Band 8.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.5 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-08-16

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)

Absolutely. For **Band 9**, I would make the argument more tightly structured, with a very clear position, precise topic sentences, deeper development, and natural—not forced—collocations.

There is growing speculation that cash may eventually disappear from everyday transactions, leaving consumers dependent on bank cards and mobile phones for all forms of payment. Although cash is unlikely to vanish completely in the immediate future, I believe that a predominantly cashless society is highly likely to emerge as digital payment systems become more accessible and convenient.

The primary reason for this shift is the rapid development and widespread adoption of digital payment technology. Card payments and mobile wallets allow consumers to complete transactions within seconds, often without having to enter a PIN or carry a physical wallet. This is particularly advantageous in an increasingly fast-paced society, where people value convenience and time-saving solutions. For businesses, digital transactions can also simplify accounting, reduce the risks associated with storing cash and minimise the likelihood of theft. As both consumers and retailers recognise these benefits, cash is gradually becoming less essential for everyday purchases.

A second factor is the increasing integration of digital payments into people's daily lives. Smartphones are no longer used merely for communication; they have become multifunctional devices through which people can shop, transfer money, pay bills and manage their finances. Younger generations, in particular, are accustomed to conducting financial transactions electronically and may therefore have little reason to rely on physical currency. Moreover, governments and financial institutions have an incentive to promote cashless transactions because digital payments create a clearer record of financial activity, which can help combat tax evasion and certain forms of illegal economic activity.

Nevertheless, the complete disappearance of cash would create difficulties for certain groups. Elderly people, those without access to smartphones or bank accounts, and individuals living in areas with unreliable internet connectivity may still depend on physical currency. Cash also provides an important alternative when electronic payment networks experience technical problems or power failures. Therefore, although its use is likely to decline substantially, eliminating it altogether could exclude vulnerable members of society.

In conclusion, I strongly believe that cash will become considerably less common as digital payment methods continue to offer greater convenience, efficiency and security. However, I do not expect physical currency to disappear entirely unless reliable digital alternatives become universally accessible and the needs of people who depend on cash are adequately addressed.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You clearly state your position in the introduction and maintain it throughout the essay. The arguments regarding the shift to digital payments are well-developed, citing specific benefits for both consumers and businesses. Furthermore, you provide a balanced view by addressing the concerns of vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and those in areas with poor connectivity. The ideas are extended and supported with relevant examples, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the topic. The conclusion effectively synthesises the main points while providing a nuanced final thought.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The essay is logically organised with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, starting with a strong topic sentence that guides the reader. Cohesive devices are used naturally and effectively, such as 'The primary reason for this shift', 'Moreover', and 'Nevertheless', which help to connect ideas smoothly. Paragraphing is used skilfully to separate the benefits of digital payments from the potential drawbacks. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of linking words, and the referencing is precise throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.5

You demonstrate a wide and sophisticated range of vocabulary, using terms like 'predominantly cashless society', 'multifunctional devices', and 'vulnerable members of society' with high precision. The collocations are natural and contribute to the professional tone of the essay. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or spelling. The language is flexible and allows for the precise expression of complex ideas, which is characteristic of a high-level response.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.5

The response exhibits a wide range of grammatical structures with full flexibility. You use complex sentences effectively, such as 'Although cash is unlikely to vanish completely in the immediate future, I believe that a predominantly cashless society is highly likely to emerge'. Punctuation is accurate, and there are no grammatical errors that impede communication. The control over verb tenses and modal verbs is excellent, and the sentence variety keeps the writing engaging and clear.

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

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