NECCS Writing Note
Abstract
This note follows the
Writing Bankstandard: every phrase comes withUsageandExample. It is organized intoSection A,Section B,general writing materials, andmodel essays.
1. Scoring and Safe Range
-
Section A: 100-130 words- Usage: A safe range for C Class chart/report writing.
- Example:
When practicing Section A, I try to keep my report within 120 words.
-
Section B: 160-200 words- Usage: A safe range for C Class argument writing.
- Example:
For Section B, a well-developed essay of about 180 words is usually ideal.
-
summary is necessary- Usage: The core rule for chart writing; every report needs a clear overall conclusion.
- Example:
Even if the chart is simple, summary is necessary in the final paragraph.
-
common-sense inference is acceptable- Usage: In NECCS Section A, you may add a brief data-based inference.
- Example:
The chart shows a rise in fitness activities, and a brief common-sense inference is acceptable here.
-
personal opinion should stay brief unless the prompt asks for it- Usage: A practical writing principle for Section A.
- Example:
If the task only asks for description, personal opinion should stay brief unless the prompt asks for it.
2. Section A: Chart / Report Writing
2.1 Reading Checklist
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the core subject- Usage: Identify what the graph is mainly about before writing.
- Example:
The core subject of the chart is students' reading habits.
-
the title- Usage: The title often gives the theme and should not be ignored.
- Example:
The title shows that the data concern urban transport in 2025.
-
x-axis / y-axis / legend / unit- Usage: These details help avoid factual mistakes in description.
- Example:
Before writing, I checked the x-axis, the y-axis, and the unit carefully.
-
the most obvious trends, contrasts, peaks, lows, or proportions- Usage: These are the most valuable points to describe in the body paragraph.
- Example:
The most obvious trend is the sharp increase in online shopping after 2020.
2.2 Opening Sentence Bank
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The chart illustrates ...- Usage: A standard opener for almost any figure.
- Example:
The chart illustrates the changes in energy consumption from 2018 to 2023.
-
The table presents information about ...- Usage: Best used when the material is a table rather than a graph.
- Example:
The table presents information about students' weekly exercise time.
-
The bar chart shows the comparison of ...- Usage: Useful for bar charts with multiple categories.
- Example:
The bar chart shows the comparison of transport choices among college students.
-
The line graph describes the changes in ...- Usage: Best for trends over time.
- Example:
The line graph describes the changes in smartphone use between 2019 and 2024.
-
The pie chart provides data on ...- Usage: Appropriate when the main focus is proportion.
- Example:
The pie chart provides data on household spending in different areas.
-
The diagram presents a survey on ...- Usage: A polished opener for survey-style charts.
- Example:
The diagram presents a survey on the most popular leisure activities among teenagers.
-
A survey has been conducted on ...- Usage: A formal passive structure often seen in reports.
- Example:
A survey has been conducted on graduates' preferred career paths.
-
The given chart shows data about ... from ... to ...- Usage: Handy when the task includes a time range.
- Example:
The given chart shows data about tourism growth from 2015 to 2024.
-
As is shown in the chart, ...- Usage: A direct transition from the chart to your first observation.
- Example:
As is shown in the chart, public transport remained the dominant choice.
-
As can be seen from the diagram, ...- Usage: Similar to the previous one, but slightly smoother in reports.
- Example:
As can be seen from the diagram, online learning has gained popularity steadily.
2.3 Overview Sentence Bank
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Overall, a striking feature is that ...- Usage: A strong sentence for the overview after the opening.
- Example:
Overall, a striking feature is that the number of users rose sharply after 2021.
-
Overall, there are significant changes in ...- Usage: A simple and safe overview sentence for dynamic charts.
- Example:
Overall, there are significant changes in students' spending patterns.
-
There are great differences between ... and ...- Usage: Effective for charts centered on comparison.
- Example:
There are great differences between urban and rural Internet access.
-
... is rising steadily over the period.- Usage: A concise way to summarize a clear upward trend.
- Example:
Online payment is rising steadily over the period.
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In general, the data reveal a clear pattern that ...- Usage: A polished overview or ending sentence.
- Example:
In general, the data reveal a clear pattern that younger people favor digital services more strongly.
2.4 Description Frames
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As we can see from the chart, ...- Usage: A safe sentence starter before presenting a key detail.
- Example:
As we can see from the chart, reading still occupies a large share of students' free time.
