Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-08-26

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)

Some people believe that it is better to buy a few expensive clothes rather than many cheaper ones. I agree with this opinion because good-quality clothes usually last longer, provide greater comfort and can save money in the long term.

Firstly, expensive clothes are generally made from better-quality materials. They are often stronger and less likely to lose their shape or colour after regular use and washing. Although the initial cost is higher, these clothes can last for several years, so people do not need to replace them frequently. For example, a good-quality winter coat may be expensive, but it can be used for many winters. In contrast, a cheap coat may become damaged after a short period and need to be replaced.

Secondly, buying fewer clothes can encourage people to make more sensible choices. Instead of purchasing clothes simply because they are cheap or fashionable, people can choose items that are comfortable, practical and suitable for different occasions. This approach can also reduce unnecessary consumption and clothing waste, which is becoming an increasingly serious environmental problem.

However, cheap clothes also have some advantages. They are affordable for people who have limited incomes and allow them to have a wider variety of outfits. For instance, students or young workers may not be able to spend a large amount of money on a single item of clothing. Nevertheless, I believe that quality is more important when people can afford it.

In conclusion, I agree that buying a small number of expensive and durable clothes is better than purchasing many cheap items. Despite the higher initial cost, high-quality clothing can last longer, provide better value for money and reduce unnecessary waste.

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 ideas are well-developed, particularly the argument regarding durability and environmental impact. You also demonstrate a balanced approach by acknowledging the counter-argument regarding affordability for those with limited incomes, which adds depth to your response. The examples provided, such as the winter coat, are relevant and effectively support your main points. The conclusion provides a clear summary of your position, ensuring the task is fully satisfied.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, and the transition between the main arguments and the counter-argument is smooth. You use a variety of cohesive devices such as 'Firstly', 'In contrast', 'Nevertheless', and 'In conclusion' to guide the reader through your argument. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the relationship between sentences is clear. The flow of information is natural, and the overall structure is coherent, making the essay easy to follow from start to finish.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary that is appropriate for the task. You use precise terms such as 'unnecessary consumption', 'durable', and 'initial cost' effectively. The language is natural and conveys your meaning clearly. While the vocabulary is accurate and fits the context well, it stays within a standard range. To reach a higher band, you could incorporate more sophisticated collocations or less common idiomatic expressions, but the current level is sufficient for a high score as it is precise and error-free.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a high level of grammatical accuracy. You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures effectively, such as the conditional-like structure in 'when people can afford it' and the use of concessive clauses with 'Although' and 'Despite'. Punctuation is used correctly throughout, and there are no significant errors that impede communication. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and you show good control over verb tenses and subject-verb agreement. The writing is fluent and demonstrates a solid command of English grammar.

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

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