Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-09-12

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)

Some people believe that it is better to accept difficult circumstances, such as an unsatisfactory job or financial problems, rather than trying to change them. Others argue that people should make every reasonable effort to improve their situation. Although accepting certain circumstances can sometimes be practical, I believe that taking action to create better living conditions is generally the more positive approach.

On the one hand, accepting a difficult situation can be a sensible choice in some circumstances. Not every problem can be solved immediately, and constantly trying to change an uncontrollable situation may cause unnecessary stress and disappointment. For example, a person who is struggling financially may need to accept their current circumstances temporarily while developing a realistic plan for the future. Similarly, someone may remain in an unsatisfactory job because they have financial responsibilities, such as supporting their family or paying for accommodation. In such cases, acceptance can provide stability while allowing people to consider their options carefully.

On the other hand, making an effort to improve a difficult situation can lead to greater satisfaction and better opportunities. People who are unhappy with their employment, for instance, can acquire new skills, pursue further education, or search for another job. These actions may require time and effort, but they can eventually lead to higher income and greater job satisfaction. Likewise, people experiencing financial difficulties can improve their circumstances by developing better financial habits, increasing their income, or learning skills that are valuable in the job market. Therefore, refusing to accept an unsatisfactory situation permanently can motivate individuals to achieve their goals and improve their quality of life.

In my opinion, people should neither blindly accept difficult circumstances nor attempt to change everything immediately. Instead, they should distinguish between situations that cannot be changed and those that can be improved through effort. Temporary acceptance may be necessary, but individuals should continue looking for practical ways to improve their circumstances whenever possible.

In conclusion, accepting a difficult situation can sometimes provide stability and prevent unnecessary stress, while trying to improve it can create better opportunities and greater personal satisfaction. I believe that although acceptance may be appropriate in the short term, taking realistic steps towards improvement is usually the better long-term approach.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both views on whether to accept difficult circumstances or try to improve them, and clearly provides the writer's own well-developed opinion. The introduction outlines the two positions and states a clear stance. Body paragraphs one and two thoughtfully explore both perspectives with relevant examples, such as remaining in an unsatisfactory job for financial responsibilities or acquiring new skills to achieve higher income. The conclusion and the insightful concluding body paragraph further refine this position by acknowledging the importance of distinguishing between changeable and unchangeable situations. The ideas are extended and supported logically throughout the essay, meeting all requirements of the task effectively.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is logically organized with a clear overall progression from introduction to body paragraphs, a nuanced counter-balance paragraph, and a concise conclusion. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, such as the benefits of acceptance in the second paragraph and the benefits of improvement in the third paragraph. Cohesive devices are used naturally and effectively without being obtrusive, with phrases like 'On the one hand,' 'On the other hand,' 'For example,' and 'Therefore' guiding the reader smoothly through the arguments. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, ensuring the logical development of ideas throughout the entire essay.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The student demonstrates a sufficient and flexible range of vocabulary suited to an academic discussion. Less common lexical items and collocations are used effectively, such as 'difficult circumstances,' 'financial responsibilities,' 'uncontrollable situation,' and 'personal satisfaction.' Word choice is generally precise, and collocation is natural throughout the response. Spelling and word formation are accurate, and vocabulary errors are virtually non-existent, allowing the message to be conveyed with clarity and precision.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with multiple clauses, conditional and concessive structures ('Although accepting certain circumstances can sometimes be practical, I believe that...'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and the student maintains excellent control over punctuation and grammar. Minor slips are extremely rare, and complex structures are handled with good control, ensuring that communication is entirely unimpeded from start to finish.

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