Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-13

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 8.0)

Some university students believe that they should study subjects beyond their main field of study, whereas others argue that students should devote all their time and attention to obtaining their qualifications. Although concentrating on a major subject is essential for academic success, I believe that studying additional subjects can provide students with broader knowledge and valuable skills.

On the one hand, there are several reasons why students should focus primarily on their main subjects. University qualifications require considerable time, effort and concentration, particularly in demanding fields such as medicine, engineering and law. If students spend too much time studying unrelated subjects, they may have less time to complete assignments, prepare for examinations and develop expertise in their chosen field. For example, a medical student needs to devote substantial time to anatomy, pharmacology and clinical practice. A lack of sufficient preparation in these areas could negatively affect both academic performance and future professional competence.

On the other hand, studying subjects outside one’s main field can be highly beneficial. Firstly, it enables students to develop a broader understanding of the world and acquire knowledge that may complement their primary studies. Secondly, universities can help students develop transferable skills such as critical thinking, communication and creativity through exposure to different disciplines. For instance, an engineering student who studies business or communication may become better prepared to manage projects and work effectively with clients and colleagues. Furthermore, learning an additional subject can make education more interesting and help students discover new career opportunities.

In my opinion, university students should maintain a balance between their major and other areas of study. Their main subject should remain their priority because obtaining a strong qualification is important for their future career. However, allocating some time to other subjects can broaden their knowledge and make them more adaptable in a rapidly changing job market.

Overall, while specialisation is necessary for academic and professional success, I believe that a limited but meaningful study of other subjects provides students with a more well-rounded education.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have clearly discussed both perspectives—the importance of focusing on a major versus the benefits of a broader curriculum—and provided a clear, consistent opinion throughout. The ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant examples, such as the specific mention of medical students needing to focus on anatomy and pharmacology. The argument is logical and balanced, demonstrating a strong understanding of the task requirements. The conclusion effectively synthesises the main points while maintaining your personal stance, which is a hallmark of a high-scoring response.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The essay is logically organised with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central topic sentence, and the transition between the two opposing views is smooth, using appropriate cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'Furthermore'. The use of referencing is precise, and the paragraphing is used effectively to separate the different stages of your argument. The flow of information is natural, making the essay very easy to follow. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive linking, which indicates a high level of control over the structure of the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary that is well-suited to the academic context. Phrases such as 'transferable skills', 'professional competence', and 'rapidly changing job market' show a sophisticated command of language. The word choices are precise and natural, contributing to the overall clarity of your argument. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation. While the vocabulary is consistently accurate and appropriate, incorporating a few more nuanced or idiomatic academic expressions could elevate the response even further toward the top of the band scale.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures with high levels of accuracy. You successfully use complex sentence forms, such as conditional structures ('If students spend too much time...') and concessive clauses ('Although concentrating on a major subject is essential...'). The majority of your sentences are error-free, and the punctuation is handled correctly throughout. There are no significant grammatical slips that impede communication. The control over tense and subject-verb agreement is consistent, reflecting a high level of grammatical competence that is appropriate for this band level.

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