advantages and disadvantages essay sample

Advantages and Disadvantages essay in IELTS Writing Task 2

A common question in IELTS Writing Task 2 is the advantages and disadvantages essay . As the name suggests, you will be provided with a topic on which you have to present an essay highlighting the benefits and drawbacks of the situation.

a 3d model holding the checkmark and the cross mark

The IELTS advantages and disadvantages essay should present a balanced evaluation of the subject matter without taking sides . Never present your personal opinion regarding whether there are more merits or demerits. Since, we have to remain neutral, do not write a one-sided essay.

Some questions do ask you whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages or not. To learn about such essays, click here »

Examples of Advantages and Disadvantages IELTS essay

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend around 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experience.

Write at least 250 words.

IELTS Advantages and Disadvantages essay format

There is a clear-cut IELTS advantages and disadvantages essay structure. Obviously, the first and the last paragraph of the essay will be for Introduction and Conclusion respectively. Two paragraphs in the body, one for advantages and the other for disadvantages, works best for this type of question in IELTS Writing Task 2 .

While brainstorming for ideas, we need to come up with at least two advantages and two disadvantages to write about. You can write more than two each, but the essay might get unnecessarily lengthy, and some ideas may lack proper development.

Introduction for an Advantages and Disadvantages essay

There are two elements to include in the Introduction paragraph of IELTS advantages and disadvantages essay.

Rewrite the statements from the question in your own words
Briefly mention the advantages and disadvantages

We can see in the sample above for the advantages and disadvantages essay that the Introduction paragraph begins with a paraphrase of the sentence in the question. Then, the second sentence introduces that idea of “ fun and entertainment ” as the advantages, while the third sentence hints at the disadvantages of holding such celebrations like being unreasonably expensive and possibly giving rise to a hedonistic lifestyle.

Body paragraphs for IELTS Advantages and Disadvantages essay

Whatever advantages and disadvantages have been alluded to in the Introduction paragraph have to be elaborated in the next two paragraphs.

For the advantages and disadvantages essay in the IELTS test, it is best to write about the pros in one paragraph and the cons in the next. Include at least two positives and at least two negatives of the situation. These points have to be explained in the body paragraphs with the help of examples.

Advantages and Disadvantages essay: The Conclusion

The final paragraph in the advantages and disadvantages essay questions in IELTS is the Conclusion paragraph . It is customary to write a summary of the main points made in the essay in the Conclusion paragraph.

Next lesson:

Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? – A reliable essay format

The government should control the amount of violence on television in order to decrease the violent crimes in society. to what extent do you agree or disagree, nowadays technology is increasingly being used to monitor what people are saying and doing (for example through cellphone tracing and security cameras). in many cases the people being monitored are unaware that this is happening. do you think the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages, ielts essay format: solving writing task 2 easily, a 3-step process for powerful ielts essay introduction paragraph.

IELTS Advantage Disadvantage Essay: Overview, Structure And Tips

1. ielts advantage disadvantage essay overview.

IELTS Advantage Disadvantage essay raises a problem or an opinion and asks you to point out the benefits as well as drawbacks on that issue or point of view.

Typically, an IELTS Advantage Disadvantage essay question can be divided into three parts:

1st part: a specific problem or opinion (e.g. The development of tourism contributed to English becoming the most prominent language in the world. Some people think this will lead to English becoming the only language to be spoken globally.)
2nd part: requirement to give the advantages & disadvantages of the problem or opinion (e.g. What are the advantages and disadvantages to having one language in the world?)
3rd part: requirement for the time limit and word count (e.g. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write at least 250 words.)

There are normally 2 types of requirements to list the advantages & disadvantages of a problem or opinion:

Indicate pros and cons only
Indicate pros and cons & Explicate whether pros outweigh cons

Here are some examples of how an IELTS Advantage and Disadvantage question can be worded:

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages and give your opinion.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of….?
Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

If you are planning to take the IELTS, let’s start practicing with our free IELTS online test to get ready for your exam.

2. IELTS Advantage Disadvantage Essay Structure

The three-part structure is also used for IELTS Advantage Disadvantage essay. However, as the IELTS Advantage Disadvantage questions can be either indicating pros and cons only or indicating pros and cons & explicating whether pros outweigh cons, you can refer to two types of structure below:

2.1 Indicating Pros and Cons Only

2.1.1 Introduction

– Paraphrase the question: (e.g. It is thought by some people that English, which is now the most widely spoken language in the world, may one day predominate over all other languages and result in their eventual disappearance.)

– Thesis statement / Outline sentence: (e.g. Having one language would certainly aid understanding and economic growth but there will also be some drawbacks.)

