IELTS Essay Writing: Most Repeated Questions in 2024

Introduction

Explore the most repeated IELTS essay questions in 2024.

If you’re preparing for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), you’re probably aware of the importance of the writing section, especially essay writing.

Writing section of IELTS is one of the most difficult modules to get above 6.5 bands. Even those with exceptional skills frequently fail to rise above a certain barrier. Although it appears that the task’s intricacy would be prohibitively difficult to implement, the truth is quite different. To complete the work successfully, simple strategies and an awareness of the marking criteria are required.

This blog post will delve into great detail about the most often asked questions of 2024 thus far and provide the best possible answer for the most repeated prompt. Instead of approaching it like any other collection of popular questions, make an effort to understand the specifics and get insight into the craft of writing well. Comprehending these recurrent IELTS essay questions is essential to attaining your targeted band score, regardless of your level of expertise.

Exploring Common IELTS Essay Questions

Let’s delve into some specific examples of frequently repeated essay questions in the IELTS exam:

• Traffic Congestion: “The best way for the government to reduce traffic congestion is by providing free public transport around the clock. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

• Education: “Some people believe that children should start school at a younger age, while others think they should not start school until they are older. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

• Technology: “With the rise of technology, many people are now able to work from home instead of commuting to work every day. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

• Environment: “In many countries, the government is investing in renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. Is this a positive development?”

Strategies for Approaching Repeated IELTS Essay Topics

Crafting a compelling essay requires strategic planning and effective execution. Here are some strategies to consider:

• Brainstorming: Before writing, spend a few minutes brainstorming ideas and relevant examples for each side of the argument. Choose the side for which you have more compelling arguments.
• Structuring: Use a clear and coherent structure, such as the traditional essay format with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• Supporting Arguments with Examples: Incorporate real-life examples, statistics, or personal experiences to support your arguments. For instance, when discussing the advantages of technology, cite examples of how it has improved communication or facilitated remote work opportunities.

Examples and Practice Exercises

To reinforce your understanding of repeated IELTS essay questions, let’s analyze a sample essay prompt:

Essay Prompt: "The best way for the government to reduce traffic congestion is by providing free public transport around the clock. To what extent do you agree or disagree?"

1. Brainstorming: Generating Ideas

Before diving into writing, take a few moments to brainstorm ideas for each side of the argument. Consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of the government’s proposal to provide free public transport around the clock. Jot down relevant examples, statistics, and personal experiences that can bolster your arguments.

Pros	Cons
Would encourage more people to utilize these services	Cost of such a scheme would be substantial
Alleviate financial burdens on commuters	Would cause overcrowding, longer wait times, and decreased quality of service

Let’s say I have more compelling arguments regarding cons so I’ll better disagree with the statement.

2. Structuring Your Essay

A clear and coherent structure is essential for conveying your ideas effectively. Follow the traditional essay format i.e.,

• Introduction + Thesis Statement (Paragraph 1)
• Body Paragraph 1
• Body Paragraph 2
• Conclusion

Start with a captivating introduction that sets the stage for your argument and includes a thesis statement outlining your stance on the issue. For example, for the above mentioned prompt, the introduction statement would be “In addressing the perennial issue of traffic congestion, some argue that providing free public transport round the clock is the most effective solution.” It’s just the paraphrasing of the given statement. As for the thesis statement “While I acknowledge the potential benefits of this approach, I disagree with the notion that it is the best way for governments to mitigate traffic congestion.”

3. Supporting Arguments with Examples

Incorporating real-life examples is crucial for strengthening your argument and showcasing your understanding of the topic. When discussing the advantages or disadvantages of the government’s proposal, draw upon relevant examples that illustrate your points. For instance, you could cite cities or countries where free public transport initiatives have been implemented and analyze their effectiveness in reducing traffic congestion. Additionally, reference statistics on public transportation usage or share personal anecdotes about commuting experiences.

Then, use each body paragraph to present a distinct argument supported by evidence and examples. The way I teach my students to write the body paragraphs follows the following structure.

• Context - To begin with, implementing free 24-hour public transport presents several challenges and may not comprehensively address traffic congestion.
• Argument - Firstly, the cost of such a scheme would be substantial, requiring significant investment in infrastructure, personnel, and maintenance. The governments would need to reallocate funds from other crucial sectors or raise taxes to sustain this initiative, which may not be politically feasible or financially viable in the long term.
• Example - For instance, the city of London faced a similar dilemma when considering the implementation of the “Night Tube” service, which aimed to provide round-the-clock subway service on weekends. Despite initial enthusiasm for the project, the substantial cost of extending operating hours, ensuring safety measures, and addressing staffing concerns posed significant financial
• hurdles.
• Edify.pk provides you with various examples and guidance through this video.

Ideal Essay Response:

An ideal essay response would begin with a succinct introduction that provides context for the topic and presents a clear thesis statement. The body paragraphs would each focus on a specific aspect of the argument, presenting well-developed points supported by evidence and examples. Each argument would be logically structured and supported by relevant examples, statistics, and real-life experiences. The conclusion would summarize the main points of the essay and reiterate the thesis statement, leaving the reader with a strong impression of the writer’s position on the issue.

“In addressing the perennial issue of traffic congestion, some argue that providing free public transport round the clock is the most effective solution. While I acknowledge the potential benefits of this approach, I disagree with the notion that it is the best way for governments to mitigate traffic congestion.
To begin with, implementing free 24-hour public transport presents several challenges and may not comprehensively address traffic congestion. Firstly, the cost of such a scheme would be substantial, requiring significant investment in infrastructure, personnel, and maintenance. The governments would need to reallocate funds from other crucial sectors or raise taxes to sustain this initiative, which may not be politically feasible or financially viable in the long term. For instance, the city of London faced a similar dilemma when considering the implementation of the “Night Tube” service, which aimed to provide round-the-clock subway service on weekends. Despite initial enthusiasm for the project, the substantial cost of extending operating hours, ensuring safety measures, and addressing staffing concerns posed significant financial hurdles.
Furthermore, offering free public transport around the clock could strain existing services, leading to overcrowding, longer wait times, and decreased quality of service. For instance, when the city of Tallinn in Estonia introduced free public transport for residents in 2013, it initially experienced a surge in ridership that overwhelmed the existing infrastructure. The buses and trams became overcrowded during peak hours, causing delays and discomfort for commuters. Without adequate planning and investment in expanding capacity, similar challenges could arise in other cities considering the implementation of 24-hour free public transport, ultimately undermining the initiative’s intended goals.
In conclusion, 24-hour public transport is not the most effective solution for traffic congestion. A multifaceted approach, including investment in infrastructure, congestion pricing, urban planning, and promoting alternative transportation, would likely yield more sustainable outcomes.”