Practice Tests
IELTS Reading (AC) Task 1 #159

A. Minimalism is a lifestyle and design philosophy that advocates for living with only the essential things. As a lifestyle, it is a conscious movement away from the consumerist culture that encourages the constant accumulation of material possessions. Instead, minimalism promotes intentionality, encouraging individuals to critically assess their belongings and keep only those items that serve a purpose or bring them genuine joy. The goal is not deprivation, but rather to free oneself from the burden of excessive clutter and focus on what is truly important in life.

B. The principles of minimalism can be applied to many aspects of life beyond physical possessions. It can extend to managing one''s time and commitments, decluttering digital life, and simplifying finances. The core idea is to eliminate the non-essential in order to make room for what matters most, such as relationships, experiences, personal growth, and creativity. Proponents of this lifestyle often report feeling less stress, more freedom, and a greater sense of clarity and purpose.

C. The rise of minimalism as a popular social movement in recent years can be seen as a reaction to the pressures and excesses of modern life. It offers an alternative to the relentless pursuit of material wealth as a measure of success and happiness. The philosophy has been popularised by authors and bloggers like Marie Kondo and The Minimalists, who provide practical guidance on how to declutter and live more intentionally.

D. Beyond the personal benefits, minimalism also has positive environmental implications. By consuming less, minimalists reduce their demand for new products, which in turn lowers their carbon footprint and reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills. It encourages a shift towards a more sustainable model of consumption, where value is placed on quality and durability over quantity and disposability. While not a solution for everyone, minimalism offers a powerful counter-narrative to consumerism, inviting a re-evaluation of our relationship with our possessions and our priorities.