Cách Sử Dụng “All Things Being Equal” Và Fair Comparison Trong IELTS – Bí Quyết Đạt Band 8.0

Giới Thiệu

“All things being equal” và các cấu trúc fair comparison (so sánh công bằng) là những công cụ ngữ pháp quan trọng giúp bạn thể hiện khả năng tư duy phản biện và phân tích khách quan trong kỳ thi IELTS. Các cấu trúc này đặc biệt hữu ích trong Speaking Part 3 khi thảo luận về các quan điểm khác nhau, và Writing Task 2 khi so sánh các lựa chọn, giải pháp hoặc quan điểm một cách công bằng.

Theo phân tích từ Cambridge IELTS 15-19, các cụm từ thể hiện điều kiện bình đẳng và so sánh công bằng xuất hiện với tần suất cao trong các bài mẫu Band 8.0+, đặc biệt trong Discussion Essays và Advantage/Disadvantage Essays. Đây là dấu hiệu của người viết có khả năng nhìn nhận vấn đề một cách khách quan và toàn diện.

Ví dụ vận dụng trong IELTS:

Speaking Part 3 (Discussing options):
“All things being equal, I would prefer studying abroad because of the cultural exposure, but financial constraints make it unrealistic for many students.”
→ Phân tích: Cụm từ mở đầu thể hiện điều kiện lý tưởng, sau đó đưa ra thực tế để so sánh công bằng.

Writing Task 2 (Comparison essay):
“Other things being equal, renewable energy is environmentally superior to fossil fuels, although the initial investment costs remain a significant barrier.”
→ Phân tích: Sử dụng cấu trúc để nhấn mạnh so sánh trong điều kiện tương đương trước khi nêu hạn chế.

Speaking Part 3 (Balanced argument):
“On balance, urban living offers more career opportunities than rural life, provided that we compare cities with similar infrastructure and development levels.”
→ Phân tích: Kết hợp cụm từ cân bằng với điều kiện so sánh công bằng.

Writing Task 2 (Academic discussion):
“When comparing educational systems, it is essential to consider comparable contexts, as factors like funding, teacher quality, and student demographics significantly influence outcomes.”
→ Phân tích: Nhấn mạnh tầm quan trọng của việc so sánh trong bối cảnh tương đương.

Speaking Part 3 (Making fair judgments):
“If we hold constant other variables such as experience and education, gender should not affect salary levels in any profession.”
→ Phân tích: Sử dụng cấu trúc academic để thể hiện so sánh khoa học và công bằng.

Trong bài viết này, bạn sẽ học:
✅ Định nghĩa và ý nghĩa của các cấu trúc fair comparison
✅ Công thức chi tiết với 5+ biến thể
✅ Cách vận dụng vào 4 kỹ năng IELTS
✅ 25+ câu ví dụ Band 7-9
✅ Các cụm từ nâng cao cho Band 8+
✅ Lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam
✅ Bài tập thực hành có đáp án chi tiết

Fair Comparison Structures Là Gì?

Định Nghĩa

Fair comparison structures (cấu trúc so sánh công bằng) là các cụm từ và mẫu câu được sử dụng để thiết lập điều kiện bình đẳng khi so sánh hai hoặc nhiều đối tượng, ý tưởng, hoặc tình huống. Chúng giúp người nói/viết thể hiện rằng việc so sánh được thực hiện trong các điều kiện tương đương, loại trừ các yếu tố gây nhiễu có thể làm méo mó kết quả.

Chức năng chính:

• Thể hiện tư duy phản biện và khách quan trong phân tích
• Tạo điều kiện lý tưởng (hypothetical conditions) để so sánh công bằng
• Thừa nhận các biến số cần được kiểm soát trong quá trình so sánh
• Tăng độ học thuật và sophistication cho bài nói/viết

Khi nào dùng trong IELTS:

• Speaking Part 3: Khi được hỏi so sánh các lựa chọn, quan điểm, hoặc xu hướng
• Writing Task 2: Discussion essays, Advantage/Disadvantage essays, Opinion essays với yêu cầu phân tích nhiều mặt
• Khi muốn thể hiện balanced view (quan điểm cân bằng) thay vì thiên vị một phía
• Khi cần nhấn mạnh rằng kết luận chỉ đúng trong điều kiện nhất định

Tần Suất Xuất Hiện Trong IELTS

Theo phân tích từ Cambridge IELTS 14-19:

Speaking:

• Part 1: Hiếm (5%) – Thường không cần so sánh phức tạp ở phần này
• Part 2: Trung bình (20%) – Khi đề bài yêu cầu so sánh hoặc đánh giá
• Part 3: Rất cao (65%) – Xuất hiện trong các câu hỏi về comparing options, discussing advantages/disadvantages, analyzing changes

Writing:

• Task 1: Thấp (10%) – Chỉ khi cần so sánh data trong các điều kiện tương tự
• Task 2: Cao (55%) – Đặc biệt trong Discussion, Advantage/Disadvantage, và Two-part questions

Listening/Reading:

• Xuất hiện thường xuyên trong academic contexts
• Cần nhận diện để hiểu luận điểm của tác giả về điều kiện so sánh
• Thường đi kèm với hedging language và cautious statements

Band Score Impact:

• Band 6: Sử dụng simple comparisons nhưng thiếu sophistication trong điều kiện
• Band 7: Có thể dùng “compared to” hoặc “in comparison with” nhưng chưa thể hiện fair conditions
• Band 8-9: Sử dụng thành thạo “all things being equal”, “other things being equal”, “holding other factors constant” và các biến thể academic

Công Thức & Cấu Trúc

Công Thức Cơ Bản

📌 CÔNG THỨC 1: ALL THINGS BEING EQUAL

┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ All things being equal, + [main clause comparison]     │
│                                                         │
│ Ví dụ: All things being equal, public transportation   │
│ is more environmentally friendly than private cars.    │
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

Thành phần câu:

• All things being equal: Cụm participle clause (rút gọn của “If all things are equal”) đặt ở đầu câu
• Comma: Bắt buộc sau cụm này
• Main clause: Mệnh đề chính chứa so sánh hoặc nhận xét

Ví dụ phân tích chi tiết:

Câu: “All things being equal, remote work offers better work-life balance than office-based employment.”

