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.

Same questionCompare 3 different answers (Band 7.5–8)

Sample Response

1

In today's world, there are two contrasting views regarding how to handle a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job, financial hardshipa financial hardship or an unfavourable situation. Some people suggest that it is best to accept the situation as it is and tryas it is, and try to make the most of it, while othersit while others argue that it is better to take action and try to improve it. In my opinion, it is more reasonable to try to improve a bad situationtry and improve the bad situation to achieve a better outcome.

2

On the one hand, those who advocate for acceptance of bad situations believe that acceptanceit can help reduce stress and anxiety levels. Acceptance of a bad situation can help individuals focus on the things they can control and allow them to live in the present moment. For instance, a person with no special skills and a low-paying job may choose to accept the situation and focus on being happy with thewhatever little he has. If he is constantly unhappy about his paypay scale and tries to change jobschange the job without appropriate skillsa proper skillset, it will make his life more miserable.

3

On the other hand, those who argue for taking action to change their conditions believe that acceptance can lead to complacency and a lack of motivationcomplacency and lack of motivation. By accepting a bad situation, individuals may miss out on opportunities to improve their circumstances and achieve their goals. For example, a person with a shortage of money may choose to take on extra work or seek financial assistance to improve their financial situation rather than believing that he can do nothing to earn more moneythinking that he has nothing to do to earn more money and get out of the financial hardship.

4

In my view, while acceptance of unfavourable conditions can be useful in certain situations, it is often better to take action and strive for improvement. Without action, individuals may be resigned to a life of mediocrity, missing out on opportunities for personal and professional growth. Furthermore, taking action can help individuals build resilience and develop problem-solving skills, which can be useful in various areas of life.

5

In conclusion, while some argue that it is best to accept an unfavourable circumstancea favourable circumstance, others contend that it is better to try and improve it. While acceptance can be helpful in certain situations, in my view, taking action and striving for improvement is often the best course of action. By doing so, individuals can achieve better outcomes and build valuable skills that can be used in various areas of life.

Overall assessment

Why this response received Band 8.0

The response fully discusses both approaches and sustains a clear preference for active improvement, with relevant explanations and examples arranged in a logical sequence. Its main limitation is occasional imprecise or repetitive wording, most notably the contradictory reference to a favourable circumstance in the conclusion. The highest priority is to proofread key claims and replace repeated situation-related language with more exact alternatives.

Band score breakdown

IELTS Writing Criteria Scores

TR

Task Response

8.0
Scoring rule

Both views are directly addressed, the opinion remains clear throughout, and each position receives relevant development and support.

Next step

Refine the final restatement so it accurately refers to an unfavourable circumstance and preserves the intended contrast.

CC

Coherence and Cohesion

8.0
Scoring rule

The response progresses logically through the two views to the writer's position, with clear paragraph purposes and controlled linking.

Next step

Reduce repeated references to situations and acceptance so progression feels even more concise and natural.

LR

Lexical Resource

7.5
Scoring rule

A broad and generally precise vocabulary supports nuanced discussion, although a few collocations and word choices are awkward or inaccurate.

Next step

Proofread for lexical precision, especially phrases such as change the job and the mistaken favourable circumstance.

GRA

Grammatical Range and Accuracy

8.0
Scoring rule

A wide range of sentence structures is used accurately, with only occasional non-impeding punctuation and phrasing lapses.

Next step

Polish clause boundaries and article use in longer sentences to make an already strong level of control more consistent.

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IELTS Writing Task 2

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.

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