2.2.2. Body

– Body paragraph 1: Advantages

Topic sentence: state the advantages
State and explain the first advantage: give the first advantage of the problem/opinion and elaborate the first advantage (e.g. One evident benefit to having one global language is that it would enable greater understanding between countries.In other words, if everyone spoke one language, there would be complete understanding between not only countries but all people throughout the world which would promote learning, the flow of information and ideas.)
Example: support the first advantage with an example (optional)
State and explain the second advantage: give the second advantage of the problem/opinion and elaborate the second advantage (e.g. Another reason that one language would be advantageous is that it would help economic growth. With all people speaking the same language, there would be fewer barriers and therefore trade would flourish between countries, resulting in a healthier world economy.)
Example: support the second advantage with an example (optional)

– Body paragraph 2: Disadvantages

Topic sentence: state the disadvantages (e.g. On the other hand, there are obvious disadvantages to having only one global language.)
State and explain the first disadvantage: give the first disadvantage of the problem/opinion and elaborate the first disadvantage (e.g. Firstly, it would mean that all other languages would eventually disappear and, along with them, their cultures. The diversity of cultures is one of the joys this world has to offer. Each culture is unique with its own way of life and own perspectives of the world which would all be lost if there were only one language.)
Example: support the first disadvantage with an example (optional)
State and explain the second disadvantage: give the second disadvantage of the problem/opinionand elaborate the second disadvantage (e.g. Secondly, it would result in the collapse of tourism because there would be no reason to travel for pleasure and interest if all countries had the same language and similar cultures. This would devastate many countries economically that rely on tourism as a source of income.)
Example: support the second disadvantage with an example (optional)

2.2.3. Conclusion

– Summarize advantages and disadvantages:

(e.g. In conclusion, while there are plus points to having one global language, too much would be lost as a result. )

– Give recommendations (optional) (e.g. Maintaining local languages and cultures should be prioritised to ensure a rich world heritage for future generations.)

>>> Practice now: IELTS Writing Practice Test

2.2. Indicating Pros and Cons & Explicating Whether Pros outweigh Cons

2.2.1. Introduction

– Paraphrase the question: (e.g. Globalisation has been one of the most significant phenomena in the last few decades, and it has changed several aspects of human society both economically and socially. There has been remarkable progress in terms of economic and financial development for developing countries due to the expansion of global organizations. However, there are several drawbacks to this rapid progress that need to be addressed.)

– Thesis statement / Outline sentence: (e.g. Evidently, globalization has more advantages than disadvantages and the following paragraphs, will elaborate on the topic and justify these views.)

– Body paragraph 1: Stronger side

Topic sentence: state the stronger side
State and explain the first reason: give the first reason why it is the stronger side (e.g. First of all, the most advantageous aspect of globalization is the advent of numerous international companies and franchises in developing countries.)
Example: support the first reason with an example (optional) (e.g. Ever since global brands and corporations have expanded their operations in countries such as India, China, Sri Lanka and many more, there has been a notable increase in employment in these countries.)
State and explain the second reason : give the second reason why it is the stronger side (e.g. Additionally, due to the remarkable rise in the number of imports and exports, people from third world countries now have access to a vast catalogue of products and services that were previously unattainable.)
Example: support the second reason with an example (optional)

– Body paragraph 2: Weaker side

Topic sentence: state the weaker side (e.g. That being said, there are drawbacks to globalization that create concerning issues for a sizeable portion of the global population.)
State and explain the first reason: give the first reason why it is the weaker side (e.g. One of the most disturbing consequences faced is the exploitation of labour. Many corporations are known to outsource their operations to developing countries due to cheap labour costs. This enables them to accomplish their manufacturing operations without having to provide proper remuneration.)
Example: support the first reason with an example (optional)
State and explain the second reason: give the second reason why it is the weaker side (e.g. Also, due to the use of inexpensive labour, the quality of products is diminished, and customers receive inferior products.)

(e.g. In conclusion, there is no doubt that the effects of globalization are not entirely positive or negative.)

– Restate the position of each side: (e.g. Nonetheless, the benefits brought by this occupation outweigh the drawbacks.)

*** Note: For the IELTS Advantage Disadvantage question asking you to state your opinion (e.g. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages and give your opinion.), you should add another Body paragraph to give your point of view on the issue with clarification and example (if any)

note what your point of view is towards the issue in the Conclusion part).

3. IELTS Advantage Disadvantage Essay Strategy

3.1. analyse ielts advantage disadvantage essay questions.

The very first step you should do with IELTS Advantage Disadvantage Essay is not to write your essay immediately but analyze the questions in details so that you can deeply understand what the judges want you to perform. You had better highlight or underline keywords based on these criteria:

ielts advantage disadvantage essay strategy

Main topic (e.g. The development of tourism contributed to English becoming the most prominent language in the world. Some people think this will lead to English becoming the only language to be spoken globally.)
Requirements: (e.g. What are the advantages and disadvantages to having one language in the world?)
Instructions (e.g. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write at least 250 words.)

3.2. Make an outline

Your IELTS Advantage Disadvantage Essay had better be both coherent and cohesive simultaneously, so an outline should be your next step to write your essay. Your outline can be created in the form of a mindmap, a table, or a list of bullet points.

3.3. Write a complete IELTS problem solution essay

Once you’ve had your own outline and know well how to organize your writing, it’s time to write your IELTS problem solution essay using your grammar and vocabulary range related to the topic given.

3.4. Double-check your IELTS problem solution essay

Don’t forget to check your IELTS Advantage Disadvantage Essay in terms of grammar, vocabulary, spelling, etc. at least once before handing in the final paper.

