Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-09-17

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 7.0)

Some people believe that accepting difficult circumstances is the best way to deal with problems such as an unsatisfactory job or financial difficulties. Others argue that people should take action to improve their situation.

On the one hand, accepting a difficult situation can help people reduce stress and avoid unnecessary frustration. In some cases, individuals have limited control over their circumstances, particularly when there are few employment opportunities or they have important family responsibilities. For example, a person who is struggling financially may not be able to find a better job immediately. In this situation, accepting their current circumstances temporarily and managing their expenses carefully may be more realistic than constantly worrying about their problems. Furthermore, acceptance can help people focus on the things that they can control.

On the other hand, making an effort to improve a bad situation can provide better opportunities in the future. People who are unhappy with their jobs, for instance, can develop new skills, gain additional qualifications or search for alternative employment. Similarly, those experiencing financial difficulties can look for additional sources of income or improve their professional skills. Taking these steps can gradually improve their quality of life. In addition, dealing with problems instead of simply accepting them can make people more confident and independent. Even if they cannot completely change their circumstances, their efforts may still result in some positive improvements.

In conclusion, accepting a difficult situation can sometimes be necessary, especially when circumstances cannot be changed immediately. However, I believe that people should generally try to improve their situation because taking practical action can create better opportunities and improve their quality of life in the long term.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The student successfully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both views—that of accepting a difficult situation and that of taking action to improve it—while clearly stating their own opinion in the conclusion. The position is well-maintained throughout the essay. Ideas are appropriately extended and supported with relevant examples, such as someone struggling financially temporarily accepting their circumstances versus developing new skills to find alternative employment. The arguments are balanced and logical, fulfilling the requirements for a Band 7.0 performance where all parts are addressed and supported with relevant reasoning.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, beginning with a well-defined introduction, followed by balanced body paragraphs for each view starting with clear cohesive markers like 'On the one hand' and 'On the other hand', and concluding with a concise summary. Cohesive devices are used effectively and flexibly without being overly mechanical. Referencing is clear throughout the text, and paragraphing is managed appropriately to separate distinct ideas, aligning closely with Band 7 descriptors.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary that allows for some flexibility and precision, incorporating appropriate terms such as 'unsatisfactory job', 'financial difficulties', 'employment opportunities', and 'professional skills'. There are attempts to use less common lexical items with decent awareness of style and collocation, such as 'temporary acceptance' or 'alternative employment'. Spelling and word choices are generally accurate, and occasional minor limitations do not impede communication, comfortably placing this in the Band 7 range.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The essay displays a good variety of complex sentence structures alongside simple forms, such as conditional ideas and participial phrases like 'Taking these steps can gradually improve their quality of life.' There is a high frequency of error-free sentences, and the student demonstrates good control of grammar and punctuation throughout. While the structural range is somewhat standard rather than fully sophisticated, the control shown over complex constructions supports a solid Band 7 rating.

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