Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 13 · 2026-09-18

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 6.5)

Nowadays, people have more choices than ever before, whether in terms of food, entertainment, education, or consumer products. While some people believe that this abundance of choice has made life unnecessarily complicated, I largely agree that having too many options can sometimes be disadvantageous.

One major problem is that excessive choice can make decision-making difficult and stressful. When people are presented with hundreds of similar products or services, they may spend a considerable amount of time comparing them. For example, when shopping online, customers can find thousands of smartphones, clothes, or household products, each with slightly different features and prices. As a result, people may become confused and worry that they have made the wrong decision. This can also lead to dissatisfaction, even after making a purchase.

Another disadvantage is that having too many choices can encourage people to make impulsive decisions. Modern advertising and social media constantly expose consumers to new products and lifestyles. For instance, a person who already owns several pairs of shoes may feel the need to buy another pair simply because they see an attractive advertisement online. In this way, excessive choice can contribute to unnecessary spending and consumerism.

However, I believe that having more choices also provides important benefits. People can now choose products and services that suit their individual needs, preferences, and budgets. In the past, consumers often had access to only a limited range of goods, whereas today they can easily compare different alternatives. Similarly, students can choose from a wide variety of courses and educational resources, allowing them to pursue subjects that genuinely interest them.

In conclusion, although having many choices gives people greater freedom and opportunities, an excessive number of options can create stress, confusion, and unnecessary consumption. Therefore, I believe that the disadvantages of having too many choices are significant, although the freedom to choose remains valuable.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The student fully addresses all parts of the task prompt, discussing whether we have too many choices nowadays. The position is clear from the introduction, where the writer states, 'I largely agree that having too many options can sometimes be disadvantageous.' This stance is maintained consistently throughout the essay. The main body paragraphs develop relevant ideas well, exploring how excessive choice leads to decision fatigue, stress, and impulsive consumerism. Furthermore, the writer provides a balanced counter-argument in the fourth paragraph by acknowledging the benefits of having choices, such as personal freedom and tailored services, which enriches the overall argument. Examples, such as online shopping for smartphones and clothes, are used effectively to support the claims. The response meets all the requirements of Band 7, displaying a well-developed, clear position with extended and supported ideas.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay demonstrates clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, beginning with a clear introduction, followed by two body paragraphs discussing disadvantages, a counter-argument paragraph, and a concise concluding summary. Cohesive devices are used appropriately and flexibly to guide the reader through the arguments, as seen in phrases such as 'One major problem', 'Another disadvantage', 'However', and 'In conclusion'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each new idea cleanly separated into its own paragraph. Referencing is clear and unambiguous. The overall coherence aligns well with the Band 7 descriptors, as the essay flows smoothly and logically from start to finish.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary with some flexibility and precision, suitable for a Band 7 score. Less common lexical items are used effectively with awareness of style and collocation, such as 'abundance of choice', 'decision-making difficult', 'impulsive decisions', and 'unnecessary consumption'. There are very few lexical errors, and the vocabulary used is precise enough to convey complex ideas clearly without causing any strain for the reader. While the range is not quite as extensive or sophisticated as what is expected for a Band 8, the vocabulary deployed easily satisfies the Band 7 criteria.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The writer displays a good control of grammar and punctuation, utilising a variety of complex sentence structures successfully. Examples of complex structures include subordinate clauses and participial phrases, such as 'While some people believe that this abundance of choice has made life unnecessarily complicated...' and 'When people are presented with hundreds of similar products...'. There are frequent error-free sentences, and the minor errors that do appear do not impede communication at all. Punctuation is accurate throughout the text. This level of grammatical range and control fits comfortably within the Band 7 descriptors.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.