For students in international programmes such as the IB, IGCSE, or A-Levels, mastering English goes far beyond passing a language exam. English is the foundation of their entire academic journey, it’s used in every subject, every assessment, every presentation. It’s not enough to understand what you hear or read; it’s equally important to express yourself clearly, precisely, and coherently, both orally and in writing.
Among the four core language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing), writing is often the most challenging, especially for students whose first language isn’t English. In the context of the IB or A-Levels, writing is not just about correct grammar; it requires building strong arguments, using appropriate academic vocabulary, and adapting tone and style to suit different types of tasks. That’s why developing this skill strategically can make a significant difference in academic performance.
Being able to write at an academic level in English is a cross-cutting skill that directly impacts performance in subjects such as Language, History, Philosophy, Science, or Economics. Essays, Internal Assessments, Extended Essays, and Theory of Knowledge (TOK) all require formal, structured, and clear writing. For students whose first language is not English, this can present an additional challenge, not only must they master the content, but they also need to communicate it effectively in a foreign language. That’s why developing strong academic writing skills can’t be left to chance; it requires consistent practice, constructive feedback, and the right guidance.
The more you expose yourself to well-written texts, the more you’ll internalise academic structures, vocabulary, and styles. Read model essays, articles from academic journals, or highly graded papers from previous years.
Learn formal expressions, logical connectors, precise verbs, and ways to introduce arguments or ideas. Avoid casual language and aim for synonyms that add accuracy and depth to your writing.
Writing once isn’t enough. Make writing a regular habit and ask teachers or tutors to give you detailed feedback. At TutorASAP, we help students improve not only by correcting mistakes but also by refining their style and structure.
Before you start writing, organise your ideas with a clear outline. This helps you stay on topic, maintain coherence, and build stronger arguments.
The first draft should never be the final version. Check your spelling, grammar, punctuation, and the logic of your arguments. If possible, leave your work aside for a few hours before reviewing, it will help you spot errors more easily.
Platforms like Grammarly, DeepL Write, or academic dictionaries can be helpful allies, as long as they don’t replace your own critical thinking or personal voice in the writing process.
In conclusion, improving your academic writing in English is a process that requires consistency, practice, and expert guidance. It’s not just about avoiding grammar mistakes, but about learning to communicate complex ideas clearly and in a well-structured way. At TutorASAP, we help our IB, IGCSE, and A-Level students refine this essential skill through personalised strategies, detailed feedback, and an approach focused on academic success. Because when you know how to write well in English, you’re ready to stand out in any classroom in the world.
