Preferably Better Choice – Cách Dùng Cấu Trúc So Sánh Nâng Cao Trong IELTS Band 8.0+

Giới Thiệu Về Cấu Trúc “Preferably Better Choice”

Cấu trúc “Preferably Better Choice” là một trong những dạng so sánh nâng cao thường xuất hiện trong bài thi IELTS, đặc biệt ở phần Writing Task 2 và Speaking Part 3. Đây là cấu trúc giúp thí sinh thể hiện sự lựa chọn có suy xét, so sánh các phương án một cách tinh tế và học thuật – yếu tố quan trọng để đạt Band 7-9.

Theo phân tích từ Cambridge IELTS 15-19, các cấu trúc biểu đạt sự ưu tiên và so sánh lựa chọn xuất hiện với tần suất cao trong các đề thi thực tế, đặc biệt trong:

• Speaking Part 3: Khi giám khảo hỏi về sở thích, lựa chọn giữa các phương án (50-60% câu hỏi)
• Writing Task 2: Opinion essays, Discussion essays, Advantage-Disadvantage essays (70% đề bài)
• Writing Task 1: So sánh xu hướng, dữ liệu trong biểu đồ (30% đề bài)

Ví dụ vận dụng trong IELTS:

Speaking Part 3 (Comparing options):
“When choosing a career, I would preferably opt for job satisfaction rather than a high salary, as personal fulfillment is a better choice for long-term happiness.”
→ Phân tích: Sử dụng “preferably” + “better choice” để thể hiện sự so sánh có suy xét giữa hai lựa chọn.

Writing Task 2 (Opinion essay):
“Investing in public transportation is preferably a better choice than building more roads, since it addresses both traffic congestion and environmental concerns simultaneously.”
→ Phân tích: Cấu trúc này tạo sự mạch lạc khi đưa ra quan điểm có so sánh, phù hợp với Band 8.0+.

Writing Task 2 (Discussion essay):
“While both approaches have merits, implementing renewable energy sources would preferably be the better choice for sustainable development.”
→ Phân tích: Thể hiện khả năng cân nhắc nhiều góc độ trước khi đưa ra kết luận.

Speaking Part 3 (Giving reasoned opinion):
“For most students, studying abroad is preferably a better choice than staying local, provided they can afford the expenses and adapt to cultural differences.”
→ Phân tích: Kết hợp điều kiện với sự so sánh, thể hiện tư duy phản biện cao cấp.

Writing Task 1 (Comparing trends):
“Among the three energy sources, solar power proved to be preferably the better choice for the country, as its growth rate exceeded 200% over the period.”
→ Phân tích: Sử dụng trong academic context để nhấn mạnh lựa chọn tối ưu dựa trên dữ liệu.

Trong bài viết này, bạn sẽ học:

✅ Định nghĩa và ý nghĩa của cấu trúc “Preferably Better Choice”
✅ Công thức chi tiết với các biến thể từ vựng
✅ Cách vận dụng vào 4 kỹ năng IELTS
✅ 25+ câu ví dụ Band 7-9 từ đề thi thực tế
✅ Các cấu trúc thay thế và nâng cao cho Band 8+
✅ Lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam và cách tránh
✅ Bài tập thực hành có đáp án chi tiết

Cấu Trúc “Preferably Better Choice” Là Gì?

Định Nghĩa

“Preferably Better Choice” là nhóm cấu trúc ngữ pháp kết hợp giữa trạng từ chỉ sự ưu tiên (preferably) và so sánh hơn (better choice) để diễn đạt một lựa chọn được đánh giá cao hơn so với các phương án khác dựa trên tiêu chí cụ thể.

Chức năng chính:

• Thể hiện sự so sánh có lý lẽ: Không chỉ nói “A tốt hơn B” mà còn nhấn mạnh “A là lựa chọn ưu tiên hơn dựa trên…”
• Tăng tính học thuật: Tạo văn phong formal phù hợp với IELTS Writing Academic
• Thể hiện tư duy phản biện: Cho thấy khả năng cân nhắc nhiều yếu tố trước khi đưa ra kết luận
• Mở rộng câu trả lời: Giúp phát triển ý trong Speaking Part 3 và Writing Task 2

Khi nào dùng trong IELTS:

• Speaking Part 3: Trả lời câu hỏi “Which do you think is better…”, “What would you prefer…”, “Which option is more suitable…”
• Writing Task 2: Opinion essays (Do you agree or disagree), Discussion essays (Discuss both views), Advantage-Disadvantage essays
• Writing Task 1: So sánh các xu hướng, lựa chọn tối ưu từ dữ liệu biểu đồ (ít phổ biến hơn)

Tần Suất Xuất Hiện Trong IELTS

Theo phân tích từ Cambridge IELTS 10-19:

Speaking:

• Part 1: 10-15% – Các câu hỏi về sở thích đơn giản (“Do you prefer…”, “Which do you like better…”)
• Part 2: 25-30% – Khi mô tả lý do lựa chọn trong các đề “Describe a choice you made”, “Describe something you prefer”
• Part 3: 60-70% – Xuất hiện nhiều nhất, đặc biệt câu hỏi so sánh quan điểm, xu hướng xã hội

Writing:

• Task 1: 15-20% – Chủ yếu trong biểu đồ so sánh (bar chart, pie chart comparing options)
• Task 2: 75-85% – Rất phổ biến trong tất cả dạng essay, đặc biệt Opinion và Discussion essays

Listening/Reading:

• Xuất hiện trong lectures, discussions (Listening Section 3-4)
• Thường thấy trong Reading passages dạng argumentative, comparison texts
• Cần nhận diện để hiểu quan điểm tác giả và câu trả lời đúng cho dạng True/False/Not Given

Band Score Impact:

• Band 6: Sử dụng cấu trúc so sánh cơ bản như “better than”, “prefer to” nhưng thiếu variety
• Band 7: Có thể dùng “preferably”, “better choice” chính xác trong một số contexts, đôi khi còn lỗi collocation
• Band 8-9: Sử dụng linh hoạt nhiều biến thể, kết hợp tự nhiên với các cấu trúc phức, không lỗi ngữ pháp

Bảng tiêu chí chấm điểm IELTS cho cấu trúc Preferably Better Choice từ Band 6 đến Band 9

Công Thức & Cấu Trúc

Công Thức Cơ Bản

📌 CÔNG THỨC CHÍNH:

┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ [Option A] + is/would be + preferably + (article) + better   │
│ choice + than + [Option B] + (reason/justification)          │
│                                                               │
│ Ví dụ: Online learning is preferably a better choice than    │
│ traditional classroom education for working professionals.    │
└──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

Thành phần câu:

• Option A (Subject): Lựa chọn được ưu tiên – có thể là danh từ, cụm danh từ, V-ing phrase
• Verb “to be”: is/would be/could be/has been (tùy thì và mức độ chắc chắn)
• Preferably: Trạng từ chỉ sự ưu tiên, đứng trước tính từ “better”
• Better choice: Cụm danh từ so sánh, có thể thay bằng “better option”, “better alternative”
• Than: Liên từ so sánh
• Option B: Lựa chọn được so sánh
• Reason/Justification: Mệnh đề lý do (as/since/because) hoặc relative clause

Ví dụ phân tích chi tiết:

Câu: “Renewable energy is preferably a better choice than fossil fuels for environmental sustainability.”

