Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-11
IELTS Writing Task 2 question
Some university students want to learn about other subjects in addition to their main subjects. Others believe it is more important to give all their time and attention to studying for a qualification. Discuss both these views and give your opinion. Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Student answer (Band 7.0)
Some university students believe that learning additional subjects is useful, while others think that students should give all their time and attention to their main qualification. Although focusing on one subject has its advantages, I believe that studying other subjects can also be valuable.
On the one hand, concentrating only on the main course allows students to develop a deeper understanding of their field. University subjects can be demanding, and students already have to deal with lectures, assignments, projects and examinations. If they take too many additional subjects, they may find it difficult to manage their time properly. For example, an engineering student who focuses mainly on mathematics and technical subjects may understand their course better and achieve higher grades. This can also help them build a strong foundation for their future career.
On the other hand, studying other subjects can give students knowledge and skills that their main course may not provide. It is also a good way to become a more well-rounded person. For instance, an engineering student could study business or communication, which could be useful when working with clients or managing a team. In my opinion, university should not only be about getting a qualification. Students should also have the opportunity to explore their interests and develop skills that may help them in their personal and professional lives.
In conclusion, while giving full attention to a main subject can lead to better academic results, I believe that learning additional subjects is beneficial. However, students should maintain a balance so that their main studies remain their priority.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 6.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 7.0 |
| Overall | 7.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5
The response addresses all parts of the prompt, discussing both perspectives and providing a clear personal opinion. The ideas are relevant and logically developed, such as the example of an engineering student balancing technical skills with business knowledge. The position is consistent throughout the essay. To reach a higher band, the essay could benefit from more detailed exploration of the 'main qualification' argument, perhaps by discussing the competitive nature of modern job markets, which would add more depth to the analysis. Overall, the response is well-focused and meets the requirements of the task effectively.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5
The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph has a central topic sentence, and the progression of ideas is easy to follow. Cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'For instance', and 'In conclusion' are used appropriately to guide the reader. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the two opposing views. The flow is smooth, and the relationship between ideas is clear throughout the text, demonstrating a good command of organizational structure.
Lexical Resource — Band 6.5
The vocabulary is sufficient and appropriate for the task. The student uses relevant academic terminology such as 'main qualification', 'well-rounded person', and 'professional lives'. While the range is adequate, it lacks some of the more sophisticated or idiomatic expressions that would characterize a higher band score. The word choices are accurate and convey the intended meaning without any confusion. There are no spelling errors, and the language used is natural and fits the context of an academic discussion well.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0
The essay demonstrates a good control of grammar with a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. The sentences are generally error-free, and the punctuation is used correctly. Examples of complex structures include the use of conditional clauses ('If they take too many additional subjects...') and concessive clauses ('Although focusing on one subject has its advantages...'). The grammar is accurate, and there are no significant errors that impede communication. The writing is clear and demonstrates a solid grasp of English syntax and morphology.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.