B1 Upper-Intermediate Writing · Lesson 21

Write an Advantages and Disadvantages Essay

Learn to present the positive and negative sides of an issue fairly before reaching a balanced conclusion.

B1 Upper-IntermediateAdvantages-disadvantages essay30 min150–160 words
Lesson progress
Explanation · 1 / 4
Study the structure and model before completing the three exercises.

Write a balanced essay that introduces a topic, develops several advantages and disadvantages with explanations, and gives a measured conclusion.

Model text

Working remotely has become common in many industries, and it offers several clear advantages. One major benefit is flexibility. Employees can often organise their day more efficiently and avoid spending time and money travelling to an office. Remote work may also allow companies to hire people who live in different cities or countries. However, there are disadvantages as well. Some employees find it harder to communicate with colleagues online, especially when a problem needs a quick discussion. Others may feel isolated if they spend most of the week working alone. In addition, the boundary between work and personal life can become unclear when both happen in the same place. Overall, remote work can improve flexibility and reduce unnecessary travel, but it is not ideal for everyone. Its success depends on the type of job, the employee’s personality, and whether the company creates good ways for people to communicate and stay connected.

How to write

1
Introduce the topic neutrally
2
Develop two meaningful advantages
3
Explain why those advantages matter
4
Develop two meaningful disadvantages
5
Finish with a balanced overall conclusion

Useful language

One major advantage is...Another benefit is...However,...On the other hand,...One disadvantage is...Overall,...
B1 Upper-Intermediate focus: Develop each main idea with a reason, example, consequence, or reflection. Use a wider range of linkers, but keep the text natural and easy to follow.
Exercises:
Exercise 1 · Language in the model text

Write an Advantages and Disadvantages Essay

Read the model text closely. Choose the answer that best explains its grammar, vocabulary, linking, or register.

Analyse how the model uses language to achieve the writing purpose.
Exercise 1 · 2 / 4
You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6.
1
Why does the essay use “One major benefit is flexibility”?
2
What does “may also allow” communicate about hiring across locations?
3
Why does “However” begin the disadvantages section?
4
What does “especially when a problem needs a quick discussion” do?
5
Why is “In addition” used before the work-life boundary point?
6
What does “it is not ideal for everyone” contribute to the conclusion?
Exercise 2 · Structure & development

Write an Advantages and Disadvantages Essay

Use the model text to analyse how its ideas are ordered, connected, developed, and supported.

Analyse the organisation of this specific model text and the function of its details.
Exercise 2 · 3 / 4
You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6.
1
How are the advantages developed?
2
Why does the essay use a clear transition before the disadvantages?
3
How are the three disadvantages different from one another?
4
Why does the conclusion mention both flexibility and travel again?
5
What makes the final sentence more nuanced than a simple “remote work is good/bad”?
6
Which outline best represents the essay?
Exercise 3 · Writing

Write an Advantages and Disadvantages Essay

Learn to present the positive and negative sides of an issue fairly before reaching a balanced conclusion.

Complete the writing task.
Exercise 3 · 4 / 4
Write 150–160 words and develop your ideas clearly.
Your task

Write an essay discussing the advantages and disadvantages of a modern choice or trend, such as remote work, online shopping, living in a large city, or studying abroad.

  • Introduce the topic without giving only one side.
  • Discuss at least two advantages.
  • Explain why at least one advantage matters.
  • Discuss at least two disadvantages.
  • Use clear contrast language.
  • Develop ideas with reasons or examples.
  • Finish with a balanced conclusion.
One major advantage is...Another benefit is...However,...On the other hand,...One disadvantage is...Overall,...
Your writing
0 words · Target: 150–160

Your draft is saved automatically on this device.

Quick check
Write about 150–160 words
Introduce the issue or debate clearly
Develop multiple arguments or solutions
Support ideas with reasons or examples
Use contrast or another viewpoint
Finish with an evaluative conclusion
Use several linking expressions
Use at least 9 clear sentences
AI feedback

After the lesson check, get detailed feedback appropriate for this B1 Upper-Intermediate task.