IELTS Writing Sample #61
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Some people prefer to plan activities for their free time very
carefully. Others choose not to make any plans at all for their free time.
Compare the benefits of planning free-time activities with the benefits of not
making plans.
Which do you prefer - planning or not planning for your leisure time?
Use specific reasons and examples to explain your choice.
You should write at least 250 words.
model answer:
Nowadays people have so many things to do that they almost always do not have
enough time for it. When we go to bed we carefully think and plan our next day
and it continues day in and day out. We wake up, recollect our checklist with
things to do and in a few minutes we are already in a car on our way to the
office. Often people do not have time for themselves. So, when people have some
spare time they want to use it wisely. Some people prefer to plan activities for
their free time very carefully. However, others prefer not to make any plans. In
this essay I will analyze both cases and present my view in favor of planning
free-time activities.
From the one side, not making any plans and just letting the time pass by for
some time have some benefits. First of all, a person can just relax, enjoy the
beautiful moments, spend his or her time with loved ones, watch a movie, listen
to relaxing music, observe the flowers in bloom from the window, contemplate
about his or her life and just slow down the pace of life. I think it is a very
good way to eliminate one's stress and tension and just leave all troubles and
worries behind.
From the other side, careful planning can bring many benefits too. First of all,
one can travel. However, traveling requires some planning to be made. For
example, one most likely will need a hotel room. So, the reservation should be
made beforehand. Also, it is wise to check one's car to avoid breakdowns and
have an uninterrupted worry-free trip. Second of all, planning one's activities
allows to spend one's free time the way he/she likes. For instance, if I want to
play tennis on incoming week-end I will certainly make a reservation for a court
because in this case I will not be disappointed with the waste of my time.
Personally, I prefer to make plans for my free time because it allows me to
spend my vacation or week-ends the way I want it.
To sum up, I think careful planning allows people to derive maximum benefits
from their free time. However, I must confess sometimes I allow my self just to
stay at home with my friends and family and not make any plans.
(394 words)