Phân tích:

• Subject: Renewable energy (chủ ngữ – Option A)
• Verb: is (động từ “to be” thì hiện tại đơn)
• Adverb: preferably (trạng từ chỉ sự ưu tiên)
• Comparative structure: a better choice (cụm danh từ so sánh hơn)
• Comparison object: than fossil fuels (Option B)
• Justification: for environmental sustainability (cụm giới từ chỉ lý do)

Các Biến Thể

Dạng khẳng định:

Cấu trúc 1 – Với “preferably”:

S + is/are + preferably + a/the + better choice + than + Object

Ví dụ: “Public transportation is preferably a better choice than private vehicles in urban areas.”

Cấu trúc 2 – Với “would preferably”:

S + would preferably + be + a/the + better choice + than + Object

Ví dụ: “Working from home would preferably be a better choice than commuting for parents with young children.”

Cấu trúc 3 – Với “prefer…as a better choice”:

S + prefer(s) + Option A + as + a/the + better choice + compared to/rather than + Option B

Ví dụ: “Most employers prefer candidates with practical experience as a better choice compared to those with only theoretical knowledge.”

Dạng phủ định:

S + is/are + not + preferably + a better choice + than + Object

Ví dụ: “Fast food is not preferably a better choice than home-cooked meals for health-conscious individuals.”

S + would not + preferably + be + a better choice + than + Object

Ví dụ: “Studying alone would not preferably be a better choice than group study for complex subjects.”

Dạng nghi vấn:

Is/Are + S + preferably + a better choice + than + Object?

Ví dụ: “Is online shopping preferably a better choice than in-store purchases for busy professionals?”

Would + S + preferably + be + a better choice + than + Object?

Ví dụ: “Would investing in education preferably be a better choice than spending on infrastructure?”

Dạng nhấn mạnh với cấu trúc đảo ngữ:

Preferably, S + is/are + the better choice + compared to + Object

Ví dụ: “Preferably, sustainable tourism is the better choice compared to mass tourism for preserving cultural heritage.”

Từ Vựng Thay Thế & Signal Phrases

Các cụm từ đồng nghĩa với “preferably a better choice”:

Cấu trúc	Mức độ formal	Ví dụ
is the preferable option	High (Band 8+)	“Electric vehicles are the preferable option for reducing carbon emissions.”
would be the optimal choice	Very High (Band 9)	“Preventive healthcare would be the optimal choice for reducing medical costs.”
is the more advisable alternative	High (Band 8+)	“Remote work is the more advisable alternative during pandemic situations.”
stands as the superior choice	Very High (Band 9)	“Renewable energy stands as the superior choice for long-term sustainability.”
represents a better option	Medium-High (Band 7+)	“Public education represents a better option for social equality.”
proves to be the wiser choice	High (Band 8+)	“Saving early proves to be the wiser choice for financial security.”
is arguably the better alternative	High (Band 8+)	“Bilingual education is arguably the better alternative in multicultural societies.”

Các từ thay thế “better”:

• more suitable (phù hợp hơn)
• more appropriate (thích hợp hơn)
• more effective (hiệu quả hơn)
• more beneficial (có lợi hơn)
• more practical (thực tế hơn)
• more viable (khả thi hơn)
• superior (vượt trội hơn)
• optimal (tối ưu)

Ví dụ:
“Solar energy is preferably a more viable choice than nuclear power for developing countries.”

Cách Vận Dụng Vào IELTS

Speaking

Part 1 – Introduction & Interview:

Topic thường gặp: Preferences về lifestyle, hobbies, daily routines

Ví dụ câu hỏi & trả lời:

Q: “Do you prefer shopping online or in physical stores?”

A: “I’d say online shopping is preferably a better choice for me because of my busy schedule. I can browse products at any time, compare prices easily, and have everything delivered to my door. However, for clothing, visiting physical stores is still preferable since I need to try things on.”

→ Phân tích Band 7+: Sử dụng cấu trúc “preferably a better choice” một cách tự nhiên, kết hợp với lý do cụ thể (busy schedule), và thêm counter-argument (however…) để thể hiện tư duy cân bằng.

Q: “Which do you prefer: reading books or watching movies?”

A: “For me, reading books would preferably be the better choice when I want to deeply understand a story or develop my imagination. Books allow readers to create their own mental images, which is more engaging than passive movie-watching. That said, movies are the better option when I’m tired and just want quick entertainment.”

→ Phân tích Band 8: Câu trả lời dài hơn, có cấu trúc “would preferably be”, giải thích chi tiết lý do (develop imagination, mental images), và có comparison cân bằng.

Part 2 – Long Turn:

Cue card example:

Describe a choice you made that you are happy with.

Sample answer (trích đoạn):

“I’d like to talk about my decision to study abroad in Australia rather than staying in Vietnam for university. Looking back, studying abroad was preferably the better choice for several reasons. First and foremost, it exposed me to a multicultural environment that broadened my perspective significantly. Additionally, the education system there emphasized critical thinking over rote memorization, which has proven invaluable in my career. While staying in Vietnam would have been more comfortable and cheaper, the international experience I gained was worth every challenge I faced. This choice has shaped who I am today, and I believe it was the optimal decision for my personal growth.”

→ Phân tích Band 8-9:

• Sử dụng “was preferably the better choice” trong context quá khứ
• Có so sánh hai-chiều (abroad vs. staying)
• Đưa ra nhiều lý do cụ thể (multicultural, critical thinking)
• Có counter-argument (more comfortable and cheaper) nhưng vẫn justify choice
• Kết luận với “optimal decision” – từ vựng nâng cao

Part 3 – Discussion:

Typical questions:

Q: “Some people think children should start learning a foreign language at primary school rather than secondary school. Do you agree?”

A (Band 8+ model): “Yes, I strongly believe that introducing foreign languages at primary level is preferably the better choice. Research has consistently shown that young children have superior language acquisition abilities – their brains are more plastic and can absorb pronunciation and grammar patterns more naturally. Starting early would be the optimal choice because children at this age are less self-conscious about making mistakes, which is crucial for language learning. While some argue that young children should focus on their mother tongue first, I think bilingual education can actually enhance cognitive development rather than hinder it. Therefore, early language education represents the more advisable alternative for creating a generation of confident multilingual speakers.”

→ Phân tích Band 9 features:

• Mở đầu rõ ràng với “preferably the better choice”
• Dẫn chứng research để support
• Dùng biến thế “would be the optimal choice” tránh lặp
• Có counter-argument và refutation
• Kết luận với “represents the more advisable alternative”
• Từ vựng academic (plastic brains, cognitive development, bilingual education)

Ví dụ trả lời IELTS Speaking Part 3 sử dụng cấu trúc Preferably Better Choice đạt Band 8.0

Writing Task 1

Khi nào dùng:

• Khi biểu đồ so sánh nhiều options/categories và cần chỉ ra option nổi bật nhất
• Trong phần overview để highlight overall trend/most significant feature
• Khi mô tả recommendations trong process diagram hoặc maps

Ví dụ:

Task: The chart below shows the percentage of people choosing different modes of transport in a city from 2010 to 2020.

