Task 2 · · 18 samples

It is important for people to take risks, both in their professional lives and their personal lives. Do you think the advantages of taking risks outweigh the disadvantages? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.

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Plan your answer

Try your own response before reading the samples.

Ideas to explore

  • A calculated professional risk, such as proposing a new workplace system, can lead to career advancement; even rejection can offer useful experience.
  • Taking an educational opportunity in a new city may involve loneliness at first but can foster independence and broaden a person's perspective.
  • Balance potential rewards against possible financial, emotional and family costs; distinguish careful decisions from impulsive risk-taking.

Suggested structure

  1. Introduce the topic and state clearly whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.
  2. Acknowledge meaningful risks and explain why they are more manageable when decisions are carefully assessed.
  3. Develop a professional-life example, including both its possible downside and potential benefit.
  4. Develop a personal-life example and explain its longer-term effects.
  5. Conclude with a direct judgement that restates the importance of calculated risk.
Useful vocabulary & examples
a calculated risk
A risk taken after considering its possible consequences.

Proposing a new system at work can be a calculated risk if the employee has assessed its likely costs and benefits.

career development
Progress in a person's work skills, responsibilities or professional opportunities.

Taking on an unfamiliar project may support career development.

financial or emotional costs
The monetary or psychological difficulties that may result from a decision.

A move to another city can bring financial or emotional costs during the initial adjustment.

weigh the possible costs
Consider the likely disadvantages before making a choice.

People should weigh the possible costs before committing to a major change.

Sample answers

AI-completed learning example

288 words · Illustrative target band

Risk-taking is a fundamental aspect of human life, influencing both professional careers and personal experiences. While some argue that risks can lead to negative consequences, others believe that the potential benefits outweigh the drawbacks. This essay will argue that the advantages of taking risks generally surpass the disadvantages, as risks often lead to personal growth, greater opportunities and a stronger sen…

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AI-completed learning example

360 words · Illustrative target band

It is important for individuals to take risks, both in their professional and personal lives, as it often leads to growth and valuable opportunities. While risks may involve uncertainty and potential setbacks, the rewards they bring can outweigh the disadvantages in most situations. This essay will discuss why taking risks is essential and how the benefits can be realised without accepting an unlimited downside. In …

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AI-completed learning example

355 words · Illustrative target band

The Importance of Taking Risks in Life Taking risks is an essential part of life, both professionally and personally. While some people avoid uncertainty, others embrace it, believing that risks lead to growth and new opportunities. Although taking risks can have downsides, the benefits outweigh the disadvantages because life is short, and people should pursue meaningful opportunities with preparation. In profession…

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