious problem in a number of countries.

What are the causes of obesity in children?

Discuss the possible alarming effects of this problem in the future.

Solution:

With this type of essay, you have two points to be discussed:

1. Causes of obesity in children in developed countries.

2. Effects of obesity in the future in developed countries.

You must address both of these points by providing reasons and supporting them with examples.

If you do not cover any of the above two points in the essay, you will lose marks.

So, in this type of essay, you must explain both points.

How to structure it?

The essay can be structured mainly into 4 paragraphs as follows:

1. Introduction

2. Causes & Reasons

3. Effects

4. Conclusion

Further structuring of the paragraphs can be done as follows:

a. Introduction

– Paraphrase the Question

– Outline the sentence

b. Body Paragraph 1 (Causes/Reasons)

– State the cause/reason

– Explain how it is the cause/reason

– Provide an example

c. Body Paragraph 2 (Effects)

– State the likely effect

– Explain how this can be the possible effect

– Present an example

d. Conclusion

– Write a summary of the main points

Here, four paragraphs are sufficient to explain your point of view. You may use any other structure you are comfortable with. This structure is approved by IELTS examiners to help students write effectively and cohesively.

Sample Question:

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Obesity in children is a serious problem in a number of countries.

What are the causes of obesity in children?

Discuss the possible alarming effects of this problem in the future.

Here, give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Sample Answer:

In recent years, developed countries have faced an increasing number of children suffering from obesity. This essay will discuss the possible causes of this problem among children and also suggest the potential consequences that may arise in case of negligence.

To begin with, one of the main causes of obesity among children is poor diet, as they are often seen consuming junk food. Fast food restaurants are abundant, and children frequently indulge in unhealthy eating habits. Moreover, parents, engrossed in their busy schedules, resort to processed foods for their convenience, which lack nutritional value and freshness. Consequently, this compromised diet leads to the accumulation of fat and affects their overall fitness.

As a result, children may encounter various negative effects. One significant consequence is the increased risk of developing severe health-related diseases like diabetes. Such debilitating illnesses may necessitate insulin injections throughout their lives. Furthermore, overweight children are often subjected to bullying, leading to emotional distress and low self-esteem.

In conclusion, it is evident that there are various causes responsible for obesity among children, which can lead to serious consequences in the future. It is the duty of parents and relatives to take appropriate steps to prevent this problem from exacerbating in the future.

(279 words)

Vocabulary and Phrases:

Useful vocabulary for Causes (Reasons):

– One of the causes/The reason is that

– Because/Since

– Due to this/Because of/Owing to/Lead to

– As a result/Lead to the problem/Can attribute to

Useful vocabulary for Effects:

– Consequence of/As a result of/Because of/Due to

– Make/Create/Change/Effect/Affect/Result

– Risk of/Leading to

Exercise:

Write an essay of about 250 words on the following topics. Use the vocabulary mentioned above.

1. There are a number of skin-whitening products available in the market. State the reasons why people are using these products? Discuss the possible negative outcomes of using these products.

2. With the advancement of technology, social interaction among people has been affected to a greater extent. What are the reasons for reduced social interaction? Suggest whether this would lead to a positive or negative effect in the future.

3. Almost everybody nowadays uses personal vehicles for traveling purposes. What are the reasons for this increasing trend? Explain what negative outcomes may be faced in society due to this.