AI-powered learning English

English guide

IELTS Writing Task 2:
Happiness Problem Solution - Band 6/7/8/9 Answers

Master IELTS Writing Task 2 happiness problem solution essays with expert Band 6-9 model answers and scoring breakdowns. Optimize your preparation today.

IELTS Writing Task 2: Happiness Problem Solution - Band 6/7/8/9 Answers | English AIdol Blog

What this guide covers

Search answer

What this page helps you decide

Master IELTS Writing Task 2 happiness problem solution essays with expert Band 6-9 model answers and scoring breakdowns. Optimize your preparation today.

Focus Quick answer
Includes 2026 update
Best for Practical checklist
Next step Related practice
  1. Scan the direct answer first.
  2. Check examples or score rules.
  3. Open the related practice page.

IELTS Writing Task 2: Happiness Problem Solution - Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers

Related guides:

The Prompt

Paraphrased from Cambridge Assessment English:

Some people believe that happiness is simply a matter of good luck or good genes. Others argue that happiness can be achieved through conscious effort. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answers

Band 6.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown:

  • Task Response: 5.0 - Presents a position but with some irrelevant points
  • Coherence and Cohesion: 6.0 - Logical but with some unclear progression
  • Lexical Resource: 6.0 - Limited range of vocabulary
  • Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 6.0 - Frequent errors

Answer:

Happiness is something that everyone wants. Some people think that happiness is just luck or genes. Others believe that happiness can be achieved through effort. I think both are important.

First, some people are born happy. They have good genes and good luck. For example, rich people are often happy because they have money. They can buy things and do what they want. But not all rich people are happy. Some people have bad luck and are not happy. For example, people who are sick or poor might not be happy.

Second, happiness can be achieved through effort. People can do things to make themselves happy. For example, exercising makes people happy. Eating healthy food also makes people happy. But sometimes, people do not have time to exercise or eat healthy food. They are too busy with work or school.

In conclusion, happiness is a combination of luck and effort. Some people are born happy, but others have to work for it. I think both are important.

Band 7.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown:

  • Task Response: 7.0 - Presents a clear position with some development
  • Coherence and Cohesion: 7.0 - Logical flow with some repetition
  • Lexical Resource: 7.0 - Adequate range of vocabulary
  • Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 7.0 - Some errors but generally clear

Answer:

The notion of happiness has been a subject of debate for centuries. While some individuals attribute happiness to genetic predisposition and fortunate circumstances, others contend that it is a result of deliberate actions and choices. I firmly believe that happiness is a combination of both.

On one hand, it is undeniable that genetic factors and luck play a significant role in determining one's happiness. For instance, individuals born into affluent families tend to have better access to resources that contribute to their well-being. Additionally, people who inherit a positive disposition are more likely to experience happiness. However, this is not always the case, as some wealthy individuals suffer from mental health issues, while others with modest means lead fulfilling lives.

On the other hand, happiness can indeed be cultivated through conscious effort. Engaging in activities that promote physical and mental well-being, such as regular exercise and mindfulness practices, can significantly enhance one's happiness. Furthermore, fostering strong social connections and pursuing meaningful goals can contribute to a sense of fulfillment and contentment. Nevertheless, external factors such as financial constraints or health issues can pose challenges to achieving happiness through effort alone.

In conclusion, while genetic predisposition and luck can influence happiness, it is ultimately the choices and actions we take that determine our overall well-being. Therefore, it is essential to strive for happiness through positive lifestyle choices and maintain a balanced perspective on the role of luck and genetics.

Band 8.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown:

  • Task Response: 8.0 - Presents a clear position with thorough development
  • Coherence and Cohesion: 8.0 - Logical flow with effective use of cohesive devices
  • Lexical Resource: 8.0 - Wide range of vocabulary used appropriately
  • Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 8.0 - Some errors but generally accurate

Answer:

The pursuit of happiness is a universal human endeavor, yet the means to achieve it remain a contentious issue. While some ascribe happiness to innate characteristics and external circumstances, others advocate for the role of personal agency and deliberate actions. I contend that happiness is a multifaceted concept that encompasses both intrinsic and extrinsic factors.

Proponents of the genetic and luck-based perspective argue that happiness is largely predetermined by one's genetic makeup and life circumstances. For example, individuals with a genetic predisposition to optimism and those born into supportive and nurturing environments are more likely to experience happiness. Moreover, fortunate events such as winning the lottery or securing a desirable job can significantly enhance one's well-being. However, this perspective overlooks the fact that happiness is not solely contingent on external factors, as evidenced by individuals who maintain a positive outlook despite adversity.

Conversely, proponents of the effort-based perspective emphasize the role of personal agency in cultivating happiness. Engaging in activities that align with one's values and passions, such as pursuing a fulfilling career or nurturing meaningful relationships, can foster a sense of purpose and contentment. Additionally, adopting a growth mindset and practicing gratitude can contribute to overall well-being. Nevertheless, this perspective may underestimate the impact of external factors on one's happiness.

In conclusion, happiness is a complex and multifaceted concept that cannot be attributed to a single factor. While genetic predisposition and luck may play a role, it is ultimately the choices and actions we take that determine our overall well-being. Therefore, it is essential to adopt a holistic approach to happiness that encompasses both intrinsic and extrinsic factors.