Sample sentences:

Overview paragraph:
“Overall, public transportation emerged as preferably the better choice among commuters, with its usage increasing from 35% to 58% over the decade, while private car usage declined correspondingly.”

→ Vận dụng: Dùng “preferably the better choice” để nhấn mạnh xu hướng dominance của public transport.

Detail paragraph:
“Between 2015 and 2020, buses proved to be the more practical choice for daily commuters, accounting for 40% of all journeys, compared to only 18% for trains during the same period.”

→ Vận dụng: Dùng biến thể “more practical choice” với số liệu cụ thể để support.

Comparing categories:
“For short distances under 5km, cycling was clearly the preferable option, representing 45% of trips, whereas for longer distances, metro services were the optimal choice with 52% usage.”

→ Vận dụng: Sử dụng hai biến thể khác nhau (preferable option, optimal choice) để tránh lặp từ khi compare nhiều categories.

Writing Task 2

Essay types sử dụng cấu trúc này:

Opinion Essay

Topic: Some people believe that university students should pay all the costs of their studies because university education benefits individuals rather than society. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Body paragraph sample (Band 8):

“I firmly disagree with this view, as government funding for higher education is preferably the better choice for several compelling reasons. Firstly, educated citizens contribute significantly to economic growth through innovation and productivity, which benefits society as a whole rather than just individuals. An educated workforce is the optimal choice for attracting foreign investment and maintaining competitive advantage in the global economy. Secondly, requiring students to bear all costs would create insurmountable barriers for talented individuals from low-income families, thereby perpetuating social inequality. Countries like Germany and Norway, which offer free university education, have demonstrated that publicly funded tertiary education is the more advisable alternative, producing highly skilled workforces while maintaining social mobility. Therefore, shared funding between government and students represents a better option than placing the entire burden on individuals.”

→ Phân tích Band 8-9:

• Thesis statement rõ ràng với “preferably the better choice”
• Đưa ra 2 main ideas với supporting evidence
• Sử dụng 3 biến thể khác nhau (preferably better choice, optimal choice, more advisable alternative)
• Có real examples (Germany, Norway)
• Kết luận với “represents a better option”
• Academic vocabulary (insurmountable barriers, social mobility, tertiary education)

Discussion Essay

Topic: Some people think that environmental problems should be solved on a global scale, while others believe it is better to deal with them nationally. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Body paragraph 1 (Global approach):

“Advocates of international cooperation argue that addressing environmental issues globally is the preferable option due to the interconnected nature of ecosystems. Climate change, for instance, does not respect national borders, making collective action the optimal choice. International agreements like the Paris Accord demonstrate that coordinated efforts are the more effective alternative compared to isolated national policies.”

Body paragraph 2 (National approach):

“However, others contend that national-level solutions are preferably the better choice because governments can implement policies suited to their specific circumstances. Local authorities understand regional environmental challenges more thoroughly, making tailored responses the more practical option.”

Conclusion with personal opinion:

“While both approaches have merits, I believe that a hybrid strategy combining international frameworks with national implementation is ultimately the superior choice. Global coordination sets standards and facilitates knowledge sharing, while national execution ensures context-appropriate solutions. This integrated approach represents the most advisable alternative for achieving meaningful environmental progress.”

→ Phân tích: Thể hiện balanced discussion, sử dụng cấu trúc ở cả hai body paragraphs và conclusion, tránh lặp bằng cách dùng nhiều synonyms.

Advantage-Disadvantage Essay

Topic: In many countries, people increasingly use credit cards rather than cash. Do the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?

Body paragraph (Advantages):

“The shift toward credit card usage offers several benefits that make it preferably the better choice over cash transactions. Primarily, digital payments provide enhanced security, as lost or stolen cards can be immediately blocked and transactions tracked, whereas cash theft results in permanent loss. Furthermore, credit cards prove to be the more convenient option for online shopping and international travel, eliminating the need to carry large amounts of cash or exchange currencies. From a public health perspective, contactless payments emerged as the optimal choice during the COVID-19 pandemic, reducing disease transmission through physical currency.”

→ Phân tích: Structured argument với multiple advantages, mỗi advantage được support bằng comparison với cash, sử dụng different variations của cấu trúc.

Problem-Solution Essay

Topic: Many people today are spending more time in front of screens. What problems does this cause, and what can be done to solve these problems?

Solution paragraph:

“To address these issues, several measures should be implemented, with education and lifestyle modification being preferably the better choices. Schools should integrate regular physical activity breaks between lessons, as this approach has proven to be the more effective alternative to simply limiting screen time. For adults, employers could establish wellness programs that encourage movement, making workplace health initiatives the optimal choice for combating sedentary behavior. Additionally, public awareness campaigns highlighting the risks of excessive screen time would be the more advisable option compared to government regulations, as voluntary behavior change tends to be more sustainable.”

→ Phân tích: Solutions được present với comparisons, explaining why each is “better” than alternatives, demonstrating critical thinking.

Sample Paragraphs Band 7-9

Band 7 Sample:

Topic: Should governments spend money on arts or on public services?

“In my opinion, funding public services is preferably a better choice than investing heavily in the arts. Healthcare and education are essential for citizens’ wellbeing and should receive priority. For example, improving hospital facilities is a better option because it directly saves lives, whereas art galleries mainly serve entertainment purposes. Additionally, public transportation is more important for most people’s daily lives. While arts have cultural value, practical services are the better choice for government spending when budgets are limited. Therefore, I believe that public services should receive more funding than arts programs.”

Phân tích Band 7:

• ✅ Sử dụng “preferably a better choice” và “better option” chính xác
• ✅ Có reasons và examples
• ✅ Clear position và conclusion
• ⚠️ Variety hạn chế, lặp “better choice/option”
• ⚠️ Examples chưa cụ thể (which hospitals? where?)
• ⚠️ Collocations cơ bản (receive funding, cultural value)

Band 8-9 Sample:

Topic: Should governments spend money on arts or on public services?

“While both sectors merit financial support, I contend that prioritizing public services represents the more judicious choice for government expenditure, particularly in developing nations facing resource constraints. Admittedly, arts and culture contribute significantly to national identity and social cohesion; however, healthcare and education infrastructure constitute the optimal choice when addressing fundamental citizens’ needs. The experience of South Korea illustrates this principle effectively – during its rapid development phase in the 1970s-80s, the government channeled resources predominantly into healthcare and education systems, establishing universal coverage that became the foundation for the country’s prosperity. Only after achieving economic stability did substantial arts funding become feasible. This sequenced approach proved to be the more pragmatic alternative compared to countries attempting simultaneous investment in all sectors with limited budgets. Furthermore, robust public services generate broader societal benefits: accessible healthcare reduces mortality and increases productivity, while quality education creates human capital essential for economic growth. These multiplier effects make public services the preferable option from a utilitarian perspective. Nevertheless, this does not necessitate complete neglect of artistic endeavors; rather, a balanced allocation with clear prioritization – approximately 70% for public services and 30% for cultural programs – emerges as the most advisable compromise, ensuring basic needs are met while preserving cultural heritage.”

