Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 16 · 2026-08-19

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In the future all cars, buses and trucks will be driverless. The only people travelling inside these vehicles will be passengers.

Do you think the advantages of driverless vehicles outweigh the disadvantages?

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

Student answer (Band 7.0)

The development of technology is changing the way people travel, and driverless vehicles may become common in the future. Although this development could cause some problems, I believe that the advantages of autonomous vehicles outweigh their disadvantages because they can improve road safety and make transportation more convenient.

One major advantage of driverless vehicles is that they could reduce the number of road accidents. At present, many accidents are caused by human errors, such as speeding, careless driving and driving while tired. Autonomous vehicles, on the other hand, can use cameras, sensors and computer systems to monitor the road and react quickly to dangerous situations. For example, a driverless car could automatically slow down when it detects an obstacle or another vehicle. Therefore, this technology could make roads considerably safer.

Another benefit is that driverless transportation could make travelling more convenient for many people. Passengers would be able to use their travel time to work, study or relax instead of concentrating on driving. This could be particularly helpful for elderly people and those who are unable to drive. In addition, driverless buses and trucks could operate for longer periods without the need for human drivers, which could make public transport and delivery services more efficient.

However, there are some disadvantages to consider. One major concern is that many professional drivers could lose their jobs if companies replace them with automated vehicles. This could create unemployment, particularly among people who depend on driving for their income. Another problem is that computer systems can malfunction or be hacked, which could lead to serious accidents. Therefore, governments and technology companies would need to establish strict safety regulations before these vehicles became widespread.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response addresses all parts of the prompt, clearly stating a position that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. The arguments regarding road safety and convenience are well-developed with logical examples, such as the mention of human error and the ability for passengers to work or relax. The counter-arguments regarding unemployment and technical malfunctions are also relevant and balanced. The essay maintains a clear position throughout, and the ideas are extended sufficiently to meet the requirements of the task. The structure is logical, and the conclusion effectively synthesizes the main points.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is well-organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central topic, and the transition between the advantages and disadvantages is handled smoothly using cohesive devices like 'However' and 'On the other hand'. The use of referencing is clear, and the paragraphing is logical. The flow of the argument is consistent, and the reader can easily follow the writer's train of thought. The cohesive devices are used naturally, and there is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive usage, which contributes to the overall clarity of the response.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The vocabulary is sufficient and appropriate for the topic. The writer uses a range of topic-specific terms such as 'autonomous vehicles', 'human errors', 'malfunction', and 'widespread'. While the vocabulary is accurate and conveys the intended meaning clearly, it lacks a high degree of sophistication or 'less common' lexical items that would elevate it to the highest band. However, the word choice is precise, and there are no errors in collocation or spelling that impede communication. The range is adequate to discuss the topic with flexibility and precision.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The essay demonstrates a good command of grammatical structures. There is a mix of simple and complex sentences, such as the use of conditional structures ('if companies replace them') and relative clauses ('who depend on driving'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and the punctuation is used correctly throughout. While the range of structures is solid, it does not consistently display the 'wide range' of complex forms required for a higher band. Nevertheless, the control of grammar is strong, and errors are virtually non-existent, making the text very easy to read.

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

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