-
It can be seen from the table that ...- Usage: Best for fact-based description with a table.
- Example:
It can be seen from the table that male students spend more on transport than female students.
-
We can see clearly from the chart that ...- Usage: Good when a feature is especially obvious.
- Example:
We can see clearly from the chart that the figure peaked in 2022.
-
We can learn from the diagram that ...- Usage: Useful when moving slightly from pure data to a modest inference.
- Example:
We can learn from the diagram that practical courses are becoming more attractive to students.
-
The chart illustrates that ...- Usage: A simple reporting frame in the middle of a paragraph.
- Example:
The chart illustrates that bicycle use fell during the winter months.
-
It is noticeable that ...- Usage: A very useful sentence for summary or emphasis.
- Example:
It is noticeable that older citizens rely more heavily on traditional media.
-
It is important to note that ...- Usage: Use it to highlight a key detail or contrast.
- Example:
It is important to note that the smallest category still accounts for over 10 percent.
-
The most obvious pieces of information are that ...- Usage: A natural lead-in to two or three main findings.
- Example:
The most obvious pieces of information are that online learning rose and printed materials declined.
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The most significant facts to emerge from the chart are that ...- Usage: A more formal alternative to the previous phrase.
- Example:
The most significant facts to emerge from the chart are that women read more and young adults watch less television.
2.5 Trend Vocabulary: Rise / Fall / Stability
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rise- Usage: A basic verb for upward movement.
- Example:
The number of users rose in the second half of the year.
-
increase- Usage: Slightly more formal than
rise. - Example:
Household spending on education increased steadily.
- Usage: Slightly more formal than
-
go up- Usage: Informal but still usable in timed writing.
- Example:
The figure went up from 20 to 35 percent.
-
grow- Usage: Useful when the trend seems steady and natural.
- Example:
The demand for online courses grew over time.
-
jump- Usage: Indicates a sudden increase.
- Example:
The number of visitors jumped after the holiday season.
-
surge- Usage: A more vivid and formal alternative to
jump. - Example:
Online consumption surged during the promotion period.
- Usage: A more vivid and formal alternative to
-
decline- Usage: A formal verb for downward movement.
- Example:
Interest in printed newspapers declined gradually.
-
drop- Usage: A direct and common verb for decrease.
- Example:
The percentage of smokers dropped in 2024.
-
dip- Usage: Often suggests a small or temporary fall.
- Example:
Sales dipped slightly in February.
-
decrease- Usage: A neutral and safe verb or noun for downward change.
- Example:
The number of participants decreased after the first month.
-
fluctuate- Usage: Best when the figure rises and falls repeatedly.
- Example:
The price fluctuated between 8 and 12 yuan.
-
remain stable- Usage: Use it when the number changes little.
- Example:
The percentage remained stable at around 30 percent.
-
remain steady- Usage: Similar to
remain stable, slightly more natural in prose. - Example:
The birth rate remained steady during the whole period.
- Usage: Similar to
-
remain constant- Usage: Stronger than
remain stable, often implying almost no change. - Example:
The figure remained constant at 12 percent.
- Usage: Stronger than
-
level off- Usage: Use it when an increase or decrease stops and becomes stable.
- Example:
After rising rapidly, the number levelled off in 2023.
-
peak at- Usage: A common phrase for the highest point.
- Example:
The figure peaked at 68 percent in July.
-
reach the highest point- Usage: A fuller way to describe the peak.
- Example:
Online sales reached the highest point at the end of the year.
-
hit a low of- Usage: Describe the minimum point in a vivid way.
- Example:
The number hit a low of 5 percent in January.
-
reach the lowest point- Usage: A standard way to describe the bottom.
- Example:
The rate reached the lowest point in 2020.
-
stand at- Usage: A very useful reporting verb for exact figures.
- Example:
The proportion of commuters by bus stood at 42 percent.
2.6 Degree and Speed
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slightly- Usage: For a small change.
- Example:
The figure increased slightly in March.
-
slowly- Usage: For gradual movement with a mild pace.
- Example:
The number fell slowly over the next two years.
-
gradually- Usage: Slightly more formal than
slowly. - Example:
Public acceptance grew gradually after the policy change.
- Usage: Slightly more formal than
-
steadily- Usage: For smooth and continuous change.
- Example:
The rate rose steadily throughout the decade.
-
rapidly- Usage: A reliable adverb for fast movement.
- Example:
The market expanded rapidly after 2021.
