In some countries, young people are encouraged to work or travel for years between finishing high school and starting university studies. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for young people who decide to do this.

In some parts of the world, it is common for young people to take a gap
year
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after finishing high school and before starting university. During
this
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time, they often travel or work.
This
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essay will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of
this
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choice. One main advantage is that a gap
year
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gives young people the chance to gain life experience. By working or travelling, they learn about different cultures, become more independent, and improve their social skills. These experiences can help them mature before entering university.
Also
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,
students
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who work during
this
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time may save money to help pay for their studies. Another benefit is that taking time off can help
students
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decide what they really want to study. Some
students
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are unsure about their future after high school. A
year
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of real-world experience may help them choose a career path with more confidence.
On the other hand
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, there are some disadvantages.
Firstly
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, some
students
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may find it hard to return to academic life after a long break. They might lose study habits or motivation, which can affect their university performance.
Secondly
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, travelling or living independently can be expensive, and not every student has the money to afford a gap
year
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. In conclusion, taking a
year
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off after high school can help young people grow personally and professionally, but it is not the right choice for everyone.
Students
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should carefully think about their goals and financial situation before making
this
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decision.

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task achievement
Consider adding more examples to support your points, such as personal stories or statistics about gap years.
coherence and cohesion
Ensure each paragraph flows smoothly to the next. You can use linking words to improve the connection between ideas.
task achievement
Try to develop your ideas a bit more in the disadvantages section, to show a balanced view of the topic.
coherence and cohesion
The essay is well-structured with a clear introduction and conclusion.
task achievement
Good identification of both advantages and disadvantages of taking a gap year.

Fully explain your ideas

To get an excellent score in the IELTS Task 2 writing section, one of the easiest and most effective tips is structuring your writing in the most solid format. A great argument essay structure may be divided to four paragraphs, in which comprises of four sentences (excluding the conclusion paragraph, which comprises of three sentences).

For we to consider an essay structure a great one, it should be looking like this:

  • Paragraph 1 - Introduction
    • Sentence 1 - Background statement
    • Sentence 2 - Detailed background statement
    • Sentence 3 - Thesis
    • Sentence 4 - Outline sentence
  • Paragraph 2 - First supporting paragraph
    • Sentence 1 - Topic sentence
    • Sentence 2 - Example
    • Sentence 3 - Discussion
    • Sentence 4 - Conclusion
  • Paragraph 3 - Second supporting paragraph
    • Sentence 1 - Topic sentence
    • Sentence 2 - Example
    • Sentence 3 - Discussion
    • Sentence 4 - Conclusion
  • Paragraph 4 - Conclusion
    • Sentence 1 - Summary
    • Sentence 2 - Restatement of thesis
    • Sentence 3 - Prediction or recommendation

Our recommended essay structure above comprises of fifteen (15) sentences, which will make your essay approximately 250 to 275 words.

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