4. IELTS Advantage Disadvantage Essay Tips

Your IELTS Advantage Disadvantage should be written within the time limit of about 40 minutes with 250-290 words.
Try not to go off the topic but give the relevant ideas to illustrate each point in your essay.
Utilize linking words in order to make connections among sentences as well as paragraphs.
Don’t forget to quickly draft an outline with the main points for each part.
Elaborate your advantages, disadvantages, and/or your opinion with explanation and examples.
Enhance your grammar and vocabulary range on diverse topics before taking an IELTS Writing test .
Do as many online IELTS practice tests of Advantage Disadvantage essay as possible and you can score high in the real test.

IELTS Advantage / Disadvantage Essay Sample (Corrected)

Today more and more tourists are visiting places where conditions are difficult, such as the sahara desert or the antarctic..

What are the benefits and disadvantages for tourists who visit such places?

Recently, Nowadays it seems to be boring for people to go to travel in to some locations where we used to go, e.g. Japan or Europe. People would like to have some exciting experience s in on their trip, so they choose places like the Sahara desert or places where that ordinary people cannot even name. These places are using having have tough conditions. Therefore, there must be some good things and bad things if we travel to these places.

From an optimistic viewpoint, people would like to travel in to these extraordinary places to experience something different, usually, the things they see or try in these locations are unique ; they cannot find them in cities with tall buildings. For example, the artic light in the Antarctic area regions . People who saw have seen them all said say it was is a once in a lifetime experience and they will not forget it till they die. And indeed, seeing these special sceneries is really unforgettable and no other places in the world have them. Besides sceneries, people can also experience some very different lifestyle s and cultures which they have never seen when if they live in a city.

However, there is also a bad side if people travel in these places. As the conditions are tough in these areas, e.g. they may experience extreme temperatures. People who are used to a city lifestyle may not know how to deal with them. In some severe cases, people may need immediate rescue, but as these area s are usually not ordinary residential areas, it is not easy for any rescue teams emergency services to go for rescue access them . And It is very difficult to ask for get help from other people as there is no one around.

As a In conclusion , it is necessary for people have to understand the risks before they visit these places, and after thorough consideration, if they still want to go, they have to make sure they get very well-prepared and go at their own risk.

(318 words)

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Your Guide to IELTS Band 7

IELTS Model Essay: Increased Life Expectancy

In this post, I’m going to write an IELTS Writing Task 2 model essay in response to this question about increased life expectancy from Test 2 of The Official Cambridge Guide To IELTS :

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

One of the consequences of improved medical care is that people are living longer and life expectancy is increasing.

Do you think the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Let’s go through my 4 Step Approach to essay planning:

Analyse The Question
Decide My Position
Generate My Ideas
Develop My Ideas

I’ll write these 4 steps out in full, so you can see my thinking. Obviously, you won’t have time to write all this down when you plan your essay, but you will have time to think the 4 steps through in your head. In fact, Steps 2 to 4 might happen together, if you think deeply enough about your views.

Step 1: Analyse The Question

The first thing to do is analyse the question.

TWO things are mentioned here: (1) “people are living longer” and (2) “life expectancy is increasing”. However, these are not two separate issues; I think life expectancy is mentioned to emphasise the fact that this will continue into the future, so it’s a long-term issue.

Now, I don’t want to die, so living longer only has advantages to me, but the question isn’t about ME, it’s about people in general; society.

So let’s reword the question , so it’s clearer: do the advantages of living longer outweigh the disadvantages for society?

Step 2: Decide My Position (What Do I Think?)

So, what do I REALLY think about this issue? In other words, what’s my position on this issue?

Clearly – if you REALLY think about this issue – there are BOTH advantages AND disadvantages to living longer for society, so you should discuss both advantages and disadvantages of you want to write a well-developed response (and have a chance of getting a Band 8 for TR).

On the whole, I think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages , because we can do more with our lives, BUT only if living longer means being healthier for longer, and being able to pay for retirement.

Step 3: Generate My Ideas (Why Do I Think This?)

Now let’s expand my position – why do I take this position? This is really just an expansion of the position I outlined above, into 4 main ideas .

Advantages:

A longer retirement means more opportunities for recreational pursuits – (assuming they have the health and money to pay for it.)
Grandparents can help to look after and offer advice to their grandchildren, making life easier for parents.

Disadvantages:

Older people are more likely to suffer from health problems, especially chronic health problems such as diabetes and back pain.
If older people don’t work, they need a larger pension to pay for their longer retirement.

Step 4: Develop My Ideas

Next, I’m going to develop my ideas using a logical structure. This will give me a clear essay plan.

Introduction :

people are living longer, and can expect to live longer, because of improved health care. Seems like a good thing, but are there any disadvantages of this trend?

Body Paragraph 1: Advantages

Main Idea 1: more time to be active and useful
Explanation 1 : opportunities for activities, hobbies
Explanation 2 : more people to look after our younger generation

Body Paragraph 2: Disadvantages

Main Idea: Both these advantages depend on good health and money.
Explanation 1 : older people more likely to have poor health; health care costs
Example : chronic health problems (diabetes, muscle pain)
Explanation 2 : pension funds may be limited. Who will pay?
advantages greater, but they depend on health and wealth.