-
sharply- Usage: Best for a clear and strong rise or fall.
- Example:
The figure dropped sharply in winter.
-
significantly- Usage: Formal and flexible in academic-style writing.
- Example:
The number increased significantly after the reform.
-
dramatically- Usage: Stronger emphasis than
significantly. - Example:
Users' dependence on mobile payment rose dramatically.
- Usage: Stronger emphasis than
-
drastically- Usage: Very strong; use for major change only.
- Example:
The cost decreased drastically after new technology was adopted.
-
approximately- Usage: A formal synonym for
about. - Example:
The figure was approximately 45 percent.
- Usage: A formal synonym for
-
about- Usage: The simplest approximation word.
- Example:
About half of the students preferred online courses.
-
around- Usage: A natural alternative to
about. - Example:
The number remained around 20 million.
- Usage: A natural alternative to
-
just over- Usage: Useful for slightly higher values.
- Example:
Just over a quarter of the respondents chose public transport.
-
just under- Usage: Useful for slightly lower values.
- Example:
Just under half of the users paid by mobile phone.
2.7 Proportion and Ranking
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account for- Usage: One of the most important expressions in pie charts and bar charts.
- Example:
Online learning accounts for 35 percent of all learning choices.
-
make up- Usage: A natural alternative to
account for. - Example:
Rural users make up a relatively small proportion of the sample.
- Usage: A natural alternative to
-
occupy- Usage: A more formal verb for proportion.
- Example:
Entertainment occupied nearly one third of total spending.
-
represent- Usage: Good for explaining what a number stands for in the whole.
- Example:
This figure represents the largest share of the chart.
-
constitute- Usage: A formal alternative to
make up. - Example:
Private cars constitute a major part of urban transport.
- Usage: A formal alternative to
-
form- Usage: Short and flexible in formal description.
- Example:
Reading forms an important part of students' daily routine.
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the proportion of- Usage: A noun phrase for data description.
- Example:
The proportion of female users rose steadily.
-
the percentage of- Usage: Similar to
the proportion of, often followed by a group noun. - Example:
The percentage of young consumers reached 60 percent.
- Usage: Similar to
-
respectively- Usage: Use it when listing two or more figures in order.
- Example:
The numbers for buses and subways were 35 and 28 percent respectively.
-
a massive ... percent of- Usage: Adds emphasis when the proportion is very large.
- Example:
A massive 82 percent of students supported the new library policy.
-
a mere ... percent of- Usage: Adds emphasis when the proportion is very small.
- Example:
A mere 6 percent of respondents chose traditional mail.
-
one in ten- Usage: A vivid alternative to
10 percent. - Example:
Only one in ten participants preferred face-to-face payment.
- Usage: A vivid alternative to
-
a fifth- Usage: A natural way to express
20 percent. - Example:
A fifth of the sample came from rural areas.
- Usage: A natural way to express
-
a quarter- Usage: A standard fraction for
25 percent. - Example:
A quarter of the students read for more than two hours a day.
- Usage: A standard fraction for
-
three-quarters- Usage: A polished alternative to
75 percent. - Example:
Three-quarters of the users relied on smartphones for payment.
- Usage: A polished alternative to
-
... ranks first, accounting for ...- Usage: One of the most useful sentence patterns for ranking.
- Example:
Reading ranks first, accounting for 38 percent of all leisure activities.
-
... takes the second place, followed by ...- Usage: Best when describing the top three items.
- Example:
Cycling takes the second place, followed by running.
-
By contrast, ... accounts for only ...- Usage: A natural way to introduce the smallest or weaker item.
- Example:
By contrast, swimming accounts for only 7 percent.
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The least common item is ..., making up merely ...- Usage: A strong closing sentence for a comparison set.
- Example:
The least common item is printed newspapers, making up merely 5 percent.
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A is larger / smaller than B by ...- Usage: Use it for direct numerical comparison.
- Example:
Spending on food is larger than that on clothes by 12 percent.
-
A is approximately ... larger than B- Usage: Helpful when the exact gap is not central.
- Example:
The number of male users is approximately 5 percent larger than that of female users.
-
A is twice as large as B- Usage: A simple pattern for倍数 comparison.
- Example:
The figure for online learning is twice as large as that for offline tutoring.
-
A is almost as high as B- Usage: Good for two similar figures.
- Example:
The rate in City B is almost as high as that in City A.
