Regular credit score monitoring has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays, particularly in questions about personal finance and financial literacy. Based on recent exam patterns, this theme has appeared in approximately 15% of financial responsibility related questions between 2020-2023, making it a significant area for preparation.
Let’s examine a recent IELTS task 2 question on this topic:
Some people believe that regularly checking credit scores is essential for financial wellbeing, while others think it is unnecessary and creates anxiety. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This is a discussion + opinion type question that requires:
- Examining both perspectives on credit score monitoring
- Providing your personal stance
- Supporting arguments with relevant examples
- Following a clear essay structure
Band 8 Sample Essay
Regular monitoring of credit scores has become a contentious issue in personal finance management, with divergent views on its necessity and impact. While some individuals consider it crucial for financial health, others view it as an unnecessary source of stress. I believe that regular credit score monitoring is beneficial when approached with the right mindset and understanding.
Those who advocate for regular credit score monitoring present compelling arguments. Firstly, it allows individuals to detect and address potential fraud or errors promptly, preventing long-term damage to their financial reputation. Additionally, maintaining awareness of one’s credit score enables better financial decision-making, particularly when applying for loans or credit cards, as it helps predict approval chances and potential interest rates.
Regular credit score monitoring for financial wellbeing and security
However, opponents argue that constant credit score checking can lead to unnecessary anxiety. They contend that obsessing over minor score fluctuations may cause stress and potentially lead to poor financial decisions driven by emotional reactions rather than rational thinking. Furthermore, some believe that maintaining good financial habits naturally results in a healthy credit score, making regular monitoring redundant.
In my opinion, the benefits of regular credit score monitoring outweigh its potential drawbacks. The key lies in adopting a balanced approach – checking scores at reasonable intervals (perhaps quarterly) rather than daily or weekly. This strategy provides sufficient awareness without causing undue stress and allows individuals to maintain financial health while avoiding obsessive behavior.
(290 words)
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Credit score monitoring is something that many people have different opinions about. Some people think it’s very important to check credit scores often, while others think it’s not necessary. I will discuss both sides and give my thoughts.
People who support checking credit scores regularly say it’s good for several reasons. First, it helps people know if someone is using their identity for fraud. Second, when people want to get loans or credit cards, they can know if they will get approved or not. This can save time and prevent disappointment.
On the other hand, some people think checking credit scores too much is bad. They say it makes people worry too much about money. Also, if people just pay their bills on time and don’t spend too much money, their credit score will be good anyway, so they don’t need to check it all the time.
Impact of excessive credit monitoring on mental wellbeing
I think checking credit scores is important but shouldn’t be done too often. Maybe checking every three or four months is enough. This way, people can know about their financial situation but won’t get too stressed about it. It’s like going to the doctor – you need regular checkups, but going every day would be too much.
In conclusion, while some people think credit score monitoring is very important and others think it’s unnecessary, I believe the best approach is somewhere in the middle. Regular but not too frequent monitoring can help people maintain good financial health without causing too much stress.
(251 words)
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization and cohesive devices
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Balanced discussion with clear personal stance
- Natural flow between paragraphs
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear language
- Basic organization with some cohesion
- Adequate discussion of both views
- Less sophisticated vocabulary
- More basic examples and explanations
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- contentious (adj) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause disagreement
- divergent (adj) /daɪˈvɜːrdʒənt/ – developing in different directions
- redundant (adj) /rɪˈdʌndənt/ – not needed; superfluous
- obsessive (adj) /əbˈsesɪv/ – excessive in thinking about something
- fluctuation (n) /ˌflʌktʃuˈeɪʃən/ – irregular rising and falling in number or amount
- anxiety (n) /æŋˈzaɪəti/ – worry or nervousness
- financial wellbeing (n) /faɪˈnænʃəl welˈbiːɪŋ/ – state of being comfortable with one’s financial situation
- fraud (n) /frɔːd/ – wrongful deception for financial gain
Consider practicing with these related topics:
- The importance of financial education in schools
- The role of technology in personal finance management
- The impact of social media on spending habits
Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
