Some argue that social networking sites bring people closer together, while others believe they contribute to loneliness. Discuss both sides and provide your own view.

The advent of social networking
sites
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has ignited a fierce debate regarding their impact on human
relationships
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. Proponents argue that these
platforms
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foster connections among
individuals
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,
whereas
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critics contend that they may lead to increased
feelings
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of isolation.
This
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essay will elucidate both perspectives before presenting a personal viewpoint on the matter. Supporters of social
media
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assert that these
platforms
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serve as vital tools for enhancing interpersonal
relationships
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, particularly in an increasingly globalised world. They argue that social networking
sites
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facilitate communication across geographical boundaries, allowing
individuals
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to maintain friendships and family ties that may
otherwise
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wane
due to
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distance.
For instance
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,
platforms
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such
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as Facebook and WhatsApp allow
users
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to share personal updates, celebrate milestones, and maintain a sense of closeness despite physical separation.
Furthermore
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, these
sites
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can create communities of like-minded
individuals
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, which may provide emotional support and foster a sense of belonging,
thus
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counteracting
feelings
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of
loneliness
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. An illustrative example is the way in which LGBTQ+
individuals
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have utilised social
media
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to connect with others, leading to significant socialisation and support during times of societal stigma.
Conversely
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, opponents of social networking highlight the potential adverse effects on mental well-being, advocating that these
platforms
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can exacerbate
feelings
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of
loneliness
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. Critics argue that
while
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individuals
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may have numerous online connections, the quality of these
interactions
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is often superficial, leading to a paradoxical sense of isolation. Many
users
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find themselves engaging in online
interactions
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at the expense of meaningful face-to-face
relationships
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, which can significantly diminish the quality of social engagement. Research indicates that excessive use of social
media
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is correlated with increased rates of anxiety and depression, as
users
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often find themselves comparing their lives to the curated highlight reels presented by others.
This
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continuous comparison can lead to dissatisfaction and
feelings
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of inadequacy, isolating
individuals
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even
further
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.
Furthermore
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, the addictive nature of social networking
sites
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can perpetuate a cycle of solitude, where
users
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, in their pursuit of online validation, neglect real-world
interactions
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. In conclusion,
while
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social networking
sites
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undeniably have the potential to connect people and cultivate
relationships
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across substantial distances, they
also
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pose risks that can lead to
loneliness
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and alienation. It is crucial for
users
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to strike a balance between their online and offline
interactions
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, ensuring that social
media
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serves as a bridge rather than a barrier. In my view, these
platforms
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can be both beneficial and harmful, and it is the responsibility of
individuals
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to navigate them wisely, fostering genuine connections that combat
loneliness
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rather than exacerbate it.

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task achievement
Make sure each point is fully explained with clear examples.
coherence and cohesion
Use more linking words to connect your ideas smoothly.
coherence and cohesion
Make sure every paragraph has a clear main idea.
coherence and cohesion
You have a clear introduction and conclusion that summarize your points well.
task achievement
Your essay presents balanced views, showing both sides of the argument.

Word Count

IELTS says that you should write a minimum of 250 words in writing task 2. If you go under word count you will lose marks in task response.

A very long essay will not give you a higher band score.

Aim for between 260 to 290 words in writing task 2. This will ensure a concise essay and will be realistic in terms of time management. You have only 40 minutes to write the essay and you need around 10 minutes of planning time, so you will not be able to write a long essay in 30 minutes.

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