Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-09-07

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people believe that it is best to accept a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job or shortage of money. Others argue that it is better to try and improve such situations.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

 

Student answer (Band 7.5)

Certain members of society argue that accepting a difficult situation is sometimes the best decision, while others believe that it is more favourable to try to improve such circumstances. Although accepting an undesirable situation can help people gain experience and develop patience, I believe that making efforts to improve one’s circumstances is generally a better approach.

One significant reason for accepting a difficult situation is that not all problems are within human control. Sometimes, accepting circumstances can help people learn from their experiences and enhance their skills. For example, having an unsatisfactory job can provide valuable experience and knowledge, which may eventually help an individual obtain a better position. Moreover, accepting temporary difficulties can prevent people from becoming overly stressed about matters that cannot be changed immediately.

Another reason is that economic difficulties can force many highly qualified people to accept jobs that are below their expectations. In such cases, accepting the situation temporarily can be beneficial because it allows them to gain knowledge and practical experience while continuing to look for better opportunities. For instance, many university graduates may initially lack suitable employment opportunities, so working in a small company can provide them with useful skills and motivate them to work harder towards achieving their career goals.

On the other hand, there are strong reasons why people should try to improve unsatisfactory situations rather than simply accept them. If individuals become accustomed to difficult circumstances, they may lose their motivation and remain in the same position for many years. For example, a person who is dissatisfied with a low-paying job can acquire new qualifications, develop professional skills, or search for better employment. Taking such actions can increase their income and provide greater job satisfaction. Similarly, people facing financial difficulties can create a budget, learn new skills, or start an additional source of income instead of simply accepting their financial situation.

In my opinion, acceptance is appropriate when a situation cannot be changed immediately, but it should not become a permanent attitude. People should recognise their circumstances, learn from them, and then take practical steps to improve their lives. This approach allows them to remain realistic while still working towards a better future.

In conclusion, accepting difficult situations can sometimes provide valuable experience and help people deal with circumstances beyond their control. However, I believe that trying to improve an unsatisfactory situation is usually more beneficial because it creates opportunities for personal, professional, and financial growth.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response addresses all parts of the prompt, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion. The position is consistent throughout the essay. Ideas are well-developed, particularly the distinction between temporary acceptance as a strategic move and permanent resignation. The arguments are supported by relevant examples, such as the scenario of university graduates in small companies. The essay is balanced, and the conclusion effectively synthesises the main points. To reach a higher band, the student could further explore the nuances of 'shortage of money' specifically, as the current focus leans heavily towards employment-related difficulties.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organised with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central topic sentence, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth. Cohesive devices are used effectively, such as 'One significant reason', 'Moreover', 'On the other hand', and 'Similarly'. The use of referencing is precise, and the paragraphing is appropriate for the structure of the argument. The flow of information is natural, and the reader is guided through the writer's reasoning without any confusion. The logical sequencing of ideas is a strong point of this response.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The vocabulary is sufficient and appropriate for the task. The student demonstrates a good range of topic-specific language, such as 'undesirable situation', 'professional skills', 'career goals', and 'financial growth'. There is some attempt to use less common collocations, and the word choice is generally accurate. While the vocabulary is functional and clear, it lacks the sophisticated, idiomatic, or highly precise lexical choices that would characterise a band 8 or 9. However, there are no significant errors in word choice or spelling that impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The student uses a variety of complex sentence structures effectively, such as conditional clauses ('If individuals become accustomed...') and concessive clauses ('Although accepting an undesirable situation...'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and the control over punctuation and grammar is strong. There are no major grammatical errors that hinder understanding. The range of structures is good, and the accuracy is consistent throughout the text. The writing is fluent and demonstrates a solid grasp of English syntax, fitting well within the criteria for a high band score.

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