Phân tích:

• Introductory phrase: All things being equal (thiết lập điều kiện tương đương)
• Subject: remote work (đối tượng được so sánh)
• Verb: offers (động từ chính)
• Object: better work-life balance (kết quả so sánh)
• Comparison: than office-based employment (đối tượng được so sánh với)

📌 CÔNG THỨC 2: OTHER THINGS BEING EQUAL

┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ Other things being equal, + [main clause]              │
│                                                         │
│ Ví dụ: Other things being equal, experienced teachers  │
│ produce better student outcomes.                       │
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

Lưu ý: “Other things being equal” và “All things being equal” có thể thay thế cho nhau trong hầu hết trường hợp, nhưng “other things” nhấn mạnh rằng chỉ các yếu tố khác (không phải yếu tố đang được so sánh) được giữ không đổi.

Các Biến Thể

Dạng Latin (Academic):

Ceteris paribus, + [main clause]
Ví dụ: "Ceteris paribus, increased competition leads to lower prices."

Lưu ý: Dùng trong Writing Task 2 academic topics (economics, science) để đạt Band 8.5+

Dạng If-clause tương đương:

If all other factors remain constant, + [main clause]
Ví dụ: "If all other factors remain constant, renewable energy becomes more cost-effective over time."

Dạng Provided/Assuming:

Provided (that) we compare like with like, + [main clause]
Ví dụ: "Provided that we compare like with like, Scandinavian education systems outperform others in student satisfaction."

Dạng When-clause:

When comparing [A] and [B] on equal terms, + [main clause]
Ví dụ: "When comparing online and traditional learning on equal terms, both methods have distinct advantages."

Dạng Holding constant:

Holding [factors] constant, + [main clause]
Ví dụ: "Holding income levels constant, education remains the strongest predictor of health outcomes."

Cấu trúc ngữ pháp so sánh công bằng All Things Being Equal trong IELTS Writing Task 2

Signal Words & Phrases

Các cụm từ thường đi kèm fair comparison structures:

Signal Words/Phrases	Ý nghĩa	Ví dụ IELTS
All else being equal	Nếu tất cả yếu tố khác bằng nhau	“All else being equal, smaller class sizes lead to better learning outcomes.”
In comparable circumstances	Trong hoàn cảnh tương đương	“In comparable circumstances, urban schools tend to have more resources than rural ones.”
On a level playing field	Trên cùng một mặt bằng cạnh tranh	“On a level playing field, talent matters more than connections in career advancement.”
Under similar conditions	Trong điều kiện tương tự	“Under similar conditions, organic farming yields slightly less than conventional methods.”
Controlling for other variables	Kiểm soát các biến số khác	“Controlling for other variables, exercise has a direct impact on mental health.”
Assuming equivalent circumstances	Giả định hoàn cảnh tương đương	“Assuming equivalent circumstances, solar energy is now cheaper than coal in many regions.”

Cách Vận Dụng Vào IELTS

Speaking

Part 1 – Introduction & Interview:

Mặc dù Part 1 ít yêu cầu so sánh phức tạp, bạn vẫn có thể sử dụng các cấu trúc đơn giản hơn để ghi điểm:

Topic thường gặp: Preferences, comparisons

Ví dụ câu hỏi & trả lời:

Q: “Do you prefer studying at home or in a library?”

A: “Well, all things being equal, I’d say the library is better for focused study because there are fewer distractions. However, when I’m working on creative projects, I actually prefer the comfort of my home environment.”

→ Phân tích: Sử dụng “all things being equal” để thể hiện preference trong điều kiện lý tưởng, sau đó bổ sung context thực tế.

Part 2 – Long Turn:

Cue card example:

Describe a difficult decision you had to make.
You should say:
- What the decision was
- What options you had
- How you made your decision

Sample answer (trích đoạn):

“…I had to choose between accepting a job offer in my hometown or pursuing a master’s degree abroad. All things being equal, studying abroad would provide better career prospects in the long term, as it would give me international exposure and advanced qualifications. However, when I compared the two options on equal terms, considering factors like family responsibilities and financial constraints, the decision became much more complex. Other things being equal, the overseas program was academically superior, but I couldn’t ignore the practical realities of my situation…”

→ Phân tích Band 8+:

• Sử dụng 3 biến thể khác nhau của fair comparison
• Thể hiện critical thinking bằng cách so sánh trong nhiều dimensions
• Natural flow không bị mechanical

Part 3 – Discussion:

Đây là phần quan trọng nhất để sử dụng fair comparison structures.

Typical questions:

Q: “Is it better for children to grow up in cities or in the countryside?”

A: “That’s an interesting question. I think all things being equal, both environments offer distinct advantages. If we compare urban and rural childhoods on equal terms, city children generally have better access to educational facilities and cultural activities. On the other hand, holding socioeconomic factors constant, children in rural areas often benefit from closer community ties and more contact with nature. So the answer really depends on what aspects of development we prioritize.”

→ Band 8+ features:

• Multiple fair comparison structures
• Balanced analysis
• Sophisticated hedging
• Clear logical progression

Q: “Do you think online shopping is better than traditional shopping?”

A: “Well, other things being equal, online shopping is certainly more convenient in terms of time and effort. However, when we compare the two methods fairly, we need to consider various factors. Provided that delivery systems are reliable, e-commerce offers advantages for busy people. But in comparable circumstances, traditional shopping provides tactile experience and immediate gratification that online platforms cannot match.”

