Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 13 · 2026-09-17

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)

Nowadays, people are presented with an enormous range of choices in almost every aspect of their lives. Although having more options can provide greater freedom and convenience, I agree to a large extent that people today sometimes have too many choices, which can make decision-making unnecessarily difficult.

One area where this is particularly evident is consumerism. In the past, people had relatively limited options when purchasing everyday products, whereas consumers today can choose from hundreds of brands and models. For example, someone looking to buy a smartphone may have to compare numerous companies, prices, designs, camera qualities and technical features. While this variety allows consumers to find a product that suits their specific needs, comparing so many alternatives can be time-consuming and may leave people uncertain about whether they have made the right decision.

Another example is the amount of choice available in entertainment and lifestyle. Streaming services provide access to thousands of films and television programmes, while the internet offers almost unlimited possibilities for music, games and other forms of entertainment. As a result, people may spend a significant amount of time deciding what to watch rather than actually enjoying a programme. Having an excessive number of alternatives can therefore create what is sometimes referred to as decision fatigue, particularly when people are required to make choices repeatedly throughout the day.

However, it would be unfair to suggest that having more choices is entirely negative. Greater choice can give individuals more control over their lives. In education, for instance, students now have access to a wide variety of courses and institutions, allowing them to select programmes that better match their abilities and interests. Similarly, competition between businesses can encourage companies to offer better-quality products at more competitive prices.

In conclusion, I agree that modern society provides people with an excessive number of choices in areas such as shopping and entertainment. Nevertheless, this is not necessarily a disadvantage in itself, as greater choice can also increase freedom and provide opportunities. The main challenge is learning to make sensible decisions without becoming overwhelmed by the number of available alternatives.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by clearly stating a position agreeing with the prompt to a large extent. The introduction sets a clear direction, which is then well-developed through specific, relevant examples in consumerism and entertainment. The counter-argument in the fourth paragraph acknowledges the positive aspects of choice, demonstrating a balanced view and well-extended ideas. There are no notable omissions or under-developed arguments. This level of development and task coverage aligns comfortably with the Band 8 descriptor.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

Ideas are logically sequenced and progress naturally from introduction to body paragraphs discussing consumerism and lifestyle, followed by a counter-argument and a conclusive summary. Cohesive devices such as 'One area where this is particularly evident', 'Another example is', and 'However' are used naturally and effectively without being mechanical. Paragraphing is used appropriately, with each new concept or aspect assigned its own distinct paragraph. Referencing throughout the essay is clear, contributing to a seamless reading experience that matches the Band 8 criteria.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

The student demonstrates a wide, flexible, and natural range of vocabulary appropriate for an academic task. Less common lexical items and collocations are used skillfully, such as 'consumerism', 'decision fatigue', 'excessive number of alternatives', and 'competitiveness'. Word choices are precise, and there are virtually no inaccuracies in spelling, word formation, or collocation. The vocabulary allows the writer to convey precise shades of meaning, easily satisfying the requirements for a Band 8 score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response exhibits a wide range of complex structures used with a high degree of flexibility and accuracy. Examples include concessive clauses ('Although having more options can provide...') and participial phrases ('leaving people uncertain about whether they have made the right decision'). The majority of sentences are completely error-free, and any punctuation or grammatical lapses are virtually non-existent. Control over grammar is exceptionally strong throughout the entire text, fully justifying a Band 8 score.

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