So, all I need to do now is expand these notes into full sentences and link them together!

So here’s my essay:

My Model Essay

Over the last half century, life expectancy across the world has been rising as a result of better quality healthcare. This means that today we have an ageing population. On the face of it, living longer seems to be a good thing – after all, nobody really want to die! – but a decent old age depends on health and wealth.

Many people in their seventies and eighties, and even older, are able to enjoy a long and fulfilling retirement. They can travel to new destinations and get involved in a wide range of hobbies and activities that were impossible while working and bringing up a family. Those with grandchildren may also be able to help young, busy parents with such tasks as collecting children from school; moreover, they could share their life experiences with the younger generation.

But while there are tremendous benefits to increased life expectancy, they depend, to an extent, on being healthy and having money. Older people are more likely to suffer from medical problems, especially chronic illnesses like diabetes and muscle pain, which can seriously restrict the kinds of activities they do. This also means increased health care costs, for both individuals and society. In addition, if older people aren’t working, they will have to rely on savings and pensions to pay for their lifestyle, but many older people simply won’t have been able to save enough for a long old age.

Overall then, I feel that the benefits of living older are clear, but these must be balanced against the implications for health and money. If living longer simply means chronic health complaints and grinding poverty for a longer time, it is questionable as to whether it is an advantage at all.

I hope my model essay helps to show you how to write at a Band 8 or Band 9 level. If you think others will find this essay useful, please share it.

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How to write an IELTS thesis statement.

Ielts essay introductions and thesis statements..

updated: July 27th 2022. When writing the introduction of an IELTS essay there are two steps that need to be taken. Paraphrase the task question and write a Thesis Statement . If the question asks for an opinion then it must be in the thesis statement. It depends on the type of essay you are writing as they are not all the same. It is advisable to write a thesis in the introduction for every type of essay. A good thesis statement can help you get a good band score in task response in the writing section.

The thesis statement tells the examiner what the essay is going to be about and the conclusion of the essay paraphrases the thesis statement. Some teachers have other views and say that a thesis statement is not needed. There are different approaches to writing an IELTS essay. If you have 10 IELTS teachers in a room there will most likely be 10 different opinions on the matter.

In my opinion, a thesis statement is logical and shows the reader what to expect in the rest of the essay. However, do not confuse Thesis statements with memorised outline sentences. See this link here about that.

What exactly is a thesis statement?

‘A thesis statement tells the reader what your essay is going to be about in one or two sentences. It usually includes your opinion or states your position’

Don’t use rhetorical questions in the thesis. The thesis statement is not a question.
Make it clear what you are going to write about briefly (1 or 2 sentences)
If it’s an opinion essay, give 2 reasons for your opinion in the thesis statement.
The thesis statement comes after paraphrasing the question.
Do not write an outline sentence, these look like a cliche and memorised. Examiners are trained to spot memorised phrases, for instance: ‘ This essay would like to explore reasons for this in more detail’
Don’t confuse thesis statements with the above outline sentence. Outline sentences are for very long academic essays. See this lesson here on phrases to avoid.

For each essay type this is what should be in the Thesis statement:

1. Opinion essays: write 2 reasons for your opinion. 2. Advantage disadvantage essays: state the advantage and the disadvantage, 3. Problem solution essays: briefly state 1 or 2 problems and possible solutions. 4 . Discussion essays: after paraphrasing both sides of the argument, give your opinion with a reason why you hold that view. 5. Two part question essays: answer the 1st question then answer the 2nd question briefly.

First you have to identify what kind of essay it is.

The first step before you begin to write is to make sure you understand the question, then identify what kind of essay this will be. There are 5 variations on an IELTS discursive essay click here to see a lesson on this .

Before you write the thesis statement you will need to paraphrase the question , click here for a lesson on this. Click here to see how to write a good introduction to a Problem Solution essay.

1. Discussion essay.

advantages and disadvantages essay sample

This is the Paraphrased introduction with a Thesis statement.

A number of people believe serious crimes need to have a set punishment, whereas others argue that the situation of the crime must be considered. I agree that the circumstances of the crime itself should be taken into account because every case is different.

Thesis Statement: ‘ I agree that the circumstances of the crime itself should be taken into account because every case is different’

It is important to give a brief reason for your view, the body paragraphs should expand on this. The examiner can clearly see your position in the introduction. In this essay, my position is that every case is different and a prison sentence would not be appropriate.

Note: For a more academic feel, rather than using a personal pronoun to state your opinion, you could state your position like this below:

This essay agrees that the circumstances of the crime itself should be taken into account because every case is different.

2. Opinon essay.

Again you need to paraphrase the question and then clearly agree or disagree , remember to choose just one side.. the words: ‘To what extent do you agree or disagree’ means how much do you agree/disagree, or how far do you agree/disagree. You should mention the other side of the argument but stick to your own opinion. Balanced essays do not necessarily get a higher band score.

Give 2 reasons for your view in the thesis statement here. This is the Paraphrased introduction with a Thesis statement:

It is argued that society would be better off if every type of advertising was prohibited. I disagree that all advertising should be disallowed as this policy would not benefit society and would negatively impact the economy.