→ Phân tích: Demonstrates ability to see multiple perspectives with fair conditions.

Writing Task 1

Khi nào dùng:

• Khi so sánh data từ các nguồn khác nhau
• Khi cần lưu ý về việc so sánh trong điều kiện tương đương
• Trong Overview để tạo general comparison

Ví dụ:

Topic: The charts show unemployment rates in two countries with different economic systems.

Sample sentence:

“When comparing unemployment figures on equal terms, it is important to note that Country A’s informal economy is not reflected in these statistics, which may make direct comparison with Country B’s data somewhat misleading.”

→ Vận dụng: Thể hiện critical analysis skill bằng cách chỉ ra điều kiện cần thiết cho so sánh công bằng.

Line graph example:

“All things being equal, the upward trend in renewable energy consumption would suggest a positive environmental shift; however, this must be viewed in the context of overall energy use, which has also increased substantially.”

→ Band 8: Shows ability to contextualize data comparison.

Bài mẫu IELTS Writing Task 2 sử dụng cấu trúc so sánh công bằng đạt Band 8.0

Writing Task 2

Essay types sử dụng fair comparison structures:

Discussion Essay:

Topic: Some people think city life is better while others prefer village life. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Body paragraph Band 8+:

“When evaluating urban versus rural living, it is essential to compare like with like. All things being equal, cities undoubtedly offer superior employment opportunities, with diverse industries and higher average salaries attracting ambitious professionals. However, this advantage diminishes significantly when we hold constant the cost of living, as urban housing expenses and daily expenditures often consume a substantial portion of higher incomes. Other things being equal, countryside residents enjoy better air quality and lower stress levels, yet these benefits must be weighed against limited access to healthcare and educational facilities. Ultimately, provided that individuals have similar financial resources and career flexibility, the choice between urban and rural life depends largely on personal priorities regarding lifestyle and values.”

→ Phân tích:

• Sử dụng 4 biến thể khác nhau tự nhiên
• Thể hiện balanced analysis
• Shows critical thinking về conditions of comparison
• Natural cohesion với “however”, “yet”, “ultimately”

Advantage/Disadvantage Essay:

Topic: More and more people are working from home. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?

Body paragraph:

“The advantages of remote work become particularly apparent when comparing employees in similar roles. All things being equal, home-based workers typically report greater job satisfaction due to flexible schedules and elimination of commuting time. Research indicates that, holding factors such as job type and personality constant, remote employees demonstrate 15-20% higher productivity levels. However, other things being equal, these workers also face challenges that office-based staff do not encounter. When we compare social interaction opportunities on equal terms, traditional office environments clearly provide more spontaneous collaboration and relationship-building, which can be crucial for career advancement and mental wellbeing.”

→ Band 8+ elements:

• Integration with data/research
• Multiple fair comparison structures
• Balanced treatment of both sides
• Academic tone throughout

Problem/Solution Essay:

Topic: Traffic congestion is a serious problem in many cities. What are the causes and what solutions can you suggest?

Solution paragraph:

“Comparing potential solutions on equal terms reveals that infrastructure investment alone cannot solve urban traffic problems. All else being equal, expanding road networks might seem like the logical response; however, research consistently shows that new roads generate additional traffic through induced demand. Other things being equal, public transportation improvements offer more sustainable long-term benefits. Provided that governments invest adequately in reliable, comfortable transit systems, cities can reduce private vehicle dependence significantly. Evidence from cities like Singapore and Copenhagen suggests that, when comparing metropolitan areas with similar populations and economic development, those with comprehensive public transit networks experience 30-40% lower congestion levels.”

→ Analysis: Demonstrates sophisticated comparison of solutions with evidence.

Opinion Essay:

Topic: Some people believe that universities should focus on providing academic skills, while others think they should prepare students for employment. Discuss and give your opinion.

Body paragraph:

“When examining these competing priorities fairly, it becomes clear that the dichotomy is somewhat artificial. All things being equal, universities that emphasize pure academic rigor produce graduates with strong analytical and research capabilities. However, in comparable circumstances, institutions that integrate practical vocational training alongside theoretical knowledge better prepare students for competitive job markets. The key insight is that, holding educational resources constant, universities need not choose between academic excellence and employability. The most successful institutions achieve both objectives by maintaining rigorous academic standards while incorporating internships, industry partnerships, and skills development programs into their curricula.”

→ Band 9 features:

• Sophisticated thesis that transcends simple dichotomy
• Multiple fair comparison structures
• Evidence-based reasoning
• Clear position with nuanced analysis

Sample Paragraphs Band 7-9

Band 7 Sample:

Topic: Environmental protection vs Economic development

“All things being equal, protecting the environment should be a top priority for all nations. However, when we compare developed and developing countries, the situation is more complex. Rich nations can afford expensive green technologies, while poor countries need economic growth to lift their citizens out of poverty. Other things being equal, renewable energy is better than fossil fuels, but developing nations often cannot afford the initial investment costs. Therefore, we need to consider each country’s circumstances when making environmental policies.”

Phân tích Band 7:

• Sử dụng fair comparison structures chính xác
• Clear logic và organization
• Some sophistication nhưng còn có thể phát triển sâu hơn
• Vocabulary đủ nhưng chưa đa dạng cao

Band 8-9 Sample:

Topic: Traditional vs Modern Education Methods

“When evaluating educational methodologies, comparing traditional lecture-based instruction with modern interactive approaches requires careful consideration of multiple variables. All things being equal, research suggests that student-centered learning environments, which emphasize collaboration and critical thinking, produce graduates better equipped for the complexities of contemporary workplaces. However, this conclusion must be qualified by contextual factors. Holding constant elements such as class size, teacher training, and student motivation, traditional didactic methods can be equally effective for certain learning objectives, particularly in subjects requiring systematic knowledge accumulation such as mathematics or classical languages. Other things being equal, the pedagogical superiority of any method depends fundamentally on alignment between teaching approach, learning objectives, and student characteristics. Evidence from longitudinal studies in comparable educational contexts indicates that the most successful institutions strategically employ hybrid models, leveraging traditional methods for foundational knowledge while integrating modern techniques to develop higher-order thinking skills.”

