The Essay
The essay is always Part 1 of the Writing paper. It is compulsory — you must answer it. You are given a question and two points to develop, and must add a third point of your own. The style is formal.
Structure
1 paragraph
Rephrase the essay question in your own words. Introduce the topic and make it clear what the essay will discuss. Do not simply copy the question.
- In today’s world, many people believe that…
- There are several reasons why… is an important issue.
- This essay will consider…
1 paragraph
Develop the first note from the task. Give your opinion and support it with at least one reason or example. Do not just describe — argue.
- One of the most important… is…
- To begin with, it is clear that…
- For instance, / For example,…
1 paragraph
Develop the second note. Use a contrast linker to connect it to the previous paragraph. Again, give reasons and your opinion.
- Another significant factor is…
- Furthermore, / In addition,…
- However, it could also be argued that…
1 paragraph
This is your own idea — not mentioned in the notes. It should be relevant to the topic and developed with the same care as the other two points.
- Finally, it is worth considering…
- A further point that deserves attention is…
- One aspect that is often overlooked is…
1 paragraph
Summarise your main points briefly and give a clear overall opinion. Do not introduce new ideas here.
- To sum up, / In conclusion,…
- Taking everything into account,…
- It seems clear that… is essential / important / necessary.
Useful language
Annotated model answer
Task: Your English teacher has asked you to write an essay about whether young people today have a better quality of life than previous generations. Use the notes: 1. technology 2. work and money, and add your own idea.
It is often said that we live in the best of times, yet many young people today would disagree. ① Whether the current generation truly enjoys a better quality of life than those before it is a question that deserves careful consideration.
To begin with, advances in technology have undeniably improved many aspects of daily life. ② Access to information, healthcare and communication has never been easier, and this has opened opportunities that previous generations could not have imagined. ③
However, the picture is not entirely positive. When it comes to work and financial security, many young people today face significant challenges. ② Rising housing costs and unstable employment contracts mean that achieving financial independence is considerably harder than it was for earlier generations.
A further point that is often overlooked is the impact on mental health. ④ The pressure of social media and constant comparison with others has contributed to higher levels of anxiety and stress among young people today, which significantly affects their overall wellbeing.
In conclusion, while technology has brought real benefits, the financial and psychological pressures facing young people today suggest that quality of life has not improved in every respect. ⑤ A balanced view is therefore essential when comparing generations.
The question is paraphrased — not copied. Ends with a sentence that signals the essay structure. Formal tone from the first line.
Each paragraph opens with a clear topic sentence that links to the task note. The reader always knows what point is being made.
The point is supported with a specific idea. Notice the complex clause structure — not just simple sentences.
Mental health is the writer’s own third point — not in the task notes. It is relevant, argued and supported, not just mentioned.
Summarises both sides briefly. Gives a clear overall position. No new information is introduced here.
Before you submit — checklist
- I have addressed all three points (including my own idea)
- I have used formal language throughout
- I have not copied the question — I have paraphrased it
- Each paragraph has a clear topic sentence
- I have used a range of linkers (not just ‘but’ and ‘and’)
- I have included some complex sentence structures
- My conclusion does not introduce new ideas
- I have written between 140 and 190 words
- I have checked spelling and punctuation
- I have varied my vocabulary (avoided repeating words)
Common mistakes to avoid
In my opinion I think that technology is good because it helps us a lot and it is very useful for young people today.
I am convinced that technology has had a profound effect on young people’s lives, offering opportunities for learning and connection that were previously unavailable.
In conclusion, I talked about technology and work and money and also mental health. These are all important.
In conclusion, while technology has brought genuine benefits, the financial and psychological challenges facing young people today mean that quality of life has not improved in all areas.