Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-09-14

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 6.5)

Some people believe that it is better to accept difficult situations, such as an unsatisfactory job or a lack of money, while others think that people should try to improve these situations. This essay will discuss both views. In my opinion, although accepting a difficult situation can sometimes be necessary, people should generally try to make their circumstances better.

On the one hand, accepting a bad situation can be a practical choice in some circumstances. People may not always have enough opportunities or resources to change their lives immediately. For example, a person who is unhappy with their job may continue working because they need money to support their family. Similarly, someone who has financial problems may need to accept their current situation until they find a suitable solution. Therefore, accepting reality can help people avoid unnecessary stress and make sensible decisions.

On the other hand, trying to improve a difficult situation can bring many benefits. If people are not satisfied with their jobs, they can learn new skills and search for better employment. In the same way, people who have financial difficulties can reduce unnecessary spending or find an additional source of income. For example, a young person who is unhappy with a low-paid job could take training courses and apply for a better position. As a result, taking action can help people achieve a more comfortable and successful life.

In my opinion, people should not simply accept difficult situations when they have the ability to change them. Although accepting circumstances may sometimes be necessary for a short period, making an effort to improve them is usually a better long-term choice.

In conclusion, some people prefer to accept difficult circumstances because they may have limited choices, whereas others believe that taking action is the best solution. I believe that people should try to improve their situation whenever they have a reasonable opportunity to do so.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response addresses all parts of the task thoroughly, discussing both views regarding whether to accept or try to improve difficult situations. The student presents a clear position throughout the essay, which is introduced in the first paragraph and reinforced in the conclusion and body paragraphs. Relevant ideas are extended and supported with appropriate examples, such as continuing in an unsatisfactory job for financial support versus learning new skills to find better employment. The arguments are well-developed and directly answer the prompt requirements, matching the requirements for a Band 7.0 performance.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The essay demonstrates clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, starting with an introduction, followed by well-sequenced body paragraphs examining each viewpoint, a paragraph detailing the writer's opinion, and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and appropriately, such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'Similarly', and 'Therefore'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and logically to separate the distinct strands of the argument, ensuring the flow of ideas is easy to follow.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with good flexibility and precision, suitable for an academic discussion. Phrases like 'practical choice', 'financial difficulties', and 'long-term choice' demonstrate a solid command of common and less common lexical items. There is an awareness of style and collocation, and the spelling and word choice are accurate throughout, ensuring communication is never impeded. While it does not consistently display the sophisticated, flexible uncommon vocabulary of a Band 8, it comfortably exceeds the Band 6 threshold through its reliable accuracy.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The response makes use of a variety of complex structures alongside simple sentence forms, displaying good control of grammar and punctuation. Examples of complex structures include concessive clauses such as 'although accepting a difficult situation can sometimes be necessary' and conditional formulations. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the few minor errors that might occur do not impede communication at all. The punctuation and subject-verb agreement are well-managed throughout the text, supporting a solid Band 7.0 score.

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

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.