Level B2 (approx. band 5.5-6.5) · Academic and General Training Many candidates think "complex" means "long", and write sixty-word sentences full of errors. In simple terms, the public band descriptors say that around band 6 you use a mix of simple and complex sentences, but the complex ones often contain errors. Around band 7 you use a variety of complex structures with reasonable control, and many of your sentences have no errors at all. In this episode: • What a complex sentence is • Contrast: although, whereas, while, despite • Purpose: in order to, so that • Accuracy beats length • Model • Language bridge • Practice • Self-check questions with answers Key points: • a complex sentence has a main clause plus a subordinate clause that cannot stand alone. • although takes a clause, despite takes a noun or -ing, and although never pairs with but. • use in order to with the same subject, and so that when the subject changes. • a few accurate complex sentences beat many long ones with errors. IELTS Complete Course: a self-study podcast from A1 to C2 for Academic and General Training. Listen, pause and answer, then take the 52-question quiz. Audio voiced with AI from an original script by Dr. Rashmi R Nair. Independent course, not affiliated with the IELTS test owners.