Some people believe that the best way to learn about business is through a university or college education. Others think that there are alternative ways to gain business knowledge.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
đź“ŚÂ Note: This question appeared in the IELTS Writing exam on 13th September, 2025 in Canada.Â
2025 IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions – Click to View All
Band 9 Sample Answer:
Some people are of the opinion that formal education at a university or college is the best way to acquire business knowledge, while others argue that there are more practical alternatives. I side with the latter view.
On one hand, there can be reasons why many individuals support the idea of pursuing business education through higher institutions. Firstly, universities and colleges provide a structured curriculum that covers a wide range of essential subjects such as finance, marketing, and management. This comprehensive approach ensures that learners build a solid theoretical foundation. For instance, students in renowned business schools often benefit from case studies and simulations, which expose them to diverse scenarios they might face in the real world. Secondly, higher education also offers opportunities for networking. Being surrounded by professors, alumni, and peers can help students develop valuable professional connections that may later translate into job offers or investment opportunities.
On the other hand, I believe that alternative pathways can be equally, if not more, effective in learning about business. Many successful entrepreneurs, such as Steve Jobs and Richard Branson, never completed formal business degrees but gained expertise through hands-on experience. Real-world practice allows individuals to learn from mistakes, adapt quickly, and develop resilience—qualities that cannot always be taught in classrooms. Moreover, online platforms, mentorship programs, and workshops now provide affordable and flexible ways to acquire practical business skills. Unlike traditional education, these alternatives are often more accessible and tailored to specific needs, enabling learners to focus on areas most relevant to their goals.
In conclusion, although formal education provides theoretical knowledge and networking opportunities, I believe that practical experience and alternative learning routes offer more valuable lessons in running a business effectively. Ultimately, the best approach depends on individual circumstances, but practical exposure tends to foster the adaptability and innovation required for long-term success.
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Band 9 Insights Based on IELTS Writing Band Descriptors:
- Task Response: Fully addresses both sides, provides clear opinion, and develops arguments with relevant examples.
- Coherence & Cohesion: Logical flow with clear paragraphing, cohesive devices used naturally (e.g., on the one hand, secondly, on the other hand, ultimately).
- Lexical Resource: Wide range of precise vocabulary (structured curriculum, resilience, adaptability, innovation).
- Grammatical Range & Accuracy: Mix of complex and compound sentences, all error-free.
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