Band 9.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 9.0 · IELTS Complete Catalyst · 2026-08-03

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In some countries today, there is an attitude that 'anyone can do it' in the arts - music, literature, acting, art, etc. As a result, people with no talent become rich and famous and genuine talent is not valued or appreciated.

Do you agree or disagree?

You should use your own ideas, knowledge and experience and support your arguments with examples and relevant evidence.

Student answer (Band 9.0)

In contemporary society, the democratization of media and content creation has fostered a widespread belief that "anyone can make it" in the artistic realm. While this open-access culture has undeniably enabled individuals with minimal formal training to achieve immense commercial success, I largely disagree with the notion that genuine talent is no longer valued or appreciated.

It is undeniable that modern technology and social media platforms have lowered the barriers to entry, often elevating viral novelty over artistic mastery. Streaming platforms and video-sharing applications allow virtually anyone to broadcast music, writing, or performance art to millions without undergoing traditional gatekeeping. Consequently, algorithms frequently reward high-concept, easily digestible, or sensational content rather than technical excellence. A prime example is the phenomenon of social media influencers and reality television figures who secure lucrative recording contracts or published book deals purely based on their follower counts rather than their technical prowess. In this sense, popular culture can sometimes appear saturated with overnight celebrities who possess limited conventional talent.

However, it would be an oversimplification to claim that true artistic talent is no longer respected. First, the appreciation for technical skill and mastery remains vibrant within dedicated art spaces, prestigious institutions, and among critical audiences. Master classical musicians, accomplished stage actors, and celebrated novelists continue to command sold-out venues, prestigious awards, and enduring respect precisely because their work displays a depth that viral trends cannot replicate. Furthermore, public interest in "easy" or gimmick-driven art is often fleeting, whereas authentic talent builds lasting legacies.

Moreover, access to tools should not be confused with a devaluation of talent; rather, it broadens the definition of talent itself. Today, creative vision, storytelling, and the ability to connect emotionally with a global audience are recognized as talents in their own right. Digital tools allow extraordinarily gifted individuals from marginalized or underrepresented backgrounds—who previously lacked access to traditional record labels or publishing houses—to finally reach an audience. In these cases, technology serves to unearth and celebrate genuine talent that otherwise would have remained hidden.

In conclusion, while the modern "anyone can do it" ethos has certainly allowed untalented individuals to achieve short-lived fame and fortune, genuine talent has not lost its value. High-level craftsmanship and authentic artistic expression continue to be deeply revered, ensuring that true talent remains both recognized and enduringly appreciated.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.5

You have provided a sophisticated and well-developed response that fully addresses all parts of the prompt. Your position is clear from the introduction and is maintained consistently throughout the essay. You effectively balance the argument by acknowledging the rise of 'viral' content while providing a strong counter-argument regarding the enduring value of traditional mastery. The ideas are well-supported with relevant examples, such as the distinction between social media influencers and classical musicians. The development is logical and thorough, demonstrating a high level of critical thinking that directly engages with the complexities of the topic.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 9.0

The essay is exceptionally well-structured. Each paragraph has a clear central theme, and the progression of ideas is logical and smooth. You use a wide range of cohesive devices, such as 'Consequently', 'However', 'Furthermore', and 'Moreover', which are used naturally and effectively to link sentences and paragraphs. The referencing is precise, and the paragraphing is used to manage the flow of the argument perfectly. There is no sense of mechanical repetition, and the overall organization contributes to a very clear and persuasive argument.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.5

You demonstrate a wide and sophisticated range of vocabulary, using uncommon lexical items with precision and natural control. Phrases such as 'democratization of media', 'lowered the barriers to entry', 'technical prowess', and 'enduring legacies' are used accurately and enhance the academic tone of the essay. The collocation is consistently strong, and there is a clear awareness of style and register. The vocabulary is not only varied but also contributes significantly to the clarity and impact of your arguments.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 9.0

Your control of grammar is excellent. You use a wide variety of complex sentence structures, including conditional clauses and participial phrases, with high accuracy. The punctuation is used effectively to manage complex ideas, and there are virtually no grammatical errors. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and the few minor slips that might occur are non-systematic and do not impede communication in any way. The level of grammatical flexibility is consistent with the highest band descriptors.

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