Some people believe that work-life balance is essential for maintaining good health. Others argue that career success requires sacrificing personal time. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
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
Structure is crucial for "Discuss Both Views" essays. Dedicate one full body paragraph to each perspective presented in the question. For instance, Body Paragraph 1 should explore why work-life balance is essential, and Body Paragraph 2 should discuss why career success might demand personal sacrifice. Avoid introducing your personal opinion until the conclusion to maintain objectivity in the body paragraphs.
To strengthen your arguments, incorporate specific examples. For the work-life balance view, you could reference Scandinavian countries' progressive policies, such as Sweden's trials with shorter workdays, which often report higher employee satisfaction and productivity. For the career success view, consider the "hustle culture" prevalent in tech startups or competitive industries like finance, where long hours are often seen as a prerequisite for rapid advancement.
A common pitfall is failing to *discuss* both views adequately, instead merely describing them or presenting a one-sided argument. To avoid this, ensure each body paragraph not only outlines a perspective but also provides supporting reasoning, examples, and perhaps even acknowledges potential counter-arguments within that view. Your personal opinion should only appear in the conclusion, synthesizing the discussion rather than dominating it prematurely.
Employ clear linking phrases to guide the examiner through your discussion. Start Body Paragraph 1 with a phrase like "On the one hand, many proponents argue that..." and transition to Body Paragraph 2 with "Conversely, another school of thought contends that..." or "However, an alternative perspective suggests...". In your conclusion, use phrases such as "Having considered both perspectives, I am inclined to believe..." to introduce your opinion smoothly.
For a band 8-9, examiners look for a nuanced discussion that demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of the inherent tension between the two views. This means not just listing points but developing them with logical arguments, relevant examples, and a wide range of precise vocabulary related to health, career, and lifestyle. Your personal opinion must be well-supported and logically derived from the preceding discussion, showcasing critical thinking rather than a simplistic preference.
Step 2
Recommended Essay Structure (Band 7+ Standard)
1Introduction
Show mastery by presenting both sides fairly and establishing your stance.
- Demonstrate understanding of BOTH perspectives — this shows critical thinking
- State which side you lean toward — even if you're discussing both equally
- Maintain neutral, academic tone — avoid emotional language or bias
Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph
There are differing opinions on whether...While some people believe that..., others argue that...This essay will examine both perspectives before reaching a conclusion.2Body Paragraph 1 — First Viewpoint
Present one side with respect and credibility.
- Even if you disagree, present this view authentically with real examples
- Use academic reporting language: 'Research indicates...', 'Studies show...', 'Experts argue...'
- Acknowledge strengths — this demonstrates balanced analysis and earns marks
Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph
On the one hand, supporters of this view argue that...Those in favour point out that...A key argument for this position is...3Body Paragraph 2 — Opposing Viewpoint
Present the counter-argument with equal depth and sophistication.
- Match the structure and depth of paragraph 1 — examiners compare them
- Use contrasting transition words: 'Conversely', 'In contrast', 'On the other hand'
- If you have an opinion, make this paragraph slightly stronger — but stay fair
Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph
On the other hand, critics contend that...However, there is a strong counter-argument...Conversely, many people feel that...4Conclusion
Synthesize both views and deliver your decisive judgment.
- Acknowledge validity of both sides — this shows intellectual maturity
- State your preference clearly and confidently — don't hedge or waffle
- Take a firm position — examiners reward clarity over fence-sitting
Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph
In conclusion, while both sides have merit, I believe that...Having considered both arguments, it seems 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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