Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-08-09

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 7.5)

It is often argued that the availability of free digital content will lead to the total obsolescence of printed books and newspapers. While I acknowledge that digital media offers unmatched convenience, I largely disagree with this prediction. My justification will provide further paragraphs with suitable examples.

On the one hand, it is undeniable that digital platforms have fundamentally changed reading habits. Online news and e-books offer instant access to information, allowing users to carry an entire library on a single smartphone. Furthermore, the younger generation is highly accustomed to consuming media via screens, and many choose digital formats to reduce paper waste. This rapid shift towards digital consumption explains why many believe that the printing industry has no viable future.

However, the prediction that nobody will buy physical copies overlooks the unique value of print media. Printed books and newspapers provide a tactile experience and a welcome break from digital screens, which many readers still prefer to avoid eye strain and digital fatigue. For instance, physical books remain highly popular gifts and collectibles, serving as symbols of personal identity that digital files cannot replace. Consequently, a dedicated market for print media will always survive.

Moreover, the assumption that all online content will remain free is incorrect. High-quality journalism and professional publishing require immense financial resources, forcing digital media outlets to abandon free models. Today, major publications worldwide are increasingly locking their best articles behind strict subscription paywalls. Because consumers will still have to pay to read premium content online, the financial incentive to completely abandon print media disappears.

To sum up, while digital reading will undoubtedly continue to dominate due to its convenience, I disagree that printed media will disappear entirely. The psychological benefits of physical print, combined with the reality of paid digital paywalls, ensure that books and newspapers will maintain a permanent place in society.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

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 the tactile experience of books and the economic reality of paywalls are well-developed and directly support your stance. Each paragraph contributes to a logical progression of ideas, and the conclusion effectively synthesizes your main points. The response is balanced, acknowledging the convenience of digital media before refuting the idea that it will lead to the total disappearance of print. This demonstrates a high level of task engagement and critical thinking.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear structure. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth, using cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand,' 'However,' 'Moreover,' and 'To sum up' effectively. The progression of ideas is easy to follow, and referencing is clear throughout. The use of cohesive devices is natural and not mechanical, which helps the reader navigate your argument without difficulty. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct points, contributing to the overall coherence of the piece.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary. Phrases such as 'total obsolescence,' 'tactile experience,' 'digital fatigue,' and 'subscription paywalls' are used accurately and in the correct context. The language is sophisticated and contributes to a formal, academic tone. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the vocabulary is well-suited to the topic. You show a good awareness of style, which allows you to express complex ideas with precision and clarity.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures with high accuracy. You use complex sentences effectively, such as 'While I acknowledge that digital media offers unmatched convenience, I largely disagree with this prediction.' Punctuation is used correctly, and there are no significant grammatical errors that impede communication. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and you demonstrate good control over verb tenses and clause structures. The writing is fluent and demonstrates a high level of grammatical competence.

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