Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-09-29

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)

Many people argue that accepting distressing circumstances is the best option, while others think that it is better to make a determined effort to improve unfavourable situations. I strongly believe that one should strive to improve their situation and circumstances that are less than ideal. In this essay, I will discuss both viewpoints before concluding with my opinion.

On the one hand, when an individual is in a difficult situation, both in terms of finances and mental stress, they sometimes find it difficult to move on from the position they are currently in. The best option a person may find in such a situation is to accept the fact that life is falling apart, rather than trying for something better. Firstly, not every problem can be solved immediately, and this can lead to stressful conditions. For example, a person who is stuck in a stagnant job with no future prospects, financial responsibilities towards their family, and a nagging boss who is trying to make their life difficult would be far more likely to accept their shortcomings and be complacent instead of taking further stress by striving to improve such a situation. Secondly, accepting a bad situation where you have no control over the outcomes can save you from unnecessary psychological stress and mental deterioration.

On the other hand, many people have an optimistic approach to life. Even if their whole life is falling apart, they always try to improve difficult situations and aim for better prospects in life, better opportunities, and a better standard of living. Humanity progresses through dissatisfaction, and complacency can make a person stagnant, depressed, and less likely to maintain their self-respect over time. For instance, a person who is struggling at work and facing many problems can develop new skills and technical expertise to get a better job. Similarly, someone who is going through a nationwide recession would benefit more from budgeting carefully and limiting their overall monetary ventures, rather than taking risky bets and putting their financial stability in jeopardy. In addition, taking action towards their problems can give people a sense of achievement, satisfaction, fulfilment, and accomplishment as well.

In conclusion, while accepting a difficult situation can be beneficial and prevent unnecessary mental distress and psychological pain, especially in circumstances where a person does not have control over their life and cannot change the outcome or is bound by responsibilities and other shackles, it can also make them stagnant and complacent, worsen their plight, and cause them to lose their motivation, drive, and overall self-respect. I firmly believe that unfavourable ordeals should be dealt with in order to progress and live a better standard of life.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.5

The student addresses all parts of the task well, discussing both views regarding whether to accept a bad situation or try to improve it, while maintaining a clear personal position throughout. Ideas are well developed and supported with relevant examples, such as a stagnant job scenario and economic recessions. The position is clearly articulated in the introduction and reinforced in the conclusion. The response meets all the requirements of a Band 7.5 to Band 8 performance by fully exploring both perspectives with clear, extended reasoning and strong task focus.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.0

The essay displays clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Information and ideas are coherently linked using appropriate cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'Firstly', 'Secondly', and 'In conclusion'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct aspect of the essay prompt. Referencing is clear and referencing devices are managed well. The overall progression of ideas feels natural and guides the reader smoothly from the introduction through the body paragraphs to the final synthesis.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.0

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary with some flexibility and precision. Less common lexical items are used effectively with a good awareness of collocation and style, such as 'distressing circumstances', 'stagnant job', 'future prospects', and 'financial stability'. There are only occasional minor inaccuracies or less precise formulations, such as 'taking further stress', but these do not impede communication. The lexical range is more than adequate for the task, supporting clear and varied expression.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The essay exhibits a wide variety of complex structures used with good control. The majority of sentences are error-free, featuring well-constructed subordinate clauses and appropriate conditional or participial phrases, such as 'Even if their whole life is falling apart, they always try to improve difficult situations...' Punctuation and grammatical control are generally strong. Although there are very occasional minor errors in collocation or prepositions, the overall command of complex grammar is solid and supports smooth readability, aligning well with the Band 7.5 descriptors.

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