Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-08-11

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In many countries, paying for things using mobile phone (cellphone) apps is becoming increasingly common. Does this development have more advantages or more disadvantages?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Student answer (Band 7.0)

The use of mobile phone payment apps is increasing at a rapid rate. These apps provide various tools that allow people to make payments without using cash. I believe this is a positive development as long as users follow all the necessary security precautions. This essay will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of mobile payment apps.

To begin with, using banking apps allows users to pay online; thus, they do not need to carry cash. Moreover, it reduces the risk of cash being stolen during a robbery. These apps are also user-friendly, and users can check their transactions at any time because all the details are shown in the applications. For example, an app tracks all the money coming into and going out of an account; therefore, it is easier for users to check their expenses and income. As a result, people can manage their money more effectively.

However, there is a chance of fraud through online banking because these apps can be hacked and users' money can be stolen. Therefore, users need to make sure that their passwords and other necessary details, such as card numbers, are kept secure. For instance, if a user loses their card, another person may try to use it. However, with mobile payment apps, users can add additional security features such as Face ID or fingerprint verification. As a result, it becomes much more difficult for another person to access the account.

In this way, these apps not only provide many useful features but are also relatively safe to use when users follow the necessary security measures. They can also reduce the chances of fraud and help people keep track of their finances.

In conclusion, the merits of mobile payment apps outweigh their demerits. However, users should use these apps carefully and make use of all the available security features. They should also regularly check their bank accounts and contact their bank if they notice anything suspicious.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

You have addressed all parts of the prompt by discussing both the advantages and disadvantages of mobile payment apps and clearly stating your position that the merits outweigh the demerits. Your ideas are relevant and supported by examples, such as the mention of tracking expenses and the use of biometric security like Face ID. To reach a higher band, you could further extend your arguments by discussing the broader societal impact, such as the digital divide or the implications for privacy, rather than focusing primarily on individual security and convenience. Overall, the response is well-developed and maintains a consistent position throughout.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. You use a range of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'To begin with,' 'Moreover,' 'For instance,' and 'In conclusion,' which help guide the reader through your arguments. Paragraphing is used appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a central theme. The progression of ideas is clear, moving from the benefits to the risks and then to the mitigation of those risks. The referencing is generally accurate, ensuring that the flow of information remains smooth and easy to follow throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You demonstrate an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, using terms like 'security precautions,' 'user-friendly,' 'transactions,' and 'merits/demerits.' The language is natural and conveys your meaning clearly. While the vocabulary is sufficient, it is somewhat functional and lacks the more sophisticated or 'less common' lexical items that would characterize a higher band score. To improve, try to incorporate more precise collocations or academic synonyms to elevate the tone of your writing. For example, instead of 'money coming into and going out,' you could use 'inflow and outflow of capital.'

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures effectively. Most of your sentences are error-free, and your control of punctuation is good. There are no major grammatical errors that impede communication. You successfully employ complex structures, such as conditional clauses ('as long as users follow...') and causal links ('because all the details are shown...'). To achieve a higher band, you could experiment with a wider variety of complex structures, such as passive voice constructions or more sophisticated subordinating conjunctions, to demonstrate greater grammatical flexibility and precision in your writing.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

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