PTE Sample Essay: To Play or Not to Play

Some people argue that spending free time developing the mind with activities such as reading or solving crossword puzzles is necessary. What is your view of this idea?

Many believe that spending leisure time on intellectual pursuits like reading or solving puzzles is crucial for personal development. While relaxing through entertainment is necessary, stimulating activities offer profound and lasting benefits. In my opinion, engaging the mind in activities that keep it active is important, but it is also essential to allow for appropriate rest time.

On the one hand, too much mental stimulation can exhaust the mind. Excessive focus on intellectual pursuits without adequate rest can lead to burnout. Hence, care needs to be taken to incorporate some relaxing activities and rest into one’s routine to ensure a balanced use of one’s free time.

On the flip side, engaging the mind in challenging tasks can act as a powerful catalyst for growth. The habit of reading regularly exposes the reader to a plethora of diverse perspectives and significantly enhances vocabulary and critical thinking skills. Similarly, brain-teasing puzzles sharpen problem-solving abilities and create a rewarding sense of achievement. For example, the game Sudoku keeps the mind active and engaged, enabling the player to stay focused and improve calculation speed.

Not only can mental stimulation make the mind more agile, but it can also foster a feeling of personal well-being. Keeping oneself engaged in stimulating activities can reduce stress, alleviate boredom, and provide a sense of purpose. For instance, a retired person who may have lost interest in life due to inactivity might suddenly find life exciting again if they get involved in mind-stimulating activities. This could further help them with increased creativity, innovation, and the ability to think independently.