Band 8.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.5 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-07-28

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In the future, people may no longer be able to pay for things in shops using cash. All payments may have to be made by card or using phones. Do you think this will happen one day? Why do you think some people might not be happy to give up using cash?

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

 

Student answer (Band 8.5)

In recent years, technological advancements have transformed the way people conduct financial transactions. Some predict that, in the near future, cash may become obsolete, with all payments being made electronically via cards or mobile devices. While this scenario seems plausible, it is likely to face certain challenges.

It is reasonable to believe that cashless payments will become increasingly popular. The convenience and speed of using cards and smartphones make them a viable alternative to cash. For instance, electronic transactions allow for instant fund transfers, reduce the need to carry physical money, and provide detailed records of expenditures, helping individuals manage their finances more accurately and effectively. Moreover, governments and businesses are heavily promoting digital payments to reduce crime, tax evasion, and the cost associated with printing and handling physical currency.

However, some people may be reluctant to give up cash entirely. The older generation, in particular, may find it difficult to adapt to new technologies and might feel comfortable sticking to familiar methods. Furthermore, concerns about security and privacy make cashless transactions unappealing. Unlike cash, which provides anonymity, electronic transactions leave a digital footprint which many might find intrusive. Finally, in areas with limited banking infrastructure and unstable internet connectivity, reliance on digital payments can limit people's ability to participate fully in their everyday purchase.

In conclusion, while it is likely that cash usage will continue to decline and electronic transactions will become dominant, it is improbable that cash will vanish entirely in the future. Resistance due to technological, privacy, and accessibility concerns will ensure that cash remains an option for certain groups.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You clearly state your position that while a cashless society is likely, it will not be absolute. Both parts of the question—the likelihood of the shift and the reasons for resistance—are well-developed with relevant examples such as the older generation's struggles and privacy concerns. The ideas are extended logically, and the conclusion effectively synthesizes your argument. The response is well-balanced and maintains a clear focus throughout, demonstrating a strong understanding of the task requirements.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the benefits of digital payments and the reasons for resistance is smooth. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'Moreover', 'However', and 'In conclusion', which help guide the reader through your argument. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct points. The flow is natural, and the relationship between ideas is consistently clear, meeting the criteria for a high band score.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary that is appropriate for the task. Phrases like 'technological advancements', 'financial transactions', 'viable alternative', and 'digital footprint' show a level of sophistication. The word choice is precise and contributes to the clarity of your argument. While the vocabulary is accurate and fits the context well, it could be slightly more ambitious to reach the highest band, but it is certainly sufficient and flexible enough to convey complex ideas with ease.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.5

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and conditional forms. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and syntax is strong. There are no significant errors that impede communication. You successfully use a mix of simple and complex forms, such as 'While this scenario seems plausible, it is likely to face certain challenges.' The grammatical accuracy is high, and the structures used are varied and sophisticated enough to support your arguments effectively.

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