Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-09-26

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 frequently argued that printed newspapers and books will eventually become obsolete because people will have unrestricted access to their digital counterparts free of charge. Although the proliferation of online content is undoubtedly diminishing the demand for printed publications, I do not believe that physical books and newspapers will disappear altogether. Their enduring accessibility, tangibility and cultural significance will continue to sustain a demand for them.

The principal reason why printed publications may become considerably less prevalent is the remarkable convenience of digital media. With a smartphone, tablet or computer, individuals can access an enormous repository of books, newspapers and other sources of information within seconds. Moreover, online content can often be obtained at little or no cost, whereas purchasing printed materials entails expenses related not only to the publication itself but also to distribution and transportation. Digital media is also considerably less cumbersome: thousands of books can be stored on a single device, allowing people to access an extensive range of material without carrying physical copies. Consequently, as internet connectivity and digital literacy continue to expand, many consumers are likely to gravitate towards online alternatives.

Nevertheless, it would be premature to conclude that printed publications will become entirely redundant. A substantial number of readers continue to value the tactile experience of reading a physical book, particularly when engaging with literature, academic texts or books intended for long-term reference. Unlike electronic devices, printed books do not depend on electricity, batteries or internet connectivity, which makes them accessible in circumstances where digital alternatives are impractical. Furthermore, printed publications have an important cultural and archival function. Libraries, educational institutions and collectors preserve physical books because they can serve as historical records and be passed down from one generation to another. In addition, not everyone has reliable internet access or the financial means to purchase suitable digital devices, particularly in less technologically developed regions.

In conclusion, the growing availability of free online content will undoubtedly accelerate the decline of printed newspapers and books, as digital media offers unparalleled convenience and accessibility. However, I disagree with the assertion that physical publications will disappear completely. Their tangible nature, independence from technology and enduring cultural and educational value mean that they are likely to coexist with digital media, albeit in a more limited capacity.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task prompt, discussing both sides of the issue—the rise of free online media and the enduring value of physical books and newspapers. The writer takes a clear, well-developed position in the introduction, stating that while online content is diminishing print demand, physical books will not completely disappear. This stance is maintained consistently throughout the essay. The ideas are well extended and supported with relevant justifications, such as the convenience and cost-effectiveness of digital media contrasted with the tactile experience, independence from technology, and cultural archival function of print publications. The content is fully developed and well-focused on the topic, meeting all requirements for a high band score without any omissions.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression from introduction to conclusion. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, with the second paragraph exploring the drivers of digital media and the third paragraph focusing on the enduring appeal of printed materials. Cohesive devices are used effectively and flexibly, including transitional phrases such as 'Moreover', 'Consequently', and 'Nevertheless', which guide the reader smoothly through the arguments. Paragraphing is managed logically and appropriately, contributing to an overall coherent structure where referencing is precise and natural throughout the response.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.5

The writer demonstrates a wide, fluent, and flexible vocabulary range suitable for an academic discussion. Less common and precise lexical items are employed skillfully throughout the text, such as 'proliferation', 'obsolete', 'repository', 'cumbersome', 'redundant', and 'archival function'. Word choices and collocations are generally accurate and natural, showing a strong awareness of academic style. Although there are minor instances where common vocabulary is repeated, the overall lexical resource is sophisticated and allows the writer to convey precise meanings without any impediment to communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The response features a wide range of complex sentence structures used with a high degree of accuracy and control. The writer successfully employs conditional and concessive clauses, such as 'Although the proliferation of online content... I do not believe...', and '...whereas purchasing printed materials entails expenses related not only to... but also to...'. The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is handled correctly throughout. While minor stylistic slips may occur, there are no systematic grammatical errors that hinder understanding, indicating a strong command of English syntax and morphology.

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