PTE Academic Write Essay · Problem and solution

Addressing Financial Imprudence and Saving Strategies for Youth

A high-scoring sample essay with the plan behind it, the vocabulary that lifts it, and what the scoring traits reward.
  • 247 words
  • Problem and solution
  • beginner
  • 20 minutes

The prompt

Many young people today find it difficult to save money because they spend most of their income on things they want rather than things they need. What are the main problems caused by poor saving habits, and what steps can young people take to start saving money regularly?

20 minutes. Write 200 to 300 words. A BandLadder practice prompt, not a recalled exam question.

Problem and solution

Plan before you write

  1. 1

    Position

    Poor saving habits among youth lead to long-term financial instability, but these can be rectified through disciplined budgeting and prioritizing essential expenditures.

  2. 2

    Paragraph 2

    The primary consequence of excessive consumption is a lack of financial resilience, leaving individuals vulnerable to emergencies.

  3. 3

    Paragraph 3

    Young people can cultivate fiscal responsibility by implementing automated savings plans and differentiating between immediate desires and genuine necessities.

  • →Name one or two specific problems, not a general complaint.
  • →Match each solution to a problem and say who would carry it out.
  • →Keep problems and solutions in separate paragraphs so the structure is visible.

Model answer

Sample essay

High-scoring sample247 words. Use the structure and vocabulary, not the sentences: PTE flags memorised templates.

Financial literacy remains a critical challenge for the younger generation, as the allure of discretionary spending often supersedes the necessity of capital accumulation. This essay will examine the detrimental effects of impulsive consumption and propose actionable strategies for developing sustainable saving habits.

The most significant problem stemming from inadequate savings is a profound lack of financial security. When individuals prioritize fleeting desires over building a safety net, they become highly susceptible to economic shocks. For example, a young professional without emergency savings may face severe debt if an unexpected medical expense or job loss occurs, highlighting how poor fiscal management compromises long-term stability and restricts future opportunities, such as purchasing a home or investing.

To address this, young people must adopt structured financial management techniques. A practical approach is the 'needs versus wants' framework, which encourages individuals to audit their expenditures and eliminate non-essential purchases. Furthermore, setting up automated transfers to a high-yield savings account immediately upon receiving a salary ensures that saving becomes a priority rather than an afterthought. By consistently allocating a fixed percentage of income to savings, young adults can build a robust financial foundation while still enjoying a balanced lifestyle.

In conclusion, while the temptation to spend on luxury items is pervasive, the repercussions of failing to save are far-reaching. Through the implementation of disciplined budgeting and automated financial planning, young individuals can effectively mitigate risks and secure their economic future. Prioritizing long-term solvency over short-term gratification is essential for achieving lasting prosperity.

Scoring traits

Why this scores well

This response scores highly for its logical development and sophisticated use of formal academic vocabulary. The most common mistake on this prompt is failing to provide specific, actionable solutions, resulting in vague advice rather than structured strategies.

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8 words

Vocabulary from the essay

  • discretionary spending

    Money spent on non-essential items or services.

  • capital accumulation

    The process of increasing one's total wealth.

  • fiscal resilience

    The ability to withstand unexpected economic financial pressure.

  • susceptible

    Likely to be influenced or harmed by something.

  • economic shocks

    Unpredictable events that significantly impact financial stability.

  • solvency

    The state of having enough money to pay debts.

  • pervasive

    Spreading widely throughout an area or group.

  • mitigate

    To make something less severe or painful.

See also the Write Essay guide.

Frequently asked questions

How long should a PTE essay be?+

Between 200 and 300 words; outside that range the form score drops to zero. This sample is 247 words, written for the 20-minute limit.

What type of essay is this?+

Problem and solution. Name one or two specific problems, not a general complaint.

What does PTE reward in the essay?+

This response scores highly for its logical development and sophisticated use of formal academic vocabulary. The most common mistake on this prompt is failing to provide specific, actionable solutions, resulting in vague advice rather than structured strategies.

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