Recent IELTS Writing Task 2 - People no longer use pens, pencils, or brushes

Many people no longer use pens, pencils, or brushes in their daily lives. 

What do you think are the reasons for this trend? 

Do you think it is a positive or negative development?

📌 Note: This question appeared in the CBT-IELTS Writing exam on 2nd January, 2026 in India.  

All IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions – Click to View 

Band 9 Sample Answer:

In recent years, many people have stopped using traditional tools such as pens, pencils, and brushes in their everyday lives. This essay will examine the reasons behind this trend and I argue that although it offers some advantages, it is largely a negative development.

One of the main reasons for the decline in the use of traditional writing tools is the rapid advancement of digital technology. Smartphones, tablets, and laptops allow people to type, draw, and communicate far more quickly and conveniently than by hand. Tasks such as note-taking, document preparation, and even artistic design can now be completed digitally, often with features like automatic correction and cloud storage. As a result, handwriting and manual drawing are increasingly seen as inefficient and unnecessary in modern, fast-paced lifestyles. Another contributing factor is the growing emphasis on productivity and speed. In workplaces and educational institutions, typing is often prioritised because it saves time and improves legibility. Furthermore, digital platforms make it easier to share information instantly, which is not possible with handwritten content. Consequently, people naturally gravitate towards tools that align with efficiency and modern communication demands.

However, I believe this trend is more negative than positive. Writing or drawing by hand plays a crucial role in cognitive development, creativity, and memory retention. Research has shown that handwriting helps individuals process information more deeply, which is especially important for children. Moreover, abandoning traditional tools may lead to a loss of fine motor skills and reduce opportunities for creative expression, particularly in art and design. Over-reliance on digital devices can also increase screen time, which has been linked to various physical and mental health concerns.

In conclusion, while the reduced use of pens, pencils, and brushes is largely driven by technological convenience and efficiency, I believe it is a negative development due to its potential impact on cognitive skills, creativity, and overall well-being.

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Band 9 Insights Based on IELTS Writing Band Descriptors:

1. Task Response – Band 9

• Fully addresses both parts of the question: reasons + opinion.
• Clear position stated and maintained throughout.
• Ideas are extended, explained, and supported, not merely listed.
• No irrelevant or underdeveloped arguments.

2. Coherence & Cohesion – Band 9

• Follows a logical four-paragraph structure:
  1. Introduction
  2. Reasons (technology)
  3. Reasons (efficiency)
  4. Opinion + conclusion
• Smooth progression of ideas with natural linking:
  “One of the main reasons…”, “Another contributing factor…”, “However, I believe…”
• Each paragraph has a clear central idea.

3. Lexical Resource – Band 9

• Wide range of precise academic vocabulary:
  “cognitive development,” “manual drawing,” “over-reliance,” “creative expression,” “fast-paced lifestyles.”
• Accurate collocations:
  “memory retention,” “digital platforms,” “screen time,” “fine motor skills.”
• Vocabulary is sophisticated yet natural, with no awkward phrasing.

4. Grammatical Range & Accuracy – Band 9

• Uses a wide variety of complex sentence structures accurately.
• Excellent control of tense, articles, and punctuation.
• Error-free throughout, with flexible sentence construction.

Overall Band: 9.0

This essay meets all official Band 9 criteria:

✔ fully developed ideas

✔ clear organisation

✔ advanced vocabulary

✔ flawless grammar

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