IELTS General Task 2: Flexible Working Hours
IELTS Writing Practice — AI-Powered Feedback
Writing Prompt
Write about the following topic:
Some people believe that all employers should allow their staff to choose the hours they work, as long as the work is completed.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.
Show Band 8–9 model answer
Allowing employees to choose their own working hours has become increasingly common, particularly with the rise of digital technologies. While flexible schedules offer clear advantages, I do not believe they are suitable or realistic for all jobs. In my view, employers should provide flexibility wherever possible, but not be universally obliged to do so.
On the one hand, flexible working hours can significantly benefit both staff and companies. Many roles are task-based, such as programming, graphic design or report writing, where productivity matters more than physical presence at a fixed time. For these employees, being able to work when they feel most focused can improve output and reduce stress. Additionally, flexible hours help workers balance professional and personal responsibilities, such as childcare or caring for elderly relatives. This often leads to higher job satisfaction, lower absenteeism and better staff retention, which ultimately serves employers’ interests.
On the other hand, there are entire sectors where fixed hours are essential. In healthcare, retail or public transport, for example, employees must be present at specific times to deliver services and ensure safety. A nurse or bus driver cannot simply choose their own hours without disrupting schedules and risking serious consequences. Similarly, in roles that require close collaboration or frequent meetings, such as project management or education, too much flexibility can hinder communication and make coordination difficult. For these reasons, imposing a blanket rule on all employers would be impractical and potentially damaging.
In conclusion, flexible working hours are highly desirable and should be encouraged wherever the nature of the work allows. However, I disagree that every employer should be required to offer complete freedom over working times. A more balanced approach is for companies to assess each position individually and provide as much flexibility as operational needs reasonably permit.
Why this response works
This essay directly addresses the task and maintains a clear, consistent position: flexibility is valuable but should not be compulsory for all employers. The argument is well organised, with clear topic sentences and logical progression from benefits to limitations and then a balanced conclusion. Ideas are extended with specific, realistic examples from different sectors. Vocabulary is varied but natural (e.g. “staff retention”, “operational needs”) and grammar is accurate with a range of complex structures used appropriately, supporting a high band in all criteria.
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