Phân tích Band 8-9:

• Multiple sophisticated fair comparison structures
• Nuanced analysis với appropriate qualifications
• Integration of research/evidence
• Complex sentence structures với perfect grammar
• Academic vocabulary và collocations
• Demonstrates deep critical thinking

Nâng Cao – Cách Dùng Để Đạt Band 8+

Kết Hợp Với Các Cấu Trúc Khác

Fair Comparison + Relative Clause:

“All things being equal, countries that invest heavily in education, which remains the strongest predictor of economic growth, tend to achieve higher living standards over time.”

→ Band 8+ features: Combines fair comparison với non-defining relative clause và complex predicate

Fair Comparison + Conditional:

“Other things being equal, if governments were to implement comprehensive carbon taxes, renewable energy would become economically competitive with fossil fuels even without subsidies.”

→ Advanced usage: Mixed conditional trong fair comparison context

Fair Comparison + Passive Voice:

“When comparable contexts are examined, it can be observed that all things being equal, preventive healthcare initiatives are more cost-effective than reactive medical treatments in the long term.”

→ Sophistication: Academic passive voice với fair comparison structures

Fair Comparison + Concession:

“All things being equal, while technological automation may threaten certain job categories, historical evidence suggests that, provided economies remain adaptable, new employment opportunities invariably emerge to replace obsolete roles.”

→ Band 9 complexity: Concessive clause + fair comparison + hedging + complex reasoning

Fair Comparison + Nominalization:

“The superiority of renewable energy over fossil fuels becomes apparent when comparing their environmental impact on equal terms, though the comparison must account for the intermittency challenges inherent in solar and wind generation.”

→ Academic style: Nominalization (“superiority”, “comparison”, “intermittency”) với fair comparison

Cụm Từ Nâng Cao

Academic collocations với fair comparison structures:

Collocation	Ví dụ IELTS	Band Level
On a like-for-like basis	“On a like-for-like basis, organic produce costs 30-50% more than conventional alternatives.”	7.5+
Adjusting for confounding variables	“Adjusting for confounding variables such as age and lifestyle, the health benefits of Mediterranean diet remain significant.”	8+
In equivalent scenarios	“In equivalent scenarios, decentralized renewable systems prove more resilient than centralized fossil fuel infrastructure.”	8+
Normalizing for differences in [factor]	“Normalizing for differences in population density, urban air pollution levels remain consistently higher than rural areas.”	8.5+
Controlling for selection bias	“Controlling for selection bias, charter schools show no significant advantage over traditional public schools.”	8.5+
Accounting for contextual variations	“Accounting for contextual variations, universal basic income trials have yielded mixed results across different economies.”	8.5+
In a fair appraisal	“In a fair appraisal of nuclear energy, one must weigh its carbon neutrality against waste disposal challenges.”	7.5+

Advanced transition patterns:

“All things being equal, Option A appears superior; that said, when we factor in real-world constraints…”

“Other things being equal, Theory X holds true; having said that, empirical evidence from comparable contexts suggests…”

“On the face of it, and all else being equal, this policy seems beneficial; however, a more nuanced analysis reveals…”

Câu Phức & Ghép

Tích hợp vào complex sentences:

Example 1 – Multiple clauses:

“Although all things being equal, technological progress typically improves quality of life, the pace of change in recent decades has been so rapid that, when comparing generations on equal terms, younger people increasingly report higher stress levels despite greater material prosperity, which suggests that the relationship between technology and wellbeing is more complex than simple linear progression.”

→ Phân tích:

• Fair comparison structure trong complex sentence với 4 clauses
• Demonstrates sophisticated reasoning
• Natural flow dù câu dài

Example 2 – Embedded comparison:

“The argument that all things being equal, private healthcare delivers superior outcomes fails to account for the fact that, in comparable socioeconomic contexts, public health systems in countries like Norway and Japan achieve world-leading results through preventive care emphasis rather than high-cost interventions.”

→ Band 9 features:

• Fair comparison embedded trong larger argumentative structure
• Counterargument strategy
• Specific examples với contextual awareness

Example 3 – Parallel structure:

“All things being equal, investment in early childhood education yields better long-term returns than remedial programs for struggling adolescents; similarly, when comparing public health strategies on equal terms, preventive initiatives prove more cost-effective than treatment-focused approaches; and likewise, holding other variables constant, proactive environmental conservation requires far less resources than ecosystem restoration after degradation.”

→ Advanced rhetoric: Parallel construction với multiple fair comparisons

Các lỗi ngữ pháp thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam khi sử dụng fair comparison trong IELTS

So Sánh Với Cấu Trúc Tương Tự

Fair Comparison vs Simple Comparison

Tiêu chí	Fair Comparison	Simple Comparison
Công thức	All things being equal, A is better than B	A is better than B
Ý nghĩa	So sánh trong điều kiện tương đương	So sánh trực tiếp không điều kiện
Dùng khi	Cần thể hiện critical thinking, academic analysis	Đưa ra preference đơn giản
Ví dụ	“All things being equal, electric vehicles are more environmentally friendly, though battery production remains problematic.”	“Electric vehicles are better for the environment.”
Band score	7.5-9	5-6

Khi nào dùng cấu trúc nào:

• Dùng Fair Comparison khi: Speaking Part 3, Writing Task 2 body paragraphs, academic discussions, muốn thể hiện nuanced thinking
• Dùng Simple Comparison khi: Speaking Part 1, quick opinions, straightforward preferences

