October 02, 2026

Checked IELTS Writing Task 1

Checked Version

The pie chart illustrates the proportion of children aged 5–14 who prefer different sports.

Overall, football is the most popular choice, while karate is the least popular of the named sports.

Football is the largest category [k3: slightly imprecise chart-report wording] accounts for the largest share, at 26%, followed by swimming with 22%. Together, these two sports make up just under half of the total. Baseball takes 18%, while basketball and volleyball each account for 11%. Karate has the smallest share at 8%, and other sports make up the remaining 4%.

Football and swimming dominate the chart, together accounting for 48%, whereas all the remaining individual categories represent less than one fifth each.

Task Achievement Issue

The response is only about 85–90 words. [k0: task achievement — an IELTS Writing Task 1 response must contain at least 150 words. Although you identify the main features accurately, the response is substantially underdeveloped.]

You need roughly another 60–70 words. Since you have already reported all the figures correctly, add comparisons rather than simply repeating the data. For example, compare football with karate, combine the two 11% categories, or contrast the three most popular sports with the remaining categories.

Estimated IELTS Score

Criterion Estimated Band Feedback
Task Achievement 4.5–5.0 You identify the main trend and report all the figures accurately. However, the response is far below the 150-word requirement, so the information is not sufficiently developed for IELTS Task 1.
Coherence and Cohesion 7.0 You organise the information clearly and move logically from the overview to the details. Comparisons such as “followed by” and “together” are used effectively.
Lexical Resource 7.0 You use appropriate chart vocabulary, including “proportion”, “accounting for”, “make up”, “share” and “remaining”. There are virtually no serious lexical problems.
Grammar Range and Accuracy 7.0 Your grammar is accurate and controlled. The main limitation is that the response is too short to demonstrate a wider range of structures.
Overall Estimated Band 6.0–6.5 The language itself is considerably stronger than Band 6, but the severe underlength lowers Task Achievement substantially.

Feedback for You

You have actually described the chart very accurately. Your overview is clear, the figures are correct, and you make a useful combined comparison by noting that football and swimming account for 48% together.

Your main problem is simply length and development. Do not add empty sentences to reach 150 words. Instead, make more comparisons between the categories. Your language is already strong enough; you mainly need to demonstrate more analysis.

October 10, 2026

 Fashion brands create unnecessary pressure on young people to keep up with trends. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 — Assessment

Task: Fashion brands create unnecessary pressure on young people to keep up with trends. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Word count: Approximately 244 words (minimum: 250).

Criterion Band / 9 Assessment
Task Response 6.0 You address the main proposition and eventually make your agreement clear. However, the introduction does not specify how strongly you agree, and your first body paragraph is devoted to the opposing argument without a convincing rebuttal. Your two supporting arguments are relevant but need examples and fuller explanations.
Coherence and Cohesion 6.0 The essay has recognisable paragraphs and a generally understandable progression. However, the structure resembles a discussion essay. Your two supporting arguments are combined in one paragraph, and some links imply conclusions that have not been adequately established.
Lexical Resource 6.0 You use relevant vocabulary such as "standards of beauty", "personal preferences" and "keep up with trends". However, several combinations are unnatural or imprecise, and words such as "brands" and "view" are repeated unnecessarily in neighbouring sentences.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy 6.0 You attempt complex sentences, including an although-clause and causal structures. However, ambiguous references, awkward clause construction and unnatural passive expressions occasionally reduce clarity.
Overall estimated IELTS band 6.0 / 9 Your arguments are relevant, but more consistent task alignment, fuller development and more precise language are needed for Band 7.

Marked essay

The fashion industry is widely debated, especially regarding whether it negatively affects young people's desire to keep up with trends [k3: inaccurate paraphrase of the task!— the issue is not a reduced desire to follow trends, but the pressure to conform to fashionable standards] its marketing strategies make young consumers feel obliged to adopt the latest styles.