Phân tích Band 8-9:

• ✅ Sophisticated thesis: “represents the more judicious choice”
• ✅ Concession (Admittedly…) trước khi present main view
• ✅ Multiple variations: “optimal choice,” “more pragmatic alternative,” “preferable option,” “most advisable compromise”
• ✅ Concrete example: South Korea với specific timeline và outcomes
• ✅ Complex reasoning: sequenced approach, multiplier effects, utilitarian perspective
• ✅ Advanced collocations: resource constraints, social cohesion, human capital, utilitarian perspective
• ✅ Nuanced conclusion: không phải all-or-nothing mà là balanced allocation
• ✅ Natural integration của cấu trúc, không forced

So sánh đoạn văn IELTS Writing Band 7 và Band 8-9 sử dụng cấu trúc Preferably Better Choice

Nâng Cao – Cách Dùng Để Đạt Band 8+

Kết Hợp Với Các Cấu Trúc Khác

1. Preferably Better Choice + Relative Clause:

“Investing in renewable energy, which has become increasingly cost-effective in recent years, is preferably the better choice for nations seeking energy independence.”

→ Band 8+ features: Non-defining relative clause thêm thông tin supporting, making the argument more substantial.

“Remote work, which many companies initially adopted as a temporary measure, has proven to be preferably a better choice for improving work-life balance.”

→ Analysis: Relative clause cung cấp context trước khi present comparison.

2. Preferably Better Choice + Conditional Sentences:

“If governments prioritize preventive healthcare over curative treatments, it would be preferably the better choice for reducing long-term medical costs.”

→ Band 8+ features: Type 2 conditional + comparison structure, showing hypothetical reasoning.

“Should nations invest in their citizens’ education, this would prove to be the optimal choice, provided that the curriculum remains relevant to market needs.”

→ Band 9 features: Inverted conditional (Should…invest) + comparison + proviso clause.

3. Preferably Better Choice + Passive Voice:

“Renewable energy sources are increasingly being recognized as preferably the better choice by environmental experts worldwide.”

→ Band 8+ features: Passive với continuous form + prepositional phrase chỉ agent, making statement more objective.

“Public transportation is considered to be the more advisable alternative by urban planners due to its environmental and economic benefits.”

→ Analysis: Passive voice với “considered to be” adds academic formality.

4. Preferably Better Choice + Participle Clauses:

“Considering the long-term environmental impact, electric vehicles are preferably the better choice compared to conventional cars.”

→ Band 8+ features: Present participle clause ở đầu câu thêm justification.

“Having analyzed various economic models, policymakers determined that progressive taxation was the optimal choice for reducing inequality.”

→ Band 9 features: Perfect participle showing completed action before main clause.

5. Preferably Better Choice + Concessive Clauses:

“Although traditional education has served society well for centuries, online learning is increasingly emerging as preferably the better choice for adult learners with professional commitments.”

→ Band 8+ features: Concession + comparison, demonstrating balanced thinking.

“Despite the initial costs involved, solar panel installation is undoubtedly the more economical choice in the long run.”

→ Analysis: Despite-clause acknowledges drawback trước khi justify choice.

Cụm Từ Nâng Cao & Academic Collocations

Advanced Collocations with “Preferably Better Choice”:

Collocation	Nghĩa	Ví dụ	Band Level
the demonstrably superior choice	lựa chọn vượt trội một cách rõ ràng	“Evidence-based medicine is the demonstrably superior choice over traditional remedies for treating serious illnesses.”	9
the unequivocally preferable option	lựa chọn rõ ràng ưu việt hơn (không thể tranh cãi)	“For environmental sustainability, renewable energy is unequivocally the preferable option.”	8+
the strategically sounder choice	lựa chọn chiến lược vững chắc hơn	“Diversifying investments is the strategically sounder choice during economic uncertainty.”	8+
the empirically validated alternative	phương án được chứng minh bằng thực nghiệm	“Cognitive behavioral therapy is the empirically validated alternative for treating anxiety disorders.”	9
the pragmatically wiser option	lựa chọn khôn ngoan hơn về mặt thực tiễn	“Investing in infrastructure is the pragmatically wiser option for developing economies.”	8+
the ethically defensible choice	lựa chọn có thể bảo vệ được về mặt đạo đức	“Animal-free testing is the ethically defensible choice in modern pharmaceutical research.”	8+
the economically viable alternative	phương án khả thi về mặt kinh tế	“Public-private partnerships represent the economically viable alternative for large-scale projects.”	7+
the contextually appropriate option	lựa chọn phù hợp với bối cảnh	“Tailored education is the contextually appropriate option for diverse student populations.”	8+

Adverbs intensifying “better choice”:

• undoubtedly the better choice
• unquestionably the better choice
• indisputably the better choice
• invariably the better choice
• consistently the better choice
• overwhelmingly the better choice

Ví dụ:
“In terms of environmental impact, plant-based diets are undoubtedly the better choice compared to meat-heavy diets, as livestock farming accounts for approximately 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions.”

Cấu Trúc Câu Phức & Ghép Nâng Cao

1. Multi-clause complex sentence:

“While critics argue that technological advancement may lead to job displacement, which is a legitimate concern, investing in digital infrastructure is nonetheless the strategically sounder choice, given that it creates new employment opportunities in emerging sectors and enhances overall productivity, thereby contributing to long-term economic growth.”

→ Phân tích Band 9:

• Concessive clause (While critics argue…)
• Embedded relative clause (which is…)
• Main comparison structure (is nonetheless…)
• Participle clauses (given that…, thereby contributing…)
• Multiple complex ideas linked cohesively

2. Parallel structure with comparison:

“Sustainable tourism not only preserves natural environments and cultural heritage but also proves to be the economically superior choice, generating long-term revenue streams while conventional mass tourism depletes resources for short-term gains.”

→ Phân tích Band 8+:

• Parallel structure (not only…but also)
• Embedded comparison
• Contrasting clause (while conventional…)
• Sophisticated vocabulary (depletes resources, revenue streams)

3. Fronting for emphasis:

“Particularly in developing nations with limited healthcare budgets, preventive medicine is unequivocally the more cost-effective alternative, as treating diseases after onset requires exponentially greater resources than early intervention programs.”

→ Phân tích Band 9:

• Fronted prepositional phrase for emphasis
• Comparative structure in main clause
• Causal justification (as treating…)
• Academic register throughout

4. It-cleft structure:

“It is primarily for environmental sustainability reasons that renewable energy represents the optimal choice, rather than merely for economic benefits, although cost-effectiveness has improved considerably in recent years.”

→ Phân tích Band 9:

• It-cleft emphasizing reasons
• Comparison structure embedded
• Concessive clause (although…)
• Shows sophisticated control of emphasis

So Sánh Với Cấu Trúc Tương Tự

“Preferably Better Choice” vs “Would Rather” vs “Prefer to”

Tiêu chí	Preferably Better Choice	Would Rather	Prefer to
Công thức	S + is preferably a/the better choice than…	S + would rather + V1 + than + V1	S + prefer(s) + to V/Ving + to + V/Ving
Formality	High (Academic/Formal)	Medium (Conversational)	Medium (Semi-formal)
Ý nghĩa	Lựa chọn được đánh giá cao hơn dựa trên tiêu chí khách quan	Sở thích cá nhân chủ quan	Thích hơn (cả personal và general preference)
Dùng khi	Argumentative/Analytical contexts, cần justify choice	Personal preferences, immediate choices	General preferences, habits
IELTS contexts	Writing Task 2 (mainly), Speaking Part 3	Speaking Part 1, Part 2	Speaking all parts, Writing (less formal)
Band impact	Band 7-9 (nếu dùng đúng)	Band 6-7	Band 5-7
Ví dụ	“Solar energy is preferably the better choice for rural electrification.”	“I would rather work from home than commute daily.”	“I prefer working independently to working in teams.”