Fair Comparison vs Conditional Comparison

Tiêu chí	Fair Comparison	Conditional Comparison
Công thức	All things being equal, A > B	If X happens/were true, A > B
Focus	Điều kiện bình đẳng trong so sánh	Điều kiện giả định cụ thể
Ví dụ	“All things being equal, prevention is better than cure.”	“If funding were adequate, prevention would be better implemented.”
Emphasis	Lý tưởng/công bằng trong so sánh	Điều kiện cần để so sánh thành lập

Khi nào dùng:

• Fair Comparison: Khi muốn establish ideal comparison conditions
• Conditional: Khi điều kiện cụ thể chưa được đáp ứng

“All things being equal” vs “In general” / “Generally speaking”

Tiêu chí	All things being equal	In general / Generally
Công thức	All things being equal, [statement]	In general, [statement] / Generally speaking, [statement]
Ý nghĩa	Trong điều kiện tương đương	Nói chung, thường thì
Độ academic	Cao (Band 8+)	Trung bình (Band 6-7)
Ví dụ	“All things being equal, smaller classes improve learning outcomes.”	“In general, smaller classes are better for students.”
Implication	Có điều kiện, qualified statement	Broad generalization

Lưu ý quan trọng:

• “All things being equal” sophisticated hơn và shows critical thinking
• “In general” đơn giản hơn nhưng vẫn hợp lệ
• Trong cùng một bài, nên vary giữa các cấu trúc

Lỗi Thường Gặp & Cách Sửa

Lỗi 1: Thiếu Comma Sau Cụm Từ

❌ SAI:
“All things being equal remote work is more efficient.”

✅ ĐÚNG:
“All things being equal, remote work is more efficient.”

Giải thích:
Đây là lỗi phổ biến nhất của học viên Việt Nam. Khi sử dụng introductory phrase “all things being equal” hoặc các biến thể, bạn PHẢI đặt comma sau cụm này trước khi bắt đầu main clause. Comma này không phải optional mà là grammar requirement.

Lưu ý:

• Quy tắc này áp dụng cho TẤT CẢ các biến thể: “other things being equal,”, “ceteris paribus,”, “all else being equal,”
• Không có comma = tự động Grammar error, ảnh hưởng band score

Ví dụ thêm:

• ❌ “Other things being equal online education is cost-effective.”
• ✅ “Other things being equal, online education is cost-effective.”

Lỗi 2: Sử Dụng Sai Thì Sau Cụm Từ

❌ SAI:
“All things being equal, working from home was more productive.”

✅ ĐÚNG:
“All things being equal, working from home is more productive.”

Giải thích:
“All things being equal” thiết lập một điều kiện timeless/general truth, do đó main clause thường dùng Present Simple để express general comparison, không phải Past Simple. Sử dụng past tense làm câu mất tính general và logical.

Ngoại lệ:
Chỉ dùng past tense khi bạn đang nói về một so sánh cụ thể trong quá khứ:
✅ “All things being equal in that historical context, the policy was beneficial.”

Lưu ý:

• Present Simple: cho general truths, timeless comparisons
• Present Perfect: có thể dùng khi nói về từ quá khứ đến hiện tại
• Future: có thể dùng cho predictions
• Tránh: Simple Past cho general statements

Ví dụ đúng:

• ✅ “All things being equal, renewable energy is more sustainable.”
• ✅ “All things being equal, this approach has proven effective.”
• ✅ “All things being equal, technology will continue to advance.”

Lỗi 3: Quên So Sánh – Chỉ Nêu Ý Kiến Đơn Thuần

❌ SAI:
“All things being equal, solar energy is good for the environment.”

✅ ĐÚNG:
“All things being equal, solar energy is better for the environment than fossil fuels.”

Giải thích:
Fair comparison structures yêu cầu ACTUAL COMPARISON. Câu sai trên chỉ nêu một statement về solar energy mà không so sánh với gì. “All things being equal” mất ý nghĩa nếu không có comparison.

Các cách thể hiện comparison:

1. Than-comparison: “A is better than B”
2. Compared to: “A is superior compared to B”
3. While-contrast: “A offers X, while B provides Y”
4. Implicit comparison: “A emerges as the optimal choice” (trong context có nhiều options)

Lưu ý:

• Luôn đảm bảo có ít nhất 2 đối tượng được so sánh
• Comparison có thể explicit (than, compared to) hoặc implicit (trong context)
• Không dùng fair comparison structure cho single-item statements

Ví dụ sửa:

• ❌ “All things being equal, education is important.”
• ✅ “All things being equal, education is more important than wealth for long-term happiness.”
• ✅ “All things being equal, investment in education yields higher returns than infrastructure spending.”

Lỗi 4: Dùng Sai Form – “All things are equal”

❌ SAI:
“All things are equal, online shopping is more convenient.”

✅ ĐÚNG:
“All things being equal, online shopping is more convenient.”

Giải thích:
Đây là lỗi xuất phát từ việc dịch trực tiếp từ tiếng Việt (“tất cả mọi thứ đều bình đẳng”). Form đúng là “being equal” (present participle), không phải “are equal” (finite verb). Cấu trúc này là participle phrase, không phải complete clause.

Tại sao dùng “being”:

• Đây là reduced adverbial clause: (If) all things are equal → All things being equal
• Participle form “being” cho phép cụm này function as introductory phrase
• “Are equal” tạo thành complete clause, cần conjunction (if/when)

Forms đúng:

• ✅ All things being equal
• ✅ Other things being equal
• ✅ All else being equal

Alternative đúng với finite verb:

• ✅ If all things are equal (cần “if”)
• ✅ When all things are equal (cần “when”)

Lỗi 5: Overuse – Lạm Dụng Trong Một Bài

❌ SAI:
“All things being equal, cities are better than villages. All things being equal, cities have more jobs. All things being equal, cities offer better education. All things being equal, I prefer city life.”