Thesis statement: ‘ I disagree that all advertising should be disallowed as this policy would not benefit societ y and would negatively impact the economy.’

In this thesis statement I have clearly stated why I hold the opinion that advertising should not be banned with 2 reasons (no benefit to society and bad for the economy) Remember to keep the introduction to under 55 words or it will be too long.

As mentioned before, you can use a more academic way to state your view, such as:

This essay disagrees that all advertising should be disallowed because this policy would not benefit society and would have a negative impact on the economy.

3. Advantages disadvantages essay.

This is the Paraphrased introduction with a Thesis statement:

In recent times, people can reside wherever they want in the world because of the progress that has made in technology and transport. The main advantage is the career opportunities that a person can get outside their own country, while a possible downside would be the stress of adjusting to living in a different culture.

Thesis statement: ‘ The main advantage is the career opportunities that a person can get outside their own country, while a possible downside would be the stress of adjusting to living in a different culture.’

Try keeping the whole introduction under 55 words as you don’t want it to look like a body paragraph. You can write about 2 advantages and 2 disadvantages, but you need to keep the introduction concise.

Another method is to just refer to the advantage and state the disadvantage, such as:

In recent times, people can reside wherever they want in the world because of the progress that has made in technology and transport. Although there are advantages, the downside would be the stress of adjusting to living in a different culture.’

This allows you to keep the thesis statement concise especially if you want to cover two advantages (or disadvantages)

4. Advantages disadvantages outweigh essay (this needs your opinion).

This type of advantage disadvantage essay is special because it asks ‘ Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?’. This means you have to write about what side you think is stronger and reflect that in the essay and also in the thesis statement. You need to state an opinion here.

Some experts argue that children should study a new language at primary school as opposed to secondary school. This essay agrees that the advantages are stronger than the disadvantages because youngsters pick up and master new languages much easier than at a high school age.

Thesis statement: ‘This essay agrees that the advantages are stronger than the disadvantages because youngsters pick up and master new languages much easier than at a high school age .’

I have underlined the reason for my opinion here. Giving a reason for your opinion is important in a thesis statement. The introduction is 44 words long so that will be fine. Remember to also address the other side of the issue in the main body paragraphs, the side you think is weaker.

Another method here is to use this style which is very concise at 32 words but it does not contain a reason for my view.

Some experts argue that youngsters should study a new language at primary school as opposed to secondary school. In my view, the advantages of younger children learning new languages outweigh the disadvantages.

5. Problem solution / causes solution essay.

People living in large cities have to deal with many issues in their day to day lives. The main problems people face are high rental costs and overcrowding. Some possible solutions would be to build more affordable housing and more green spaces.

Thesis statement: ‘ The main problems people face are high rental costs and overcrowding. Some possible solutions would be to build more affordable housing and more green spaces.’

I have listed 2 problems high rents, overcrowding and 2 solutions affordable housing, green spaces . You can choose just one problem and one solution and that would be fine.

6. Two part question (direct question essay).

The world wide web is a huge source of knowledge which has created opportunities for people worldwide to study. However, not all information on the internet can be trusted, so the government needs to put measures in place to protect people from false information.

Thesis statement: ‘ However, not all information on the internet can be trusted, so the government needs to put measures in place to protect people from false information.’

Two part question essays are sometimes called ‘Direct question’ essays. They consist of 2 direct questions in the task question. Sometimes they will ask for your opinion such as: Do you think….? or What do you think…?

If the question asks for the opinion then you must state it. You should briefly answer the 2 questions in the thesis statement then give more detail in the body paragraphs.

Check out the blog posts about how to identify the 5 essay types and also how to paraphrase the question . These are key stages before writing your thesis statement. Make sure your whole introduction is under 55 words or it will be too long.

Take a look here at how to write a good introduction in writing task 2. Now you can try.

Here is a Discussion essay question where you have to give your opinion. Can you write a Thesis statement for it?

Some people believe that the best way to deal with heavy traffic in city centres is for privately owned vehicles to be banned, others however think this is not a realistic solution. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

Task question again:

Some people believe that the best way to deal with heavy traffic in city centres is for privately owned vehicles to be banned, others however think this is not a realistic solution. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

Paraphrased introduction: Some people argue that prohibiting private cars from city centres is the best way to tackle traffic congestion, whereas others say that this is unrealistic.

Thesis statement: I agree that private vehicles should be banned from city centres and more investment needs to be put into public transportation to alleviate traffic jams.

Full introduction with thesis statement:

Some people argue that prohibiting private cars from city centres is the best way to tackle traffic congestion, whereas others say that this is unrealistic. I agree that private vehicles should be banned from city centres and more investment needs to be put into public transportation to alleviate traffic jams.

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About the video

IELTS Writing Task 2 constitutes of different types of Essays, from which Advantage Disadvantage Essay is an important one. This essay has commonly appeared in the ILETS Exam, so you should definitely understand how it can be answered.

