IELTS Writing : Phrases to avoid

Here are some phrases which should be avoided in IELTS Writing Task

Last but not least

In my experience, the phrase, "Last but not least" is most often used in spoken English and is usually used in group settings, i.e., used when talking among at least three people. To me, the expression is rather informal English.

Just write, "Last" or "Lastly" if you can't think of another way to introduce the last item! Don't try to 'impress' with, "Last but not least" in an academic essay.

First and foremost

Avoid it in essays although it's not so bad for the Speaking test.

Every coin has two sides

Examiners find it rather annoying, boring and disappointing to read such unoriginal language.

With the development of science and technology….

This phrase is not wrong or bad English and there are topics where it is suitable to use. But it just became overused and misused. In a nutshell It is informal and not appropriate to use in academic essay, though some students use it for conclusion paragraph.