✅ ĐÚNG:
“All things being equal, cities offer more advantages than villages, particularly in terms of employment and education. Urban areas provide diverse job opportunities and superior educational facilities. However, when comparing quality of life on equal terms, we must also consider factors like stress levels and living costs. On balance, I prefer city life for career development.”

Giải thích:
Lỗi này rất phổ biến khi học viên mới học được cấu trúc band cao và muốn demonstrate khả năng của mình. Tuy nhiên, sử dụng cùng một cụm từ nhiều lần làm bài viết mechanical và repetitive, GIẢM band score thay vì tăng.

Quy tắc sử dụng:

• Speaking: Maximum 1-2 lần trong Part 3 (khoảng 4-5 phút)
• Writing Task 2: Maximum 2-3 lần trong toàn bài (250-300 words)
• Vary structures: Luân phiên giữa các biến thể khác nhau

Cách vary:

1. First use: “All things being equal,”
2. Second use: “When comparing on equal terms,”
3. Third use: “Holding other factors constant,” hoặc không dùng nữa

Lưu ý:

• Quality over quantity – một lần dùng đúng chỗ > nhiều lần dùng không phù hợp
• Phối hợp với các comparison structures khác
• Natural integration quan trọng hơn frequency

Top 5 mistakes Vietnamese learners make:

1. Punctuation error: Quên comma sau introductory phrase – ảnh hưởng trực tiếp Grammar score
2. Verb tense confusion: Dùng past tense cho general truths – làm mất logic
3. Missing comparison: Statement đơn thuần không có actual comparison – mất purpose của structure
4. Wrong form: “are equal” thay vì “being equal” – fundamental grammar error
5. Mechanical overuse: Lặp lại quá nhiều lần – shows lack of flexibility, giảm Lexical Resource score

Bài Tập Thực Hành

Bài Tập 1: Hoàn Thành Câu

Sử dụng cấu trúc fair comparison phù hợp để hoàn thành các câu sau:

1. _____, electric cars are more environmentally friendly than petrol vehicles.

2. _____, investment in education produces better long-term economic returns than military spending.

3. When comparing urban and rural healthcare systems _____, access to specialists remains significantly better in cities.

4. _____, prevention is more cost-effective than treatment in healthcare.

5. _____ such as climate and soil quality, organic farming methods can achieve yields comparable to conventional agriculture.

6. _____, working from home increases productivity for most knowledge workers.

7. In evaluating renewable energy options, _____, solar power offers the most scalable solution for developing nations.

8. _____, smaller class sizes lead to better educational outcomes, though teacher quality remains the most critical factor.

9. _____, public transportation is more efficient than private vehicles for urban mobility.

10. When assessing economic policies _____, progressive taxation systems reduce inequality more effectively than flat-rate schemes.

Bài Tập 2: Tìm Và Sửa Lỗi

Mỗi câu sau có một lỗi liên quan đến fair comparison structure. Tìm và sửa:

1. All things being equal online learning was more flexible than traditional education.

2. Other things are equal, renewable energy is better for the environment.

3. All things being equal prevention is better than cure.

4. Ceteris paribus genetic factors plays a significant role in health outcomes.

5. All things being equal, public transportation is efficient.

6. Other things being equal urban life offers more opportunities than rural areas, all things being equal cities provide better facilities.

7. When comparing on equal terms solar energy will be cheaper than coal.

8. Holding other factors constant diet and exercise impacts health significantly.

9. All things being equal, developed countries has better infrastructure.

10. If all things equal, education is the key to social mobility.

Bài Tập 3: Viết Câu Hoàn Chỉnh

Viết câu hoàn chỉnh sử dụng fair comparison structure dựa trên gợi ý:

1. (public transport / private cars / environment)
   → Your answer: ___

2. (preventive healthcare / treatment / cost-effective)
   → Your answer: ___

3. (renewable energy / fossil fuels / sustainable)
   → Your answer: ___

4. (small businesses / large corporations / innovation)
   → Your answer: ___

5. (online education / traditional classroom / flexibility)
   → Your answer: ___

6. (urban living / rural life / career opportunities)
   → Your answer: ___

7. (early childhood education / later intervention / outcomes)
   → Your answer: ___

8. (diverse teams / homogeneous groups / problem-solving)
   → Your answer: ___

9. (experience / formal qualifications / job performance)
   → Your answer: ___

10. (intrinsic motivation / external rewards / learning)
    → Your answer: ___

Bài Tập 4: Writing Task 2 Practice

Viết một body paragraph (150-180 words) cho đề bài sau, sử dụng ít nhất 2 fair comparison structures:

Topic: Some people believe that the government should invest more in public transportation, while others think that building more roads for private vehicles is better. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Yêu cầu:

• Sử dụng ít nhất 2 biến thể khác nhau của fair comparison
• Include comparison giữa hai options
• Demonstrate critical thinking
• Target Band 8

Your paragraph:

---

---

---

Bài Tập 5: Speaking Part 3 Practice

Trả lời các câu hỏi sau, mỗi câu sử dụng một fair comparison structure (60-90 words mỗi câu):

1. Question: “Is it better for young people to live with their parents or independently?”

   Your answer: ___

2. Question: “Do you think traditional shops will disappear because of online shopping?”

   Your answer: ___

3. Question: “Which is more important for career success – education or experience?”

   Your answer: ___

Đáp Án Chi Tiết

Đáp Án Bài Tập 1:

