Don't frame it as 'arts vs. hospitals' — that's a false binary. Total budget context matters.
40 min·≥ 250 words
How to crack it
A 5-step plan for the essay
Read the question twice.
Underline every keyword. The instruction word ("agree", "discuss") decides your structure. Get this wrong and you cap at 5.
Plan for 5 minutes.
Two body paragraphs. One main idea each. Pick examples BEFORE you write the intro.
Write your intro last in your head.
Once you know the conclusion, the intro writes itself. Paraphrase the question, don’t copy it.
Aim for 270–290 words.
Less = task incomplete. More = grammar errors. Stay in the pocket.
Leave 3 minutes to proofread.
Hunt articles ("a/an/the"), subject-verb agreement, and "make/do" mix-ups. They’re your usual suspects.
What loses you the band
The four traps this question sets
Off-topic intro
Paraphrase the question. Don’t broaden it.
Conclusion that just repeats
Add one new reason. Or a recommendation.
"Make a damage"
Collocation slip. Use "cause damage".
"Furthermore. Moreover."
Pick one. Both = robotic.
“A letter to the local council about poor street lighting in your area”
20 min · ≥150 words
“Some argue major decisions should be made by referendum rather than by elected officials. …”
40 min · ≥250 words
“Some governments invest huge sums in space research while others say the money should be s…”
40 min · ≥250 words