Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-09-16

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people say the main way to be happy in life is to have a lot of money. How might having a lot of money make people happy? What other things in life can make people happy?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

 

Student answer (Band 8.0)

It is often argued that having a large amount of money is the main way to achieve happiness in life. Although financial security can certainly improve people’s quality of life, I believe that money is only one factor, and other aspects such as relationships, health and personal fulfilment are equally important.

Having a substantial income can make people happy in several ways. First and foremost, money provides financial security. People who earn enough to cover their basic needs are less likely to experience stress about rent, food, education or unexpected expenses. In addition, wealthy individuals can afford to travel, pursue hobbies and enjoy various forms of entertainment, which can provide memorable experiences. For example, someone with a well-paid job may be able to take an annual holiday with their family without worrying about the cost. Therefore, money can contribute significantly to happiness by providing both comfort and freedom.

However, there are many other sources of happiness that cannot be purchased. Strong relationships with family and friends can provide emotional support, companionship and a sense of belonging. Good physical and mental health is also essential because it allows people to enjoy their daily lives and participate in activities they value. Furthermore, having a meaningful career or achieving personal goals can give people a sense of purpose and satisfaction. For instance, a person may earn an average salary but still feel extremely happy if they enjoy their work and have a supportive family.

In conclusion, having a lot of money can increase happiness by providing security, comfort and opportunities to enjoy life. Nevertheless, I believe that lasting happiness also depends greatly on meaningful relationships, good health and a sense of purpose. Consequently, wealth alone cannot guarantee a fulfilling life.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The student fully addresses all parts of the task prompt, exploring both how having a lot of money might bring happiness (such as financial security and freedom to travel) and alternative sources of happiness (such as relationships, health, and a meaningful career). A clear, well-developed position is established in the introduction and sustained logically throughout the essay. Ideas are extended with relevant examples, such as mentioning annual family holidays and average salaries coupled with supportive families. The response meets the task requirements comprehensively, aligning strongly with the Band 8 descriptor for Task Achievement.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

Ideas are logically sequenced and the essay demonstrates a clear progression from start to finish. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each body paragraph dedicated to a distinct sub-topic (financial benefits versus non-monetary sources of happiness). Cohesive devices are managed well, using transitional phrases such as 'First and foremost', 'In addition', and 'Nevertheless' to guide the reader smoothly through the argument. Referencing is clear and unambiguous throughout the text. The overall structure easily satisfies the requirements for a Band 8 in Coherence and Cohesion.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

The student demonstrates a wide, fluent, and flexible lexical range suitable for a general task. Uncommon vocabulary items are used effectively and with good awareness of collocation and style, such as 'financial security', 'substantial income', 'personal fulfilment', and 'meaningful career'. Word choice is generally precise, and there are no noticeable spelling or word-choice errors that impede communication. While a few expressions lean towards standard essay formulas, the vocabulary easily supports a Band 7.5 or 8.0 performance.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The writing exhibits a wide range of complex grammatical structures used with a high degree of accuracy. The majority of sentences are completely error-free, featuring well-controlled subordinate clauses, conditional elements, and participatory phrases, such as 'People who earn enough to cover their basic needs are less likely to experience stress...' and 'Good physical and mental health is also essential because it allows people to enjoy their daily lives...'. Punctuation is accurate, and control over tense and agreement is consistent throughout. This reflects the high standards of Band 8.

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