Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-07-31

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In the future nobody will buy printed newspapers or books because they will be able to read everything they want online without paying. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Student answer (Band 8.0)

In the future, people may stop purchasing printed newspapers and books because the same information can be accessed online free of charge. I largely agree with this view, as digital content is generally more affordable and convenient. Nevertheless, printed materials may continue to be preferred by some individuals.

The primary reason why printed publications are likely to become less popular is that online resources can save readers both time and money. Unlike physical books and newspapers, digital content can often be accessed instantly without the need to visit a shop or pay for a printed copy. This is particularly beneficial for people living in remote areas, where bookstores and libraries may be limited. For example, students in rural communities can download educational materials and access online newspapers from home instead of travelling long distances to obtain them. Furthermore, a single electronic device can store thousands of books, making it more practical than carrying several printed publications.

Nevertheless, the shift towards digital reading may create difficulties for certain groups. Prolonged exposure to screens can cause eye strain and headaches, particularly among people with poor eyesight. In addition, some readers find it easier to concentrate when reading physical books and may value the experience of owning printed materials. However, these disadvantages are unlikely to outweigh the convenience and accessibility offered by digital resources, especially as electronic devices continue to improve.

In conclusion, although printed books and newspapers may remain important for some people, I largely agree that most individuals will eventually stop buying them. The widespread availability, affordability, and convenience of online content are likely to make digital reading the preferred option in the future.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have taken a clear position from the introduction and maintained it throughout the essay. The arguments regarding convenience, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility are well-developed and supported with relevant examples, such as the mention of students in rural communities. The counter-argument regarding physical health and the tactile experience of reading is also addressed, demonstrating a balanced perspective. The conclusion effectively summarises your position. To reach the highest band, you could further expand on the 'without paying' aspect of the prompt, perhaps discussing the implications for authors or the quality of free online content.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The essay is logically organised with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central topic, and the transition between the benefits of digital content and the counter-arguments is smooth, using appropriate cohesive devices like 'Nevertheless' and 'Furthermore'. Referencing is clear, and the paragraphing is used effectively to structure the argument. The flow of ideas is natural, and the use of linking words is neither mechanical nor repetitive. The essay demonstrates a high level of control over the structure, making it easy for the reader to follow your line of reasoning from start to finish.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topic with precision. Phrases such as 'prolonged exposure', 'physical materials', and 'widespread availability' are used accurately. While the vocabulary is appropriate and conveys your meaning clearly, it lacks some of the more sophisticated or idiomatic collocations that would push the score into the 8.0+ range. The word choice is consistently natural, and there are no spelling or word-formation errors. To improve, try to incorporate more academic collocations or nuanced synonyms to add greater depth to your arguments.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a good variety of complex structures, such as conditional-like constructions ('where bookstores... may be limited') and well-constructed subordinate clauses. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation is excellent. There is a consistent use of accurate grammar throughout the text, which allows for smooth reading. While the structures are correct and varied, the range could be slightly more ambitious to reach the highest band. However, the current level of accuracy is very high, and there are no significant grammatical slips that impede communication.

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.