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A is the second largest ...- Usage: A useful ranking pattern for bar charts and tables.
- Example:
Public transport is the second largest category in the chart.
-
A has the highest proportion of ...- Usage: A formal ranking sentence.
- Example:
The 18-25 age group has the highest proportion of online buyers.
2.8 Safe Ending and Suggestion Lines
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To conclude, the chart reveals a clear pattern that ...- Usage: A stable final sentence for Section A.
- Example:
To conclude, the chart reveals a clear pattern that convenience plays a decisive role in consumer choice.
-
To sum up, ...- Usage: A concise transition into summary.
- Example:
To sum up, the figures show a shift from traditional to digital services.
-
All in all, ...- Usage: A natural alternative to
To sum up. - Example:
All in all, students now spend their free time in more diverse ways.
- Usage: A natural alternative to
-
It can be learned from the chart that ...- Usage: Good for summary with a mild inference.
- Example:
It can be learned from the chart that practical value strongly affects students' choices.
-
Taken together, the data suggest that ...- Usage: A polished sentence for integrated conclusion.
- Example:
Taken together, the data suggest that environmental awareness is rising among young people.
2.9 Section A Mini Template
The chart / table illustrates ...
Overall, a striking feature is that ...
As can be seen from the chart, ... ranks first, accounting for ...
By contrast, ... accounts for only ...
It is also noticeable that ...
To conclude, the chart reveals a clear pattern that ...2.10 Section A Model Essays
Model Essay 1: Students’ Exercise Choices
The bar chart illustrates the exercise choices of college students in one university. Overall, a striking feature is that running and badminton are far more popular than other forms of exercise.
As can be seen from the chart, running ranks first, accounting for 32 percent of all responses. Badminton takes the second place, followed by basketball at 24 percent and 18 percent respectively. By contrast, swimming accounts for only 9 percent, while yoga makes up a mere 7 percent. It is important to note that the gap between the most popular and the least common item is quite large.
To conclude, the chart reveals a clear pattern that students prefer convenient and low-cost sports. As far as I am concerned, universities should not ignore the need to provide more accessible sports facilities.
Model Essay 2: Household Spending Changes
The line graph describes the changes in household spending on food, transport, and entertainment from 2020 to 2024. In general, the data reveal a clear pattern that entertainment spending rose, while food spending remained relatively steady.
We can see clearly from the chart that spending on entertainment increased steadily and peaked at nearly 30 percent in 2024. Food spending, by contrast, remained stable at around 35 percent throughout the period. Transport spending fluctuated slightly at first and then levelled off at about 20 percent. The most significant facts to emerge from the chart are that entertainment gained importance and food still occupied the largest share.
Taken together, the data suggest that families are now placing more value on lifestyle and leisure. Therefore, we should not ignore the social changes behind such consumption patterns.
3. Section B: Argument Essay
3.1 Intro Sentence Bank
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With the rapid development of ...- Usage: A classic background opener for social or technological topics.
- Example:
With the rapid development of artificial intelligence, many jobs are being transformed.
-
the focal point of- Usage: Use it to show that an issue has become central to public discussion.
- Example:
Graduate employment has become the focal point of public debate.
-
the focus of public concern- Usage: A slightly more formal alternative to
a hot topic. - Example:
Mental health has become the focus of public concern in recent years.
- Usage: A slightly more formal alternative to
-
with the popularization of- Usage: Good for discussing a trend that has spread widely.
- Example:
With the popularization of online payment, traditional banking habits are changing.
-
amid growing public attention- Usage: A concise analytical opener.
- Example:
Amid growing public attention, the issue of educational fairness deserves deeper reflection.
-
in an era marked by- Usage: Helps set a broad social background.
- Example:
In an era marked by uncertainty, resilience has become a valuable quality.
-
it comes as no surprise that- Usage: A polished way to introduce a predictable trend.
- Example:
It comes as no surprise that flexible learning has gained traction among students.
-
it is plain to see that- Usage: Similar to
it is clear that, but slightly more emphatic. - Example:
It is plain to see that practical ability matters more than ever before.
- Usage: Similar to
-
there is little doubt that- Usage: Use it to state a strong but refined claim.
- Example:
There is little doubt that technology has reshaped daily life.
-
it is no exaggeration to say that- Usage: Strong emphasis in introductions; use sparingly.
- Example:
It is no exaggeration to say that social media has changed the way people form opinions.
