Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 20 · 2026-09-17

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In some parts of the world, people buy far too many clothes.

What are the reasons for this?
How can people be persuaded to reduce the number of clothes they buy?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Student answer (Band 8.0)

In some parts of the world, people purchase far more clothes than they actually need. This is mainly due to the influence of changing fashion trends and the convenience of online shopping. However, people can be encouraged to reduce their clothing purchases through greater environmental awareness and more responsible shopping habits.

One major reason why people buy excessive amounts of clothing is the constant change in fashion trends. Many individuals want to keep up with the latest styles and avoid wearing clothes that are considered outdated. Social media platforms and celebrities can further increase this pressure by promoting new outfits and fashion trends. As a result, people may purchase new clothes regularly, even when they already have a sufficient number of items in their wardrobes. For example, a person may buy a new outfit after seeing a popular style promoted by an influencer, despite having several similar outfits at home.

Another important factor is the growth of online shopping. Clothing websites and mobile applications make it extremely easy for people to purchase clothes within a few minutes. In addition, frequent discounts, promotional offers and free delivery can encourage impulse purchases. Since consumers can easily find inexpensive clothing online, they may buy several items without considering whether they genuinely need them.

There are several ways to persuade people to reduce the amount of clothing they purchase. Firstly, greater awareness of the environmental impact of the fashion industry could encourage more responsible consumption. People should be informed about the large amount of waste and resources associated with producing and disposing of clothes. Secondly, consumers could be encouraged to buy durable clothing, repair damaged items and donate unwanted garments instead of constantly purchasing new ones. For instance, schools and media campaigns could promote the benefits of reusing and donating clothes, particularly among younger consumers.

In conclusion, people tend to buy excessive amounts of clothing because of rapidly changing fashion trends and the convenience of online shopping. Raising awareness about environmental consequences and encouraging people to reuse, repair and donate clothes could help reduce unnecessary purchases.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by clearly explaining both the reasons why people buy excessive clothes (fashion trends and online shopping) and how they can be persuaded to reduce these purchases (environmental awareness and responsible habits). The position is clear throughout the essay, and ideas are well-developed with relevant examples, such as mentioning the role of social media influencers and mobile shopping applications. The support provided in each body paragraph is well-extended, fully satisfying the requirements for a Band 8 performance.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

Ideas are logically sequenced, moving smoothly from an introductory overview to distinct body paragraphs addressing causes and solutions, and concluding with a concise summary. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a single, clear central topic. Cohesive devices such as 'One major reason', 'Another important factor', and 'Firstly' are managed well to guide the reader through the argument without feeling mechanical or obtrusive, earning a solid Band 7.5 or 8.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The student demonstrates a sufficient to wide range of vocabulary appropriate for discussing consumerism and environmental impact, utilizing terms such as 'excessive amounts', 'impulse purchases', 'durable clothing', and 'responsible consumption'. There is a good awareness of collocation and style with phrases like 'keep up with the latest styles' and 'environmental impact of the fashion industry'. Word choices are precise, and there are no noticeable spelling or word-formation errors, placing the essay comfortably in the Band 7 range.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a very good variety of complex structures, such as concessive and conditional clauses ('even when they already have a sufficient number', 'despite having several similar outfits at home'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation and grammar are controlled well throughout. Minor slips are virtually absent, and the grammatical execution comfortably meets the criteria for Band 8.

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