Back to Writing Hub

User-written IELTS example

Writing Academic Task 2 Band 8.0 Example

Original task prompt, user essay, band score, and related examples in the same report workspace.

272 words AcademicTask 2
Task 2

Illustrative target band for this original model answer.

Plan your answer

Try your own response before reading the samples.

Ideas to explore

  • Acceptance can reduce stress when circumstances cannot be changed quickly, such as during a prolonged job search.
  • Practical steps, including training or applying for other positions, may improve an unsatisfactory work situation.
  • People facing financial pressure can combine acceptance of immediate limits with budgeting, additional work, or seeking reliable advice.

Suggested structure

  1. Introduce both views and state a balanced personal position.
  2. Explain why acceptance can be useful, supported by a work or money example.
  3. Present the case for taking action, with practical steps that could improve the situation.
  4. Conclude by distinguishing what people cannot control from what they can realistically change.
Useful vocabulary & examples
accept what is beyond one's control
Recognise that a circumstance cannot readily be changed by an individual.

Accepting what is beyond one's control can help a job seeker focus on the next available opportunity.

take practical steps
Do specific, realistic actions to address a problem.

An employee can take practical steps by discussing concerns with a manager.

financial difficulties
Problems with having enough money to meet expenses.

A budget may help a household manage financial difficulties.

a sense of control
The feeling that one's actions can influence some part of a situation.

Seeking training can give an unhappy worker a greater sense of control over their career.

Task Prompt

Some people believe that it is best to accept a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job or shortage of money. Others argue that it is better to try and improve such situations. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

User Essay Analysis

Review the public answer with report-style highlights.

Band 8.0

It is widely debated whether it is more advisable to endeavor to ameliorate adverse circumstances, such as job dissatisfaction or financial insufficiency, as opposed to accepting them. In my opinion, embracing unfavorable situations holds greater significance than striving to improve them, as it fosters the development of patience and resilience, essential attributes in navigating life’s challenges. When circumstances are beyond an individual's control, accepting them can prevent constant frustration and allow people to focus on what remains possible. For example, someone facing a temporary shortage of money may benefit from calmly adjusting their spending rather than feeling ashamed or making risky decisions. Likewise, accepting that a job is currently unsatisfactory can help a person maintain a stable income while considering their next steps carefully.

However, acceptance should not mean giving up whenever change is possible. Those who try to improve their situation may gain better opportunities and a stronger sense of control. An employee who is unhappy at work, for instance, could discuss their responsibilities with a manager, develop new skills, or look for another position. Similarly, people experiencing financial difficulties can review their expenses or seek better-paid work. These actions may address the causes of their problems rather than simply helping them tolerate the consequences.

Nevertheless, efforts to change a situation are not always successful, and pursuing an unrealistic goal can increase stress. For this reason, I believe acceptance is the wiser starting point, particularly when people cannot immediately alter their circumstances. They can then decide whether a practical route to improvement exists. Overall, accepting hardship can build resilience, but it should be combined with reasonable action when change is achievable.

Targeted Improvement Tips

1
Keep the nuanced position, but state a clear decision rule early: accept what cannot be changed immediately and act when a practical route to improvement exists.
2
Develop each example with one brief explanation of its consequence, such as how keeping a stable income can reduce pressure while someone considers a job change.
3
Use formal vocabulary selectively: pair precise topic terms with natural, direct phrasing so the register remains consistent throughout.

Related examples for this topic

Compare different bands on the same IELTS prompt.

Browse all