The topic of freelancing versus traditional employment has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations, appearing roughly 3-4 times annually since 2019. This reflects the global shift in work patterns and employment preferences, particularly accelerated by recent technological advances and changing workforce demographics.
Analysis of Recent IELTS Questions
Three notable question variations have appeared:
Some people believe that freelancing offers more benefits than traditional full-time employment. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question format has appeared most frequently, making it an excellent focus for our sample essays.
Question Analysis
This is an agree/disagree essay that requires:
- A clear position on whether freelancing is more beneficial than traditional jobs
- Supporting arguments with specific examples
- A balanced consideration of both work arrangements
- A well-reasoned conclusion
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The rise of digital technology has sparked debate about whether freelancing provides superior advantages compared to conventional employment. While both work arrangements have their merits, I firmly believe that freelancing often offers more significant benefits in today’s dynamic economy.
Firstly, freelancing provides unparalleled flexibility and autonomy. Independent professionals can choose their working hours, location, and projects, allowing for better work-life balance. For instance, a freelance graphic designer can work from anywhere globally while selecting projects that align with their interests and expertise. This freedom is particularly valuable for those with family commitments or pursuing additional education.
Moreover, freelancing typically offers higher earning potential. Unlike traditional jobs with fixed salaries, freelancers can take on multiple projects simultaneously and set their rates based on market demand and expertise. A skilled freelance software developer, for example, can earn substantially more than their counterparts in traditional employment by working with multiple clients globally.
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that traditional employment provides certain advantages, such as stable income and benefits packages. Nevertheless, many freelancers can mitigate these challenges through proper financial planning and private insurance arrangements. Furthermore, the stability of traditional jobs is increasingly questionable in today’s rapidly evolving job market.
In conclusion, while both work arrangements have their place, freelancing’s flexibility, earning potential, and alignment with modern work trends make it a more advantageous choice for many professionals in the contemporary economy.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 7.5)
The debate between freelancing and traditional employment has become increasingly relevant in today’s workforce. I agree that freelancing offers more advantages, although this depends largely on individual circumstances and career goals.
Freelancing provides several key benefits. The most significant advantage is the flexibility it offers in terms of working hours and location. Freelancers can choose when and where they work, making it easier to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Additionally, they have the opportunity to earn more by taking on multiple projects and setting their own rates.
Traditional employment, however, shouldn’t be dismissed entirely. It provides regular income, healthcare benefits, and career advancement opportunities within established organizations. These aspects can be particularly important for individuals seeking stability and structured professional growth.
Nevertheless, the benefits of freelancing often outweigh these considerations. Freelancers can develop diverse skills through various projects and build a broader professional network. They also have greater control over their career development and can adapt quickly to market changes.
In conclusion, while both work arrangements have their merits, freelancing generally offers more advantages in terms of flexibility, earning potential, and professional growth opportunities.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 6.5)
These days, many people think freelancing is better than normal jobs. I agree with this idea because freelancing has many good points.
First, freelancing lets people work when they want. They can choose their time and place to work. This is good for people who have family or other things to do. Also, freelancers can earn more money if they work hard and get many clients.
But traditional jobs are also good because they give regular salary and benefits like health insurance. Some people like this because it makes them feel safe. However, I think freelancing is still better because the world is changing fast and we need to be flexible.
The main problem with freelancing is that sometimes work is not stable. But if people are careful with money and plan well, they can manage this problem. Also, they can learn new skills easily by doing different jobs.
In conclusion, I think freelancing is better than traditional jobs because it gives more freedom and chances to earn more money.
Vocabulary Analysis
- unparalleled (adj) /ʌnˈpærəleld/ – having no equal; exceptional
- autonomy (n) /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – freedom to act independently
- mitigate (v) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – make less severe or serious
- contemporaneous (adj) /kənˌtempəˈreɪniəs/ – occurring or existing at the same time
- dismissive (adj) /dɪsˈmɪsɪv/ – showing lack of consideration for something
- structured (adj) /ˈstrʌktʃəd/ – arranged according to a pattern or plan
- advancement (n) /ədˈvɑːnsmənt/ – development or progress
- diverse (adj) /daɪˈvɜːs/ – showing a great deal of variety
For practice, readers are encouraged to write their own essays addressing similar topics such as:
- Remote work vs office-based employment
- Gig economy benefits and challenges
- Digital nomad lifestyle compared to traditional careers
Please share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.