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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

It is said that "Not everything that is learned is contained in books". Compare and contrast knowledge gained from experience with knowledge gained from books. In your opinion, which source is more important? Why? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

It is said that "Not everything that is learned is contained in books". Compare and contrast knowledge gained from experience with knowledge gained from books. In your opinion, which source is more important?

In the quest for knowledge, individuals have the opportunity to gain knowledge from both experiences and books. It is often argued that not everything that is learned is contained in books. This essay will compare and contrast knowledge gained from experience with knowledge gained from books, and provide reasons for the importance of each source.

Knowledge gained from books is structured and organized, providing a wealth of information on various subjects. Books are written by experts and scholars, offering in-depth analysis and research on specific topics. For instance, textbooks provide detailed information on scientific theories and historical events, which may not be easily accessible through personal experiences.

On the other hand, knowledge gained from experience is rooted in practical application and personal involvement. Through experiences, individuals can develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and emotional intelligence. For example, a person learning to cook may acquire valuable insights by experimenting with ingredients and cooking techniques, which may not be found in cookbooks.

Both sources of knowledge have their own strengths and limitations. While books offer comprehensive and well-organized information, experiences provide hands-on learning and personal growth. In my opinion, experience is the more important source of knowledge. This is because experiential learning allows individuals to develop practical skills, adapt to new situations, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

In conclusion, while books are valuable sources of information, experiences play a crucial role in shaping individuals' perspectives and abilities. Both sources complement each other, but the practical nature of experiential knowledge makes it more important in personal and professional development.

Model Essay #2:

It is said that "Not everything that is learned is contained in books". Compare and contrast knowledge gained from experience with knowledge gained from books. In your opinion, which source is more important?

In the pursuit of knowledge, individuals have the opportunity to acquire knowledge from both experiences and books. It is often argued that not everything that is learned is contained in books. This essay will compare and contrast knowledge gained from experience with knowledge gained from books, and provide reasons for the importance of each source.

Knowledge gained from books offers a structured and comprehensive understanding of various subjects. Books are a repository of knowledge written by experts and scholars, providing in-depth analysis and research on specific topics. For example, academic textbooks offer detailed information on scientific theories and historical events, which may not be easily accessible through personal experiences.

Conversely, knowledge gained from experience is rooted in practical application and personal involvement. Through experiences, individuals can develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and emotional intelligence. For instance, a person learning to swim may gain valuable insights by physically engaging in swimming, which may not be fully captured in books.

Both sources of knowledge have their own strengths and limitations. While books offer well-organized information, experiences provide hands-on learning and personal growth. However, in my opinion, knowledge gained from books is more important. This is because books provide a wealth of information that has been thoroughly researched and documented, offering a reliable foundation for learning and understanding various subjects.

In conclusion, while experiences offer practical insights and personal development, the structured and comprehensive nature of knowledge gained from books makes it more important in acquiring a deeper understanding of the world. Both sources of knowledge have their merits, but the wealth of information contained in books plays a crucial role in expanding individuals' knowledge and perspectives.

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