C2 Proficiency Essay
Guía completa para sintetizar, evaluar y desarrollar ideas a partir de dos textos: formato real de la tarea, estructura, criterios, lenguaje útil, plantilla, checklist y diez modelos completos.
Consultar el formato oficial de Cambridge English
¿Qué debes hacer realmente?
La tarea no consiste en elegir dos puntos de una lista. Debes leer dos textos breves sobre un mismo asunto, identificar sus argumentos esenciales y producir una respuesta unificada. El resultado no debe parecer dos resúmenes independientes: las ideas tienen que relacionarse, compararse y evaluarse dentro de tu propio razonamiento.
Las tres operaciones esenciales
| Operación | Qué implica | Pregunta de control |
|---|---|---|
| Summarise | Seleccionar y reformular las ideas centrales de ambos textos. | ¿He incluido lo esencial sin copiar ni acumular detalles? |
| Evaluate | Valorar la solidez, los límites o las consecuencias de los argumentos. | ¿He explicado por qué una idea resulta convincente o insuficiente? |
| Synthesise | Relacionar ambos textos y combinarlos con un razonamiento propio. | ¿Mi ensayo funciona como un todo y no como dos resúmenes separados? |
Estructura flexible recomendada
| Sección | Función | Contenido posible |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction | Presentar el debate común y orientar la evaluación. | Una reformulación global del problema, sin copiar el enunciado. |
| Development 1 | Integrar y valorar una idea central del primer texto. | Resumen selectivo, implicaciones y una observación propia. |
| Development 2 | Relacionar la segunda perspectiva con la primera. | Contraste, coincidencia, limitación o ampliación del argumento. |
| Conclusion | Extraer una valoración final coherente. | Síntesis y postura propia derivada del análisis anterior. |
Cómo se evalúa
Content
Seleccionas y desarrollas las ideas clave de ambos textos, aportas evaluación e ideas propias y mantienes informado al lector.
Communicative Achievement
Produces un ensayo discursivo convincente con un registro académico apropiado y una argumentación capaz de manejar ideas abstractas.
Organisation
Integras las fuentes en una progresión lógica y empleas recursos cohesivos variados sin que resulten mecánicos.
Language
Utilizas vocabulario preciso, flexible y sofisticado, junto con estructuras complejas controladas y naturales.
Lenguaje útil para sintetizar y evaluar
Presentar ideas sin copiar
One perspective emphasises…
The first argument rests on the assumption that…
A central concern raised is…
Relacionar las fuentes
This view is reinforced / challenged by…
Both arguments recognise that…
Whereas one account focuses on…, the other…
Evaluar
This is persuasive insofar as…
The argument underestimates…
Its principal limitation lies in…
A more convincing interpretation is…
Aportar ideas propias
A further consideration is…
This becomes particularly significant when…
Viewed more broadly,…
The decisive issue is therefore…
Plantilla flexible
Reformulate the shared issue and indicate the direction of your evaluation.
Development
Summarise a key argument from the first text in your own words, evaluate it and connect it to a relevant idea of your own.
Comparison / synthesis
Introduce the central point of the second text, show how it supports, challenges or qualifies the first, and assess its implications.
Conclusion
Draw the arguments together and present a reasoned overall judgement.
Lista de comprobación
- He identificado las ideas esenciales de los dos textos.
- Las he reformulado con mis propias palabras.
- He evaluado los argumentos, no solo los he resumido.
- He relacionado las dos perspectivas entre sí.
- He añadido ideas propias relevantes.
- El ensayo tiene una línea argumental unificada.
- El registro es formal y académico sin sonar artificial.
- Los conectores son variados y cumplen una función real.
- He revisado precisión léxica, gramática y puntuación.
- El texto tiene entre 240 y 280 palabras.
C2 Essay: 10 modelos completos
Cada actividad reproduce la lógica de la tarea real: dos textos breves sobre un mismo tema y un ensayo que sintetiza, evalúa y desarrolla sus ideas. Los recuentos corresponden únicamente al cuerpo del ensayo.
Success in Life: Hard Work or Privilege?
Writing Part 1
Read the two texts below. Write an essay summarising and evaluating the key points from both texts. Use your own words as far as possible and include your own ideas.
Write 240–280 words in an appropriate style.
It is often claimed that hard work is the cornerstone of success. Countless motivational narratives uphold this belief, portraying perseverance and determination as the primary drivers of achievement. However, it is also worth considering whether external factors such as wealth and social connections may exert a greater influence in shaping one’s path.
On the one hand, hard work is undeniably a fundamental ingredient of success. Individuals who consistently apply themselves, set goals and overcome obstacles tend to achieve tangible results, regardless of their starting point. There is ample evidence to suggest that those who develop resilience and discipline are more likely to thrive in competitive environments. Moreover, in many merit-based systems, personal effort is rewarded, thereby reinforcing the value of hard work.