Khi nào dùng cấu trúc nào:

Sử dụng “Preferably Better Choice” khi:

• Viết Writing Task 2 – cần present argument có lý lẽ
• Speaking Part 3 – trả lời câu hỏi analytical, social issues
• Cần compare options dựa trên objective criteria
• Muốn thể hiện formal academic register
• Đang justify một recommendation hoặc policy

Ví dụ context phù hợp:
“For reducing urban air pollution, electric public transportation is preferably the better choice because it eliminates direct emissions while serving large populations.”

Sử dụng “Would Rather” khi:

• Speaking Part 1 hoặc Part 2 – nói về personal preferences
• Contexts không formal, conversational tone
• Express immediate, subjective preferences
• Không cần elaborate justification

Ví dụ context phù hợp:
“When choosing a holiday destination, I would rather visit mountains than beaches because I enjoy hiking and cooler weather.”

Sử dụng “Prefer to” khi:

• Nói về general habits và preferences
• Semi-formal contexts
• Cần structure đơn giản hơn
• Both personal và general statements

Ví dụ context phù hợp:
“Most students prefer to study in groups when preparing for exams.”

“Preferably Better Choice” vs “Superior to” vs “More Preferable than”

Tiêu chí	Preferably Better Choice	Superior to	More Preferable than
Công thức	S + is preferably better choice than…	S + is superior to + Object	S + is more preferable than…
Tone	Balanced, justified	Strong, definitive	Moderate comparison
Nuance	Implies reasoned selection	Implies clear dominance	Simple preference statement
Flexibility	Allows for counter-arguments	Less room for debate	Neutral comparison
Best for	Balanced essays, nuanced arguments	Strong opinion essays, facts	Simple comparisons
Ví dụ	“Online learning is preferably the better choice for adult learners.”	“Digital textbooks are superior to printed ones in terms of accessibility.”	“Cycling is more preferable than driving for short distances.”

Strategic Usage:

Use “Preferably Better Choice” when:

• You want to acknowledge both options have merits
• Building a balanced, nuanced argument
• Need to justify with multiple criteria

Example:
“While both approaches have advantages, preventive healthcare is preferably the better choice when considering long-term costs and population health outcomes.”

Use “Superior to” when:

• Making a definitive statement với clear evidence
• The difference is objectively measurable
• Writing strong opinion essays

Example:
“In terms of processing speed and storage capacity, solid-state drives are unquestionably superior to traditional hard drives.”

Use “More Preferable than” when:

• Making straightforward comparisons
• Don’t need elaborate justification
• Writing Task 1 comparisons

Example:
“For commuters traveling under 10km, cycling was more preferable than driving, accounting for 45% of journeys.”

Bảng so sánh chi tiết các cấu trúc thể hiện sự ưu tiên trong IELTS

Lỗi Thường Gặp & Cách Sửa

Lỗi 1: Vị Trí Sai Của “Preferably”

❌ SAI:
“Online learning is a preferably better choice than traditional education.”

✅ ĐÚNG:
“Online learning is preferably a better choice than traditional education.”

Giải thích:
“Preferably” là trạng từ bổ nghĩa cho tính từ “better”, nên phải đứng trước tính từ, không đứng trước mạo từ “a”.

Quy tắc:

[Verb to be] + preferably + [article] + better choice

Lưu ý:

• ✅ “is preferably a better choice”
• ✅ “is preferably the better choice”
• ❌ “is a preferably better choice”
• ❌ “is the preferably better choice”

Thêm ví dụ đúng:

• “Public transportation is preferably the better choice for urban commuters.”
• “Working from home would be preferably a better option during pandemics.”

Lỗi 2: Thiếu “Than” Trong So Sánh

❌ SAI:
“Renewable energy is preferably a better choice for the environment.”

✅ ĐÚNG:
“Renewable energy is preferably a better choice than fossil fuels for the environment.”

Giải thích:
Khi dùng comparative structure “better choice”, bạn phải có object of comparison được nối bằng “than”. Nếu không có “than + object”, câu thiếu logic vì không rõ đang so sánh với cái gì.

Exceptions (khi có thể lược bỏ “than”):
Chỉ lược bỏ được khi context đã rõ ràng từ câu trước:

“Both options have advantages. However, solar energy is preferably the better choice.”
→ Ở đây “than wind energy” được implied từ “both options” ở câu trước.

Lưu ý:
Trong IELTS Writing và Speaking Part 3, nên luôn explicit về comparison object để tránh ambiguity.

Lỗi 3: Nhầm Lẫn Giữa “Better Choice” Và “Good Choice”

❌ SAI:
“Electric vehicles are preferably a good choice for reducing emissions.”

✅ ĐÚNG:
“Electric vehicles are preferably a better choice than conventional cars for reducing emissions.”

Giải thích:

• “Preferably” đi với comparative form (better), không đi với positive form (good)
• “Good choice” = lựa chọn tốt (không so sánh)
• “Better choice” = lựa chọn tốt hơn (có so sánh)

Quy tắc:

preferably + better/more advisable/more suitable choice (COMPARATIVE)
NOT: preferably + good/advisable/suitable choice (POSITIVE)

Alternatives nếu muốn dùng positive form:

• “Electric vehicles are undoubtedly a good choice…” (không dùng preferably)
• “Electric vehicles represent a good choice…” (không dùng preferably)

Lỗi 4: Dùng Sai Thì Động Từ

❌ SAI:
“When I was young, online learning is preferably a better choice.”

✅ ĐÚNG:
“When I was young, online learning was not yet preferably a better choice.”

❌ SAI:
“In the future, renewable energy is preferably the better choice.”

✅ ĐÚNG:
“In the future, renewable energy will be preferably the better choice.”

Giải thích:
Động từ “to be” trong cấu trúc phải match với time context của câu.

Các thì phổ biến:

Time context	Verb form	Ví dụ
Present general	is/are	“Solar energy is preferably a better choice today.”
Past	was/were	“In the 1990s, email was preferably a better choice than fax.”
Future	will be	“By 2030, electric cars will be preferably the better choice.”
Present perfect	has/have been	“Remote work has become preferably a better choice since the pandemic.”
Conditional	would be	“If costs decrease, solar energy would be preferably a better choice.”

Lỗi 5: Dùng “More Preferably” Thay Vì “Preferably”

❌ SAI:
“Public transport is more preferably a better choice than private cars.”

✅ ĐÚNG:
“Public transport is preferably a better choice than private cars.”

Giải thích:
“Preferably” là trạng từ đã có nghĩa so sánh built-in, không cần thêm “more”.

