Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-08-14

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)

In many countries, paying for goods and services using mobile phone applications has become increasingly common. Although this advancement has some disadvantages, I believe that the advantages are greater because mobile payments are convenient, fast and can provide greater financial control.

One major advantage of digital payment apps is convenience. People no longer need to carry cash or several bank cards with them. Using smartphone, they can pay for almost everything, from groceries and restaurant bills to public transport. This is particularly useful when people are traveling or when they unexpected need to pay for a service. In addition, mobile payments are usually very quick and accurate, which can reduce queue in shops and other businesses.

Another benefit is that mobile payments can help people manage their finances more effectively. Most payment apps provide a record of all transactions, allowing users to check exactly how much they have spent in a day. Some apps also sends significant notifications after each payment, which can make it easier to track and detect unusual transactions. For example, if someone who regularly uses phone to pay for everyday purchases can quickly review their spending in the apps and identify area where they need to save money.

However, there are also some disadvantages, the biggest concern is security and privacy. If a person's phone is lost or stolen, there is a possibility that someone could gain access to their banking applications. There are also risks from online scams and hackers. Furthermore, people who rely entirely on mobile payments may face difficulties if their phone battery dies or their is no or poor internet connection.

Despite these disadvantages, I believe the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Online banking makes everyday transactions faster and more convenient, while security features such as passwords, fingerprints and facial recognition can reduce many of the associated risks. Therefore, as long as people use these applications carefully and protect their personal information, mobile payments are a positive development.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response addresses all parts of the prompt, providing a clear position that the advantages of mobile payments outweigh the disadvantages. The ideas are well-developed, with specific benefits like convenience and financial tracking discussed alongside relevant drawbacks such as security risks and technical failures. The argument is consistent throughout, and the conclusion effectively synthesizes the points made. To reach a higher band, you could provide more specific real-world examples, such as mentioning a particular app or a specific country where this trend is prevalent, to further substantiate your claims.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the advantages and disadvantages is handled smoothly using cohesive devices like 'However' and 'Despite these disadvantages'. Referencing is generally clear, and the paragraphing is appropriate. While the flow is logical, some cohesive devices are quite standard; incorporating a wider variety of linking phrases or more sophisticated transitions could enhance the overall cohesion of the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topic with precision. Phrases like 'financial control', 'unusual transactions', and 'associated risks' are used effectively. There are occasional minor inaccuracies, such as 'unexpected need' (should be 'unexpectedly need') and 'reduce queue' (should be 'reduce queues'). While the vocabulary is adequate and allows for clear communication, it lacks the more sophisticated, less common lexical items that would characterize a higher band score. Focusing on collocations and more precise word choices will help elevate your writing.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. You show good control over basic grammar, and your meaning is always clear. However, there are several small errors, such as 'Using smartphone' (should be 'Using a smartphone'), 'Some apps also sends' (subject-verb agreement error: 'send'), and 'their is no' (should be 'there is no'). These errors are non-systematic and do not impede communication. To improve, ensure you proofread for articles and subject-verb agreement, and try to incorporate a wider variety of complex grammatical structures, such as conditional sentences or passive voice, to demonstrate greater flexibility.

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