-
that leads us to the question:- Usage: Use it to shift from context to the actual issue.
- Example:
That leads us to the question: how should universities prepare students for the future?
3.2 Opinion Sentence Bank
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From my perspective, ...- Usage: A reliable phrase for stating your own view.
- Example:
From my perspective, practical training matters as much as academic study.
-
As far as I am concerned, ...- Usage: Slightly softer than
From my perspective. - Example:
As far as I am concerned, moderate regulation is necessary.
- Usage: Slightly softer than
-
I hold the firm belief that ...- Usage: A more formal and confident opinion sentence.
- Example:
I hold the firm belief that education should cultivate both competence and character.
-
When it comes to ..., my view is that ...- Usage: Useful when narrowing down the topic before giving your opinion.
- Example:
When it comes to career planning, my view is that students should start early.
-
There is no denying that ..., but I believe ...- Usage: Ideal for balanced argument writing.
- Example:
There is no denying that online learning is convenient, but I believe face-to-face interaction still matters.
3.3 Reason and Example Sentence Bank
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The first reason lies in the fact that ...- Usage: A formal and safe way to begin your first supporting point.
- Example:
The first reason lies in the fact that practical experience improves confidence.
-
Another major reason is that ...- Usage: A good transition into the second body point.
- Example:
Another major reason is that real-world tasks cultivate responsibility.
-
This is because ...- Usage: A direct explanation sentence.
- Example:
This is because students learn more effectively when theory is linked with practice.
-
This, in turn, ...- Usage: Excellent for showing chain logic.
- Example:
Better planning reduces confusion. This, in turn, improves efficiency.
-
For example, ...- Usage: The safest example-introducing phrase.
- Example:
For example, many students gain communication skills through volunteer work.
-
A case in point is that ...- Usage: A more polished alternative to
For example. - Example:
A case in point is that internship programs often help students enter the job market more smoothly.
- Usage: A more polished alternative to
-
This can be best illustrated by ...- Usage: Use it to introduce an example in a formal way.
- Example:
This can be best illustrated by the growing demand for interdisciplinary talent.
-
It follows that ...- Usage: A logic-based concluding sentence within a paragraph.
- Example:
If basic skills are weak, it follows that long-term growth will be limited.
3.4 Conclusion Sentence Bank
-
To conclude, ...- Usage: A clear and standard conclusion marker.
- Example:
To conclude, society should welcome innovation with caution and wisdom.
-
In conclusion, ...- Usage: Slightly more formal than
To conclude. - Example:
In conclusion, the issue calls for joint efforts from all sides.
- Usage: Slightly more formal than
-
All things considered, ...- Usage: Very useful after weighing both sides.
- Example:
All things considered, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.
-
From a long-term perspective, ...- Usage: Helps broaden your final judgment.
- Example:
From a long-term perspective, investment in education brings the greatest return.
-
The key lies in ...- Usage: A concise solution-focused sentence.
- Example:
The key lies in better planning, clearer goals, and stronger support.
-
Only in this way can we ...- Usage: Strong and memorable for recommendation endings.
- Example:
Only in this way can we ensure balanced and sustainable development.
3.5 Section B Mini Template
With the rapid development of ..., ... has become the focus of public concern.
When it comes to ..., my view is that ...
The first reason lies in the fact that ...
For example, ...
Another major reason is that ...
A case in point is that ...
All things considered, the key lies in ...
Only in this way can we ...3.6 Section B Model Essays
Model Essay 1: Practical Skills Matter
With the rapid development of society and the ever-changing job market, graduate employability has become the focal point of public concern. There is little doubt that academic achievement remains important, yet that leads us to the question: should universities place greater emphasis on practical skills?
From my perspective, the answer is yes. The first reason lies in the fact that practical training helps students translate knowledge into action. For example, internships, research projects, and volunteer work give students hands-on experience and strengthen their professional credibility. Another major reason is that such experience can cultivate adaptability and communication skills. A case in point is that students who have completed internship programs are often better positioned to secure quality jobs. This, in turn, improves their confidence and long-term career resilience.
All things considered, universities should not focus on theory alone. The key lies in striking a balance between academic learning and practical development. Only in this way can students remain competitive in a rapidly changing world.
Model Essay 2: Technology Should Serve People
In an era marked by rapid innovation, digital technology has become the focus of public concern. It comes as no surprise that people now rely on technology in study, work, and daily communication. However, when it comes to human development, my view is that technology should serve people rather than dominate them.
