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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.

291 words AcademicTask 2
Task 2

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

  1. Introduce both views and state a clear, qualified opinion.
  2. Explain why students may need to prioritise their main qualification.
  3. Present the benefits of studying beyond the major, supported by a relevant example.
  4. 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

Many university students want to learn about different subjects in addition to their main subjects. Others feel it is important to give all their time and attention to studying for their qualification. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

User Essay Analysis

Review the public answer with report-style highlights.

Band 7.0

University students should study minor subjects alongside their main subject. Some argue that focusing solely on qualifications or careers is the most important use of their time. I strongly believe that students must be familiar with both their major and minor subjects for holistic growth and development. Firstly, learners typically possess a curious mind and are often eager to explore areas beyond their degree. Studying a second subject can therefore keep this natural curiosity alive and help students see connections between disciplines. For example, a science student who takes a communication course may become better at explaining complex ideas, while a business student studying psychology may gain a clearer understanding of consumer behaviour. These broader skills can be useful in many careers, where solving problems often requires more than specialist knowledge.

On the other hand, students who concentrate on their qualification can develop deeper expertise in the field they have chosen. University courses are demanding, and dividing attention between several subjects may leave less time for essential reading, assignments and practical training. This concern is particularly understandable for students preparing for professions that require extensive specialist knowledge. A strong academic foundation may also improve their chances of meeting the requirements for their intended careers.

Nevertheless, I do not think students need to choose only one approach. They should give priority to their main subject, while selecting a limited number of complementary subjects that support their interests or future plans. Universities can help by offering flexible electives, so students can broaden their knowledge without neglecting core requirements. In my view, this balanced approach enables learners to gain both expertise and a wider perspective. Therefore, additional study is valuable when it is planned carefully and does not undermine progress towards the main qualification.

Targeted Improvement Tips

1
Make the opening contrast more precise by describing the second view as prioritising the main qualification and career preparation, rather than pairing 'qualifications' with 'careers' as if they were equivalent.
2
Use one developed example to explain how a particular additional subject complements a main field; then link that benefit directly to your opinion.
3
Keep the balanced recommendation explicit in the conclusion: prioritise core study, but choose a small number of relevant electives.

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