Mastering Modal Verbs for Band 7 Grammar
To score highly in IELTS Writing Task 2, candidates must demonstrate a wide range of grammatical structures, including the natural and accurate use of modal verbs. Modal verbs (e.g., must, should, could, might) help express degrees of certainty, suggestions, and predictions, which are essential for presenting balanced arguments.
Why Modal Verbs Matter for Band 7+
Modal verbs allow you to:
✅ Express certainty or uncertainty (e.g., will vs. might)
✅ Make suggestions and recommendations (e.g., should, could)
✅ Present hypothetical situations (e.g., would, might)
✅ Avoid sounding too absolute (critical for academic writing)
Example from an IELTS Essay:
“Students will probably be more motivated if they choose their own subjects, so they are more likely to work harder.”
Here, “will probably be” and “are more likely” show reasonable certainty without being overly strong.
How to Use Modal Verbs Effectively
1. Expressing Certainty (Strong Opinions)
When presenting your main argument, use modals that show high probability (but not 100% certainty, as IELTS prefers academic caution).
| Strong (80% Certainty) | Too Strong (100% Certainty – Avoid!) |
|---|---|
| “Students will probably be more motivated.” | “Students will be more motivated.” |
| “It can often lead to more creativity.” | “It will lead to more creativity.” |
Why? IELTS rewards balanced, academic language—avoid sounding too absolute.
2. Expressing Possibility (Predictions & Suggestions)
When discussing potential outcomes or solutions, use softer modals to show possibility.
| Possible (50% Certainty) | Too Strong (Avoid!) |
|---|---|
| “This could result in a skilled workforce.” | “This will result in a skilled workforce.” |
| “We might be left with fewer graduates.” | “We will be left with fewer graduates.” |
Why? IELTS values nuanced arguments—acknowledge uncertainty where appropriate.
3. Making Recommendations (Suggestions)
When proposing solutions, use “should,” “could,” “would suggest” to sound persuasive yet measured.
Good Examples:
- “Governments should invest in education.”
- “This could be done through financial incentives.”
- “I would suggest that universities offer more scholarships.”
Avoid: “Governments must invest in education.” (Too forceful unless absolutely certain.)
Applying Modals in IELTS Essay Structures
1. Discuss Both Views + Opinion Essay
- Your Opinion (Stronger Modals):“I believe students should choose their subjects, as they will likely perform better.”
- Opposing View (Weaker Modals):“However, some argue that this might lead to shortages in key fields.”
2. Problem & Solution Essay
- Problem (Stronger Modals for Seriousness):“Climate change will probably worsen without intervention.”
- Solutions (Softer Modals for Suggestions):“Governments could implement stricter emissions laws.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Overusing “will” → Sounds too certain (use “will likely” or “may” instead).
❌ Using “must” too often → Sounds dogmatic (use “should” or “ought to”).
❌ Mixing certainty levels → Keep your strength of argument consistent.
Practice Exercise
Rewrite these sentences with appropriate modals:
- “Students will choose easier subjects if given freedom.”
→ “Students may/might choose easier subjects if given freedom.” - “This solution will fix unemployment.”
→ “This solution could help reduce unemployment.” - “All universities must make science compulsory.”
→ “Universities should consider making science compulsory.”