Some people get into debt by buying things they don’t need and

IELTS Band 9 Essay About Some people get into debt by buying things they don’t need and can’t afford

Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “Some people get into debt by buying things they don’t need and can’t afford”. This sample then will be further analyzed for its vocabulary, grammar and format, so we see how it has qualified for such band score. We also suggest over 200 band 9 IELTS samples released in 2025.

Sample Essay(Band 9)

Some people get into debt by buying things they don’t need and can’t afford.

What are the reasons for this behaviour?

What action can be taken to prevent people from having this problem?

The phenomenon of individuals falling into debt by purchasing unnecessary and unaffordable items has become a pressing issue in modern consumer societies. This behavior is driven by a combination of psychological, social, and economic factors, and addressing it requires comprehensive measures at both individual and societal levels.

One of the primary reasons for this behavior is the influence of consumerism and aggressive marketing strategies. Advertisements often create a sense of urgency or desire for products, convincing people that they need items they might not otherwise consider purchasing. For example, limited-time offers and “buy now, pay later” schemes exploit impulsive tendencies, encouraging individuals to make purchases without considering their financial situation. Additionally, social media platforms amplify this issue by promoting a culture of comparison, where people feel pressured to keep up with the lifestyles of their peers, even if it means spending beyond their means.

Another significant factor is the lack of financial literacy among many individuals. People often underestimate the long-term consequences of debt, such as high-interest rates and the impact on their credit scores. For instance, someone might take out a loan to buy a luxury item without fully understanding the repayment terms, leading to a cycle of debt. This lack of awareness is exacerbated by the easy availability of credit cards and loans, which make it tempting to spend money one does not have.

To address this issue, several actions can be taken. Firstly, governments and educational institutions should prioritize financial literacy programs to equip individuals with the knowledge to manage their finances responsibly. For example, teaching young people about budgeting, saving, and the dangers of debt can help them make informed decisions in the future. Secondly, stricter regulations on advertising and credit lending practices are necessary to protect consumers from exploitative tactics. For instance, limiting the use of high-pressure sales techniques and ensuring transparency in loan agreements can reduce impulsive spending.

On an individual level, people should cultivate self-discipline and adopt mindful spending habits. Creating a budget, setting financial goals, and avoiding unnecessary purchases can help individuals stay within their means. Additionally, seeking professional financial advice can provide personalized strategies to manage debt effectively.

In conclusion, the problem of people falling into debt by buying things they don’t need or can’t afford is rooted in consumerism, lack of financial literacy, and easy access to credit. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach, including education, regulation, and personal responsibility. By taking these steps, individuals and societies can work towards a more financially secure future.

Academic Vocabulary Words in the sample for Some people get into debt by buying things they don’t need and can’t afford

Pressing (/ˈprɛsɪŋ/)
- Example: Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time.
- Meaning: Requiring immediate attention; urgent.
Consumerism (/kənˈsjuːmərɪzəm/)
- Example: Modern society is often criticized for its culture of consumerism.
- Meaning: The belief that buying goods and services is good for the economy.
Urgency (/ˈɜːdʒənsi/)
- Example: The advertisement created a false sense of urgency to encourage immediate purchases.
- Meaning: Importance requiring swift action.
Exacerbated (/ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪtɪd/)
- Example: The problem was exacerbated by poor financial planning.
- Meaning: Made worse or more severe.
Multifaceted (/ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/)
- Example: Solving climate change requires a multifaceted approach.
- Meaning: Having many different aspects or features.

Advanced Grammar Structures and Their Contribution to a Higher Band Score

Conditional Sentences (Second Conditional):
- Example: “If people were more financially literate, they would be less likely to fall into debt.”
- Contribution: Demonstrates the ability to discuss hypothetical situations, which is a marker of advanced language proficiency.
Passive Voice:
- Example: “Stricter regulations should be implemented to protect consumers.”
- Contribution: Shifts focus to the action rather than the subject, adding variety and sophistication to the writing.
Relative Clauses:
- Example: “Individuals who lack financial literacy are more likely to make poor spending decisions.”
- Contribution: Adds complexity to sentences and provides additional information without breaking the flow.
Cleft Sentences:
- Example: “What is needed is a comprehensive approach to financial education.”
- Contribution: Emphasizes specific parts of the sentence, making the argument more persuasive and nuanced.
Inversion for Emphasis:
- Example: “Not only does consumerism drive unnecessary spending, but it also contributes to environmental degradation.”
- Contribution: Adds a formal tone and highlights key points, which is essential for achieving a higher band score.

Format and Features of a Band 9 Essay

Clear Introduction: The introduction presents the topic and the writer’s opinion in a concise manner.
Coherent Paragraphs: Each paragraph focuses on a single idea, supported by examples and explanations.
Academic Vocabulary: The use of advanced and varied vocabulary enhances the quality of the essay.
Complex Grammar Structures: The inclusion of advanced grammar structures demonstrates a high level of language proficiency.
Strong Conclusion: The conclusion summarizes the main points and restates the writer’s opinion effectively.

By adhering to these features, the essay achieves clarity, coherence, and sophistication, contributing to a Band 9 score.

Free IELTS Sample Essays with Answers PDF

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