Which social media apps do you use?
Mainly Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, along with Messenger. Facebook is almost unavoidable here, since university groups, class announcements and even small businesses all run through it. I use Instagram more for following photographers and friends, and WhatsApp is how my family stays in touch, especially with relatives living abroad.
How much time do you spend on social media each day?
Too much, if I'm honest. My phone tells me it's around three hours a day, which shocked me the first time I checked. A fair amount of that is messaging, which I don't consider wasted, but the rest is mindless scrolling, usually late at night when I should be asleep.
What kind of things do you post online?
Not much, really; I'm more of a viewer than a poster. Occasionally I share photos from a trip or a family event, or a post congratulating a friend on an achievement. I avoid posting opinions about politics or controversial issues, because discussions online tend to become heated very quickly, and I'd rather have those conversations face to face.
Have you ever tried to use social media less?
Yes, last year during my exams I deleted Facebook and Instagram from my phone for a month. The first few days were strange; I kept reaching for my phone out of habit. But by the second week I felt calmer and was sleeping better. Once exams finished I reinstalled them, though I now set daily time limits.
Do you think you would be happier without social media?
Partly, yes, but not completely. I'd probably feel less anxious and compare myself to others less, because everyone online seems to be on holiday or getting promoted. On the other hand, social media keeps me connected with relatives abroad and old school friends. So I think the answer is to use it more carefully, not abandon it entirely.
Sample answers written by Abroadway as models of natural, high-band speaking (not official IELTS samples).
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