1. All things being equal / Other things being equal / Ceteris paribus

   • Giải thích: Standard fair comparison cho general statement

2. All things being equal / Other things being equal

   • Giải thích: So sánh hai types of government spending

3. on equal terms / fairly / in comparable circumstances

   • Giải thích: “When comparing” đã có, nên cần completing phrase

4. All things being equal / Other things being equal

   • Giải thích: Classic prevention vs treatment comparison

5. Holding constant factors / Controlling for variables / Accounting for differences

   • Giải thích: Specific factors được mention, cần structure phù hợp

6. All things being equal / Other things being equal

   • Giải thích: Productivity comparison cần general fair comparison

7. all things being equal / when comparing on equal terms

   • Giải thích: “In evaluating” đã mở đầu, có thể thêm fair comparison mid-sentence

8. All things being equal / Other things being equal

   • Giải thích: Education comparison với qualification về teacher quality

9. All things being equal / Other things being equal

   • Giải thích: Transportation efficiency comparison

10. on equal terms / fairly / in comparable contexts

    • Giải thích: “When assessing” đã có, cần completing phrase

Đáp án chi tiết bài tập thực hành cấu trúc Fair Comparison cho IELTS Band 8

Đáp Án Bài Tập 2:

1. ❌ Lỗi: Thiếu comma + wrong tense
   ✅ Sửa: “All things being equal, online learning is more flexible than traditional education.”
   Giải thích: Cần comma sau introductory phrase; dùng present simple cho general truth

2. ❌ Lỗi: “are equal” thay vì “being equal”
   ✅ Sửa: “Other things being equal, renewable energy is better for the environment.”
   Giải thích: Participle form “being” là bắt buộc trong structure này

3. ❌ Lỗi: Thiếu comma
   ✅ Sửa: “All things being equal, prevention is better than cure.”
   Giải thích: Must have comma after introductory phrase

4. ❌ Lỗi: Subject-verb agreement (“plays” → “play”)
   ✅ Sửa: “Ceteris paribus, genetic factors play a significant role in health outcomes.”
   Giải thích: “factors” (plural) + “play” (plural verb)

5. ❌ Lỗi: Không có comparison
   ✅ Sửa: “All things being equal, public transportation is more efficient than private vehicles.”
   Giải thích: Fair comparison structure requires actual comparison with another object

6. ❌ Lỗi: Lặp lại cùng structure hai lần
   ✅ Sửa: “Other things being equal, urban life offers more opportunities than rural areas and provides better facilities.”
   Giải thích: Combine thành một câu hoặc vary structure nếu dùng hai câu

7. ❌ Lỗi: Tense không phù hợp với time marker
   ✅ Sửa: “When comparing on equal terms, solar energy is becoming cheaper than coal.” (or “will become” nếu clearly future)
   Giải thích: “Will be” cho ongoing/near future thì nên dùng present continuous hoặc will become

8. ❌ Lỗi: Verb form + number agreement
   ✅ Sửa: “Holding other factors constant, diet and exercise impact health significantly.”
   Giải thích: “diet and exercise” (plural compound subject) + “impact” (plural verb, không có -s)

9. ❌ Lỗi: Subject-verb agreement
   ✅ Sửa: “All things being equal, developed countries have better infrastructure.”
   Giải thích: “countries” (plural) + “have” (không phải “has”)

10. ❌ Lỗi: Missing “being” hoặc “are”
    ✅ Sửa: “If all things are equal, education is the key to social mobility.” (hoặc “All things being equal”)
    Giải thích: Với “if” cần finite verb “are”; không có “if” thì dùng “being”

Đáp Án Bài Tập 3:

Sample answers (nhiều cách trả lời đúng, đây là examples):

1. “All things being equal, public transport is more environmentally friendly than private cars due to lower per-capita emissions.”

2. “Other things being equal, preventive healthcare is significantly more cost-effective than treatment-focused approaches in the long term.”

3. “When comparing energy sources on equal terms, renewable energy proves more sustainable than fossil fuels despite higher initial costs.”

4. “All things being equal, small businesses often demonstrate greater innovation than large corporations because of their flexibility and agility.”

5. “Other things being equal, online education offers more flexibility than traditional classroom learning, particularly for working professionals.”

6. “All things being equal, urban living provides better career opportunities than rural life, though this advantage varies by industry.”

7. “Holding other factors constant, early childhood education produces better outcomes than later intervention programs.”

8. “When comparing team composition on equal terms, diverse teams outperform homogeneous groups in complex problem-solving tasks.”

9. “All things being equal, experience often predicts job performance more accurately than formal qualifications alone, particularly in practical fields.”

10. “Other things being equal, intrinsic motivation leads to better learning outcomes than external rewards, according to contemporary educational research.”

Đáp Án Bài Tập 4:

Sample Band 8 paragraph:

The debate between public transportation and road infrastructure investment requires careful analysis of multiple factors. All things being equal, expanding public transportation networks offers more sustainable long-term benefits than building additional roads for private vehicles. Cities like Singapore and Tokyo demonstrate that comprehensive transit systems can significantly reduce traffic congestion while lowering carbon emissions per capita. However, when comparing these options on equal terms, we must consider existing infrastructure and urban density. In sprawling cities with low population density, public transport may struggle to achieve the coverage and frequency necessary for widespread adoption. Other things being equal, the optimal approach likely involves strategic investment in public transportation for dense urban cores while maintaining road networks for areas where mass transit proves economically unviable. Ultimately, the most successful cities integrate both systems, prioritizing public transport in central areas while ensuring adequate road access to peripheral regions.

Analysis:

• Sử dụng 3 biến thể: “All things being equal”, “on equal terms”, “Other things being equal”
• Clear comparison throughout
• Specific examples (Singapore, Tokyo)
• Balanced analysis
• Complex sentence structures
• Natural flow
• Word count: ~175 words

Đáp Án Bài Tập 5:

Question 1 – Sample answer:

“That’s an interesting question. All things being equal, I believe young people benefit from living independently as it develops crucial life skills like financial management and self-reliance. However, when we compare these options on equal terms, we need to consider economic factors. In many Asian countries, housing costs make independent living financially challenging for young adults starting their careers. Other things being equal, those who can afford it should experience independent living, but cultural values also play a role – in some societies, multigenerational households provide strong family support systems that outweigh the benefits of independence. So the answer really depends on individual circumstances and cultural context.”

