Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-08-21

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

It is better to buy just a few expensive clothes, rather than lots of cheaper clothes.

Do you agree or disagree?

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

Student answer (Band 8.0)

I agree that it is better to buy a few expensive clothes rather than many cheaper ones. Although high-quality clothing may cost more initially, it usually offers better durability, comfort, and value in the long term.

Firstly, expensive clothes are often made from better-quality materials and are designed to last longer. Cheap clothing can lose its shape, fade, or become damaged after only a few washes. As a result, people may have to replace inexpensive clothes frequently, which can eventually cost more than buying a durable item in the first place. For example, a good-quality winter coat may last for many years, whereas a cheaper coat might need to be replaced every one or two winters.

Secondly, buying fewer high-quality items can also encourage people to make more thoughtful choices. Instead of purchasing clothes simply because they are fashionable or inexpensive, consumers are more likely to choose versatile pieces that can be worn on different occasions. This can reduce unnecessary consumption and the amount of clothing that ends up being thrown away.

However, I understand why some people prefer cheaper clothes, particularly those with limited budgets. In addition, inexpensive clothing allows people to experiment with different styles without spending a large amount of money. Nevertheless, I believe that quality should generally be prioritised over quantity when someone can afford it.

In conclusion, while cheaper clothes may be attractive because of their low price and variety, investing in a small number of high-quality garments is a more economical and sustainable choice in the long run.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have taken a clear position from the introduction and maintained it throughout the essay. The arguments regarding durability, cost-effectiveness, and environmental impact are well-developed and supported with relevant examples, such as the comparison between a winter coat and cheaper alternatives. The counter-argument is acknowledged and balanced appropriately, demonstrating a sophisticated approach to the task. The ideas are extended logically, and the conclusion effectively synthesizes the main points, leaving no doubt about your stance.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, introduced by effective transition signals like 'Firstly', 'Secondly', and 'However'. The use of cohesive devices is natural and unobtrusive, which helps the reader follow your argument without difficulty. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the main arguments from the counter-argument and the conclusion. The flow between sentences is smooth, and the referencing is precise, ensuring that the relationship between ideas remains clear throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary that is appropriate for the task. You use terms like 'durable', 'versatile', 'unnecessary consumption', and 'economical' effectively to convey your meaning. The language is precise and natural, showing an awareness of collocation and style. While the vocabulary is accurate and sufficient, it could be elevated further by incorporating more sophisticated or idiomatic expressions to reach the highest band. However, the current level is well-suited for the topic and allows for clear, nuanced communication without any errors in word choice.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses ('Although high-quality clothing may cost more initially, it usually offers...'). The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and tense usage is excellent. There are no significant grammatical slips that impede communication. You successfully combine simple and complex forms to create a fluent and readable text. The accuracy is consistent throughout, reflecting a high level of grammatical competence.

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

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