The first reason lies in the fact that technology can enhance efficiency and broaden access to information. For example, online platforms allow learners to draw on educational resources from all over the world. Another major reason is that intelligent tools can foster creativity and cooperation when used wisely. Nonetheless, there is no denying that excessive dependence may give rise to distraction and information overload. It follows that society should build on technological progress while adopting a more human-centered approach.
In conclusion, technology itself is neither good nor bad; the real issue is how it is used. From a long-term perspective, the key lies in wise guidance, ethical awareness, and self-discipline. Only in this way can innovation stand the test of time.
4. General Writing Materials
4.1 Cause, Effect, and Logic
-
in that- Usage: Use it to explain why a claim is true in a compact way.
- Example:
The policy is meaningful in that it offers support to disadvantaged students.
-
be accountable for- Usage: A formal alternative to
be responsible for. - Example:
Schools should be accountable for the safety of all study tours.
- Usage: A formal alternative to
-
as a result- Usage: A safe and common cause-effect linker.
- Example:
Many students lack practical experience. As a result, they struggle in interviews.
-
consequently- Usage: A more formal alternative to
as a result. - Example:
The cost rose sharply; consequently, many families felt greater pressure.
- Usage: A more formal alternative to
-
thereby- Usage: Very useful for linking an action with its result in one sentence.
- Example:
Students can join social practice, thereby improving their communication skills.
-
stem from- Usage: Use it to trace a problem back to its source.
- Example:
Many misunderstandings stem from poor communication.
-
give rise to- Usage: A formal alternative to
cause. - Example:
Blind expansion may give rise to unnecessary waste.
- Usage: A formal alternative to
-
translate into- Usage: Show how one advantage becomes a concrete outcome.
- Example:
Academic knowledge does not always translate into practical competence.
-
run counter to- Usage: A strong formal phrase meaning
go against. - Example:
Short-term profit often runs counter to sustainable development.
- Usage: A strong formal phrase meaning
-
at the very least- Usage: Present the minimum acceptable conclusion.
- Example:
At the very least, students should receive clear guidance before making major decisions.
-
chances are that- Usage: A natural phrase for likelihood in argument writing.
- Example:
Chances are that unprepared graduates will feel lost in a competitive market.
-
it does no harm to- Usage: A softener before suggestions.
- Example:
It does no harm to examine the issue from both sides first.
4.2 Action, Agency, and Improvement
-
take the initiative to- Usage: Use it to praise active effort.
- Example:
Students should take the initiative to improve their digital literacy.
-
proactively- Usage: Works well in recommendations and policy writing.
- Example:
Universities should proactively respond to labor market changes.
-
draw on- Usage: A more refined alternative to
use. - Example:
Teachers should draw on local resources in course design.
- Usage: A more refined alternative to
-
build on- Usage: Use it when one effort develops from another.
- Example:
Future reform should build on the progress already made.
-
be equipped with- Usage: Good for discussing skills, knowledge, or preparation.
- Example:
Graduates should be equipped with both expertise and adaptability.
-
be better positioned to- Usage: A polished phrase for advantage or readiness.
- Example:
Students with internship experience are better positioned to enter the job market.
-
enhance- Usage: A more refined verb than
improve. - Example:
Volunteer work can enhance students' sense of responsibility.
- Usage: A more refined verb than
-
cultivate- Usage: Best for abstract qualities such as patience or critical thinking.
- Example:
Education should cultivate independent thinking.
-
foster- Usage: A high-value verb for positive long-term development.
- Example:
A supportive environment can foster creativity.
-
adopt an approach- Usage: Useful in policy and management essays.
- Example:
Schools should adopt a more flexible approach to evaluation.
-
utilize- Usage: A formal alternative to
use. - Example:
Young people should utilize online resources more wisely.
- Usage: A formal alternative to
4.3 Contrast, Balance, and Transition
-
what is more- Usage: Add another supporting point in a formal tone.
- Example:
What is more, the reform may reduce inequality in the long run.
-
in addition- Usage: A safe linker for almost every essay type.
- Example:
In addition, students can gain first-hand experience outside the classroom.
-
additionally- Usage: More compact and slightly more formal than
in addition. - Example:
Additionally, parents should be kept fully informed.
- Usage: More compact and slightly more formal than
-
nonetheless- Usage: Introduce a concession without sounding abrupt.
- Example:
The idea is promising; nonetheless, implementation remains uneven.