. Supporters [k2: unclear reference — supporters of which position?] Those who agree with this claim cite the huge amount of advertising [k3: imprecise collocation, huge is too informal] extensive advertising and models with an ideal look and body shape [k3: inaccurate wording — distinguish between objectively ideal beauty and the appearance presented as ideal by advertisers] presented as having ideal appearances and body shapes, while opponents [k2: unclear reference] those who disagree point to a wide range of styles and personal preferences.

 

This essay discusses both views and concludes that brands influence teenagers' opinions on following trends. [k0: task achievement — this is not a discussion essay. You need to state how strongly you agree or disagree with the claim that brands create unnecessary pressure. Influencing someone's opinion is not necessarily the same as exerting pressure.] I strongly agree that fashion brands place unnecessary pressure on teenagers through idealised advertising and the promotion of particular styles as socially desirable.

Fashion brands are often criticised for encouraging young people to conform to prevailing fashions. Although the industry offers a wide variety of styles, I strongly agree that advertising campaigns and unrealistic beauty standards can make teenagers feel obliged to adopt certain appearances, even when these conflict with their personal preferences.

On the one hand [k2: unsuitable paragraph opening — this suggests a discussion structure. According to your assigned template, you should first develop the reasons for your own position (whis is stronly supportive of the claim in the title), then introduce the opposing view as a concession.] Admittedly, it is often argued that teenagers might have their own views on their appearance, as brands do to convince others about how a person should look [k4: faulty clause construction + k2: illogical connection — you are arguing that teenagers can make independent decisions, yet the following clause says that brands influence their choices. These ideas need to be distinguished.] regardless of the images presented in fashion advertisements. Moreover, nowadays designers have created such a massive range of clothing that it is suitable for different styles [k3: awkward phrasing + k4: unclear pronoun reference — what exactly does "it" refer to?] such a wide range of clothing that young people can find items suited to their individual styles.

Although young people can come to the conclusion [k3: unnecessarily wordy expression] may believe that brands do not encourage a particular way of looking [k3: unnatural collocation] a particular appearance, but provide the opportunity to choose, I hold an opposing view. [k0: task achievement + k2: underdeveloped rebuttal — merely stating that you disagree does not refute the opposing argument. Explain why the variety of styles does not eliminate pressure to conform.] I disagree because this freedom of choice does not remove the pressure created by the repeated promotion of certain looks as fashionable.

Admittedly, young people can express their individuality through clothing, since designers offer styles to suit different tastes. However, having a wide range of options does not necessarily protect teenagers from the pressure to follow popular trends, particularly when advertising repeatedly portrays certain appearances as more desirable than others.

Of all the arguments, the strongest one to prove my view [k3: repetition of "view" from the preceding sentence — arguments support a position rather than conclusively prove it] The strongest argument supporting my position is that brands unconsciously create standards of beauty [k3: inaccurate word choice + k2: unsupported assumption — you cannot establish that fashion companies act unconsciously. Also, this repeats "brands" from the previous sentence.] fashion companies reinforce narrow beauty standards by choosing the most attractive people [k3: subjective and overly absolute description] conventionally attractive models to wear their clothes.

Not surprisingly, young people feel uncomfortable with [k3: overgeneralisation — not all young people react this way] may feel dissatisfied with their appearance, as they find some differences between themselves and the models [k3: unnatural collocation] notice differences between themselves and the people featured in advertisements. Therefore, insecurities and a desire to change oneself are created [k3: unnatural passive construction + k4: inconsistent reference — "oneself" does not clearly refer back to "young people"] such comparisons can undermine their self-confidence and encourage them to change their appearance.

