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User-written IELTS example

Writing Academic Task 2 Band 6.0 Example

Original task prompt, user essay, band score, and related examples in the same report workspace.

280 words AcademicTask 2
Task 2

Illustrative target band for this original model answer.

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Ideas to explore

  • Working after school can bring early income, practical skills and experience of workplace expectations.
  • University or college may be necessary for regulated or specialist professions and can develop transferable skills.
  • The two routes can be combined through internships or part-time employment during study.

Suggested structure

  1. Introduce both views and state your opinion clearly.
  2. Explain the benefits of entering work after school, with a relevant example.
  3. Present the benefits of higher education, including qualifications and transferable skills.
  4. Compare the routes in your opinion paragraph and conclude with a clear preference.
Useful vocabulary & examples
practical experience
Skills and knowledge gained by doing work rather than only studying it.

Starting a job after school can provide practical experience and workplace skills.

structured training
An organised programme that teaches employees the skills required for a role.

Structured training can make immediate employment a suitable route into some trades.

specialised knowledge
Detailed understanding of a particular subject or profession.

A university course can provide the specialised knowledge needed for some careers.

transferable skills
Abilities, such as communication, that are useful across different jobs.

Higher education can help students develop transferable skills such as problem-solving.

Task Prompt

Some people believe that studying at university or college is the best route to a successful career, while others believe that it is better to get a job straight after school. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

User Essay Analysis

Review the public answer with report-style highlights.

Band 6.0

While some people argue that individuals should find a job right after graduating from school, others believe that further education is necessary for a successful career. I do support the latter for several reasons. On the one hand, some people say that starting work straight after high school is the best route for a successful career. Young people can earn money earlier and become independent rather than spending several years in classrooms. They also gain practical experience, learn how a workplace operates, and may develop useful skills such as communication and time management. In fields where employers value experience more than formal qualifications, this route can help a person progress quickly. However, without suitable training, workers may have fewer opportunities to move into specialised or senior roles.

On the other hand, university or college provides structured learning and qualifications that are essential for many professions. Students can build detailed knowledge in their chosen subject, while also improving research, problem-solving and teamwork skills. A degree may also make applicants eligible for jobs that are unavailable to people without relevant credentials. Although higher education requires time and money, it can be a worthwhile investment when students choose a course linked to their goals and make use of internships or work placements.

In my opinion, further education is generally the better choice for a successful career, because it combines specialist knowledge with broader skills and can open doors to professional work. Nevertheless, getting a job immediately after school is a sensible option for those whose chosen field prioritises practical experience or who cannot afford to study. Overall, the best path depends on career aims, but education offers a stronger foundation for many people.

Targeted Improvement Tips

1
Add one specific example of a career that requires formal qualifications, then explain why that requirement makes further study valuable.
2
Vary repeated phrases such as “successful career” by using a more precise outcome, such as access to professional roles or opportunities for promotion.
3
After drafting, underline each main claim and check that the next sentence explains its effect on career prospects rather than simply adding another general benefit.

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