Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-09-16

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Nowadays many people complain that they have difficulties getting enough sleep. What problems can lack of sleep cause? What can be done about lack of sleep?

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

 

Student answer (Band 7.5)

Nowadays, many people complain that they do not get enough sleep because of their busy lifestyles and daily responsibilities. Lack of sleep can cause several serious problems for individuals. However, there are some effective ways to deal with this issue.

One major problem caused by insufficient sleep is poor physical and mental health. People who do not sleep enough may feel tired and have difficulty concentrating on their work or studies. As a result, their productivity can decrease, and they may make more mistakes. In addition, long-term sleep deprivation can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of health problems such as obesity, heart disease and high blood pressure. Lack of sleep can also affect people's mood, making them more stressed, impatient or anxious.

There are several things that can be done to improve sleep. Firstly, people should follow a regular sleeping schedule by going to bed and waking up at similar times every day. Secondly, they should avoid using mobile phones, computers and other electronic devices before bedtime because these activities can make it harder to fall asleep. It is also important to avoid drinking too much coffee or other caffeinated drinks in the evening. Finally, people should create a comfortable and quiet sleeping environment and exercise regularly during the day.

In conclusion, lack of sleep can negatively affect people's concentration, health and mood. Nevertheless, maintaining a regular sleep routine, reducing screen time before bed and following a healthy lifestyle can help people get better and sufficient sleep.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The candidate has fully addressed all parts of the task prompt, discussing both the problems caused by lack of sleep and effective solutions. The response presents a clear position throughout and maintains a well-developed line of reasoning. In the second paragraph, the student explores the impacts on physical and mental health by mentioning that "long-term sleep deprivation can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of health problems such as obesity, heart disease and high blood pressure." Furthermore, the third paragraph provides practical and detailed solutions, such as following a regular sleeping schedule, avoiding electronic devices, and creating a comfortable environment. All ideas are extended and supported with relevant examples, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the requirements. Therefore, this response comfortably achieves a high band score for this criterion, matching the descriptors for Band 7.5 or 8.0.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct and well-managed focus: an introduction, physical and mental health problems, effective solutions, and a concise conclusion. The candidate successfully employs cohesive devices to guide the reader, such as "One major problem," "As a result," "In addition," "Firstly," "Secondly," and "In conclusion." Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, separating the causes and solutions into distinct sections. Although the transitions are somewhat standard rather than highly sophisticated, they are used flexibly and effectively to maintain textual flow. Referencing is consistently clear, and ideas are logically sequenced from start to finish. The overall structuring meets the standard for a solid Band 7.0 in coherence and cohesion.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The candidate demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary for the task, allowing for flexibility and precision in discussing health and lifestyle topics. Less common lexical items are used appropriately, including phrases like "sleep deprivation," "weaken the immune system," "caffeinated drinks," and "sleeping environment." Word choices are generally accurate and natural, such as "insufficient sleep" and "productivity can decrease." While there are occasional minor limitations in vocabulary variety, the terminology chosen fits the context well and enables the writer to convey ideas clearly. Spelling and word formation are entirely accurate throughout the text. The lexical range is adequate and demonstrates good control, comfortably aligning with the descriptors for a Band 7.0.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response exhibits a good variety of complex sentence structures, featuring subordinate clauses, participial phrases, and conditional ideas. Examples include "People who do not sleep enough may feel tired..." and "...avoid using mobile phones... because these activities can make it harder to fall asleep." The majority of sentences are error-free, and the candidate demonstrates good control of grammar and punctuation. There are no noticeable grammatical errors or awkward phrasings that impede communication. Punctuation is handled accurately, and tense consistency is maintained across paragraphs. The mixture of simple and complex forms used with a high degree of accuracy places this response firmly in the Band 7.5 or 8.0 range. We award a Band 7.5 for this solid performance.

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