• Academic Success

IELTS WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write at least 250 words about the following topic:

Some people believe that the most important factor for success in school is high intelligence, while others believe that other factors like hard work and determination are more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5

Outline:

    1. Introduction:
      • Paraphrase: The topic of whether high intelligence or other factors like hard work and determination are more crucial for success in school is a subject of debate.
      • Main opinion: From my personal experiences and knowledge, I firmly believe that while intelligence can be advantageous, hard work and determination are ultimately more vital in achieving academic success.
    2. Body (Detail 1):
      • Supporting sentence: Intelligence can provide a head start in academic pursuits, making learning seem effortless and enabling some students to excel with relative ease.
    3. Body (Detail 2):
      • Supporting sentence: However, hard work and determination are integral to academic achievement as they foster a growth mindset, encouraging individuals to embrace challenges and continuously seek improvement.
    4. Conclusion:
      • Summarize: The debate revolves around high intelligence versus hard work and determination, with both sides having their merits.
      • Restate main opinion: In my view, intelligence may offer certain advantages, but it is the sustained effort and determination that play a more crucial role in achieving academic success. By cultivating a strong work ethic and unwavering determination, students can unlock their full potential, thriving academically and beyond.

Essay: 

In the pursuit of academic success, there are differing views on the key factor that contributes the most. Some argue that high intelligence is paramount, while others contend that qualities like hard work and determination play a more crucial role. Drawing from my personal experiences and knowledge, I firmly believe that while intelligence can be advantageous, hard work and determination are ultimately more vital in achieving success in school.

Undoubtedly, intelligence can provide a head start in academic pursuits. Having a sharp mind and quick grasp of concepts can make learning seem effortless, allowing students to excel in their studies with relative ease. Throughout my school years, I witnessed classmates who seemed naturally gifted in grasping complex subjects, achieving high grades with minimal effort. However, relying solely on intelligence can lead to complacency, hindering the development of essential study skills and work ethic.

On the other hand, hard work and determination are integral to academic achievement. I have personally experienced instances where my diligent effort and perseverance paid off, even in subjects that did not come naturally to me. By setting clear goals, maintaining a disciplined study routine, and persistently seeking to improve, I was able to overcome challenges and witness noticeable progress in my academic performance.

While intelligence and innate abilities may open doors, it is the sustained effort and determination that carry students through the journey of education. Intelligence alone cannot guarantee success if not accompanied by the diligence to harness one’s potential fully. Furthermore, hard work fosters a growth mindset, encouraging individuals to embrace challenges and view failures as opportunities for improvement.

In conclusion, the debate over the most critical factor for success in school revolves around high intelligence versus hard work and determination. While intelligence can offer certain advantages, my personal experiences and understanding lead me to believe that hard work and determination are more crucial in achieving academic success. By cultivating a strong work ethic and unwavering determination, students can unlock their full potential, enabling them to thrive academically and beyond.

Essay: 

The key determinant of academic success has been a subject of debate, with some asserting that high intelligence is the most crucial factor, while others argue that qualities like hard work and determination hold greater significance. Based on my personal experiences and understanding, I believe that a combination of high intelligence, hard work, and determination is essential for achieving success in school.

Undeniably, high intelligence can offer certain advantages in a school setting. A quick grasp of concepts and a strong analytical mind can propel students ahead in their studies. I have observed classmates who displayed exceptional intelligence and effortlessly excelled in academics. However, intelligence alone may not be enough to ensure success in the long run. Without the drive and determination to apply oneself consistently, even the most intelligent students may fail to reach their full potential.

On the other hand, hard work and determination play a vital role in academic achievements. I have personally experienced instances where my diligence and perseverance in studying and completing assignments contributed significantly to my academic progress. Hard work fosters discipline, time management, and resilience in the face of challenges, all of which are crucial for excelling in school.

In my view, both high intelligence and hard work are essential components of academic success, and they complement each other. While intelligence can provide a head start, hard work and determination ensure that one continues to strive for excellence, even when faced with difficulties. These qualities are transferable to various aspects of life and can lead to well-rounded personal development.

In conclusion, the debate over the most critical factor for success in school centers on high intelligence versus hard work and determination. From my experiences, I firmly believe that both factors are integral to academic achievement. By combining intelligence with diligence and determination, students can unlock their full potential and pave the way for success in their educational journey and beyond.

Essay:

The topic of academic success has ignited a debate between those who advocate high intelligence as the primary factor and others who argue in favor of hard work and determination. From my perspective, while intelligence can provide certain advantages, the combination of hard work and determination plays a more pivotal role in achieving success in school.

Undeniably, high intelligence can offer a head start in academic endeavors. I have observed students who possess innate intelligence, effortlessly grasping complex concepts and achieving high grades with relative ease. However, relying solely on intelligence can be limiting in the long run. Without the diligence and determination to apply oneself consistently, even the brightest minds may not reach their full potential.

On the other hand, hard work and determination are key drivers of academic achievement. My own experiences have demonstrated the significance of sustained effort and perseverance in overcoming challenges and excelling academically. By dedicating time and energy to study and staying committed to my goals, I was able to see significant improvements in my academic performance.

In my view, the most successful students are those who combine intelligence with hard work and determination. While intelligence may open doors, it is the relentless pursuit of excellence through hard work that ensures continued growth and progress. Moreover, the virtues of hard work and determination extend beyond academic life, preparing individuals for success in various aspects of their personal and professional journeys.

In conclusion, the debate over the most critical factor for success in school revolves around high intelligence versus hard work and determination. While intelligence can provide advantages, my personal experiences lead me to believe that it is the combination of intelligence and unwavering effort that yields the greatest academic success. By embracing both qualities, students can unlock their full potential and thrive in their educational pursuits.