Pre-TOEFL writing, the best ways of reducing stress

Writing topic

People have different ways of escaping stress and difficulties of modern life. Some read; some exercise; others work in their gardens. What do you think are the best ways of reducing stress? Use specific details and examples in your answer.

☆Let’s Think

The first and second sentences are talking about various ways of escaping stress by doing things you like. The expression in the question “the best ways” means that you could name more than one best ways. To come up with ideas, thinking about what causes stress may help.

☆Hints for Points

1.    to do what you like  e.g. play games, talk with your best friends

2.    to escape stressful events/people   e.g. not to procrastinate, to take a detour

3.    to build good relationships with/get on well with/be on good terms with others

4.    not to worry about small matters

5.    to stay healthy   e.g. sleep well, avoid salty/spicy foods, work out regulary

☆Sample Essay Structures

【Introduction = Outline】Each person has his or her own ways of escaping stress because stressors differ from person to person. Personally, I think exercising prudence and listening to music are the best ways to escape stress.

【Point 1】Prudence helps avoid involving in stressful events.

【Point 2】My favorite kind of music keeps my mind cool.

【Point 3】I sometimes eat sweets to feel good, but the effect wears off in a short time.

【Conclusion = Wrap-up】Learning what causes stress and trying to take care of the problem may be practical.

Note: 「ストレスを解消する」release stress, relieve stress, blow off steam

♦Your Sample Essay Structure

【Introduction = Outline】

【Point 1】

【Point 2】

【Point 3】

【Conclusion = Wrap-up】

☆Sample Paragraph Development of Point 1 in Sample Essay Structure

【Main Idea】Prudence helps avoid involving in stressful events.

【Explanation】Many stressful events are actually backfires of your unwitty actions.

【Example】For example, you may not want to point out a mistake of a short-tempered person who happens to be in a bad mood since doing it may cause the person to explode and you will get stressed out.

【Follow-up】The same can be said to anyone, who has feelings and can be offended more or less if you are not attentive, and, even though not many people are spiteful, what goes around comes around and you might pay the price in the form of stress in the end.

【Conclusion】By being thoughtful, you can be free from stress in many cases.