-
however- Usage: The safest contrast marker.
- Example:
The plan sounds attractive. However, it may be difficult to carry out.
-
by contrast- Usage: Better than
on the contraryfor most comparisons. - Example:
Urban schools are well funded. By contrast, rural schools often lack resources.
- Usage: Better than
-
on the flip side- Usage: More conversational, but still usable in lighter essays.
- Example:
Online learning is flexible. On the flip side, it may weaken self-discipline.
-
on balance- Usage: Ideal for offering a final evaluation.
- Example:
On balance, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.
-
as a matter of fact- Usage: Use it to reinforce a point confidently.
- Example:
As a matter of fact, many old problems simply appear in new forms today.
-
pros and cons- Usage: Best for quick balanced discussion.
- Example:
Before reaching a conclusion, we should weigh the pros and cons carefully.
-
a double-edged sword- Usage: Use it when something brings both benefits and risks.
- Example:
Technology is a double-edged sword: it connects people, yet it may also isolate them.
-
benefits outweigh the drawbacks- Usage: A reliable sentence for conclusions.
- Example:
On balance, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.
-
strike a balance between ... and ...- Usage: A core sentence pattern for argument essays.
- Example:
We should strike a balance between efficiency and fairness.
4.4 Strong Sentence Materials
-
play a crucial role in- Usage: A strong alternative to
be important in. - Example:
Parents play a crucial role in children's early education.
- Usage: A strong alternative to
-
play a pivotal role in- Usage: Slightly stronger and more formal than
play a crucial role in. - Example:
Teachers play a pivotal role in shaping students' values.
- Usage: Slightly stronger and more formal than
-
serve as a catalyst for- Usage: Excellent for showing that one thing speeds up change.
- Example:
Internships can serve as a catalyst for professional growth.
-
lay a solid foundation for- Usage: Useful when describing long-term benefits.
- Example:
Good reading habits can lay a solid foundation for lifelong learning.
-
be not merely ..., but ...- Usage: Adds emphasis and sophistication.
- Example:
Education should be not merely a path to employment, but a process of personal growth.
-
be of vital importance- Usage: A formal way to emphasize significance.
- Example:
Mental health is of vital importance to young people.
-
be of vital significance- Usage: Similar to the previous one, slightly more elevated.
- Example:
Fair access to education is of vital significance to social mobility.
4.5 Sentence Structures
-
Not only ... but also ...- Usage: Emphasize two equally important points.
- Example:
A good teacher should not only impart knowledge but also inspire confidence.
-
Only in this way can we ...- Usage: Best for conclusions and solution paragraphs.
- Example:
Only in this way can we build a healthier learning environment.
-
Gone are the days when ...- Usage: Use it to contrast the past with the present dramatically.
- Example:
Gone are the days when a degree alone guaranteed success.
-
Had it not been for ..., ...- Usage: An advanced inverted structure for hypothetical reflection.
- Example:
Had it not been for technological progress, remote education would not have spread so quickly.
-
It is ... that ...- Usage: A cleft structure for emphasis.
- Example:
It is mutual trust that holds a community together.
-
There is no denying that ...- Usage: A reliable and formal claim starter.
- Example:
There is no denying that competition is becoming more intense.
-
So + adjective + be + subject + that ...- Usage: Adds emphasis in an advanced way.
- Example:
So fierce is the competition that many graduates feel anxious.
-
Whether ... depends largely on ...- Usage: Helpful when explaining conditions for success.
- Example:
Whether the reform succeeds depends largely on implementation.
5. Ready-to-Use Topic Vocabulary
5.1 Education
-
quality-oriented education- Usage: A natural expression for student-centered education.
- Example:
Quality-oriented education values competence rather than rote memorization.
-
broaden one's horizons- Usage: A classic phrase for travel, reading, and practice-based learning.
- Example:
Study tours can broaden students' horizons beyond textbooks.
-
hands-on experience- Usage: Ideal for internships, labs, and field work.
- Example:
Students need hands-on experience instead of abstract instruction alone.
-
translate knowledge into practice- Usage: Useful for linking theory and action.
- Example:
Internships help students translate knowledge into practice.
5.2 Society and Technology
-
digital divide- Usage: Discuss unequal access to technology.
- Example:
The digital divide remains a serious obstacle in less developed areas.
-
algorithm-driven platforms- Usage: A current expression for modern online systems.