There are two kinds of Advantage Disadvantage Essay- With Opinion and Without opinion. In the former, you are required to share your opinion after writing the advantages and disadvantages, while in the latter, you are only required to write the advantages and disadvantages.

In this video, You will see a sample answer for an Advantage and Disadvantage Essay explained by our instructor Sulekha Bhansali.

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Band 8 Sample About The Advantages And Disadvantages Of English As A Global Language

Band 8 essay sample.

As a part of globalisation English has become the most widely spoken language around the world. While there are many benefits to using English as a global language, it also has some negative effects.

To begin with, one of the main advantages of having one global language is that it will reduce the gap between the countries as there is no communication barrier. It helps to form a stronger relationship among the nations. As a result, international trades such as the importing and exporting of goods will increase and benefit the growth of economy around the globe. Furthermore, English helps people to travel around the world without experiencing any difficulties. Many tourists find it hard to communicate to the native people for their simple needs such as asking directions, ordering food etc. These issues will be solved if there is only one language.

On the other hand, there are many drawbacks to this trend. Language is a part of every culture. If everyone spoke one language, the other local languages will disappear gradually. Then, there would be no cultural diversity. One of the main reasons that attract tourists to other countries is that their cultural differences. If everyone has the same culture, there is no meaning in visiting other places. So this trend can have negative impacts on the tourism industry.

To conclude, although there are some negative sides to having a single global language, it brings many benefits such as the growth of international business and economy. In my opinion, the advantages of having one global language far outweigh its disadvantages.

(262 words)

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Ielts essay # 1478 - advantages and disadvantages of public libraries existing online, ielts writing task 2/ ielts essay:, public libraries will soon no longer be housed in a building as all facilities and books will be available online for all to access., what are the advantages and disadvantages of public libraries existing online.

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PTE Essay Writing Templates For High Scores: What to Know?

by Moni Vuong

Published on 14/10/2023 Last Updated 14/10/2023

Essay writing is a big challenge for most people taking the PTE test . The question “How to improve this score” always lingers in the test-taker’s mind.

This blog from PTE Magic will help you learn more about how to use PTE essay writing templates for higher scores.

The term “writing template” refers to a fixed format, which is created by masters, meeting all the requirements of writing tasks.

Following this, you can easily approach and gain a higher score for your upcoming PTE essay writing part.

Let’s take a look.

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Why should you use templates when writing a PTE essay?

Before going into the world of templates, let’s address the question on your mind: “Why should I use templates for PTE essays?” Well, here’s the scoop.

Time-efficiency

When doing PTE essay writing , it’s necessary to have an effective strategy. That helps you take advantage of the time and finish the test more smoothly.

Templates offer a structured framework that saves precious time during the exam. You don’t need to spend minutes organizing your thoughts. Instead, you can jump right into writing.

Consistency

Applying templates ensures that your essays have a consistent structure and flow. PTE essays are graded on criteria like coherence and cohesion. Therefore, writing logically is a key factor to win this part. Writing templates can help you achieve it effortlessly.

Clarity of thought

You can organize your thoughts logically, ensuring that your essay is easy to follow and understand when using templates.

In addition, having a structure to rely on also takes time for you to focus on content quality. You can generate more ideas instead of wondering about the skeleton of writing.

Improve scores

PTE writing templates usually are built by professionals. It aims to maximize test-takers’ scores. Thus, it includes all the necessary elements examiners look for, making it more likely for you to achieve a better result.

PTE essay types

PTE essays come in various forms with many different topics. It’s really hard to cover all of them.

However, writing templates supply model responses, that match with specific types of prompts. Understanding each of them can help you apply suitable samples aligned with the essay request.

Here are the most common PTE essay types:

Argument: This type provides two sides of an argument. It requires you to take a stance on an issue and provide supporting evidence. Your goal is to persuade the reader of your viewpoint with reasonable explanations and examples.
Advantages and disadvantages: In this topic, you need to examine the pros and cons of a given topic, presenting a balanced assessment of its advantages and disadvantages.
Agree and disagree: This writing form will give you a point and ask you to state an opinion (agree or disagree). After that, you also need to explain your choice, and give some evidence and examples to support your idea.
Problems and solutions: In this essay, you have to identify a problem and propose solutions. Your essay should discuss the problem’s causes and effects and offer practical solutions.
Essay on a given topic: Sometimes, PTE will provide a specific topic or question for you to address. Your task is to solve the required problem, respond concisely and directly to the prompt.

Overall, each type of prompt corresponds with one template writing. Before writing, you need to identify what types of topics you encounter to apply the right template.

Effective PTE essay writing template for maximum scores

Now that you know why templates are beneficial and the various essay types you might encounter, let’s delve into an effective PTE essay writing template that can help you score maximum points.

In general, each type of prompt has a different template to follow. However, it is normally based on a fixed essay skeleton including Introduction , Body paragraph , and Conclusion . Below is the model outline you can consider:

Introduction (about 40-50 words)

In this part, you need to:

Start with a hook or a general statement related to the topic, remember to paraphrase the requirement.
Clearly state your thesis or main point.
Provide a brief overview of the points you will discuss.

