IB English

Tips for Improving Vocabulary and Style in IB English Essays

RevisionDojo
••7 min read

1. Build a Strong Vocabulary Foundation

Strong academic vocabulary and precision in language are essential for scoring well in IB English.

  • Read widely: Literature, high-quality journalism, and essays expose you to rich vocabulary in context.
  • Use connectives and transition phrases: Terms like “moreover,” “furthermore,” and “conversely” improve fluency and cohesion.
  • Note and reuse new words: Keep a running glossary and insert new terms into your own writing to internalize them.

👉 For strategies on vocabulary and writing register, check out RevisionDojo’s guide “How to Write a Good Essay for IB English Literature” Writers Per Hour+12revisiondojo.com+12revisiondojo.com+12IB Language and Literature 2.0+1Reddit+1.

2. Master Sentence Variety and Precision

Avoid monotonous sentence structures that bore readers. Instead:

  • Mix simple, compound, and complex sentences for rhythm and flow.
  • Vary sentence openings: Start with adverbial phrases, subordinate clauses, or quotations to add interest.
  • Be concise: Avoid filler words; every sentence should advance your argument or analysis.

👉 See how RevisionDojo teaches writing precision and style refinement in their HL Essay Guide revisiondojo.com+1revisiondojo.com+1.

3. Harness Active Voice and Precise Diction

Passive constructions weaken tone. Favor active, direct phrasing:

  • Passive: "Character development is shown by the author."
  • Active: "The author develops the character..."

Use precise, context-appropriate vocabulary rather than generic terms like "things" or "very."

👉 RevisionDojo emphasizes clarity and stylistic polish in IB English essays here: “HL Essay and Style” IB Writings+14revisiondojo.com+14revisiondojo.com+14IB Language and Literature 2.0.

4. Use Literary and Rhetorical Terms Effectively

Accurate terminology shows awareness without sounding mechanical:

  • Literary devices: juxtaposition, irony, metaphor, alliteration
  • Rhetorical/structural terms: repetition, tone shift, enjambment

Only include terms you understand and can analyze within textual context.

👉 RevisionDojo’s Paper 1 guide teaches functional use of terminology within analytical essays: “Mastering IB English Paper 1” IB Writings+8revisiondojo.com+8revisiondojo.com+8.

5. Practice Through Writing and Feedback

Improvement comes from active practice—not passive reading.

  • Write timed essays regularly—add new vocabulary actively.
  • Swap essays with peers and analyze their language use for “connectives and structure” arXiv+14Reddit+14ibenglishguys.com+14.
  • Use tools like Grammarly or InstaText selectively—then refine sentences for academic tone.

6. Learn from Exemplars and RevisionDojo Models

Study well-written sample essays to notice:

  • Sophisticated phrasing
  • Effective integration of quotes
  • Balanced arguments and seamless transitions

👉 RevisionDojo’s blog on “Preparing for IB English Literature Exams” walks through strong essay structures and style techniques RedditLitLearn+15revisiondojo.com+15Reddit+15.

7. Refine in Revision: Cut, Edit, Polish

During proofreading:

  • Replace weak adjectives/adverbs with stronger alternatives
  • Eliminate repetition and vague references
  • Vary sentence length and structure
  • Confirm academic register: no slang, colloquialisms, or over-familiar tone

👉 RevisionDojo highlights the importance of iterative editing in essay preparation here: “Understanding the HL Essay for IB English A” revisiondojo.comrevisiondojo.com+1revisiondojo.com+1.

✅ Summary: Key Strategies for Stronger IB English Style

StrategyImpact on EssaysRead and record wordsBuilds vocabulary in real usageVary sentence structuresMaintains reader engagement and clarityUse precise, active dictionEnhances confidence and formalityApply literary vocabulary contextuallyImproves analytical expressionPractice, feedback, reviseReinforces strengths and polishes weaknessesModel after high-scoring exemplarsInternalize stylistic nuance and structure

🔗 Learn More on RevisionDojo

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How can I remember new vocabulary effectively?
Use flashcards with real examples and try to use new words in practice essays weekly.

Q2: Do long words improve my score?
Only if used correctly. Accuracy and fit matter more than complexity.

Q3: Should I vary sentence length?
Yes—mixing short and long sentences helps rhythm and reader engagement.

Q4: How does structure affect style?
Clear structure supports flow, enabling you to use complex phrasing without losing coherence.

Q5: Can tools like Grammarly help?
Yes—but always review suggestions to ensure academic register and tone are maintained.

Q6: How much practice is enough?
Aim for writing and feedback sessions 2–3 times per week leading into exam periods.

🧠 Conclusion

Elevating your vocabulary and style in IB English essays comes down to disciplined reading, thoughtful revision, and structured practice. Use active language, precise terminology, and varied sentences to engage examiners. RevisionDojo offers tailored resources—sample essays, vocabulary support, and proofing strategies—to help you grow as a writer.

👉 Strengthen your English essay writing today with RevisionDojo’s guided tools and expert content.

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