Common mistake pattern:
Học viên Việt thường think: “better” = so sánh → “preferably” cũng phải có “more”

Correct logic:

• “better” = comparative form của “good”
• “preferably” = adverb already expressing preference, không có comparative form

Sai hoàn toàn:

• ❌ “more preferably”
• ❌ “most preferably” (trong context so sánh hai options)

Đúng:

• ✅ “preferably”
• ✅ “more preferable” (adjective, not adverb) – “Option A is more preferable than Option B”

Comparison:
| Correct | Incorrect |
|———|———–|
| “is preferably a better choice” | “is more preferably a better choice” |
| “would be the preferable option” | “would be the more preferably option” |
| “Option A is more preferable than B” | “Option A is more preferably than B” |

Tổng Hợp Top 5 Mistakes Của Học Viên Việt Nam

1. Word order với “preferably”:

• ❌ “is a preferably better”
• ✅ “is preferably a better”

2. Quên “than” khi so sánh:

• ❌ “X is preferably a better choice.” (không rõ so với ai/cái gì)
• ✅ “X is preferably a better choice than Y.”

3. Dùng “good” thay vì “better”:

• ❌ “preferably a good choice”
• ✅ “preferably a better choice”

4. Verb tense không match context:

• ❌ Past context + “is”
• ✅ Past context + “was/were”

5. Thêm “more” vào “preferably”:

• ❌ “more preferably”
• ✅ “preferably” (đã có nghĩa so sánh)

Checklist tự check trước khi submit IELTS Writing:

• [ ] “Preferably” đứng trước “a/the better choice”?
• [ ] Có “than + comparison object”?
• [ ] Dùng “better” chứ không phải “good”?
• [ ] Verb tense đúng với time context?
• [ ] Không có “more preferably”?

Bài Tập Thực Hành

Bài Tập 1: Điền Từ Đúng

Hoàn thành câu với dạng đúng của cấu trúc “preferably better choice”:

1. For environmental protection, electric vehicles __ (be) preferably a better choice than petrol cars.

2. If students want to improve speaking skills, practicing with native speakers __ (will/would) preferably be the better option.

3. Online shopping __ (prove) to be preferably a better choice during the pandemic last year.

4. In my opinion, renewable energy sources __ (represent) preferably the better alternative to fossil fuels.

5. Working from home __ (become) preferably a better choice for many professionals since 2020.

6. When I was a student, studying in groups __ (be) preferably a better choice than studying alone.

7. For most teenagers, learning through interactive apps __ (be) preferably the better option compared to traditional textbooks.

8. By 2030, solar energy __ (be) preferably the better choice for most households.

9. Public healthcare systems __ (can/could) preferably be the better option if funded adequately.

10. Investing in education __ (have) always been preferably the better choice for developing nations.

Bài Tập 2: Tìm Và Sửa Lỗi

Tìm lỗi sai trong các câu sau và sửa lại:

1. Online learning is a preferably better choice than classroom education for working adults. [❌]

2. Public transportation is more preferably a better option than private vehicles. [❌]

3. For environmental reasons, cycling is preferably a good choice for short distances. [❌]

4. In the future, renewable energy is preferably the better choice than fossil fuels. [❌]

5. Remote work was preferably a better choice during the pandemic. [✅]

6. When I was young, printed books is preferably a better choice. [❌]

7. For healthy lifestyle, home-cooked meals are preferably better choices. [❌]

8. Studying abroad would preferably be the better option than staying local. [❌]

9. Electric cars have become preferably a better choice since technology improved. [✅]

10. In developing countries, investing in education is the preferably better choice than military spending. [❌]

Bài Tập 3: Viết Câu Hoàn Chỉnh

Viết câu hoàn chỉnh sử dụng “preferably better choice” với thông tin cho sẵn:

1. (renewable energy / fossil fuels / environmental sustainability)

   Your answer: ___

2. (public transportation / private cars / urban areas / reduce traffic)

   Your answer: ___

3. (online learning / traditional classroom / working professionals / flexibility)

   Your answer: ___

4. (preventive healthcare / curative treatment / long-term costs)

   Your answer: ___

5. (plant-based diet / meat-heavy diet / environmental impact)

   Your answer: ___

6. (reading books / watching movies / improve imagination)

   Your answer: ___

7. (studying abroad / staying local / international experience)

   Your answer: ___

8. (remote work / office work / work-life balance)

   Your answer: ___

9. (public schools / private schools / social equality)

   Your answer: ___

10. (reusable products / single-use items / waste reduction)

    Your answer: ___

Bài Tập 4: Paraphrase Sentences

Viết lại câu sử dụng các cấu trúc đồng nghĩa với “preferably better choice”:

Example:
Original: “Electric cars are preferably a better choice than petrol cars.”
Paraphrase: “Electric vehicles represent the more advisable alternative to conventional automobiles.”

Your turn:

1. “For environmental protection, renewable energy is preferably a better choice than fossil fuels.”

   Paraphrase: ___

2. “Public transportation is preferably a better option than private vehicles in cities.”

   Paraphrase: ___

3. “Online learning is preferably the better choice for busy professionals.”

   Paraphrase: ___

4. “Home-cooked meals are preferably a better alternative than fast food for health.”

   Paraphrase: ___

5. “Investing in education is preferably the better choice for developing nations.”

   Paraphrase: ___

Bài Tập 5: Writing Task 2 Practice

Viết một body paragraph (khoảng 150 từ) cho đề bài sau, sử dụng “preferably better choice” ít nhất 2 lần:

Topic: Some people think that governments should spend money on faster public transportation, while others think there are other important priorities (e.g., healthcare, education). Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Your paragraph (Body 1 – Supporting faster public transportation):

---

---

---

---

Bài Tập 6: Speaking Part 3 Practice

Trả lời câu hỏi sau (60-80 từ), sử dụng “preferably better choice” hoặc biến thể:

Q: “Some people prefer to work for large companies, while others prefer small businesses. Which do you think is better?”

Your answer:

---

---

---

Đáp Án Chi Tiết

Đáp Án Bài Tập 1:

1. are – Thì hiện tại đơn, general statement

   Full: “For environmental protection, electric vehicles are preferably a better choice than petrol cars.”

2. would – Conditional type 2, hypothetical situation

   Full: “If students want to improve speaking skills, practicing with native speakers would preferably be the better option.”

3. proved – Thì quá khứ đơn, có time marker “last year”

   Full: “Online shopping proved to be preferably a better choice during the pandemic last year.”

4. represent – Thì hiện tại đơn, expressing current opinion

   Full: “In my opinion, renewable energy sources represent preferably the better alternative to fossil fuels.”

5. has become – Thì hiện tại hoàn thành, có “since 2020”

   Full: “Working from home has become preferably a better choice for many professionals since 2020.”

6. was – Thì quá khứ đơn, có “When I was a student”

   Full: “When I was a student, studying in groups was preferably a better choice than studying alone.”

7. is – Thì hiện tại đơn, general statement về teenagers

   Full: “For most teenagers, learning through interactive apps is preferably the better option compared to traditional textbooks.”

8. will be – Thì tương lai đơn, có time marker “By 2030”

   Full: “By 2030, solar energy will be preferably the better choice for most households.”

