Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 13 · 2026-08-27

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people believe that nowadays we have too many choices.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

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

Student answer (Band 7.5)

In the modern world, consumers are confronted with an unprecedented range of options in almost every aspect of life, from the products they buy to the careers they pursue. I largely agree that this abundance of choice, while seemingly beneficial, often creates more difficulty than convenience.

On one hand, having numerous alternatives can be advantageous. A wider selection allows individuals to find products or services that precisely match their needs, preferences, and budgets. For instance, someone with dietary restrictions benefits enormously from the variety of specialised food products now available in most supermarkets, something that would have been unimaginable a few decades ago. Similarly, in education and career paths, having multiple options enables people to pursue fields genuinely suited to their talents rather than settling for whatever is available.

Nevertheless, I believe the drawbacks of excessive choice frequently outweigh these benefits. Psychologists have long documented the phenomenon known as "choice overload," whereby an excess of options leads to anxiety, indecision, and even dissatisfaction with the final decision made. A simple task such as choosing a mobile phone plan or streaming subscription can become surprisingly time-consuming when dozens of near-identical packages are available, each with subtly different terms. This constant decision-making also generates mental fatigue, leaving people with less energy for more important matters. Furthermore, an overwhelming array of choices can paradoxically reduce satisfaction, as consumers are left wondering whether an alternative option might have been superior.

In conclusion, while variety can offer genuine benefits in enabling personalised decisions, I contend that the sheer volume of choices available today more often causes stress and inefficiency than it does satisfaction. A moderate range of well-curated options would likely serve people's wellbeing far better than the current abundance.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You clearly state your position in the introduction and maintain it consistently throughout the essay. The arguments are well-developed, with the first body paragraph acknowledging the benefits of choice, such as in dietary needs and career paths, while the second body paragraph provides a strong counter-argument regarding 'choice overload' and its psychological impact. The ideas are extended with relevant examples, such as mobile phone plans and streaming subscriptions, which demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of the topic. The conclusion effectively synthesizes your position, providing a clear and logical summary of your argument.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the benefits of choice and the drawbacks is handled smoothly using the cohesive device 'Nevertheless'. You use a variety of linking words and phrases effectively, such as 'On one hand', 'For instance', and 'Furthermore', which guide the reader through your argument without being mechanical. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct stages of your argument, and referencing is clear throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary, which allows for precise expression. Phrases such as 'unprecedented range of options', 'dietary restrictions', 'choice overload', and 'paradoxically reduce satisfaction' show a high level of lexical control. The vocabulary is natural and appropriate for an academic context. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the language used is sophisticated enough to convey complex ideas clearly and effectively.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses and accurate use of punctuation. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the control over tense and aspect is consistent. For example, the use of 'whereby' to introduce a relative clause is grammatically precise and adds to the formal tone of the writing. There are no significant errors that impede communication, and the overall grammatical accuracy is very high, reflecting a strong command of English syntax.

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