Body paragraph (about 200 words)

This part often contains two single paragraphs. Each of them is about 100 words in length. The structure of the body can include:

Topic sentence: Begin each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that connects to your thesis.
Explanation (about 1-2 sentences): You need to give some reasons explicating your point. Don’t forget to use transition words to connect your ideas and maintain a smooth flow.
Supporting details (Optional): After explanation, it’s essential to provide evidence, examples, or statistics to support your topic sentence. With these details, your idea can be clarified better.
Counterargument (Optional): Last but not least, you can address opposing viewpoints and explain why they are less valid. This sentence would strengthen your statement, and make it more persuadable.

Conclusion (about 40-50 words)

At the end of all writing, a conclusion is unavoidable. This part asks you to:

Summarize your main points.
Restate your thesis or main point in another expression way.
Provide a closing thought or call to action related to the topic.

Above is the general format of the PTE essay. You also need to adapt this template to the specific essay type you’re writing.

For instance, an argumentative essay will require a stronger emphasis on presenting and refuting opposing views, while the agree and disagree article will focus more on expressing your viewpoint.

Notice that the given structure is for reference. You don’t need to follow it 100% when writing as long as you make sure that your ideas are supported well.

4 PTE writing examples for all essay types

To truly grasp the power of templates, let’s explore some PTE writing examples for each essay type. These examples will showcase how the template can be customized to fit various essay prompts.

Argumentative Essay Sample

Prompt: “Should governments provide free healthcare for all citizens?”

Introduction

The important thing you need to do is to paraphrase the prompt and give out your opinion. For example:

Governments worldwide face the perennial question of whether they should let all citizens approach healthcare for free (paraphrase). In this essay, I will argue in favor of this policy, emphasizing that accessible healthcare is a fundamental right (state an opinion).

Body paragraph 1:

Topic Sentence: Free healthcare ensures equitable access to medical services.

Explanation: In countries where healthcare is free, citizens from all socioeconomic backgrounds receive necessary medical care.

Supporting details: This eliminates the disparity in healthcare access between the affluent and less privileged segments of society.

Body Paragraph 2:

Topic Sentence: Free healthcare reduces the financial burden on individuals.

Explanation: In nations with free healthcare, individuals do not face exorbitant medical bills, reducing financial stress. This improves overall well-being and economic stability for citizens.

Support details: According to statistics, 43 countries in the world have free healthcare for their citizens and most of them are developed countries.

Conclusion:

Restate your opinion: In conclusion, providing free healthcare to all citizens is not just a moral imperative but also a pragmatic solution to many societal issues. It ensures equitable access, relieves financial burdens, and promotes public health.

Provide a call to action: Governments should prioritize this fundamental right.

Agree and disagree essay

Prompt: “Do you agree or disagree with the statement: ‘Technology is making people less creative’?”

Paraphrase: The impact of technology on human creativity is a topic of considerable debate.

State your opinion: In this essay, I will argue that while technology has altered the creative landscape, it does not stifle creativity.

Topic sentence: Technology provides new avenues for the creative industry.

Explanation: Platforms like social media and digital art tools enable individuals to explore and showcase their creativity. Creators can connect to each other easily. Therefore, they can update, and learn from each other to improve themselves. Otherwise, the internet provides a wealth of information and inspiration at one’s fingertips.

Supporting details: For instance, websites like Freepik are provided to provide a wide range of materials for people to create their work.

Body paragraph 2:

Topic Sentence: Technology challenges individuals to adapt creatively.

Explanation: The rapid evolution of technology necessitates creative problem-solving and adaptation. This constant innovation not only fuels creativity in individuals and industries but also puts them under pressure. That they have to use this as a supporting tool, not let this replace them.

Supporting details: The appearance of chat GPT threatens the jobs of many people, especially content creators. However, it can not replace people. Instead, individuals use it to serve their work.

Conclusion: In conclusion, technology’s impact on creativity is multifaceted, and it can both enhance and challenge creative expression. Ultimately, creativity is not stifled by technology; it is redefined and enriched in the digital age.

Advantages and disadvantages essay

Prompt: “Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of online learning”

Paraphrase: The rise of online learning is a revelation of education, but it also raises pertinent questions regarding its advantages and disadvantages. In this essay, we will explore both sides of the online learning debate.

Body paragraph 1 (About advantages)

Topic sentence: Firstly, let’s look into some pros of online education.

Pros 1: Online learning offers flexibility and convenience. Learners can access courses from anywhere at their own pace. This flexibility accommodates diverse schedules and lifestyles. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, students still can access education via online learning platforms.

Pros 2: Online learning reduces geographical barriers. It allows access to top-notch courses and instructors worldwide. This democratizes education and promotes inclusivity. For instance, people in Vietnam can easily take part in a workshop in the US on the Internet.

Body paragraph 2 (About disadvantages)

Topic sentence: Although it provides many advantages, online learning also has some side effects.

Cons 1: Online learning lacks the social interaction of traditional classrooms. Students miss out on face-to-face interactions and group dynamics. This can hinder the development of social skills and a sense of community.

Cons 2: Learning on the internet requires students to have suitable devices to connect. But not all students have that good life conditions. Poor people or those who live in remote areas would find it really difficult to access.

