IELTS Writing Task 2 – Band 8.0 Sample

Despite the vast amount of free news online, a growing number of readers are willing to pay for digital subscriptions. This essay will explain why people make this choice and argue that, while in-depth journalism cannot always be free, essential news should remain accessible to everyone.

The main reason people pay is a desire for reliable information. Free websites often depend on advertising revenue and therefore favour sensational headlines that attract clicks, and social media is flooded with misleading stories. Subscribers believe that reputable newspapers employ professional journalists who verify facts and conduct serious investigations. In addition, paid services usually offer an ad-free reading experience and expert analysis. Some readers also subscribe as a matter of principle, to support independent journalism that holds governments and corporations accountable.

However, making all quality news free is financially unrealistic. Investigative reporting is expensive, sometimes requiring months of research and legal advice, and without income from readers many newspapers would go out of business. Hundreds of local newspapers in the United States have closed over the past two decades, leaving communities without reliable coverage of local politics. Readers who pay therefore help to keep quality journalism alive.

Nevertheless, I believe information of public importance, such as health emergencies, natural disasters and elections, should be free for everyone. A democracy functions properly only when all citizens, regardless of income, can make informed decisions. Public broadcasters and publications offering discounted subscriptions for students and low-income households could help to bridge this gap.

In conclusion, people pay for news because they value accuracy, depth and independence. Although high-quality journalism needs funding, vital public information should remain free so that no one is left uninformed.