Nowadays, it is easier for young people to have a credit card compared to the past.Â
Do the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?
📌 Note: This question appeared in the IELTS Writing exam on 5th August, 2025.
2025 IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions - Click to view all
Band 9 Sample Answer:
It is true that nowadays young people find it much easier to obtain a credit card than it was in the past. Although this trend has certain drawbacks, I would argue that its benefits are far more significant.
On the one hand, the widespread use of credit cards among young people can have some negative consequences. Firstly, many youngsters may lack the financial maturity required to manage borrowed money responsibly. This often leads to overspending, mounting debt, and eventually financial stress at an early age. Secondly, easy access to credit might also encourage a consumerist lifestyle, where individuals spend beyond their means simply to keep up with social trends. Such behaviour not only causes monetary difficulties but can also result in long-term issues such as poor credit history, which limits their ability to secure loans in the future.
On the other hand, I think that the availability of credit cards for young people has many positive outcomes. One is that it allows them to handle unexpected expenses, such as medical emergencies or educational needs, without immediate financial burden. Moreover, responsible use of credit cards helps them build a solid credit history, which is essential for future financial milestones like buying a house or starting a business. Furthermore, credit cards provide various benefits such as cashback rewards, travel insurance, and fraud protection, all of which make financial transactions safer and more convenient compared to carrying cash. These advantages not only improve financial flexibility but also promote financial independence from an early age.
In conclusion, while the growing accessibility of credit cards for young people may cause some challenges, I believe that its positive outcomes outweigh the drawbacks. With proper financial education and guidance, the advantages of this trend can be maximised and the risks can be effectively minimised.
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Band 9 Insights Based on IELTS Writing Band Descriptors
1. Task Response
This essay fully answers the question by discussing both the advantages and disadvantages of young people having credit cards. The position is clear from the start—while there are drawbacks, the benefits are stronger—and this stance is consistently maintained until the conclusion. The arguments are well-developed with logical reasoning and relevant examples, such as overspending leading to debt and credit cards helping to build a strong credit history. Both sides of the issue are presented fairly before arriving at a balanced conclusion, which is exactly what examiners expect at the highest level.
2. Coherence and Cohesion
The essay is easy to follow because the ideas flow in a logical order: introduction, disadvantages, advantages, and conclusion. Each paragraph has a clear purpose and develops one side of the argument fully. Linking words and phrases are used naturally and flexibly—for example, “such behaviour not only… but also…” and “one is that… moreover… furthermore…”—rather than relying on a limited set of connectors. Reference words like “this trend,” “such behaviour,” and “these advantages” also help to avoid unnecessary repetition.
3. Lexical Resource
A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. Financial terms such as “credit history,” “overspending,” and “financial flexibility” are precise, while expressions like “consumerist lifestyle,” “monetary difficulties,” and “financial independence” show variety and sophistication. The essay also uses natural collocations like “mounting debt,” “secure loans,” and “solid credit history,” which make the writing sound authentic and fluent. The word choice throughout is formal, academic, and very suitable for IELTS essays.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy
The grammar is both accurate and varied. Complex structures are used naturally, for example: “Such behaviour not only causes monetary difficulties but can also result in long-term issues…” and “Although this trend has certain drawbacks, I would argue that its benefits are far more significant.” Sentences are error-free, with a mix of simple, compound, and complex structures that create variety and keep the essay engaging. There is a high level of control over grammar, which means ideas are expressed clearly without confusion.
Overall Band Score: 9.0
In short, this essay has everything examiners look for at the top band: a well-developed argument, smooth organisation, precise vocabulary, and strong grammar. It reads clearly, persuasively, and naturally—exactly what a Band 9 answer should look like.
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