Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-09-13

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)

It is often argued that people should accept difficult circumstances, such as an unsatisfactory job or financial problems, while others believe that they should take action to improve their situation. Although accepting certain circumstances can provide stability and reduce stress, I believe that making reasonable efforts to create better conditions is generally more beneficial.

On the one hand, accepting a difficult situation can sometimes be the most practical choice. Some problems are beyond an individual's immediate control, and constantly worrying about them may cause unnecessary stress and disappointment. For example, a person who has limited financial resources may have to remain in an unsatisfactory job because they need a regular income to support their family. In such circumstances, accepting the situation temporarily can allow them to maintain financial stability while avoiding risky decisions. Furthermore, learning to accept things that cannot easily be changed can help people remain emotionally calm.

On the other hand, attempting to improve an unsatisfactory situation can lead to better long-term outcomes. If people simply accept their problems, they may remain in the same circumstances for many years and lose opportunities for personal development. For instance, an employee who dislikes their job could develop new skills, obtain additional qualifications, or search for a better position. Similarly, someone experiencing financial difficulties could reduce unnecessary expenses, acquire valuable skills, or start a small business to increase their income. Taking such steps can improve both people's living standards and their confidence.

In my opinion, although accepting an unavoidable situation can sometimes be sensible, people should generally try to improve their circumstances whenever they have the opportunity to do so. A balanced approach is therefore best: individuals should accept temporary difficulties while actively working towards a better future.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt by discussing both views—accepting difficult situations versus attempting to improve them—and providing a clear personal opinion. The writer presents a well-developed position throughout the essay. Ideas are extended and supported with relevant explanations and examples, such as a person with limited financial resources remaining in an unsatisfactory job versus an employee developing new skills or searching for a better position. The arguments are logical, cohesive, and directly related to the prompt requirements, demonstrating strong task-oriented reasoning without any irrelevant tangents or digressions.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, starting with an introduction that outlines both views and the writer's stance, followed by well-sequenced body paragraphs examining each side of the argument, and concluding with a balanced summary. Cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'Furthermore', and 'Similarly' are used naturally and effectively to guide the reader through the argumentation. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, ensuring that ideas flow smoothly from one point to the next without any noticeable mechanical or awkward transitions.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The student demonstrates a sufficient and appropriate range of vocabulary for the task, allowing for precision and flexibility. Less common lexical items are used effectively with a good awareness of collocation and style, such as 'difficult circumstances', 'unsatisfactory job', 'financial stability', 'personal development', and 'living standards'. Word choice is generally natural and accurate, with only rare minor inaccuracies. Spelling and word formation are entirely correct throughout the response, ensuring that communication is clear, fluent, and unhindered by lexical limitations.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response exhibits a wide range of structures, successfully incorporating both simple and complex sentence forms with a high degree of accuracy. The majority of sentences are error-free, and complex constructions such as concessive clauses ('Although accepting certain circumstances can provide stability...') and conditional elements are handled with strong control. Punctuation is accurate, and grammatical structures such as relative clauses and modal verbs are used appropriately. There are only very occasional, minor slips that do not impede communication in any way, reflecting a high level of grammatical competence.

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