How to make simple sentences more complex?

1. Make comparisons

This sentence is slightly more complex than the previous one. 

• This sentence is far more complex than any of the sentences that I have used before.
• This sentence is twice as complex as the previous one, because it compares two things.
• The more variety you use, the higher your score will be.

2. Make contrasts

• Some people argue that zoos are educational, whereas others are of the opinion that keeping animals in cages is cruel.
• Sales of e-books have increased dramatically, while sales of paper books have plummeted.
• Proponents of GM food claim that it will eradicate famine. However, others believe it threatens the food chain.

3. Give reasons

• The climate is changing because of human activity. [because of + noun]
• The planet is warming due to the fact that we continue to release carbon into the air by burning fossil fuels for energy. [due to the fact that + sentence]
• As/Since there are few affordable alternatives, this situation will only get worse.

4. Show purpose

• The factory was demolished in order to make way for more housing.
• The factory was knocked down so that more houses could be constructed.
• Many people argue that keeping old buildings and repairing them is better because by doing this, the character of the town will be preserved.

5. Show concession

• Although/even though/though we are aware of the problem, we do little to solve it.
• Despite/In spite of the fact that we are aware of the problem, we do little to prevent it. (S-V-O)
• Despite/In spite of being aware of the problem, we do little to tackle it. (+ ing)
• Despite/In spite of our awareness of the problem, we do little to address it. (+ noun)

6. Make conditional sentences

• You won’t get a higher score unless you use conditionals!
• Using conditionals could increase your score dramatically.
• If the government had acted more quickly, the situation could have been avoided.

7. Use time linkers

• When considering a ban on advertising, we need to bear in mind the benefits.
• As soon as the government introduces this legislation, the situation will improve.
• As more local businesses close down, different types of workers (shop floor staff, managers, cleaners) are having to find jobs elsewhere.

8. Use the ‘ing’ form to start sentences

• Starting a sentence with a noun/’ing’ form can make your writing more formal.
• Selling food in bulk could be one way of reducing plastic packaging.
• Being easily contactable has real advantages for business people and for working parents.

9. Add emphasis

• One of the main reasons why people disagree with zoos is because of animal welfare.
• The most powerful argument in favour of mobile phones is that they can be used to call for help in the most inaccessible places, for example when a car breaks down in a remote area.

10. Extend sentences

You could try extending your points with a relative clause, which will certainly make your sentences longer.

• There are many creative professions where clothes convey a sense of style, which is very desirable in many companies.
• People prefer to shop online, where they can find everything they need without having to leave the sofa.

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