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?

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Plan your answer

Try your own response before reading the samples.

Ideas to explore

  • A considered career risk, such as applying for a more demanding role, can build skills even if it does not produce immediate success.
  • Personal risks such as moving to a new place or addressing a difficult issue can encourage independence and improve relationships.
  • Unplanned risks can threaten savings or affect family members, so preparation and a backup plan help reduce potential harm.

Suggested structure

  1. Introduce the topic and state your view on whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.
  2. Explain professional benefits with a specific example and its possible outcome.
  3. Discuss personal benefits using a separate example.
  4. Acknowledge significant disadvantages, including financial or family consequences.
  5. Reach a clear conclusion that weighs the risks and suggests how to manage them.
Useful vocabulary & examples
a calculated risk
A risk taken after considering its possible benefits and consequences.

Applying for a more demanding position can be a calculated risk.

financial security
The condition of having enough money and stability to meet financial needs.

People should consider whether a business decision could affect their financial security.

a backup plan
An alternative course of action prepared in case the first plan does not work.

Having a backup plan can reduce the harm if a new business fails.

weigh the possible outcomes
To consider the likely positive and negative results before deciding.

Before changing jobs, people should weigh the possible outcomes.

Sample answers

AI-completed learning example

333 words · Illustrative target band

It is often argued that taking risks in both professional and personal lives is essential. While there are potential disadvantages to risk-taking, I believe the benefits far outweigh them. Risks can not only prepare individuals for an unpredictable future but also foster a fearless mindset, both of which are crucial for personal and professional growth. A useful distinction is between courage and disregard for conseq…

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AI-completed learning example

348 words · Illustrative target band

Being willing to take risks is often valued in the occupational as well as private life of each individual. From my perspective, I believe that the downsides of challenging oneself to cope with difficulties would be eclipsed by its benefits in terms of life fulfillment and profound lessons accumulated. The prime disadvantage of taking risks is the possibility of a loss that affects more than the person making the dec…

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AI-completed learning example

339 words · Illustrative target band

There are numerous pathways to achieving a prosperous life, and individuals often opt for varying approaches. While some may embrace risk-taking, others may prefer to remain within the confines of their comfort zones. I firmly contend that seizing opportunities and facing challenges is essential for personal and professional growth, despite the inherent risks involved. Engaging with an unfamiliar opportunity can be u…

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