On the other hand, it must be acknowledged that not everyone begins from the same position. Access to quality education, influential networks, and financial backing often provide a decisive advantage. For instance, someone with family connections in a particular industry may obtain job opportunities that remain inaccessible to equally capable candidates. This raises the question of whether merit alone can prevail in a world where privilege frequently opens doors that effort alone cannot.
Taking everything into account, while I fully recognise the importance of hard work, I am inclined to believe that structural advantages play an equally significant—if not greater—role. In an ideal world, success would be the sole result of merit. In reality, however, external factors often shape the opportunities available to each individual. Ultimately, it is the interplay between effort and opportunity that determines success.
The Role of the Arts in a Healthy Society
Writing Part 1
Read the two texts below. Write an essay summarising and evaluating the key points from both texts. Use your own words as far as possible and include your own ideas.
Write 240–280 words in an appropriate style.
It is widely acknowledged that the arts play a pivotal role in enriching both individuals and communities. Whether through education, access, or financial support, engagement with artistic expression has been linked to improved well-being, empathy, and social cohesion. This essay will examine the importance of arts in education and access to cultural experiences, arguing that the former holds greater long-term significance.
To begin with, integrating the arts into education has profound cognitive and emotional benefits. Students involved in music, drama, or visual arts often develop greater creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration skills. Beyond academic performance, the arts foster self-expression and emotional intelligence, which are fundamental to building inclusive and resilient communities. Therefore, arts education lays the foundation for a population that is not only skilled but also culturally aware and empathetic.
In contrast, public access to the arts ensures that cultural enrichment is not confined to privileged sectors of society. It can be argued that visiting galleries, attending concerts, or participating in workshops promotes civic engagement and a sense of shared identity. However, such access often depends on prior exposure and appreciation—qualities more likely to be cultivated through early educational experiences. Without a solid foundation in the arts, access alone may fail to spark genuine interest or impact.
All things considered, while access is essential, I am inclined to believe that embedding the arts in education is a more effective strategy for promoting a healthy society. In the long term, it nurtures individuals who not only appreciate cultural expression but also contribute meaningfully to it. In light of the above, ensuring arts education for all should be a priority for any forward-thinking society.
Science and Quality of Life: Where the Impact Matters Most
Writing Part 1
Read the two texts below. Write an essay summarising and evaluating the key points from both texts. Use your own words as far as possible and include your own ideas.
Write 240–280 words in an appropriate style.
There is little doubt that scientific innovation has reshaped the modern world, affecting everything from how we communicate to how we travel and stay healthy. While each of these areas has made a substantial contribution to human progress, this essay will argue that developments in medicine have had the most profound and enduring effect on our quality of life, although advances in communication are also noteworthy.
To begin with, medical breakthroughs have significantly increased life expectancy and enhanced the overall standard of health worldwide. Vaccines, antibiotics, and advanced surgical techniques have all but eradicated certain diseases and enabled early detection and treatment of others. Moreover, technology-driven tools such as telemedicine and robotic surgery continue to expand access and precision. It is hard to overstate the impact of being able to prevent or cure illnesses that once decimated populations.
Nonetheless, the digital revolution in communication has also transformed daily life. The rise of the internet and mobile technology has connected people across the globe in real time, facilitating not only social interaction but also education, commerce, and activism. It could be argued that these changes have made information more democratic and society more interconnected. However, the psychological and social drawbacks—such as misinformation and digital addiction—are increasingly evident.
All things considered, while advances in communication have brought undeniable benefits, I firmly believe that progress in medicine has had the most tangible and universally beneficial impact on humanity. In light of the evidence, it is clear that safeguarding life and health must take precedence over enhancing convenience and speed.
Urban Challenges: A Race Against Time
Writing Part 1
Read the two texts below. Write an essay summarising and evaluating the key points from both texts. Use your own words as far as possible and include your own ideas.
Write 240–280 words in an appropriate style.
As urban populations continue to grow, cities are being forced to confront a series of increasingly complex challenges. Among the most pressing are environmental pollution, inadequate housing, and inefficient public transport systems. This essay will explore the first two, ultimately arguing that pollution poses the most immediate and far-reaching threat to urban life.
To begin with, the environmental toll of urban living has reached critical levels in many cities. Air and water pollution, excessive noise, and the unchecked expansion of concrete infrastructure have all contributed to deteriorating health conditions and reduced quality of life. Numerous studies have highlighted the link between urban pollution and respiratory diseases, mental health issues, and premature mortality. Unless decisive action is taken, this situation will only worsen as cities expand further.
