Nowadays People Normally Stretch Their Working Hours - IELTS Writing Task 2

A cause–solution essay in IELTS Writing Task 2 requires candidates to explain the reasons behind a specific problem and suggest practical measures to address it. One such common topic is “Nowadays People Normally Stretch Their Working Hours”, which highlights a growing concern in modern societies. This essay type tests a candidate’s ability to analyze causes logically, propose effective solutions, and support ideas with relevant examples. This blog includes 3 sample answers with useful vocabulary to help learners structure their responses clearly and achieve a higher band score.

Outline

Essay Type

Cause/Solution essay

Introduction

Mention that the essay will look at the reasons for this trend and then offer solutions to lessen the amount of stress.

Body paragraphs

Paragraph 1 – Outline the causes why nowadays people usually stretch their working hours and get more stressed than before.

Paragraph 2 – Elucidate the solutions.

Conclusion

Summarise the essay and state your opinion.

Nowadays People Normally Stretch Their Working Hours - Sample Answer 1

Due to the competitive markets, employees typically have to extend their working hours beyond the conventional 9 to 5 schedule. It, in turn, creates adverse effects on the employees, both physically and psychologically. The following essay will discuss the reasons for this stress at the workplace and provide some measures employers could take to break the cycle for a more balanced life.

To begin with, one of the significant reasons, which make working-class people fall into a stressful life, is the enormous amount of work. A heavy workload is given to the workers from the employers’ side to complete the project before the deadline. Nevertheless, from the employees’ point of view, another reason is that they need to secure the work by showing better performance. Further, they work overtime for incentives which will aid them in availing themselves of perks in this world of skyrocketing consumer goods prices. To illustrate this, many corporations offer several awards for the best performers. It, in turn, stimulates workers to work extra hours to achieve their targets.

Nonetheless, the employees could apply an innovative approach instead of hard work or implement several measures to ease the lives of many. Firstly, they could hire more employees to share the work burden among them. Furthermore, bosses must take projects from clients within a specific limit keeping in mind the workforce they possess. Additionally, employers can incorporate various stimulating activities within the office to give the workers a respite from work. For example, Google, an American multinational technology company, provides many recreational activities, like meditation and gym at the workplace, which makes their employees satisfied people at work, according to a survey conducted. These actions help eliminate tension, stress, and pressure and provide significant relief.

To conclude, the satisfaction of the employee would strengthen the productivity of an organisation to a considerable extent. That is the reason it is expected that employers would look after their workers’ happiness while employees would work dedicatedly.

Nowadays People Normally Stretch Their Working Hours - Sample Answer 2

Nowadays, many people tend to stretch their working hours, which often results in higher stress levels and a poorer quality of life. There are several reasons behind this growing phenomenon. Firstly, technological advancements have increasingly blurred the boundaries between professional and personal life. Employees are frequently expected to respond to emails, attend virtual meetings, or complete tasks even after official office hours, leaving little time for rest or recreation. Secondly, job competition has intensified in many industries, motivating individuals to work longer hours to demonstrate commitment and improve their chances of promotion. Tight deadlines and increasing workloads further exacerbate the situation, leaving employees feeling overburdened and mentally exhausted.

Employers can take various measures to make work-life balance more achievable for their staff. For instance, introducing flexible working hours or remote work arrangements can allow employees to manage their time more effectively. Companies can also implement wellness initiatives, such as stress management workshops, regular breaks, or access to counseling services, which can significantly reduce mental strain. Moreover, setting realistic performance expectations and limiting excessive overtime can prevent burnout while maintaining productivity.

In conclusion, while modern work pressures have encouraged people to extend their working hours, employers play a crucial role in mitigating the negative consequences. By adopting supportive policies and prioritizing employees’ well-being, companies can not only improve staff health but also foster a more motivated and efficient workforce.

Nowadays People Normally Stretch Their Working Hours - Sample Answer 3

In today’s fast-paced world, many employees routinely extend their working hours, which often results in elevated stress and reduced life satisfaction. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the widespread adoption of digital communication tools means that work can follow individuals home, making it difficult to switch off from professional responsibilities. Secondly, the modern job market is highly competitive, prompting workers to spend additional time at the office to meet targets, impress supervisors, or secure promotions. Lastly, economic pressures, such as rising living costs, compel many people to take on extra work, contributing further to prolonged hours and mental strain.

To address this issue, employers can take proactive measures. Introducing flexible work schedules and telecommuting options allows staff to balance professional duties with personal commitments. Companies can also provide employee wellness programs, including mindfulness sessions, counseling services, or structured breaks, to reduce stress levels. Moreover, setting achievable deadlines and monitoring workload distribution can prevent overworking and ensure productivity does not come at the expense of well-being.

In conclusion, extended working hours are largely driven by technological connectivity, competitive pressures, and financial needs. Nevertheless, employers can play a pivotal role in mitigating these challenges. By fostering a supportive and flexible work environment and prioritizing employee welfare, organizations can enhance staff morale, reduce stress, and maintain sustainable productivity over the long term.

Nowadays People Normally Stretch Their Working Hours - Vocabulary

The following are some of the IELTS Vocabulary found in the above writing sample answers. 

• Conventional

Meaning – based on or in accordance with what is generally done or believed.
Example – My parents are very conventional people.

• Adverse

Meaning – preventing success or development; harmful; unfavourable.
Example – The football match has been cancelled due to adverse weather conditions.

• Deadline

Meaning – the latest time or date by which something should be completed.
Example – The company is making us work to a very tight deadline.

• Secure

Meaning – certain to remain safe and unthreatened.
Example – iPhones are said to be very secure mobile phones.

• Incentives

Meaning – a thing that motivates or encourages someone to do something.
Example – The student did not discuss any incentives for his internship.

• Availing

Meaning – help or benefit.
Example – Availing of the coupons before their expiry date is surely a task.

• Perks

Meaning – become or make more cheerful, lively, or interesting.
Example – I had some perks of working in the company.

• Stimulates

Meaning – encourage or arouse interest or enthusiasm in.
Example – Higher pay surely stimulates people to work harder.

• Respite

Meaning – a short period of rest or relief from something difficult or unpleasant.
Example – After the long walk, the group needed some respite from the heat.

• Relief

Meaning – a feeling of reassurance and relaxation following release from anxiety or distress.
Example – I breathed a sigh of relief after I saw my mother.

In conclusion, the IELTS Writing Task 2 discussion essay topic, “Nowadays People Normally Stretch Their Working Hours” asks candidates to examine both opposing views and clearly present their own opinion. With three Band 8 sample answers and useful vocabulary, this blog helps learners develop balanced arguments, organize ideas effectively, and improve their chances of achieving a higher band score in IELTS Writing Task 2.

More Writing Task 2 Essay Topics

• Do You Think Students Need to Wear School Uniforms
• Some People Think That it is More Important to Plant Tree in Open Areas
• People's Shopping Habits Depend More On The Age Group That They Belong to Then Other Factors
• University Education Should be Free for all Students
• Music is a Good Way of Bringing People of Different Cultures and Ages Together
• Crime Rate Nowadays is Decreasing Compared to the Past Due to Advances in Technology