Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-09-02
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 7.5)
In today's world, dealing with adverse situations such as an unsatisfactory job or financial constraints has become a significant concern. While some people advocate for accepting these unfavorable conditions, I firmly believe that striving to improve one's circumstances offers greater opportunities and growth in the long run. This essay will discuss both viewpoints and present my own opinion on the matter.
Firstly, there are valid reasons why some people choose to accept bad situations. Accepting unfavorable conditions can sometimes be a practical approach to maintain stability and avoid unnecessary stress. For instance, a recent graduate might take up a low-paying job to gain experience rather than holding out for an ideal position. This pragmatic approach can ensure that they remain employed and gradually build their skills and resume. Another example is someone born into a financially struggling family. By accepting their situation, they might focus on cherishing family moments rather than being consumed by unrealistic dreams, which can lead to dissatisfaction and irrational decisions.
However, I strongly support the perspective that even in the worst situations, efforts should be made to improve one's circumstances. Facing challenges head-on can be a valuable learning experience and foster personal development. For example, a family experiencing financial difficulties could tighten their budget, seek additional income sources, or enhance their financial management skills. Furthermore, striving to overcome hardships can lead to significant achievements and personal growth. Consider Elon Musk and Tesla: despite numerous setbacks and failures, Musk's relentless effort turned Tesla into one of the best-selling car brands in the world. This exemplifies how perseverance and a proactive attitude can lead to remarkable success.
In conclusion, while accepting a bad situation can offer some advantages, I believe that making concerted efforts to improve one's circumstances is more beneficial in the long run. It is advisable that individuals find a balance between acceptance and striving for betterment to manage adverse situations effectively.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 7.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 7.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 7.5 |
| Overall | 7.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5
The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have clearly discussed both viewpoints—the pragmatic value of acceptance and the growth-oriented value of improvement—and provided a clear personal position throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed with relevant examples, such as the graduate taking a low-paying job and the reference to Elon Musk. The argument is balanced and logically structured, meeting the requirements for a Band 8.0 performance. To reach a higher band, ensure that the conclusion synthesizes the arguments more deeply rather than just restating the need for a balance.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5
The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central topic sentence, and the transition between the two viewpoints is smooth, using appropriate cohesive devices like 'Firstly', 'However', and 'Furthermore'. The paragraphing is logical and contributes to the overall clarity of the argument. The use of referencing is precise, and the flow of information is natural. The response demonstrates a high level of coherence, making it easy for the reader to follow the line of reasoning throughout the text.
Lexical Resource — Band 7.5
You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary, which allows for precise expression of ideas. Phrases such as 'adverse situations', 'financial constraints', 'pragmatic approach', and 'relentless effort' are used accurately and naturally. The vocabulary is sophisticated and appropriate for an academic context. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation. The range of vocabulary is sufficient to convey complex meanings with ease, which is characteristic of a high-level performance in this criterion.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5
The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses and conditional structures. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the control over punctuation and syntax is excellent. There are no significant grammatical errors that impede communication. The use of varied sentence lengths and structures contributes to the overall fluency of the writing. The accuracy is consistent throughout, reflecting a high level of grammatical competence suitable for a Band 8.0.
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