Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-17

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 they should explore subjects beyond their main area of study, while others argue that they should devote all of their time and attention to obtaining their qualification. Although focusing on a degree can help students develop specialised knowledge, I believe that studying additional subjects can provide broader skills and knowledge that are valuable in both professional and personal life.

On the one hand, concentrating entirely on a main subject can allow students to develop a deeper understanding of their chosen field. University qualifications often require students to learn a large amount of specialised knowledge, and dividing their attention between several subjects may reduce the time available for their core studies. For example, a medical student needs to spend considerable time studying subjects such as anatomy, pharmacology and pathology. If they devote too much time to unrelated areas, they may struggle to acquire the knowledge required for their future profession. Therefore, focusing on the main qualification can be particularly important in highly specialised careers.

On the other hand, learning about other subjects can help students develop a wider range of skills and perspectives. Subjects outside their main field can improve creativity, communication and critical thinking, while also allowing students to understand problems from different viewpoints. For instance, a computer science student who studies business or psychology may gain a better understanding of users and organisations, which could help them design more effective technological products. In addition, exploring different areas can help students discover interests that may influence their future career choices.

In conclusion, although students should give sufficient attention to their main qualification, I believe that studying additional subjects is beneficial when it does not interfere with their core studies. A balanced approach can allow students to gain specialised expertise while also developing broader knowledge and transferable skills.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both views—learning about other subjects versus focusing exclusively on a qualification—and clearly stating a well-developed personal position. In the introduction, the writer outlines both perspectives and presents a clear stance. Body paragraph one effectively examines the merits of deep concentration on a core subject, using the specific, relevant example of a medical student studying anatomy, pharmacology, and pathology. Body paragraph two logically explores the benefits of a broader curriculum, supported by the concrete example of a computer science student studying business or psychology. The conclusion nicely synthesises these ideas while maintaining the stated position. The arguments are fully extended and supported throughout, meeting all descriptors for a high band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct and well-managed central topic, beginning with a traditional and effective introduction and concluding with a concise summary paragraph. Cohesive devices are used flexibly and appropriately to guide the reader through the arguments, as seen with transitional phrases like 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'In conclusion'. Referencing and substitution are handled smoothly, ensuring that ideas flow naturally from one sentence to the next without mechanical rigidity. Paragraphing is used skillfully to separate the competing viewpoints and the writer's final judgment, fitting the criteria for a strong performance.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student displays a sufficient and flexible range of vocabulary suited to an academic discussion. Less common lexical items are used naturally and with a good awareness of collocation, such as 'specialised knowledge', 'core studies', 'transferable skills', and 'future career choices'. Word choice is generally precise, allowing the writer to convey complex arguments smoothly—for instance, noting that studying unrelated areas helps students 'understand problems from different viewpoints'. While the vocabulary is not overly ornate, it avoids excessive repetition and accurately supports the task. Minor slips are absent, reflecting a steady control over lexical features appropriate for a band 7.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The response showcases a good variety of complex sentence structures, including conditional or concessive clauses such as 'Although focusing on a degree can help students develop specialised knowledge, I believe that...' and 'If they devote too much time to unrelated areas, they may struggle...'. The majority of sentences are entirely error-free, and punctuation is handled with precision throughout the essay. The writer exhibits strong control over verb tenses, modal verbs, and subordinate clauses, ensuring that communication is never impeded. Although the grammatical patterns are fairly standard for academic writing rather than exceptionally adventurous, the consistency of accuracy and variety easily secures this band score.

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