IELTS HUB
Informal Advice Letter #78
GT Writing Task 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You have a friend who is about to enter university, and he/she wants you to advise him/her on which subject to specialize in – history, in which he is very interested, or computer science, which offers better job prospects.

Write a response letter to this friend:

  • Discuss the benefits of studying history
  • Discuss the benefits of studying computer science
  • Offer your advice based on his/her interests and job prospects

Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses at the top of your letter.

Begin your letter as follows: Dear ……………,

One box per bullet, then compare with Band 9.
248 words · 3 body paragraphs
Salutation

Dear [Friend's Name],

Opening

Congratulations on your decision to enter university! I am thrilled that you are considering your options and seeking advice on which subject to specialize in.

Bullet 1

Discuss the benefits of studying history

Studying history offers a deep understanding of the past, allowing you to analyze events, trends, and human behavior. It enhances critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, which are valuable in various professions such as law, journalism, and education. Moreover, history provides a broader perspective on societal issues and cultural diversity, fostering empathy and global awareness.

Bullet 2

Discuss the benefits of studying computer science

On the other hand, computer science presents excellent job prospects in the rapidly evolving digital age. It equips you with technical skills in programming, data analysis, and software development, which are in high demand across industries. A degree in computer science opens doors to lucrative career opportunities in fields like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and software engineering.

Bullet 3

Offer your advice based on his/her interests and job prospects

Considering your passion for history and the practicality of job prospects, I recommend pursuing a degree in computer science while also incorporating history courses as electives or a minor. This way, you can leverage your interest in history to develop a unique skill set that combines analytical thinking with technical expertise, enhancing your competitiveness in the job market.

Closing

Ultimately, follow your passion while keeping an eye on future career opportunities. I believe that a blend of history and computer science will provide you with a well-rounded education and diverse career options. Best of luck with your decision, and I am here to support you every step of the way.

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