Additionally, fashion brands advertise everywhere [k3: overgeneralisation — use a more precise expression] advertise extensively across social media and other platforms. Consequently, this makes people feel obligated [k2: vague reference + k3: overly categorical claim] some teenagers may feel pressured to buy their things [k3: vague lexical choice] the advertised products, as they look like a must-have for a successful person [k3: unnatural phrasing + k2: unclear reference — do you mean the clothes, brands or advertisements?] these items are presented as symbols of popularity and social success. [k0: task achievement — the argument is relevant, but you need a concrete illustration of how repeated advertising encourages unnecessary purchases or makes teenagers anxious about falling behind their peers.]

Another reason is that constant advertising encourages young consumers to associate fashionable clothing with social acceptance. For example, when influencers repeatedly promote new collections as essential purchases, teenagers may feel that their existing wardrobes are outdated, even if their clothes are still perfectly suitable. This can lead to unnecessary spending and anxiety about keeping up with their peers.

To conclude, brands create unnecessary pressure. [k0: task achievement — restate your degree of agreement clearly and summarise the grounds supporting your position] I strongly agree that fashion advertising and idealised beauty standards place excessive pressure on young people.

Undeniably, this makes them more famous, but it also contributes to major problems in society. [k3: vague wording — you have not demonstrated before that the pressure itself makes brands famous. "Major problems in society" also introduces a broad claim without specifying the consequences for young people particularly, which is claimed in the title.] Although such marketing may increase brand recognition, it can also damage teenagers' self-confidence and encourage unnecessary spending.

In conclusion, I strongly agree that the fashion industry creates unnecessary pressure to follow trends. By promoting narrow beauty ideals and encouraging constant consumption, fashion companies can undermine young people's confidence and make them feel that social acceptance depends on their appearance and clothing choices.

A stronger IELTS-style version of your answer

Fashion brands are often accused of putting unnecessary pressure on young people to follow the latest trends. Although the industry offers a wide variety of styles, I strongly agree that advertising campaigns and unrealistic beauty standards can make teenagers feel obliged to conform to fashionable ideals.

The strongest reason for my position is that fashion companies frequently promote narrow standards of beauty. Their campaigns often feature conventionally attractive models whose appearance may seem difficult for ordinary teenagers to achieve. As a result, young consumers may become dissatisfied with their bodies and feel that they must change their looks to fit in. For example, a teenager who repeatedly sees advertisements featuring a particular body type may begin to associate that appearance with popularity and acceptance.

Another concern is the constant promotion of new collections. Extensive advertising can make previously purchased clothes seem outdated, encouraging young people to spend money unnecessarily. Influencer campaigns may reinforce this impression by presenting the latest products as essential to social success. Consequently, teenagers who cannot afford expensive clothing may feel excluded from their peer groups.

Admittedly, the variety of designs available allows young people to express their individuality, and not everyone follows advertising uncritically. However, having numerous options does not eliminate the pressure created when certain brands and appearances are repeatedly portrayed as more desirable than others.

In conclusion, I strongly agree that fashion companies can exert excessive influence over young consumers. By promoting idealised appearances and encouraging frequent purchases, they risk damaging teenagers' self-confidence and making social acceptance seem dependent on material possessions.

Potentially missed or debatable issues

"On the one hand": This linker is not inherently forbidden in an agree/disagree essay. However, in your introduction it reinforces the impression that you intend to discuss two equally weighted positions, rather than defend a clearly defined stance.

"Although ... but provide": The word "but" is not automatically wrong here because it connects "do not encourage" and "provide" within the subordinate clause. The main problem is the weak rebuttal, not the mere presence of "although" and "but".

"Unconsciously": Fashion brands may indeed create certain pressures unintentionally, but that interpretation would require an explanation. Without one, the adverb introduces an unnecessary assumption.

Word count: Your response is only slightly short of the official IELTS minimum. There is no automatic fixed band deduction for being a few words under 250; the more important issue here is the limited development of your arguments.

IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 — Estimated Score

Task: Why do people spend large amounts of money on branded clothing? Is this a positive or negative development?

Word count: 155 words (IELTS minimum: 250).