Analysis:

• 3 fair comparison structures
• Balanced viewpoint
• Cultural awareness
• Natural speaking style
• ~110 words

Question 2 – Sample answer:

“I don’t think traditional shops will completely disappear, though they’ll certainly evolve. All things being equal, online shopping is more convenient for standard products, but physical stores offer experiences that e-commerce cannot replicate. When comparing on equal terms, shopping malls provide social interaction and immediate gratification that online platforms lack. However, holding constant factors like product type, categories like books and electronics have already shifted predominantly online. The shops that survive will be those offering unique experiences – personal service, expert advice, or entertainment value. So rather than disappearing entirely, traditional retail will adapt to complement online shopping.”

Analysis:

• Multiple fair comparison structures
• Nuanced prediction
• Specific examples
• Sophisticated reasoning
• ~105 words

Question 3 – Sample answer:

“This really depends on the field, but I’d argue both are essential. All things being equal, experience often predicts performance better than qualifications alone, particularly in practical fields like management or design. However, when we compare candidates on equal terms, formal education provides foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills that are difficult to acquire solely through work experience. Other things being equal, the ideal candidate combines both – strong educational background providing theoretical framework, plus practical experience developing applied skills. In highly technical fields like medicine or engineering, education becomes non-negotiable, while in creative industries, experience and portfolio might matter more. The balance shifts depending on career stage and industry requirements.”

Analysis:

• 3 different structures
• Field-specific analysis
• Shows critical thinking
• Balanced conclusion
• ~120 words

Kết Bài

Nắm vững các cấu trúc fair comparison là bước quan trọng để đạt Band 8.0+ trong IELTS, đặc biệt là Speaking Part 3 và Writing Task 2. Những cấu trúc này không chỉ giúp bạn thể hiện khả năng tư duy phản biện mà còn cho thấy sự tinh tế trong việc phân tích các vấn đề phức tạp.

Điểm mấu chốt để sử dụng hiệu quả:

✓ Natural integration – Không lạm dụng, chỉ dùng khi thực sự cần thiết cho comparison
✓ Vary structures – Luân phiên giữa “all things being equal”, “on equal terms”, “holding constant”
✓ Always compare – Đảm bảo luôn có actual comparison, không chỉ statement đơn thuần
✓ Grammar accuracy – Chú ý comma, verb forms, và sentence structure
✓ Context appropriate – Dùng cho academic discussions, không phải simple opinions

Lộ Trình Luyện Tập

Tuần 1-2: Familiarization

• Đọc và highlight các fair comparison structures trong Cambridge IELTS reading passages
• Note down examples từ sample answers
• Practice pronunciation của các cụm từ

Tuần 3-4: Controlled Practice

• Làm bài tập điền từ và sửa lỗi
• Viết simple sentences sử dụng structures
• Record yourself speaking với structures

Tuần 5-6: Integrated Use

• Viết complete paragraphs cho Writing Task 2
• Practice Speaking Part 3 questions
• Receive feedback và refine usage

Tuần 7-8: Natural Production

• Tích hợp vào full essays và speaking responses
• Focus on variety và natural flow
• Simulate exam conditions

Đề Luyện Tập

Speaking Topics:

1. Compare traditional and modern parenting styles (sử dụng fair comparison để show balanced view)

2. Discuss whether city life or countryside living is better for families (demonstrate ability to see multiple perspectives)

3. Talk about the advantages and disadvantages of studying abroad versus local universities (use fair comparison để acknowledge trade-offs)

4. Compare the importance of academic intelligence versus emotional intelligence in career success (show nuanced thinking)

5. Discuss whether experience or formal education matters more in the workplace (balanced comparison với real-world context)

Writing Topics:

1. Environmental Topic: “Some argue that individual actions cannot solve climate change and only government policies matter. Others believe personal responsibility is crucial. Discuss both views.”

   • Sử dụng fair comparison để analyze effectiveness of individual vs collective action

2. Education Topic: “Traditional classroom learning vs online education – which is more effective?”

   • Compare on equal terms, considering different contexts and learner types

3. Technology Topic: “The advantages of technological advancement outweigh the disadvantages. To what extent do you agree?”

   • Use fair comparison để show balanced analysis

4. Work Topic: “Some people prefer working for large corporations while others choose small businesses. Discuss both views.”

   • Compare fairly, accounting for different career goals and personalities

5. Society Topic: “Urban migration is beneficial for developing countries. To what extent do you agree?”

   • Fair comparison của urban vs rural development impacts

Yêu cầu:

• Writing: Mỗi essay sử dụng 2-3 fair comparison structures naturally
• Speaking: 1-2 structures trong mỗi Part 3 response
• Focus on natural integration, không mechanical
• Vary structures để demonstrate flexibility
• Combine với các advanced grammar khác (conditionals, relative clauses, passive voice)

Tài nguyên bổ sung:

• Cambridge IELTS 14-19: Tìm và analyze fair comparison structures trong sample answers
• Academic journals: Note academic language patterns cho fair comparison
• TED Talks: Quan sát cách speakers compare ideas objectively
• IELTS Examiner feedback: Study comments about “balanced argument” và “critical analysis”

Chúc bạn thành công trong việc master các cấu trúc này và đạt band score mục tiêu! Hãy nhớ rằng quality và natural use quan trọng hơn quantity – một lần sử dụng perfect có giá trị hơn nhiều lần sử dụng mechanical.