It is better to have broad knowledge of many academic subjects

IELTS Writing Task 2 with sample answer.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Do you agree or disagree with the following statement?

It is better to have broad knowledge of many academic subjects than to specialize in one specific subject.

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

Write at least 250 words.


Sample Answer:
Knowledge is the power that controls opportunity and success. But when it comes to the point that whether it is better to have broad knowledge of many academic subjects that to specialize in one particular subject people are divided in their opinions. In many circles, it is argued that the comprehensive knowledge on different academic subjects is better, while others contend that having knowledge on one particular is suitable response for the current situation. In my opinion, however, I feel that people only with broad knowledge on several subjects could survive in this increasingly competitive world, since employers look for employees with versatile knowledge on the one hand, and job seekers have multitude opportunities on the other hand.

To start with, the wider spectrum of knowledge is much handy in this ever changing world. People require broad knowledge on many aspects in their life. A case in point is workplace, which requires knowledge on several areas. For instance, a manager needs knowledge on economics for budget, on technology for production and communication, on social science for leading subordinates, on environment for Eco-friendly decisions. Workers, even, now require knowledge on different fields. Consequently, employers tend to select their employees who can serve multipurpose. In addition, a man with versatile knowledge has a pool of opportunities. He can choose an appropriate occupation from a wide range of options. Furthermore, with knowledge on different fields, he can perform his responsibilities effectively and efficiently. This keeps him always ahead of his competitors.

Similarly, comprehensive knowledge on different academic fields broadens one’s ability. That is to say that broad knowledge of many domains helps people view things from various angles. This enables people to solve more complicated problems. This means that the ability of solving problems lean on the capacity of knowledge in various subjects. And in the current society, the quality of problem solving is the precondition of success. There are many successful figures in annal of human history who was expert in various fields. A very good example here is Leonardo da Vinci. As is known to all, he had an extra ordinary talent in painting, sculpting, and anything pertaining to art. Despite of his amazing achievement in fine art domain, he is an outstanding inventor.

In fine, broad knowledge on various domains opens the horizon of opportunities as it hones the problem solving skills that keep the man ahead of his competitors. Therefore, I would like to say that broad knowledge of many academic subjects is the key to success in the consistently changing world.