- Example:
Young people spend a great deal of time on algorithm-driven platforms.
-
information overload- Usage: Valuable for essays on media and modern life.
- Example:
Information overload can weaken people's independent judgment.
-
human-centered approach- Usage: A refined phrase for policy, technology, or education essays.
- Example:
We need a human-centered approach to digital innovation.
-
in the context of- Usage: Helps place a topic in a broader frame.
- Example:
The issue should be discussed in the context of globalization and technological change.
5.3 Work and Development
-
career resilience- Usage: A polished phrase for employment essays.
- Example:
In an uncertain economy, career resilience matters as much as technical skill.
-
upward mobility- Usage: Useful in social and economic discussions.
- Example:
Education remains one of the most effective paths to upward mobility.
-
future-proof skills- Usage: A modern employment phrase for transferable skills.
- Example:
Students should develop future-proof skills such as communication and adaptability.
-
professional credibility- Usage: Strong for work ethic and reputation.
- Example:
Reliability and honesty are central to professional credibility.
-
professional and working skills- Usage: A practical collocation for employability writing.
- Example:
Graduates should equip themselves with both professional and working skills.
-
the job-seeking process- Usage: A useful phrase in employment-related topics.
- Example:
Many students know little about the job-seeking process before graduation.
5.4 Economy and Public Policy
-
gain significant traction- Usage: An upgraded version of
become popular. - Example:
Remote work has gained significant traction in recent years.
- Usage: An upgraded version of
-
unlock the value of- Usage: Strong for reform, technology, and education topics.
- Example:
Digital tools can unlock the value of open educational resources.
-
stimulate economic growth- Usage: A high-frequency collocation in policy essays.
- Example:
Innovation can stimulate economic growth and create more opportunities.
-
efficient allocation of resources- Usage: Very useful for economics and public policy writing.
- Example:
Better regulation can promote the efficient allocation of resources.
-
create more job opportunities- Usage: A practical policy expression for employment essays.
- Example:
Local governments should create more job opportunities for young graduates.
-
pay more attention to- Usage: A reliable recommendation phrase.
- Example:
Schools should pay more attention to students' practical ability.
6. Useful Sample Expressions from NECCS Materials
-
dynamic, demanding and challenging- Usage: Useful for describing activities, jobs, or learning experiences positively.
- Example:
Basketball remains popular because it is dynamic, demanding and challenging.
-
make every effort to- Usage: A strong phrase for recommendations and responsibilities.
- Example:
The government should make every effort to reduce educational inequality.
-
equip oneself with- Usage: Best for self-improvement and employability topics.
- Example:
Students should equip themselves with communication skills and digital literacy.
-
have a good knowledge of- Usage: A polished expression for familiarity or understanding.
- Example:
Graduates need to have a good knowledge of the job-seeking process.
-
find ideal jobs- Usage: A practical phrase for employment essays.
- Example:
Career guidance can help young people find ideal jobs more efficiently.
-
be popular among- Usage: Describe broad acceptance in a group.
- Example:
Short videos are especially popular among college students.
-
gain traction among- Usage: More polished than
become popular. - Example:
Flexible learning models are gaining traction among young learners.
- Usage: More polished than
-
win broad acceptance- Usage: Good for trends, ideas, or reforms.
- Example:
The new teaching model has gradually won broad acceptance.
7. What to Memorize First
-
Section A opening sentence patterns- Usage: Memorize 3-5 and rotate them in practice.
- Example:
The chart illustrates ... / As can be seen from the diagram, ...
-
Section A overview and summary sentence patterns- Usage: These sentences help your report feel complete and organized.
- Example:
Overall, a striking feature is that ... / To conclude, the chart reveals a clear pattern that ...
-
trend / proportion / comparison vocabulary- Usage: These are the core tools for describing data accurately.
- Example:
rise steadily / account for / rank first / by contrast
-
Section B opinion -> reason -> example paragraph frame- Usage: The most reusable mini-structure in argument writing.
- Example:
From my perspective, ... The first reason lies in the fact that ... For example, ...
-
intro and conclusion sentence patterns- Usage: These help stabilize the whole essay under time pressure.
- Example:
With the rapid development of ... / All things considered, the key lies in ...
-
10-15 high-frequency topic expressions- Usage: Build a small personal bank before expanding it.
- Example:
hands-on experience / information overload / professional credibility
8. Inbox
Tip
Add new expressions here first, then move them into the right section later.