That said, housing is undeniably a major concern, particularly in cities with rapidly rising property prices and increasing socioeconomic inequality. It is not uncommon for large segments of the population to be priced out of decent accommodation, resulting in overcrowding, homelessness, or reliance on substandard living conditions. However, while the consequences are severe, they tend to affect specific groups rather than the population as a whole, and many governments are beginning to respond with policy reforms.
Taking everything into account, I am inclined to believe that pollution is the most urgent urban issue. Unlike housing, which can be addressed progressively through legislation and urban planning, the effects of pollution are already visible and irreversible in some cases. In light of this, sustainable development and environmental regulation must become top priorities for any city hoping to remain livable in the coming decades.
Education in Society: Purpose Beyond Employment
Writing Part 1
Read the two texts below. Write an essay summarising and evaluating the key points from both texts. Use your own words as far as possible and include your own ideas.
Write 240–280 words in an appropriate style.
It is commonly accepted that education plays a vital role in shaping both individuals and societies. While it can serve numerous purposes, such as facilitating employment, fostering critical thinking, or cultivating responsible citizenship, this essay will argue that developing critical thinking is the most fundamental and far-reaching goal.
To begin with, critical thinking equips individuals with the cognitive tools necessary to navigate an increasingly complex and information-saturated world. Rather than simply absorbing facts, learners are encouraged to analyse, evaluate, and question information. This ability is essential not only in professional contexts but also in everyday decision-making, from assessing news sources to resolving ethical dilemmas. Without critical thinking, citizens are more vulnerable to manipulation, misinformation, and extremism in both public and private life.
In contrast, while preparing students for employment is undeniably a practical and often necessary objective, it tends to be more narrowly focused. Job-specific training may address immediate needs, but rarely fosters the flexibility and adaptability required in today’s rapidly evolving job market. Moreover, education should not be reduced to a tool for economic productivity alone—it must also aim to cultivate the mind and character.
All things considered, although employability is a tangible outcome of education, I firmly believe that the development of critical thinking holds greater long-term value. In a democratic and fast-changing world, the ability to think independently and responsibly is not a luxury, but a necessity. In light of this, education systems should place intellectual autonomy at the heart of their mission.
Globalisation: Bridging or Widening the Gap?
Writing Part 1
Read the two texts below. Write an essay summarising and evaluating the key points from both texts. Use your own words as far as possible and include your own ideas.
Write 240–280 words in an appropriate style.
Globalisation has become one of the defining forces of the 21st century, affecting every corner of the globe and every layer of society. Among its most notable aspects are international trade, cultural exchange, and labour migration. This essay will examine the first two, arguing that cultural exchange has had the most profound—though not unproblematic—impact on society.
On the one hand, cultural exchange has contributed significantly to mutual understanding and tolerance. Exposure to foreign traditions, languages and ways of thinking can broaden perspectives and challenge stereotypes. It has enabled societies to become more open and diverse, encouraging cross-cultural collaboration in everything from art and education to science and diplomacy. However, critics argue that cultural globalisation often leads to the erosion of local customs, languages and identities. This concern is not unfounded, particularly when dominant cultures overshadow smaller or indigenous ones.
In comparison, international trade has greatly increased economic interdependence and provided many countries with access to a broader range of goods and services. It could be argued that this has improved living standards, fostered innovation and stimulated global growth. Nonetheless, it has also contributed to environmental degradation, labour exploitation, and the widening of inequality between and within nations.
Taking everything into account, while international trade has shaped the global economy, I am inclined to believe that cultural exchange has had the most lasting and complex effect on society. By reshaping how people interact, perceive each other and define themselves, it affects not only the present but the future of global identity. In light of this, cultural dynamics should be approached with both enthusiasm and caution.
The Impact of Celebrity Culture on Society
Writing Part 1
Read the two texts below. Write an essay summarising and evaluating the key points from both texts. Use your own words as far as possible and include your own ideas.
Write 240–280 words in an appropriate style.
In today’s media-driven world, celebrities exert enormous influence on public behaviour and perception. Their reach extends far beyond entertainment, affecting how people think, act, and even vote. This essay will consider how young people’s values and consumer behaviour are shaped by celebrity culture, concluding that the former is more deeply affected.
To begin with, young people are particularly susceptible to the messages conveyed by celebrities. Adolescents and young adults often view public figures as role models, imitating not only their fashion choices or lifestyle but also their attitudes and beliefs. This imitation is not inherently negative, but when the figures in question promote superficiality, materialism or irresponsible behaviour, the consequences can be far-reaching. It is widely acknowledged that influencers and celebrities play a key role in shaping identity during formative years.
Consumer habits, too, are heavily influenced by celebrity endorsements and online trends. There is mounting evidence that celebrity marketing leads to significant spikes in product sales, especially when coupled with social media algorithms. However, this influence, while powerful, is largely commercial and transactional in nature. It affects what people buy, but not necessarily what they believe or how they see the world.
