Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-09-28

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, examining both the side of digital media and the reasons for the continued survival of printed books. The writer's position is clearly stated in the introduction ("I do not believe that physical books and newspapers will disappear altogether") and is maintained consistently throughout the essay. Ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant explanations, such as the convenience of digital media versus the tactile experience, independence from technology, and cultural significance of print. The arguments are logical and address the prompt from multiple angles, earning a high band score for this criterion.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, starting with an introduction, followed by a body paragraph on the advantages of digital media, then a body paragraph outlining the arguments for physical books, and concluding with a well-summarised final thought. Cohesive devices are used effectively and flexibly without feeling mechanical, as seen in transition phrases like "The principal reason why", "Nevertheless", and "Furthermore". Paragraphing is managed appropriately, ensuring that ideas flow smoothly from one point to the next, representing strong coherence and cohesion.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.5

The student displays a wide, fluent, and flexible range of vocabulary suitable for an academic essay. Less common lexical items are used naturally and with precision, such as "proliferation", "obsolete", "unrestricted access", "tangibility", and "cumbersome". Word choice and collocations are generally accurate throughout the text. There are very few lexical imperfections, and the precise control over vocabulary allows the writer to articulate complex ideas clearly. This performance aligns comfortably with the upper-intermediate to advanced descriptors for lexical resource.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 8.0

The essay exhibits a wide range of complex grammatical structures used with a high degree of accuracy. The writer successfully employs conditional structures, relative clauses, and multi-clause sentences, such as "Although the proliferation of online content is undoubtedly diminishing the demand for printed publications, I do not believe that physical books... will disappear altogether." The majority of sentences are completely error-free, and any complex structures attempted are well-controlled. Punctuation is used correctly throughout, supporting the flow of ideas. Control over grammar is strong and consistent.

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