Skip to content

Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

People succeed because of their hard work; luck has nothing to do with success. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Sample answers

See how other writers have approached the prompt.

Sample answer 1

I agree that hard work is the key to success rather than luck. There are several reasons to support this view. Firstly, hard work is a proven way to achieve success in any field. For example, many successful entrepreneurs and leaders have attributed their achievements to their relentless hard work and dedication. Secondly, luck is unpredictable and unreliable. Relying on luck alone can lead to disappointment and missed opportunities. On the other hand, hard work guarantees progress and improvement, regardless of external factors.

Moreover, hard work instills important values such as perseverance, discipline, and determination. These qualities are essential for achieving long-term success in any endeavor. For instance, athletes train rigorously for years to excel in their sport, demonstrating that hard work is crucial for reaching the pinnacle of success. Additionally, hard work often creates opportunities and opens doors that luck alone cannot. Individuals who consistently put in effort and strive for excellence are more likely to attract opportunities and achieve their goals.

In conclusion, while luck may play a minor role in some instances, it is ultimately hard work that paves the way for success. By putting in the necessary effort and staying committed to their objectives, individuals can overcome obstacles and achieve their desired outcomes. Therefore, I firmly believe that success is primarily a result of hard work rather than luck.

Sample answer 2

I disagree with the statement that people succeed solely because of their hard work and that luck has no role in their success. There are compelling arguments to support the significance of luck in achieving success. Firstly, luck can play a crucial role in providing unexpected opportunities that can propel individuals towards success. For example, meeting the right person at the right time or being in the right place can significantly impact a person's career or life path. These chance occurrences are beyond an individual's control and are attributed to luck rather than hard work.

Furthermore, luck can also influence external circumstances that are beyond an individual's efforts. For instance, economic conditions, market trends, or even natural disasters can greatly affect a person's success, regardless of their hard work. In such cases, luck becomes a determining factor in an individual's ability to succeed. Additionally, some individuals may inherit favorable conditions or resources through luck, providing them with a head start in their endeavors.

In conclusion, while hard work is undeniably important, luck also plays a significant role in determining an individual's success. Unexpected opportunities, external circumstances, and inherited advantages are all aspects influenced by luck that can greatly impact an individual's achievements. Therefore, it is essential to acknowledge the role of luck alongside hard work in the path to success.

Practise this prompt

Set a 40-minute timer and write at least 250 words. Review any sample answers after finishing your own response.

More IELTS Writing Task 2 topics

Get a random essay topic or choose from the topics below.

View all writing topics