BAND 7

Modern life is often described as stressful, and I agree this is true. There are several causes of stress today, but there are also practical ways to reduce it.

One main cause of stress is work pressure. Many people have long working hours, heavy workloads, and strict deadlines. This makes them tired and worried. Another cause is financial problems. With rising costs of living, many families struggle to pay for housing, food, and education, which creates tension. In addition, technology also adds stress. People are always connected through phones and emails, and they find it hard to relax.

To reduce stress, people need to manage their time better and find balance between work and personal life. Employers can also help by reducing unnecessary overtime and creating a healthy work environment. On an individual level, people can do regular exercise, spend time with family, or practice relaxation techniques such as meditation. Governments could also provide more support through free counselling services.

In conclusion, stress in modern life comes mainly from work, money, and technology. However, with better management and support, people can lead less stressful lives.

BAND 8

It is widely believed that modern life is increasingly stressful. In my view, this is caused by factors such as work demands, financial pressures, and the fast pace of technology, but there are several effective ways to address the problem.

The most significant cause of stress is work. In today’s competitive world, employees often face long hours, high targets, and limited job security. This constant pressure can lead to exhaustion and anxiety. Financial difficulties are another key source of stress. Rising living costs and economic uncertainty make it difficult for families to feel secure, particularly when they are in debt. Furthermore, the role of technology cannot be ignored. Smartphones and social media keep people permanently connected, blurring the line between work and personal life and preventing proper rest.

Reducing stress requires action at both individual and societal levels. On a personal level, people can adopt healthier lifestyles, including regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and maintaining strong social relationships. Employers also play an important role. By promoting flexible working hours, offering mental health support, and encouraging a healthy work–life balance, companies can significantly reduce stress levels among staff. Governments, too, can contribute by funding community health programs and making counselling services widely accessible.

In conclusion, stress in modern life mainly arises from work, money, and technology. Yet, through lifestyle changes, supportive workplaces, and government action, stress can be effectively managed and reduced.

“Stress in Modern Life: Key Points to Remember + Band 7 & 8 Sample Essays”
Check the causes, solutions, and vocabulary first, then read the model answers for guidance.

🌍 Stress in Modern Life – IELTS Writing Task 2 Notes

🔑 Key Vocabulary

• pressure, workload, deadlines, job insecurity, burnout, exhaustion, financial strain, debt, cost of living, constant connectivity, social isolation, relaxation techniques, counselling services, mental well-being, balance, lifestyle changes

Students should try to use a mix of simple words + academic terms to sound natural yet advanced.

📌 Common Causes of Stress (Expand Knowledge)

1. Work pressure – long hours, strict deadlines, competition at workplace.

2. Financial issues – rising cost of living, unemployment, debt, housing problems.

3. Technology – being “always online” with emails, social media, and constant notifications.

4. Urban lifestyle – traffic jams, pollution, lack of green spaces.

5. Family and relationships – conflicts, parenting responsibilities, lack of quality time.

6. Health concerns – unhealthy diets, lack of exercise, and medical expenses.

7. Academic pressure – exams, grades, and future career worries for students.

👉 Students can pick 2–3 strong causes for their essay instead of listing too many.

✅ Practical Solutions

1. Individual level

   • Exercise regularly 🏃‍♀️

   • Practice mindfulness or meditation 🧘

   • Maintain work–life balance

   • Spend time with family and friends 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

   • Limit social media use 📵

2. Workplace level

   • Flexible working hours

   • Less overtime

   • Supportive managers and mental health programs

3. Government level

   • Affordable healthcare

   • Public counselling services

   • Campaigns on mental well-being

🎯 IELTS Writing Tips for This Topic

• Task type: “Causes and solutions” essay → structure must clearly show Cause Paragraph + Solution Paragraph.

• Linking words:

  • Causes → because of, due to, as a result of, one main reason is

  • Solutions → to reduce this problem, one effective measure is, another way to address this is

• Balance: Avoid giving too many causes. Choose the strongest ones and explain with examples.

• Tone: Stay formal. Avoid personal stories like “I feel stressed during exams.” Instead, generalize → “Many students feel under pressure during examinations.”

🌟 Quick Model Structure

Introduction → Paraphrase question + state that stress is common, give outline.
Body 1 → Causes (work, money, technology).
Body 2 → Solutions (individual + workplace + government).
Conclusion → Summarize and give a positive outlook.