Criterion Band / 9 Assessment
Task Response 5.0 You address both questions, but incompletely. You identify two motivations for expensive clothing purchases, although neither is linked clearly enough to brand preference. Your positive assessment is largely unsupported, and one example contains faulty reasoning. The essay is substantially underlength.
Coherence and Cohesion 5.0 Your four-paragraph structure matches the task, but the introduction answers only the second question indirectly. The first body paragraph contains an unrelated illustrative detail, while the second lacks logical development. Your conclusion does not summarise why consumers favour branded products.
Lexical Resource 5.5 You use some appropriate expressions, but the vocabulary is somewhat limited and occasionally imprecise. In particular, you do not distinguish consistently between ordinary clothing, luxury clothing and branded products.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy 6.0 You use several appropriate complex structures, with generally understandable meaning. However, there is a comma splice, some ambiguous pronoun references and occasional awkward phrasing.
Overall estimated IELTS band 5.5 / 9 You need to answer both questions explicitly, develop relevant explanations and provide convincing examples. Expanding the response to at least 250 words is a priority.

Marked version

Why do people spend large amounts of money on branded clothing? Is this a positive or negative development?

Huge spending on clothing [k3: inaccurate paraphrase — the task specifically concerns large amounts spent on branded clothing, not clothing generally+k3 huge is too informal] Spending large sums on branded clothing has become a common topic of discussion.

This essay will examine whether this is a positive or negative development. [k0: task achievement — the introduction should briefly answer BOTH questions: why people buy expensive branded items and whether you consider the trend positive or negative. Do not postpone your position until the body paragraphs.] People make such purchases for self-expression and personal enjoyment, and I consider this a largely positive development when spending remains affordable.

Consumers often pay substantial sums for clothing from prestigious labels. Their choices may be driven by a desire to express their identity or by the enjoyment of shopping, and I regard this trend as generally positive provided that it does not cause financial difficulties.

First of all, many people consider it important to buy luxury clothes [k3: inaccurate word choice — branded clothing is not necessarily luxurious or expensive. You can refer to premium labels as an example, but the argument should apply to the broader category in the task.] clothes from well-known labels, as they believe it reflects who they are [k2: unclear pronoun reference — specify what reflects their identity] the brands they choose reflect their identity.

Secondly, spending money on clothing can be relaxing [k3: imprecise wording — it is the activity of shopping, rather than spending money itself, that may be relaxing] an enjoyable and relaxing activity.

For example, women may feel satisfied with wardrobes full of accessories and clothes, it may seem like a hobby. [k5: syntax — comma splice: you have joined two independent clauses with a comma. The pronoun "it" is also unclear.] . They may regard collecting fashionable items as a hobby. [k0: task achievement — this example illustrates enjoyment of shopping but does not explain why someone would spend considerably more on branded products. You need to establish that connection.]

One reason people purchase expensive branded garments is that they associate prestigious labels with personal identity and social status. Wearing recognisable designs may help them express their individuality or gain approval from others. Another motivation is the enjoyment of shopping itself: some consumers take pleasure in collecting items from their favourite designers and regard this activity as a hobby.

Regarding whether this trend is beneficial, I believe that people should spend their own money as they wish. [k0: task achievement — this defends the freedom to spend money, but it does not establish whether widespread expenditure on branded clothing is a positive or negative development. You must evaluate its effects.] I believe that such purchases can be beneficial when they increase personal satisfaction without causing financial problems.

It is individual [k3: unnatural expression] The value of such spending depends on the individual: for some, it may seem an absurd waste of money, while for others, it is crucial to look stylish [k2: weak connection to the task — looking stylish does not necessarily require expensive labels. Explain why branded items are particularly important to these consumers.] wearing prestigious labels may contribute to their self-confidence and social image.

