Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-07-27

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people believe that it is best to accept a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job or shortage of money. Others argue that it is better to try and improve such situations.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

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

Student answer (Band 8.0)

It is often argued that people should accept unpleasant circumstances, such as a poorly paid job or financial difficulties, while others believe that individuals should make every effort to improve their situations. Although accepting reality can sometimes be beneficial, i believe that striving for improvement is generally the better approach.

On the other hand, accepting a difficult situation can help people reduce stress and focus on what they can control. In some cases, individuals may have limited opportunities due to factors such as economic conditions, family responsibilities, or poor health. Rather than becoming frustrated by circumstances they cannot immediately change, they may choose to adapt and make the best of their situation. For example, someone living in an area with high unemployment may decide to remain in a low paying job until better opportunities become available. This attitude can provide financial stability and emotional resiliance.

Also, many people believe that making an effort to improve one's circumstances leads to greater success and personal satisfaction. Instead of accepting an unsatisfactory job, individuals can acquire new skills, further their education or search for better opportunities. Those facing financial hardship can improve their situation by starting a small business, taking on additional work, or developing valuable professional skills. These actions not only increase income but also build confidence and create better prospects for the future.

In my opinion, while accepting temporary difficulties may be necessary in certain situations, people should not become complacent. Challenges should be viewed as opportunities for growth rather than permanent obstacles.

In conclusion, although accepting a difficult situation may sometimes be the most practical short-term solution, i believe that making consistent effort to improve one's circumstances is a more rewarding and beneficial approach in the long run

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response addresses all parts of the prompt, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion. The ideas are relevant and well-developed, particularly the distinction between short-term acceptance and long-term improvement. The position is consistent throughout the essay. To reach a higher band, you could provide more specific, real-world examples rather than general scenarios, such as referencing a specific economic trend or a well-known historical or personal anecdote. However, the current level of development is sufficient for a strong score as the arguments are logical and directly answer the prompt requirements.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph has a central topic, and the progression of ideas is smooth. You use a range of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'Although', 'Rather than', and 'In conclusion'. The paragraphing is appropriate and contributes to the overall clarity of the argument. The transition between the two viewpoints is handled well with 'On the other hand' and 'Also'. The flow is natural, and the relationship between ideas is always clear, meeting the criteria for a high band.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary, including terms like 'unpleasant circumstances', 'financial hardship', 'complacent', and 'resiliance'. The word choice is generally precise and appropriate for an academic context. There is one minor spelling error ('resiliance' should be 'resilience'). While the vocabulary is effective, incorporating a few more sophisticated collocations or idiomatic expressions related to the topic could elevate the score further. Overall, the range is sufficient to convey complex ideas clearly and with some flexibility.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures. You use subordinate clauses effectively, such as 'Although accepting reality can sometimes be beneficial, i believe that...'. Grammar is generally accurate, and errors are rare and do not impede communication. Note that the personal pronoun 'I' should always be capitalized. Punctuation is generally sound, though ensure consistency in formal writing. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and you show good control over complex structures, which is a hallmark of a strong performance in this criterion.

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