Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-09-16

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)

Some people believe that accepting a difficult situation is the best way to deal with problems such as an unsatisfactory job or financial difficulties. Others, however, argue that people should take action to improve their circumstances. This essay will discuss both views, and I believe that making an effort to improve a difficult situation is generally more beneficial.

On the one hand, accepting a bad situation can sometimes be a sensible choice. Not every problem can be solved immediately, and constantly worrying about circumstances that are beyond one's control can cause stress and frustration. For example, a person who has limited financial resources may not be able to leave a low-paid job straight away because they need money to support their family. In such circumstances, accepting the situation temporarily while managing expenses carefully can provide stability. Furthermore, learning to accept certain difficulties can help people remain calm and appreciate the things they already have.

On the other hand, trying to improve an unsatisfactory situation can create better opportunities in the long term. If people simply accept their problems, they may remain in the same circumstances for many years. Taking practical steps, such as gaining new qualifications, learning useful skills or applying for better jobs, can significantly improve their lives. For instance, an employee who is unhappy with their salary could take an online course to develop professional skills and then apply for a higher-paying position. Although this process may require considerable time and effort, it can lead to greater job satisfaction and financial security.

In my opinion, people should try to improve difficult situations whenever they have the opportunity to do so. However, acceptance can be useful as a temporary approach when immediate change is impossible. The most effective approach is therefore to accept the current situation realistically while taking practical steps towards a better future.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both views on how to handle difficult situations and clearly presenting a well-developed personal position. In the body paragraphs, the writer provides thoughtful and relevant examples, such as someone staying in a low-paid job temporarily to support their family or taking an online course to gain professional skills. The ideas are thoroughly extended and supported throughout the essay, demonstrating a strong understanding of the prompt. The conclusion effectively synthesises the arguments by suggesting a balanced approach combining acceptance and action. The writer successfully meets all requirements of Task Achievement at a high level, showing clear development of a well-reasoned argument without any noticeable omissions.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Information and ideas are coherently structured, with each paragraph having a distinct focus. The introduction outlines the essay's trajectory, while clear transition markers such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'In my opinion' guide the reader smoothly from one point to the next. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, separating the two differing viewpoints, the counter-arguments, and the final synthesis. Cohesive devices are managed well without being overly mechanical or repetitive, contributing to the overall fluency and readability of the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student uses a sufficient and generally precise range of vocabulary appropriate for an academic discussion on lifestyle and career choices. Words and phrases such as 'unsatisfactory job', 'financial difficulties', 'beyond one's control', and 'job satisfaction' are used accurately. There is also a successful attempt to incorporate less common lexical items, including 'financial security' and 'temporary approach'. While the vocabulary is fluent and flexible, it occasionally relies on standard collocations rather than truly sophisticated or uncommon academic phrasing, which places it firmly in the Band 7 range. Spelling and word choice are accurate throughout.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response demonstrates a good control of grammar and punctuation, with a wide variety of complex sentence structures used effectively. Examples include conditional and participial constructions such as 'Although this process may require considerable time and effort...' and 'Not every problem can be solved immediately, and constantly worrying about circumstances that are beyond one's control can cause...'. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the few minor slips or awkward phrasings do not impede communication. Punctuation is handled correctly throughout, ensuring that complex ideas are expressed clearly and accurately. The control of grammar aligns well with the Band 8 descriptors.

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