The topic of long-term benefits of early investment has appeared frequently in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations, particularly in agree/disagree and discussion essays. Based on analysis of past papers, this theme has shown up in approximately 15% of tests over the last 5 years, making it a highly relevant topic for IELTS candidates to prepare for.
Benefits of preventive healthcare provides an interesting parallel to understanding how early investment in various aspects of life can yield significant returns over time.
Let’s examine one of the most common question types on this topic:
Some people believe that young people should invest their money as early as possible for long-term benefits, while others think they should enjoy their money when they are young. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss advantages of early investment
- Present arguments for spending/enjoying money in youth
- Provide a balanced discussion
- State and support their own position
Young professionals discussing investment strategies and financial planning
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate between saving for the future and living in the moment presents a significant dilemma for young people today. While both approaches have their merits, I firmly believe that early investment offers more substantial long-term advantages.
Those who advocate for early investment present compelling arguments. Firstly, compound interest makes early investing particularly powerful, as money invested in youth has more time to grow exponentially. For example, someone who starts investing $200 monthly at age 25 could accumulate significantly more wealth by retirement compared to someone starting at 35. Additionally, developing financial discipline early creates beneficial habits that last a lifetime.
Conversely, proponents of enjoying money in youth argue that young people should prioritize experiences and personal development. They contend that traveling, pursuing hobbies, and socializing are essential for building life skills and memories. Furthermore, youth offers unique opportunities for adventures and experiences that may become less accessible with age and increased responsibilities.
However, I believe this perspective overlooks the possibility of striking a balance. Young people can allocate their resources strategically, setting aside a portion for investment while maintaining a reasonable budget for current enjoyment. Similar to importance of investing in education funds, this balanced approach ensures both immediate satisfaction and future security.
In conclusion, while immediate gratification has its appeal, the advantages of early investment are too significant to ignore. The key lies in finding an equilibrium that allows for both current enjoyment and future financial security.
Young adults maintaining work-life balance while managing finances
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, young people have different opinions about what to do with their money. Some think it’s better to invest early, but others want to spend it now. This essay will discuss both sides and share my thoughts.
People who support early investment have good reasons. When you invest young, your money grows more over time. Also, you can be ready for emergencies and have a better future. Like importance of building credit score early, starting to save when young helps build good money habits.
On the other hand, some people think youth is for enjoying life. They say we should travel, have fun with friends, and try new things while we’re young. They believe these experiences are more valuable than saving money.
In my opinion, young people should try to do both. They can save some money for the future but also keep some for enjoying life now. This way, they can have fun but also be responsible.
To conclude, both saving and spending have their good points, but I think a mix of both is best. Young people should think carefully about their money and make smart choices.
Key Vocabulary
- compound interest (n) /ˌkɒmpaʊnd ˈɪntrəst/ – interest calculated on both the initial principal and accumulated interest
- financial discipline (n) /faɪˈnænʃəl ˈdɪsəplɪn/ – the practice of managing money wisely
- exponentially (adv) /ˌekspəˈnenʃəli/ – increasingly rapidly
- gratification (n) /ˌɡrætɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/ – pleasure or satisfaction
- allocate (v) /ˈæləkeɪt/ – distribute for a particular purpose
Practice Suggestion
Try writing your own essay on this related topic:
“Some argue that investing in property early in life is the best financial decision young people can make. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion. Remember to focus on clear structure, balanced arguments, and appropriate use of examples.
