Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Online Shopping Essay: Task Response Issues
Sample Answer with Feedback

📅 Published Jun 2026⏱️ 40 minutes recommended📝 234 words · Band 5.5
This Band 5.5 IELTS essay discusses the convenience of online shopping versus traditional experiences. Key issues affecting the score include an underdeveloped argument and failure to meet the word count requirement.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Question

Agree/ Disagree (Opinion) · Leisure & Lifestyle · 40 min

Some people believe that online grocery shopping is more convenient and efficient than visiting physical stores. Others argue that traditional shopping offers better quality control and a more personal experience.
Do you agree or disagree?  

Write at least 250 words.



5.5Band

Overall Band Score

234 words · Agree/ Disagree (Opinion) · AI Evaluated

5
Task Response
6
Grammar
6
Vocabulary
6
Coherence

Score Breakdown

IELTS Writing Band Scores (1–9)

Overall Band Score
5.5
Task Response
5
Grammatical Range & Accuracy
6
Lexical Resource (Vocabulary)
6
Coherence & Cohesion
6

Summary: Hello User. The essay presents a clear stance but doesn't fully meet the word count requirement, having only 234 words instead of the required 250. This affects the task response score. While the argument is relevant to the topic, the development of ideas is somewhat limited, lacking depth and examples. The coherence and cohesion are fairly effective with logical progression, but transitions between ideas could be smoother. The lexical resource is adequate, demonstrating a reasonable range of vocabulary with mostly accurate usage. Grammar usage is generally correct with minor errors. However, the essay lacks complexity in sentence structures.

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Student Answer
Real submission • 234 words • Annotated
234 wordsBand 5.5WritingPart2
● Spelling● Grammar● Vocabulary

While some people believe that online shopping is more convenient due to its accessibility and the wide availability of products, others prefer visiting physical stores because it allows them to experience shopping in person. I largely agree with the former view.

To begin with, online shopping is often praised for its convenience, time-saving nature, and delivery services. These features create a much more efficient experience for people who value their time and comfort. Personally, I find it very important to compare different products before making a purchase. Online platforms allow consumers to evaluate prices, features, and reviews with ease, helping them make informed decisions. Furthermore, I consider shopping in physical stores to be an overly tiring and time-consuming activity that often requires unnecessary effort.

On the other hand, some people prefer traditional shopping because it allows them to examine product quality firsthand and negotiate prices in certain cases. For these individuals, physically interacting with products is an indispensable part of the shopping experience. However, this often comes at the cost of additional time and physical effort, which many consumers would rather avoid.

In conclusion, shopping is a personal experience that depends on individual preferences and circumstances. While some people prioritize the practical benefits and convenience of online shopping, others value the traditional experience of visiting stores. Nevertheless, I believe that online shopping is generally the more efficient and convenient option in today's fast-paced worl

AI Feedback Report Details

Spelling · Grammar · Vocabulary · Criteria Analysis

Spelling Mistakes

1 errors
Misspelled WordCorrected Word
worlworld

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Detailed Criteria Feedback

AI-powered analysis for each scoring criterion

Task Response5
Evaluation
The essay addresses the task but is under the 250-word requirement. The argument is relevant but not fully developed.
Examples
The essay compares online and traditional shopping but lacks depth and examples to support the argument effectively.
How to Improve
Expand the discussion with more detailed examples and insights to fully develop the argument and meet the word count requirement.
Coherence & Cohesion6
Evaluation
The essay is logically organized, with paragraphs dedicated to each perspective, but transitions could be clearer.
Examples
The contrast between online and traditional shopping is outlined, but smoother transitions are needed.
How to Improve
Use more varied linking words and phrases to create a smoother flow between and within paragraphs.
Lexical Resource6
Evaluation
The vocabulary is appropriate but lacks variety.
Examples
Words like 'convenient,' 'efficient,' and 'practical benefits' are used correctly, but there's little demonstration of advanced vocabulary.
How to Improve
Incorporate a wider range of vocabulary and expressions to enhance lexical variety and precision.
Grammatical Range & Accuracy6
Evaluation
The grammar is mostly accurate with minor errors, but sentence structures are relatively simple.
Examples
Sentences like 'Online shopping is often praised for its convenience' are correct but lack complexity.
How to Improve
Attempt using more complex sentence structures and a greater variety of grammatical forms to demonstrate advanced proficiency.
💡
Tip: Review the Band 9 model answer to see how a high-scoring essay structures arguments, uses advanced vocabulary, and maintains coherence throughout.

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