9. could – Modal verb cho hypothetical/conditional meaning

   Full: “Public healthcare systems could preferably be the better option if funded adequately.”

10. has – Thì hiện tại hoàn thành, có “always”

    Full: “Investing in education has always been preferably the better choice for developing nations.”

Đáp Án Bài Tập 2:

1. ❌ Lỗi: “a preferably better” → Word order sai

   ✅ Sửa: “Online learning is preferably a better choice than classroom education for working adults.”

2. ❌ Lỗi: “more preferably” → Không dùng “more” với “preferably”

   ✅ Sửa: “Public transportation is preferably a better option than private vehicles.”

3. ❌ Lỗi: “preferably a good choice” → Phải dùng “better” (comparative), không dùng “good” (positive)

   ✅ Sửa: “For environmental reasons, cycling is preferably a better choice than driving for short distances.”

4. ❌ Lỗi: Thiếu “than fossil fuels” → Trong writing nên explicit comparison

   ✅ Sửa: “In the future, renewable energy will be preferably the better choice than fossil fuels.”

   (Bonus lỗi: “is” nên là “will be” với “in the future”)

5. ✅ Đúng – Câu này correct

6. ❌ Lỗi: “is” với past context “When I was young”

   ✅ Sửa: “When I was young, printed books were preferably a better choice than e-books.”

7. ❌ Lỗi: Thiếu “than” + comparison object; “choices” nên singular “choice” trong cấu trúc này

   ✅ Sửa: “For a healthy lifestyle, home-cooked meals are preferably a better choice than fast food.”

8. ❌ Lỗi: “than staying local” nghe awkward, nên rephrase

   ✅ Sửa: “Studying abroad would preferably be the better option compared to studying domestically.”

   Hoặc: “…than remaining in one’s home country.”

9. ✅ Đúng – Câu này correct (có thể add “than petrol cars” để rõ hơn nhưng context đã clear)

10. ❌ Lỗi: “the preferably better choice” → Word order sai

    ✅ Sửa: “In developing countries, investing in education is preferably the better choice than military spending.”

Đáp Án Bài Tập 3:

1. “Renewable energy is preferably a better choice than fossil fuels for achieving environmental sustainability, as it produces zero emissions and is infinitely available.”

2. “In urban areas, public transportation is preferably a better choice than private cars for reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality.”

3. “For working professionals who need flexibility, online learning is preferably the better choice compared to traditional classroom education, as it allows them to study at their own pace.”

4. “From a financial perspective, preventive healthcare is preferably a better choice than curative treatment in terms of long-term costs, as it reduces the need for expensive interventions.”

5. “Considering environmental impact, a plant-based diet is preferably a better choice than a meat-heavy diet, since livestock farming contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.”

6. “For improving imagination and creativity, reading books is preferably a better choice than watching movies, as it requires active mental engagement rather than passive consumption.”

7. “When seeking international experience and diverse perspectives, studying abroad is preferably the better choice compared to staying local, despite the higher costs involved.”

8. “For achieving better work-life balance, remote work is preferably a better choice than office work for many employees, particularly those with family commitments.”

9. “To promote social equality and equal opportunities, public schools are preferably the better choice compared to private schools, as they provide accessible education regardless of economic background.”

10. “From a waste reduction standpoint, reusable products are preferably the better choice than single-use items, as they significantly decrease landfill waste and resource consumption.”

Đáp Án Bài Tập 4:

1. Paraphrases:

   • “For environmental protection, renewable energy represents the more advisable alternative to fossil fuels.”
   • “Renewable energy sources stand as the superior choice over fossil fuels when considering environmental protection.”
   • “Environmentally speaking, renewable energy proves to be the optimal choice compared to conventional fossil fuels.”

2. Paraphrases:

   • “In urban contexts, public transportation emerges as the more practical option compared to private vehicle usage.”
   • “For city dwellers, public transit systems constitute the preferable alternative to personal automobiles.”
   • “Mass transit represents the strategically sounder choice than individual car ownership in metropolitan areas.”

3. Paraphrases:

   • “For time-constrained professionals, online learning stands as the optimal choice relative to conventional education.”
   • “Busy professionals find that digital education proves to be the more viable alternative to face-to-face instruction.”
   • “E-learning represents the contextually appropriate option for working individuals with limited schedules.”

4. Paraphrases:

   • “Regarding health considerations, home-cooked meals constitute the more beneficial alternative to fast food.”
   • “From a nutritional perspective, preparing meals at home represents the superior choice compared to consuming fast food.”
   • “Homemade food emerges as the healthier option over commercially prepared fast food.”

5. Paraphrases:

   • “For developing nations, educational investment stands as the strategically wiser choice relative to other expenditures.”
   • “Prioritizing education proves to be the optimal choice for countries in development stages.”
   • “Developing countries find that education funding represents the more impactful alternative to other budget allocations.”

Hình minh họa các dạng bài tập thực hành cấu trúc Preferably Better Choice cho IELTS

Đáp Án Bài Tập 5: Sample Body Paragraph

Band 8+ Model Answer:

“Proponents of investing in faster public transportation argue that this is preferably the better choice for addressing multiple urban challenges simultaneously. Primarily, efficient mass transit systems reduce traffic congestion, which is a critical issue in most metropolitan areas where commuters waste countless hours in gridlock daily. High-speed trains and bus rapid transit systems can transport significantly more passengers than individual vehicles, making them the optimal choice for cities with growing populations. Furthermore, modern public transportation substantially decreases carbon emissions compared to private car usage; for instance, a single subway train can replace approximately 50 cars on the road, directly contributing to improved air quality. While critics suggest that healthcare and education are more pressing priorities, I would argue that faster public transportation actually supports these sectors by reducing commuting time, thereby allowing citizens more time for health-related activities and education pursuits. Therefore, enhanced public transit infrastructure emerges as the strategically sounder choice for comprehensive urban development.”

Phân tích:

• ✅ Sử dụng “preferably the better choice” ở câu topic
• ✅ Dùng biến thế “optimal choice” và “strategically sounder choice”
• ✅ Có supporting evidence cụ thể (50 cars statistic)
• ✅ Acknowledge counter-argument (While critics…)
• ✅ Cohesive devices tốt (Primarily, Furthermore, Therefore)
• ✅ Academic vocabulary (metropolitan areas, gridlock, mass transit, infrastructure)
• ✅ Complex sentences với relative clauses và participle phrases
• ✅ Đủ 150+ words

Đáp Án Bài Tập 6: Speaking Part 3 Sample

Band 8+ Model Answer:

“That’s an interesting question with no definitive answer, as it really depends on individual priorities. However, I personally believe that for young professionals seeking career development, working for large corporations is preferably the better choice, at least initially. Large companies typically offer structured training programs, clear career progression paths, and exposure to international standards that small businesses may not provide. That said, small businesses represent the more appealing option for those who value autonomy and want to wear multiple hats in their roles. Ultimately, I think gaining experience in a large organization first, then potentially moving to a smaller company later, would be the optimal choice for most people’s career trajectories.”