All things considered, although both areas are affected, I am inclined to believe that the values of young people are more profoundly shaped by celebrity culture. The internalisation of behaviours, ideals and attitudes has long-term consequences for personal development and social cohesion. In light of this, greater media literacy and critical thinking should be encouraged in education to help young people navigate the celebrity-saturated landscape of modern life.
Artificial Intelligence: Shaping the Future of Human Systems
Writing Part 1
Read the two texts below. Write an essay summarising and evaluating the key points from both texts. Use your own words as far as possible and include your own ideas.
Write 240–280 words in an appropriate style.
Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant concept confined to science fiction; it is already reshaping the way we live and interact. Among the sectors most likely to be transformed are healthcare, employment, and education. This essay will argue that healthcare stands to undergo the most dramatic changes, although employment will also be significantly affected.
To begin with, AI is revolutionising the healthcare industry through innovations in diagnosis, treatment and patient monitoring. Advanced algorithms can already detect diseases more accurately than human doctors, especially in fields such as radiology and dermatology. Moreover, wearable devices powered by AI are enabling continuous health tracking, allowing for earlier interventions and personalised care. It is worth pointing out that in ageing societies, such tools may be essential to maintaining sustainable healthcare systems.
Employment, too, is facing disruption, particularly in sectors reliant on routine or manual tasks. Automation is expected to replace millions of jobs, leading to significant economic and social adjustments. However, history has shown that technological progress tends to create new types of work even as it eliminates others. The challenge will be ensuring that workers are equipped with the skills required for the new economy.
Taking everything into account, although both areas will experience substantial change, I firmly believe that the transformation of healthcare will be deeper, more immediate, and ultimately more beneficial to society as a whole. In light of current trends and investments, AI appears poised not only to improve medical outcomes, but also to redefine the patient–doctor relationship itself.
The Power of the Individual in the Digital Age
Writing Part 1
Read the two texts below. Write an essay summarising and evaluating the key points from both texts. Use your own words as far as possible and include your own ideas.
Write 240–280 words in an appropriate style.
It is often said that one person cannot change the world, but in the age of global connectivity, that belief is being continuously challenged. Among those shaping society today are social media users, activists, and artists, each exerting influence in different ways. This essay will argue that social media users—particularly influencers and viral voices—have the most immediate and widespread impact.
To begin with, platforms such as Instagram, TikTok and Twitter have given individuals unprecedented reach. With a single post, a user can spark international debates, shift public opinion, or trigger large-scale action. The influence of online voices is particularly strong among younger audiences, many of whom consume more content from creators than from traditional news sources. It is widely acknowledged that social media now plays a crucial role in shaping trends, language, and even politics.
In contrast, activists and campaigners tend to rely on more structured methods of influence, such as organised protests, lobbying, and education. While their work is essential in securing long-term change, their reach is often slower and more limited in scope. That being said, many activist movements have gained visibility precisely because individuals on social media amplified their message.
All things considered, while activism remains vital, I am inclined to believe that the influence of social media users is more pervasive and immediate. In today’s society, visibility often translates to power, and social platforms provide a stage where even an unknown voice can resonate globally. In light of this, understanding and critically engaging with digital influence is essential for navigating modern life.
Leisure and Well-being: What Matters Most?
Writing Part 1
Read the two texts below. Write an essay summarising and evaluating the key points from both texts. Use your own words as far as possible and include your own ideas.
Write 240–280 words in an appropriate style.
In today’s fast-paced world, leisure is increasingly recognised not as a luxury but as a necessity. With rising stress levels and mental health concerns, identifying which aspects of free time are most beneficial has become crucial. This essay will explore the benefits of creative hobbies and social interaction, concluding that the latter plays a more central role in promoting overall well-being.
To begin with, engaging in creative activities such as painting, writing or playing an instrument offers numerous psychological advantages. It has been widely demonstrated that such pursuits enhance focus, reduce anxiety, and provide a sense of accomplishment. Moreover, creativity allows individuals to express emotions that might otherwise remain unspoken, fostering self-awareness and emotional regulation.
That said, social interaction addresses a fundamental human need: connection. Studies consistently show that people with strong social ties report greater happiness and resilience, and even experience lower rates of illness. Unlike solitary hobbies, social activities foster empathy, shared experience and a sense of belonging—elements that are critical to mental and emotional health. It is worth pointing out that loneliness has been identified as a major public health issue in many developed countries.
Taking everything into account, although creative hobbies contribute meaningfully to well-being, I firmly believe that regular social interaction is more impactful overall. In light of mounting evidence, investing time in meaningful relationships should be seen as a key pillar of a healthy lifestyle, not just an optional leisure activity. Ultimately, human connection is not just beneficial—it is essential.