Band 9.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown:

  • Task Response: 9.0 - Presents a clear position with thorough, supported, and extended development
  • Coherence and Cohesion: 9.0 - Logical flow with effective use of cohesive devices
  • Lexical Resource: 9.0 - Wide range of vocabulary used with precision and sophistication
  • Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 9.0 - Accurate use of grammar and punctuation

Answer:

The elusive nature of happiness has long been a subject of philosophical inquiry and scientific exploration. While some individuals attribute happiness to innate characteristics and serendipitous events, others posit that it is a product of deliberate actions and conscious choices. I firmly believe that happiness is a dynamic interplay of both intrinsic and extrinsic factors, with personal agency playing a pivotal role.

Those who advocate for the primacy of genetic and environmental factors contend that happiness is largely predetermined by one's biological makeup and life circumstances. For instance, individuals with a genetic predisposition to neuroticism may be more susceptible to negative emotions, while those born into affluent and supportive families are more likely to experience a sense of security and contentment. Furthermore, fortunate events such as falling in love or achieving a significant milestone can evoke profound happiness. However, this perspective may inadvertently perpetuate a deterministic worldview, disregarding the potential for individuals to cultivate happiness through their actions.

Conversely, proponents of the effort-based perspective argue that happiness is a skill that can be honed and refined through deliberate practice. Engaging in activities that promote physical and mental well-being, such as regular exercise and mindfulness meditation, can significantly enhance one's happiness. Moreover, fostering strong social connections and pursuing meaningful goals can contribute to a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Nevertheless, this perspective may overlook the impact of external factors on one's happiness, potentially leading to an overly optimistic and unrealistic outlook.

In conclusion, happiness is a complex and multifaceted concept that cannot be reduced to a single cause or explanation. While genetic predisposition and luck may influence one's happiness, it is ultimately the choices and actions we take that determine our overall well-being. Therefore, it is essential to adopt a nuanced and balanced approach to happiness that acknowledges the interplay of both intrinsic and extrinsic factors, as well as the potential for personal growth and transformation.

Vocabulary Highlights

  1. Elusive (adjective): Difficult to achieve or define
  • Example: The elusive nature of happiness has long been a subject of inquiry.
  1. Serendipitous (adjective): Happening by chance in a happy or beneficial way
  • Example: Fortunate events such as serendipitous encounters can evoke profound happiness.
  1. Deterministic (adjective): Relating to the doctrine that all events are determined by prior causes
  • Example: This perspective may inadvertently perpetuate a deterministic worldview.
  1. Hone (verb): To refine or perfect something through practice or experience
  • Example: Happiness is a skill that can be honed and refined through deliberate practice.
  1. Nuanced (adjective): Showing subtle differences or shades of meaning
  • Example: It is essential to adopt a nuanced and balanced approach to happiness.
  1. Predisposition (noun): A natural tendency or inclination
  • Example: Individuals with a genetic predisposition to optimism are more likely to experience happiness.
  1. Fortuitous (adjective): Happening by chance; lucky
  • Example: Fortuitous events such as winning the lottery can significantly enhance one's well-being.
  1. Cultivate (verb): To try to acquire or develop a quality or skill
  • Example: It is essential to cultivate happiness through positive lifestyle choices.
  1. Multifaceted (adjective): Having many different aspects or features
  • Example: Happiness is a multifaceted concept that cannot be reduced to a single cause.
  1. Transformative (adjective): Causing a marked change in someone or something
  • Example: The potential for personal growth and transformative experiences is immense.
  1. Evoke (verb): To bring or recall (a feeling, memory, or image) to the conscious mind
  • Example: Fortunate events can evoke profound happiness.
  1. Nurturing (adjective): Providing the conditions in which someone or something can grow or develop
  • Example: Individuals born into nurturing environments are more likely to experience happiness.
  1. Pivotal (adjective): Of crucial importance in relation to the development or success of something else
  • Example: Personal agency plays a pivotal role in cultivating happiness.
  1. Holistic (adjective): Characterized by the belief that the parts of something are intimately interconnected and explicable only by reference to the whole
  • Example: It is essential to adopt a holistic approach to happiness.
  1. Resilience (noun): The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness
  • Example: Building resilience can contribute to overall well-being and happiness.
  1. Mindfulness (noun): The quality or state of being fully present and engaged in the current moment
  • Example: Practicing mindfulness can significantly enhance one's happiness.
  1. Fulfillment (noun): Satisfaction or happiness as a result of fully developing one's abilities or character
  • Example: Pursuing meaningful goals can contribute to a sense of fulfillment and contentment.
  1. Contentment (noun): A state of happiness and satisfaction
  • Example: A sense of contentment can be achieved through fostering strong social connections.
  1. Purpose (noun): The reason for which something is done or created or for which something exists
  • Example: Engaging in activities that align with one's purpose can foster a sense of fulfillment.
  1. Optimism (noun): Hopefulness and confidence about the future or the successful outcome of something
  • Example: Individuals with a genetic predisposition to optimism are more likely to experience happiness.

Common Mistakes

  1. Vague Language: Using general statements without specific examples or details.
  2. Lack of Structure: Failing to organize the essay with clear paragraphs and topic sentences.
  3. Overgeneralization: Making broad claims without considering exceptions or counterarguments.
  4. Poor Vocabulary Choice: Using simple or repetitive vocabulary instead of advanced and varied words.
  5. Grammatical Errors: Making frequent mistakes in grammar and punctuation that hinder understanding.

Get Your Own Response Scored by AI on English AIdol

Ready to improve your IELTS Writing Task 2 skills? Get your own response scored by AI on English AIdol and receive personalized feedback to help you achieve your target band score.