For instance, people can earn a huge fortune by selling all their belongings in old age, so such purchases can actually be beneficial. [k2: illogical example + k0: task achievement — selling all one's belongings in old age does not demonstrate that buying branded clothing is beneficial. Most garments depreciate, and the resale value of personal possessions cannot be assumed to generate a fortune. If you want to argue that certain purchases have financial value, refer specifically to items that can retain some resale value.] For instance, some limited-edition designer pieces may retain part of their value and can later be resold, making certain purchases their owners' money worth.

In my view, spending money on prestigious clothing labels can be a positive development when consumers can comfortably afford their purchases. High-quality garments may provide long-term satisfaction, while attractive designs can strengthen self-confidence. For example, someone who invests in a durable designer coat and wears it regularly for several years may consider the purchase worthwhile despite its initial cost. Nevertheless, these benefits become questionable when consumers overspend simply to impress others.

To conclude, spending money on clothes [k3: imprecise reference — maintain the focus on expenditure on branded items] buying clothing from prestigious labels has many benefits, including psychological and physical well-being. [k0: task achievement + k3: imprecise wording — you have discussed enjoyment and satisfaction, but have not demonstrated any improvement in physical well-being.] personal enjoyment and greater self-confidence.

Overall, [k2: redundant concluding linker — "To conclude" has already introduced the conclusion] and has a positive effect on people. [k2: repetition of the preceding claim rather than a summary of both answers + k0: task achievement — restate WHY consumers buy branded clothes and specify the conditions under which you consider this positive.] These purchases can therefore be worthwhile when motivated by personal enjoyment rather than social pressure and kept within a reasonable budget.

In conclusion, people spend large sums on branded clothing to express their identity and enjoy the experience of shopping. I consider this a largely positive development when such purchases enhance personal satisfaction without creating financial difficulties.

A stronger IELTS-style version of your answer

Consumers often spend substantial amounts on clothing from prestigious labels, even when cheaper alternatives are available. This behaviour can be explained by the desire for self-expression and the enjoyment of shopping. In my view, it is a largely positive development, provided that people can afford their purchases without compromising their financial security.

One reason for this spending is that many consumers associate well-known brands with personal identity and social status. Wearing recognisable designs may help them express their individuality or feel accepted within a particular social group. For example, young professionals may choose expensive business attire because they believe it creates a favourable impression at work. Another motivation is the pleasure of shopping itself. Some people enjoy collecting distinctive garments from their favourite designers and regard fashion as a personal interest rather than a necessity.

I believe that such expenditure can have positive effects when it is financially manageable. Buying something that suits one's tastes may increase confidence and provide lasting satisfaction. Furthermore, certain well-made garments can remain useful for years, making a higher initial price more reasonable. For instance, a durable coat purchased from a reputable label may be worn over several winters, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Nevertheless, these benefits depend on sensible spending. If consumers repeatedly purchase expensive items merely to impress others, the resulting financial pressure may outweigh any enjoyment.

In conclusion, people are attracted to branded clothing because it allows them to express their identity and enjoy shopping. Although excessive expenditure can be harmful, I regard this trend as generally beneficial when buyers prioritise personal satisfaction and remain within their means.

Potentially missed or debatable issues

Luxury versus branded clothing: Some luxury garments are branded, but the categories are not identical. You can mention luxury labels, provided that the overall discussion remains relevant to the topic of brands.

Shopping as relaxation: This is a valid psychological motive, but it explains shopping in general. You need an additional explanation of why the experience involves costly branded products.

Personal freedom: This is not an irrelevant idea. It can support a positive assessment, but only if you explain how freedom of choice benefits individuals and why potential disadvantages do not outweigh those benefits.

Physical well-being: Clothing can sometimes improve physical comfort, but that argument is not established anywhere in your essay. It should either be developed or omitted.

The positive position: You are not required to discuss both positive and negative consequences equally. You may argue that the development is largely positive, but your supporting evidence must be convincing and sufficiently developed.