Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-09-22

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 when faced with an unsatisfactory situation, such as an unpleasant job or financial difficulties, it is better to accept it rather than attempt to change it. Others argue that people should actively try to improve their circumstances. Although accepting certain situations can prevent unnecessary stress, I believe that making reasonable efforts to improve one’s life is generally the better approach.

On the one hand, accepting a difficult situation can sometimes be the most practical choice. Not every problem is within an individual’s control, and constantly trying to change circumstances can lead to frustration and disappointment. For example, someone who is struggling financially may have limited opportunities to increase their income in the short term. If this person accepts their current circumstances and focuses on managing their expenses, they may experience less anxiety than someone who continually worries about becoming wealthy. Similarly, an employee may tolerate an unsatisfactory job because they need a stable income to support their family. In such cases, acceptance can provide a degree of security while a person waits for better opportunities.

On the other hand, simply accepting an undesirable situation can prevent people from reaching their potential. Many difficult circumstances can be improved through persistence, education and careful planning. For instance, an employee who is unhappy with their job could develop new skills, gain professional qualifications or apply for positions in other companies. Likewise, a person facing financial difficulties could learn skills that increase their earning potential or start a small business alongside their existing work. These actions may not produce immediate results, but they can gradually lead to greater financial and personal independence. More importantly, taking action can give people a sense of control over their lives rather than leaving them feeling trapped by their circumstances.

In my view, acceptance is useful when a situation cannot be changed immediately, but it should not become an excuse for permanent inaction. People should first recognise the aspects of their circumstances that are beyond their control and then focus their efforts on those they can realistically improve. This balanced approach allows individuals to remain emotionally stable while still working towards a better future.

In conclusion, accepting a bad situation can sometimes be sensible, particularly when circumstances are outside a person’s control or when immediate change is unrealistic. However, I believe that people should generally attempt to improve their circumstances whenever they have a realistic opportunity to do so, as this can create better opportunities and a greater sense of independence in the long term.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task. The introduction presents a clear position that is maintained throughout the essay. Both views are discussed: the practical benefits of acceptance in situations outside individual control, and the arguments for active improvement and persistence to reach personal potential. Ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant examples, such as financial struggles and unsatisfactory employment. The conclusion effectively summarises the discussion and restates the author's nuanced perspective. The response meets all the requirements of Band 8.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organised with a clear progression of ideas from introduction to body paragraphs and conclusion. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, starting with the opposing view, moving to the student's perspective on improvement, and then offering a balanced synthesis. Cohesive devices are used naturally and effectively throughout the text, such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'Similarly', and 'In my view'. Paragraphing is used skillfully and appropriately. The structure is fully coherent and easily satisfies Band 8 descriptors.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The student demonstrates a wide, flexible vocabulary range suitable for an academic essay. Less common lexical items are used skillfully and naturally, such as 'unsatisfactory job', 'financial difficulties', 'earning potential', and 'emotional stable'. Word choice and collocation are generally accurate, with only very occasional minor slips (e.g., 'emotional stable' instead of 'emotionally stable'). The vocabulary allows for precision and nuance in discussing both sides of the prompt, aligning well with the Band 7 to 8 criteria.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response exhibits a wide variety of complex sentence structures, including conditional or concessive clauses ('Although accepting certain situations can prevent...', 'when a situation cannot be changed...'). The majority of sentences are error-free, demonstrating a high level of control over grammar and punctuation. There is a minor slip with an adjective used instead of an adverb in the phrase 'remain emotional stable', but this does not impede communication. The control of grammar and range of structures strongly reflect Band 8 capabilities.

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