IELTS Writing Task

Sample Answer

Band 7+ 

46. Happiness is considered very important in life.

Why is it difficult to define?

What factors are important in achieving happiness?


Sample Answer 1

  The concept of happiness, widely regarded as a fundamental aspect of human existence, is a multifaceted and enigmatic construct that poses challenges in its precise delineation. The concept encompasses individualised emotional experiences of satisfaction, achievement, and holistic state of being. This essay aims to examine the complexities associated with defining happiness and analyse the fundamental elements that contribute to its achievement.

  The subjective nature of happiness poses a significant challenge in its definition. The factors that contribute to an individual's happiness are diverse and subjective, as they are influenced by distinct desires, values, and circumstances. The state of happiness can be subject to various influences, including personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, and individual perspectives. Furthermore, it should be noted that happiness is not a static condition, but rather a fluid and constantly evolving emotional state that is susceptible to the impact of external stimuli.

  Numerous factors are pivotal in the attainment of happiness. To begin with, it is essential to note that positive relationships and social connections play a crucial role in the attainment of happiness. The establishment of robust connections with one's family, friends, and a supportive community is instrumental in facilitating emotional well-being, fostering companionship, and cultivating a profound sense of belonging. Additionally, the pursuit of personal fulfilment through engaging in meaningful work or hobbies has the potential to positively impact one's overall sense of happiness. Participating in activities that are congruent with an individual's personal interests and passions can foster a profound sense of purpose and gratification. Furthermore, the factors of physical and mental well-being are of utmost importance. The cultivation of personal well-being, the pursuit of a harmonious way of life, and the effective management of stress are all factors that contribute to the attainment of overall happiness.

  Moreover, the manner in which individuals perceive and interpret life events and circumstances has an impact on their overall sense of happiness. The enhancement of happiness can be achieved through the cultivation of a positive mindset, the practise of gratitude, and the directed focus on the present moment. In addition, the establishment of attainable objectives, the pursuit of individual development, and the acknowledgment of successes all contribute to the cultivation of a feeling of fulfilment and well-being.

  In conclusion, the inherent complexity surrounding the concept of happiness renders its definition a challenging endeavour. The concept under consideration is inherently subjective, as it is susceptible to the influence of multiple factors and is subject to ongoing evolution. The attainment of happiness is contingent upon several key factors, namely positive interpersonal connections, personal satisfaction, optimal physical and psychological health, and a constructive cognitive outlook. Recognising the subjective nature of happiness and adopting a holistic approach to one's life can result in an enhanced sense of satisfaction and gratification.

Key phrases and important vocabulary:

concept of happiness: Idea or understanding of happiness.

multifaceted and enigmatic construct: Complex and mysterious concept.

precise delineation: Exact definition or description.

encompasses: Includes or incorporates.

individualised emotional experiences: Personalized or individual emotional encounters.

satisfaction: Contentment or fulfillment.

achievement: Accomplishment or attainment.

holistic state of being: Complete or overall state of existence.

complexities: Complications or intricacies.

defining happiness: Establishing a definition or understanding of happiness.

subjective nature: Personal or individual perspective.

diverse and subjective: Varied and personal.

distinct desires: Different wants or wishes.

values: Beliefs or principles.

circumstances: Situations or conditions.

personal experiences: Individual encounters or events.

cultural backgrounds: Cultural influences or upbringing.

individual perspectives: Personal viewpoints or opinions.

fluid and constantly evolving: Dynamic and continuously changing.

emotional state: Feelings or emotional condition.

external stimuli: Outside influences or triggers.

pivotal: Essential or crucial.

attainment of happiness: Achieving or reaching a state of happiness.

positive relationships: Supportive and fulfilling connections with others.

social connections: Interpersonal relationships or bonds.

emotional well-being: Mental and emotional health.

companionship: Friendship or togetherness.

profound sense of belonging: Strong feeling of being part of a group or community.

personal fulfilment: Satisfaction or realization of personal goals.

meaningful work: Purposeful or fulfilling occupation.

hobbies: Recreational activities or interests.

personal interests: Individual preferences or inclinations.

passions: Strong interests or enthusiasms.

physical and mental well-being: Physical and psychological health.

cultivation: Development or nurturing.

harmonious way of life: Balanced and peaceful lifestyle.

effective management of stress: Successful handling or coping with stress.

perception and interpretation: How one perceives and understands.

positive mindset: Optimistic or positive outlook.

gratitude: Appreciation or thankfulness.

present moment: Current or immediate time.

establishment of attainable objectives: Setting realistic goals.

pursuit of individual development: Personal growth or self-improvement.

acknowledgment of successes: Recognizing and celebrating achievements.

holistic approach: Comprehensive or well-rounded perspective.

enhanced sense of satisfaction: Increased feeling of contentment or fulfillment.

46. Happiness is considered very important in life.

Why is it difficult to define?

What factors are important in achieving happiness?

Sample Answer 2 

BAND 6.5

                        There is little room for doubt that happiness is very important in everyone’s life. Having a sense of happiness is required for the overall development of a person. The issue of whether happiness is correlated to wealth and fame is very controversial, as there are strong arguments for and against it.

                        Certainly, happiness is very difficult to define because every person has a different definition of happiness. For instance, for some people, money and fame are everything, while others find their happiness in family and friends. In addition, research has proved that materialistic nature is one of the biggest reasons for unhappiness. Moreover, we are living in a competitive era which means achieving goals has become more difficult in the past few years than in the previous 100 years; therefore, it is very hard for people to stay happy.

                    Furthermore, there are many ways to stay happy. Firstly, one should set realistic goals for themselves. Otherwise, these types of goals mostly lead to depression and stress. A socio-psychologist study has revealed that 2 out of 10 people in India commit suicide because of an unsatisfied lifestyle. Second, home, food and clothes are basic needs for human beings. Governments should provide these basic necessities to their citizens, so they do not worry about their next meal and a warm place to stay.

                      In conclusion, it is irrefutable that one can not be happy all the time. It is normal to be depressed at some point in life, but everyone has to struggle alone for their own happiness.

256 Words

46. Happiness is considered very important in life.

Why is it difficult to define?

What factors are important in achieving happiness?

Sample Answer 3

BAND 6.5

                    There is little room for doubt that happiness plays a crucial role in everyone's life. Having a sense of happiness is indeed unarguably beneficial for the overall development of a person. The issue of acquiring happiness with the help of wealth is controversial, as there are strong arguments for and against it.

                  To begin with, the concept of happiness is different for every individual depending on their mentality. Many people believe that having a house and a car makes a person happy, but when a person's goals and desires are met, they want more, and this is a never-ending cycle. Furthermore, people want to make a name and gain fame, which is extremely beneficial to a country's growth. In order to earn happiness, people think about those opportunities which they do not have. That is why it is difficult to define happiness because every individual has their own ideas about cheerfulness.

                   There are other ways to achieve happiness. Some experts believe that happiness is finding inner peace. Regular physical activity is essential for achieving happiness. This not only improves fitness but also gives a sense of satisfaction. Moreover, avoidance of addictions such as alcohol and drugs has become one of the best ways to live a happy life. It is rightly said that 'when you play with your mind, the mind will play with you. If people do not avoid their bad habits, it may be detrimental to their lives.

                   To conclude, it seems to me that having a cheerful lifestyle is absolutely essential for a person, with the advantages of providing different aims and desires.

266 Words