User-written IELTS example
Writing Academic Task 2 Band 7.0 Example
Original task prompt, user essay, band score, and related examples in the same report workspace.
Illustrative target band for this original model answer.
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Ideas to explore
- Specialising can provide the depth of knowledge and practical competence required by demanding professional qualifications.
- Additional subjects can develop transferable abilities, such as communication and collaboration across professional fields.
- A balanced position is to prioritise core degree requirements while choosing a limited number of useful electives.
Suggested structure
- Introduce both views and state a clear, qualified opinion.
- Explain why students may need to prioritise their main qualification.
- Present the benefits of studying beyond the major, supported by a relevant example.
- Conclude by defining a practical balance between specialist depth and broader learning.
Useful vocabulary & examples
- develop deep expertise
- build detailed knowledge and skill in a particular subject or profession
Focusing on core courses can help students develop deep expertise in their chosen field.
- transferable skills
- abilities that are useful in different jobs or areas of study
Electives can help students develop transferable skills such as communication and analysis.
- complement a degree
- add useful knowledge or skills to a main course of study
Courses in business can complement a science degree.
- at the expense of
- in a way that reduces or harms something else
Broader study is valuable, but it should not come at the expense of essential specialist learning.
Task Prompt
User Essay Analysis
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It is debated whether students should divide their time between studying their majors and pursuing unrelated interests or prioritize only their qualifications. Some undergraduates consider specialization in one subject the key to success. However, I believe that people should gain knowledge from various areas to prepare themselves for their future. On the one hand, learning about a range of subjects can broaden students’ understanding and help them develop skills that are useful beyond their main field. For example, a science student who takes courses in communication or business may become better at explaining research and working with colleagues. Studying different subjects can also encourage creativity, as students encounter new ways of approaching problems. This broader education may therefore be valuable when graduates enter a workplace where they need to adapt to different tasks. On the other hand, there are good reasons to focus closely on a qualification. University programmes often contain demanding material, and students need time to attend classes, complete assignments and gain practical experience. If they spread their attention too widely, they may struggle to master essential knowledge in their chosen profession. This is particularly important in fields such as medicine or engineering, where a strong foundation in specialist subjects is necessary. In my view, students should give priority to their main course while making room for a manageable amount of study in other areas. They do not need to pursue several additional subjects in depth; a carefully chosen elective or short course can provide useful breadth without reducing the time available for their qualification. Universities can support this balance by offering flexible options that complement, rather than compete with, core study. In conclusion, while concentrating on a degree is essential for academic and professional preparation, learning beyond one’s major can develop wider abilities. A balanced approach is therefore the most beneficial.
Targeted Improvement Tips
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