Nowadays, many people choose to be self-employed rather than working for a company or organization. Why might this be the case? What could be the disadvantages?
Write **at least 250 words**. Spend ~40 minutes. This is a real IELTS exam-style question.
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Step 1
IELTS Examiner Tips for This Topic
Crucially, dedicate a distinct body paragraph to each part of the question: one for 'Why might this be the case?' and another for 'What could be the disadvantages?'. Ensure your topic sentences clearly signpost which aspect you are addressing, and develop each point thoroughly with explanations and examples to demonstrate a comprehensive response to both components of the task.
For 'Why might this be the case?', consider arguments like the accessibility of global markets through e-commerce platforms (e.g., Etsy, Shopify) and the rise of the 'gig economy' enabled by apps (e.g., Uber, Upwork), which lower the barrier to entry for self-employment. For disadvantages, discuss the precarity of income in the absence of a stable salary and benefits, or the blurring of work-life boundaries due to constant digital connectivity, leading to potential burnout.
The most common mistake on this question is failing to connect the reasons and disadvantages of self-employment to the underlying technological shifts that have made it so prevalent today. To avoid this, ensure your arguments for both parts explicitly or implicitly reference how digital tools, remote work capabilities, or online platforms have influenced this trend, rather than just listing general pros and cons of working for oneself.
When transitioning from discussing the reasons for self-employment to its disadvantages, employ a clear contrastive or concessive linking strategy. Phrases like 'While these factors present a compelling case for self-employment, it is equally important to acknowledge the significant drawbacks...' or 'Despite the allure of autonomy and flexibility, the path of self-employment is fraught with its own set of challenges...' will effectively bridge your paragraphs.
For a band 8-9, examiners look for a nuanced discussion that goes beyond superficial points, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of modern work dynamics. This includes exploring the double-edged sword of technology in empowering self-employment while simultaneously introducing new forms of precarity or work-life imbalance, all presented with a wide range of precise vocabulary and complex grammatical structures.
Step 2
Recommended Essay Structure (Band 7+ Standard)
1Introduction
Hook the examiner and establish your position immediately.
- Rephrase the question using powerful synonyms — avoid copying words
- State your opinion clearly in the final sentence — leave no doubt
- Keep it tight: 2-3 sentences max. Every word must earn its place.
Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph
It is often argued that...There is a growing debate about whether...In my view, ... because ...2Body Paragraph 1 — Your Strongest Argument
Make your most compelling case with undeniable evidence.
- Start with a powerful topic sentence — state your argument boldly
- Support with concrete evidence: statistics, real-world cases, or expert research
- Explain exactly HOW your evidence proves your point — connect the dots for the examiner
Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph
The primary reason I hold this view is that...This is clearly illustrated by...For instance, in many countries...3Body Paragraph 2 — Supporting Argument
Strengthen your position with a complementary perspective.
- Choose a different angle — if paragraph 1 was economic, try social, environmental, or ethical
- Use fresh evidence — avoid repeating the same examples or reasoning
- Explicitly link back to your thesis — show how this strengthens your overall position
Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph
Furthermore, it is worth considering that...Another compelling argument is that...This is further supported by the fact that...4Conclusion
Leave a lasting impression with a confident, memorable ending.
- Never introduce new ideas — this is your final summary
- Restate your position using stronger vocabulary than the introduction
- Keep it powerful: 2 sentences max. End with authority.
Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph
In conclusion, I firmly believe that...To sum up, the evidence clearly suggests that...Step 3
High-Scoring Vocabulary & Collocations
Step 4
Academic Phrases for This Essay Type
It is widely acknowledged thatThere is compelling evidence to suggestThis phenomenon can be attributed toA growing body of research indicatesThe implications of this are far-reachingThis raises important questions aboutFrom a broader perspectiveIt would be short-sighted to ignoreAddition
MoreoverFurthermoreIn additionWhat is moreContrast
HoweverNeverthelessOn the other handConverselyCause / Effect
ConsequentlyAs a resultThereforeThis leads toExample
For instanceTo illustrateA case in point isSuch asConcession
AlthoughWhile it is true thatDespiteAdmittedlyStep 5
Grammar Patterns for Band 7+
Complex sentence with concession
Although some argue that technology isolates people, the evidence suggests it strengthens connections.
Shows advanced grammatical control. Start with 'Although/While' + opposing view, then state your position — demonstrates nuanced thinking.
Conditional (Type 2)
If governments invested more in public transport, traffic congestion would decrease significantly.
Perfect for hypothetical scenarios and solutions. Structure: 'If + past simple, would + infinitive' — shows flexibility and imagination.
Passive for academic tone
It is often argued that education should be free. However, this view overlooks the practical challenges.
Academic writing favors passive constructions. 'It is + past participle + that' creates authoritative, objective tone.
Relative clause
Students who study abroad, which is becoming increasingly common, tend to develop greater independence.
Adds sophistication without complexity. Use 'who' for people, 'which' for things, 'that' for either.
Noun phrase for density
The rapid expansion of urban areas has led to increased pollution levels.
Packs more information into fewer words. 'The implementation of effective policies' vs 'policies are implemented effectively' — boosts Lexical Resource score.
Step 6
Band 9 Model Answer (Fully Marked)
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Download Official IELTS Answer Sheet (PDF)More IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics in This Category
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In many countries, people now wear western-style clothes such as suits and jeans rather than traditional clothing. Why is this? Is this a positive or negative development?
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