In conclusion, online learning presents a mixed bag of advantages and disadvantages. Its flexibility and accessibility are game-changers, but the absence of physical interaction and potential isolation are important considerations. A balanced approach to education must harness the best of both worlds.

Problems and solutions essay

Prompt: “Discuss the problem of air pollution in urban areas and propose solutions.”

Paraphrase: Air pollution in urban areas is a pressing issue with far-reaching consequences.

We will examine some causes and effects of this problem and propose effective solutions in this essay.

Body paragraph 1 (mention a cause and offer a solution for it) :

Cause: Urban air pollution is primarily caused by vehicle emissions. More and more cars are used nowadays, combined with the inadequate public transportation systems, elevating pollution in urban on the next level.

Solution: To solve this problem, it’s crucial to reduce vehicle emissions. Instead of driving cars, people can walk or use public transportation. In addition, the government implements strict emissions standards to control this problem.

Body paragraph 2:

Cause: In many areas of the world, millions of square kilometers of forest have been destroyed for human personal purposes. Forests are also considered as the green lungs of the earth. Lack of this natural shield, the air becomes more vulnerable.

Solution: People should protect and strive to cultivate more trees in the world. Moreover, the government also can intervene by enforcing strict regulations on deforestation.

In conclusion, urban air pollution is a multifaceted problem, but it is not insurmountable. As long as we take action to maintain and protect the air, cities can breathe easier and provide a healthier environment for their residents.

4 tips for memorizing the templates

Now that you’ve seen the power of templates, you might be wondering how to memorize them effectively. Here are some tips to help you commit these templates to memory:

Practice frequently

There’s simply no substitute for practice. The more you immerse yourself in utilizing the templates, the more ingrained they will become in your memory.

You need to write and write every day to get familiar with and gradually become proficient in template writing. Dedicate time each day to practice writing essays using the templates, and you’ll notice a significant improvement in your recall during the exam.

Visual aids

If you find it too hard to learn in a traditional way only, let’s try another way. You can create visually stimulating aids or flashcards that encapsulate the key components of the templates.

Visual cues can be highly effective in enhancing your memory. For instance, you might design a visual representation of the essay structure or use color-coded cues to signify different sections.

Break it down

Sometimes, memorizing the entire template can feel overwhelming.

To tackle this, you can break the template into manageable sections. Start by memorizing the introduction, then the body paragraphs, and finally the conclusion. By focusing on one part at a time, you’ll find it easier to grasp and remember the template as a whole.

Repetition is a fundamental technique for memorization. Repeatedly write out the template or recite it aloud. The more you engage with the material, the more firmly it will be etched in your memory.

After repetition, don’t forget to test yourself without looking at the template. Try to recall the structure and key points of the template from memory. This active recall technique strengthens your ability to remember the template during the exam.

In the world of PTE essay writing, templates are your trusty companions on the path to success. They provide structure, save time, and enhance your chances of scoring well. Understanding the various essay types and customizing your template accordingly is crucial.

The examples we’ve explored illustrate how templates can be adapted to address diverse prompts. With the right tools and knowledge, you can conquer this aspect of the PTE exam and excel in your endeavors.

Last updated on 14/10/2023

My name is Moni, and I am a seasoned PTE teacher with over 6 years of experience. I have helped thousands of students overcome their struggles and achieve their desired scores. My passion for teaching and dedication to my student’s success drives me to continually improve my teaching methods and provide the best possible support. Join me on this journey toward PTE success!

I am a firm believer that the best teachers educate with their hearts not just their minds.

Moni | PTE MAGIC International Founder

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Band 9 IELTS Essays

IELTS essay about the advantages and disadvantages of computer games

by Manjusha Nambiar · Published November 1, 2015 · Updated April 20, 2024

IELTS essay

Some people think that computer games are bad for children, while others believe that they are useful. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of computer games and give your own opinion.

Sample response

Computer games are addictive. That is the main reason children play them for hours on end. There are several disadvantages to spending a lot of time in front of the computer.

Computer games merely provide entertainment. Children who are addicted to computer games tend to have poor grades because they do not get enough time to focus on their studies. Also, they have reduced social skills. They are constantly glued to their screens and show hardly any interest in interacting with their family members or peers. This can lead to social isolation and serious behavioural problems.

Some popular computer games glorify violence and crime. Children who grow up playing these games may get into anti-social activities. Even if they don’t become criminals in the future, they may still exhibit a disregard for values. Computer games also cause vision problems in children. Children are not supposed to stare at the computer screen for hours on end. If they do, they will develop serious eye strain which may also affect their studies.

On the bright side, computer games make children competitive. Games that require them to play against virtual or real opponents living in another part of the world improve their concentration and ability to take decisions quickly. These are definitely positive aspects but a child does not have to play computer games to develop these skills.

To conclude, after analysing the advantages and disadvantages of playing computer games it is not hard to see that the disadvantages outweigh the advantages. In my opinion, parents should restrict the amount of time their children spend in front of the computers. That said, there is no harm in playing a game or two every now and then, but addiction is definitely a problem.

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Hi, I'm Manjusha. This is my blog where I give IELTS preparation tips.

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