IELTS Opinion Essay on Consumer Behavior

Consumer behaviour is a common theme in the IELTS Academic Writing Task 2, often linked to modern lifestyles and global trends. Test-takers may be asked to discuss topics such as the rise of online shopping, the influence of advertising, brand loyalty, impulse buying, the environmental impact of consumerism, or how consumer choices reflect social values. These questions require a balanced analysis of economic, social, and ethical perspectives. To prepare, students should practice structuring arguments clearly and supporting them with real-world examples

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Task 1

The tendency of human beings to copy one another is shown in the popularity of fashion clothes and consumer goods. To what extent do you agree?

How to approach the essay:

First break down the question by recognizing the claim: human tendency to copy is reflected in the popularity of fashion and consumer goods. Decide whether you agree, disagree, or partially agree.

Arguments Against the Idea of Imitation as Human NatureSupporting Points
Popular fashion is driven by marketing, not intrinsic imitation

Similar consumer goods are bought due to limited bespoke options

Shared ownership of items reflects market influence, not conformity

Retailers influence choices through pricing, design, and advertising

People desire uniqueness but avoid high costs of customization

True human tendency leans towards individualism over imitation

Model Answer

Some argue that the inherent tendency of human beings to imitate others is reflected in the widespread popularity of fashionable clothing and consumer goods. However, I believe this view is largely overstated, as only a minority of individuals genuinely follow this trend.

To begin with, individuals often gravitate towards trendy clothing not due to an intrinsic human desire, but because of the accessibility and appeal of these garments. Retailers understand consumer behaviour well and use clever marketing techniques to encourage people to buy the latest fashion items. By carefully considering factors such as price, design, and comfort, these retailers effectively manipulate consumer choices. As a result, the growing number of people wearing popular clothes can be attributed to marketing tactics, rather than a fundamental human tendency to imitate others.

Also, from electronic devices to kitchenware, individuals often find themselves acquiring similar items. Interestingly, many consumers express a desire to own unique products that distinguish them from their peers. However, manufacturers fail to cater to individual preferences unless customers are willing to pay exorbitant prices for bespoke items. This scenario illustrates that a significant number of individuals resist the urge to conform to societal trends. In reality, humans tend to exhibit a stronger inclination towards individualism.

In conclusion, I believe that the idea that human beings are predisposed to mimic one another is unfounded, as the shared ownership of items does not necessarily reflect a desire to conform. Rather, consumers are often guided by retailers towards the acquisition of common clothing and goods. Ultimately, human nature leans more towards individualism than imitation.

Commentary

  • Essay Question: The tendency of human beings to copy one another is shown in the popularity of fashion clothes and consumer goods. To what extent do you agree?

Introduction

  • Clarity: The topic is clearly introduced and rephrased using natural language.
  • Thesis: The writer clearly states a position of disagreement with the statement, suggesting the tendency to copy is overstated.

Body Paragraphs
Main Ideas (Pros/Cons):

  • BP1: Popularity of fashion is due to marketing and accessibility, not a natural desire to imitate.
  • BP2: Despite product similarities, many consumers seek uniqueness but are restricted by pricing and market limitations.

Coherence:

  • Paragraphs are logically organized and unified around clear central ideas.
  • Transitions between sentences and paragraphs are smooth and effective.

Conclusion

  • Summary: The conclusion effectively restates the writer’s viewpoint, summarizing both arguments and reinforcing the position that individualism outweighs conformity.

Vocabulary & Grammar
High-Level Vocabulary:

  • Inherent – natural or existing as a basic part.
  • Accessibility – the ease of obtaining something.
  • Bespoke – custom-made, tailored.
  • Inclination – a tendency or preference.
  • Overstated – exaggerated.

Academic Phrases:

  • It is essential to recognize…
  • This scenario illustrates that…
  • Rather than a fundamental human tendency…

Complex Sentences:

  • “By carefully considering factors such as price, design, and comfort, these retailers effectively manipulate consumer choices.”
  • “However, manufacturers frequently fail to cater to individual preferences unless customers are willing to pay exorbitant prices for bespoke items.”

Task 2

Some people believe that individuals today are faced with an overwhelming number of choices. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

How to approach this IELTS Task 2 essay:

Break down the question: Identify the claim — people today face too many choices in life.
Decide your position: Do you fully agree, partially agree, or disagree?

Reason 1: Technological AdvancementsReason 2: Globalization
Digital tools (social media, email, video calls) offer numerous ways to connect
Transportation improvements provide diverse travel opportunities
Compared to the past, modern technology gives unprecedented lifestyle options
Wider access to international brands increases product choices
Consumers now face more variety in everyday products (e.g., shoes, electronics)
Competitive global markets make choosing between similar products more difficult

Model Answer

In today’s world, it is widely acknowledged that individuals are faced with an overwhelming array of choices. I completely agree with this view for two main reasons: the advancements in technology and the effects of globalization.

Firstly, technological progress has significantly expanded the options available to people. With the rise of digital communication, people can effortlessly maintain connections with a vast network of friends and acquaintances through platforms such as social media, email, and video calls. These tools reflect a modern lifestyle that offers unprecedented choices; a stark contrast to the limitations faced by previous generations. Had individuals in the past been equipped with such cutting-edge technology, they would have enjoyed just as many options as we do today. Furthermore, advancements in transportation have also contributed to this abundance of choices, as evidenced by the diverse travel opportunities that allow us to explore destinations across the globe.

Globalization too has played a pivotal role in increasing the variety of options available to consumers. In earlier times, the selection of products was often confined to local markets, with limited availability of goods. However, globalization has changed that. For instance, over two decades ago, our country was dominated by a single national shoe brand. Now international brands such as Adidas, Reebok, and Nike have created a competitive marketplace, making it increasingly challenging for consumers to determine which brand is superior. This trend extends beyond footwear to encompass a wide range of products, including furniture and electronics.

In conclusion, I strongly believe that individuals today enjoy a far greater selection of choices due to the continuous advancements in communication technologies and the far-reaching effects of globalization.

Commentary

  • Essay Question: Some people believe that individuals today are faced with an overwhelming number of choices. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Introduction

  • Clarity: The topic is introduced clearly and directly.
  • Thesis: The writer explicitly states a clear opinion—complete agreement—with two reasons outlined (technology and globalization).

Body Paragraphs
Main Ideas (Pros/Cons):

  • Body 1: Technology has expanded choices in communication and travel.
  • Body 2: Globalization has broadened product variety in consumer markets.

Coherence:

  • Both paragraphs strongly support the writer’s stance (agree).
  • Logical organization with smooth transitions (“Firstly,” “Furthermore,” “Globalization too…”).

Conclusion

  • Summary: Effectively restates the main argument and reinforces the thesis.
  • Opinion Reflection: Clearly confirms the writer’s stance with no ambiguity.

Vocabulary & Grammar
High-Level Vocabulary:

  • Overwhelming array – vast and possibly excessive variety
  • Unprecedented choices – options never seen before
  • Cutting-edge technology – the latest innovations
  • Competitive marketplace – environment with many competing businesses
  • Far-reaching effects – significant, widespread impact

Academic Phrases:

  • “It is widely acknowledged that…”
  • “This trend extends beyond…”
  • “I strongly believe that…”

Complex Sentences:

  • “Had individuals in the past been equipped with such cutting-edge technology, they would have enjoyed just as many options as we do today.”
  • “Now international brands such as Adidas, Reebok, and Nike have created a competitive marketplace, making it increasingly challenging for consumers to determine which brand is superior.”
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