Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-09-07

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)

People inevitably face difficult circumstances, such as financial hardship or an unsatisfactory job. While some believe that accepting such situations is the wisest approach, others argue that people should actively try to improve them. Although acceptance can be sensible in certain circumstances, I believe that making reasonable efforts to improve one’s situation is ultimately preferable.

On the one hand, accepting a difficult situation can sometimes be the most practical choice. Attempting to change one’s circumstances without adequate preparation may create even greater problems. For instance, a person with financial difficulties may be better off remaining in a poorly paid but stable job rather than resigning without having another source of income. In such cases, acceptance can provide temporary stability while the individual searches for a safer and more suitable alternative. Therefore, accepting an undesirable situation is not necessarily a sign of weakness, particularly when the available alternatives involve considerable risks.

On the other hand, I believe that people should not accept unsatisfactory circumstances indefinitely. Remaining in an unrewarding job, for example, can gradually reduce motivation and limit opportunities for professional development. Likewise, financial difficulties are unlikely to improve through passive acceptance alone. Instead, individuals can take practical measures, such as developing new skills, seeking additional employment or applying for better positions. Although these steps may require time and perseverance, they can eventually provide greater financial security and personal satisfaction.

In conclusion, accepting a difficult situation can be justified when immediate change would involve significant risks. Nevertheless, I believe that acceptance should generally be temporary. Whenever realistic opportunities exist, people should make calculated and persistent efforts to improve their circumstances.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have clearly discussed both viewpoints—the merits of acceptance for stability and the benefits of proactive improvement—while maintaining a consistent and well-supported personal position throughout. The ideas are logically developed, with relevant examples such as the scenario of financial hardship and the professional implications of staying in an unrewarding job. The introduction and conclusion effectively frame the argument, ensuring the response is balanced and focused. The development of ideas is coherent and demonstrates a clear understanding of the task requirements.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the two opposing views is handled smoothly using cohesive devices like 'On the one hand' and 'On the other hand'. Referencing is precise, and the use of linking words such as 'Likewise', 'Instead', and 'Nevertheless' ensures that the flow of information is natural and easy to follow. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the different stages of your argument, contributing to a professional and structured presentation.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary that is appropriate for an academic context. Phrases such as 'inevitably face difficult circumstances', 'passive acceptance', and 'calculated and persistent efforts' show a level of sophistication and precision. The word choices are accurate and contribute to the clarity of your argument. While the vocabulary is consistently strong, incorporating a few more idiomatic or less common collocations could elevate the response further. Overall, the lexical range is sufficient to convey complex ideas with ease and precision.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a high level of grammatical control. You use a variety of complex sentence structures, such as conditional clauses ('if...') and concessive clauses ('Although...'), with high accuracy. Punctuation is used correctly throughout, and there are no noticeable errors that impede communication. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and the control over verb tenses and subject-verb agreement is consistent. The writing is fluent and demonstrates a strong command of English syntax, which is characteristic of a high-band response.

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