Phân tích:

• ✅ Natural introduction acknowledging complexity (“depends on…”)
• ✅ Sử dụng “preferably the better choice” một cách natural
• ✅ Có counter-view với “represent the more appealing option”
• ✅ Conclusion với “optimal choice”
• ✅ Personal pronoun appropriate cho Speaking (I personally believe…)
• ✅ Sophisticated vocabulary (autonomy, career trajectories, wear multiple hats)
• ✅ Balanced answer showing critical thinking
• ✅ Appropriate length (80+ words)

Kết Bài

Tổng Kết Những Điểm Chính

Cấu trúc “Preferably Better Choice” và các biến thể của nó là công cụ ngữ pháp vô cùng hiệu quả để nâng band điểm IELTS, đặc biệt trong Writing Task 2 và Speaking Part 3. Khác với các cấu trúc so sánh thông thường như “better than” hay “prefer to”, cấu trúc này thể hiện:

Tư duy phản biện cao cấp: Cho thấy bạn đã cân nhắc nhiều phương án trước khi đưa ra lựa chọn, không phải chỉ nói theo cảm tính.

Academic register: Phù hợp với văn phong formal mà IELTS yêu cầu, đặc biệt ở Band 8-9.

Flexibility trong diễn đạt: Với 8-10 biến thể khác nhau (optimal choice, superior choice, more advisable alternative…), bạn có thể tránh lặp từ hiệu quả.

Khả năng kết hợp: Cấu trúc này dễ dàng tích hợp với relative clauses, conditional sentences, passive voice, và participle clauses để tạo câu phức.

Để thành thạo cấu trúc này, hãy nhớ:

• ✅ Word order: “is preferably a/the better choice” (không phải “is a preferably better”)
• ✅ Comparison object: Luôn có “than + object” trong IELTS contexts
• ✅ Verb tense: Phải match với time context
• ✅ No “more preferably”: “Preferably” không có comparative form
• ✅ Justification: Luôn follow up với reasons/evidence

Đề Luyện Tập Tại Nhà

Speaking Topics – Practice Daily (10-15 phút/ngày):

Week 1: Personal Life & Lifestyle

1. Which is preferably the better choice for maintaining health: going to the gym or exercising at home? Why?
2. For learning a new skill, is self-study or taking classes the better option?
3. When choosing accommodation, is renting or buying preferably the better choice for young professionals?

Week 2: Education
4. Should universities focus on theoretical knowledge or practical skills? Which is preferably the better choice?
5. For children’s development, is homeschooling or traditional schooling the more advisable alternative?
6. In terms of learning English, is studying abroad or taking courses locally preferably the better option?

Week 3: Technology & Society
7. For social interaction, are face-to-face meetings or online communication preferably the better choice?
8. Should governments invest in AI development or traditional industries? Which represents the optimal choice?
9. For shopping, is e-commerce or traditional retail the more suitable option? Why?

Week 4: Environment & Global Issues
10. To combat climate change, is changing individual behavior or implementing government policies preferably the better approach?
11. For sustainable tourism, which is the superior choice: eco-tourism or conventional tourism?
12. Should countries prioritize economic growth or environmental protection? What is preferably the better choice?

Writing Task 2 Topics – Practice 2 essays/week:

Tháng 1: Opinion Essays

Week 1-2: “Some people believe that the government should provide free public transportation to reduce traffic congestion, while others think people should pay for these services. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

Yêu cầu:

• Sử dụng “preferably better choice” ít nhất 2 lần
• Có ít nhất 1 biến thể (optimal choice, superior alternative…)
• Include real examples (Singapore’s transport system, European cities…)

Week 3-4: “In many countries, people are choosing to have children later in life. Is this a positive or negative development?”

Yêu cầu:

• Compare “having children early” vs “having children later”
• Use “preferably better choice” trong thesis statement
• Kết hợp với conditional sentences

Tháng 2: Discussion Essays

Week 1-2: “Some believe that universities should provide graduates with the knowledge and skills needed in the workplace. Others think that the true function of university is to give access to knowledge for its own sake. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

Yêu cầu:

• Mỗi body paragraph dùng 1 variation của cấu trúc
• Conclusion phải có “optimal choice” hoặc “most advisable compromise”
• Include academic collocations (empirically validated, contextually appropriate…)

Week 3-4: “Some people think that environmental problems are too big for individuals to solve, while others believe individuals can make a difference. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

Yêu cầu:

• Compare individual actions vs collective efforts
• Use “preferably better choice” với justification clauses
• Kết hợp với real-world examples

Tháng 3: Advantage-Disadvantage & Problem-Solution Essays

Week 1-2: “In some countries, owning a home rather than renting one is very important. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

Yêu cầu:

• So sánh advantages của owning vs renting
• Dùng “preferably better choice” trong conclusion
• Include economic reasoning

Week 3-4: “Many people today find it difficult to balance work and personal life. What are the causes and solutions?”

Yêu cầu:

• Solution paragraph phải present options và explain which is “preferably better”
• Compare workplace policies vs individual strategies
• Use multiple variations tránh lặp

Final Tips Để Đạt Band 8+ Với Cấu Trúc Này

1. Natural Integration – Không Force:

❌ Don’t: Cố nhồi nhét cấu trúc vào mọi câu
✅ Do: Dùng ở key positions (thesis, topic sentences, conclusion) và khi logic requires comparison

2. Variety is Key:

Trong một bài Writing 250 từ:

• Lần 1: “preferably the better choice”
• Lần 2: “optimal choice” hoặc “superior alternative”
• Lần 3: “more advisable option”
• Avoid: Lặp lại exact phrase 3 lần

3. Always Justify:

Mỗi khi dùng cấu trúc này, phải follow bằng:

• Because/since/as + reason
• Relative clause explaining why
• Example supporting the choice
• Evidence (statistics, studies, real-world cases)

4. Combine với High-Level Grammar:

Band 8-9 candidates integrate multiple structures:

• Preferably better choice + conditional: “If implemented properly, this would be…”
• Preferably better choice + passive: “is increasingly being recognized as…”
• Preferably better choice + participle: “Having analyzed various options,…”

5. Collocations Matter:

❌ Basic: “very good choice”, “much better option”
✅ Advanced: “strategically sounder choice”, “empirically validated alternative”, “contextually appropriate option”

6. Practice Speaking Out Loud:

Cấu trúc này có thể sound formal. Practice cho đến khi nó flows naturally trong speech:

• Record yourself
• Listen back
• Note awkward spots
• Rephrase until comfortable

Checklist Cuối Cùng Trước Thi:

• [ ] Tôi có thể dùng ít nhất 4 variations của cấu trúc này
• [ ] Tôi biết khi nào dùng “preferably better” vs “would rather” vs “prefer to”
• [ ] Tôi không mắc 5 lỗi common (word order, missing than, good instead of better, wrong tense, more preferably)
• [ ] Tôi có thể justify mỗi “better choice” với concrete reasons
• [ ] Tôi đã practice ít nhất 10 Speaking responses và 5 Writing essays với cấu trúc này
• [ ] Tôi biết cách combine với các advanced structures khác

Chúc bạn học tốt và đạt band điểm mong muốn! Hãy nhớ rằng, “consistent practice is preferably the better choice than cramming before the exam” – Luyện tập đều đặn luôn là lựa chọn tối ưu hơn việc học dồn trước khi thi!