A test for cyclists: IELTS Task 2 essay #1, band 8.0
A student’s answer to this repeated IELTS question, shared without their name and marked by Axiom on the four criteria. Select a highlighted passage to see how it could be revised, and why.
376 words. Marked by Axiom on 11 October 2026. Estimated by AI. It isn’t an official IELTS score.
Task 2376 words
Some experts say for road safety cyclists should pass a test before being allowed on public roads. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some experts believe that cyclists should pass a test before they are allowed to use public roads in order to improve road safety. I mostly agree with this opinion because cycling without proper knowledge can cause accidents, although I also think that there are some disadvantages of this idea.
This is because many cyclists do not know all the traffic rules and sometimes they ride without paying attention to other vehicles. If cyclists are required to pass a test, they will have to learn the important rules before using public roads, which can make the roads safer for everyone.
Grammar & accuracy
RevisedFirstly, requiring cyclists to pass a test can help reduce the number of accidents on the roads.
This revision provides a more concise and direct way to express the point.
Coherence & cohesion
RevisedFor instance, they may cross the road while the traffic light is red or change directions without checking for oncoming traffic.
This revision provides a more concise and direct example to support the point.
Lexical resource
RevisedThese actions can pose a danger to not only cyclists, but also to drivers and pedestrians.
This revision provides a more precise and effective way to express the point.
Another reason why I agree with this idea is that cyclists should take responsibility for their actions. Cyclists are also participants in traffic and their decisions can affect other people. As a result, they may become more careful and confident when riding their bicycles in busy areas.
Grammar & accuracy
RevisedCurrently, many people believe that only car drivers need to understand traffic regulations, a view with which I do not entirely agree.
This revision provides a more precise and effective way to express the point.
Grammar & accuracy
RevisedFurthermore, a test could educate them on the use of safety equipment and appropriate responses to dangerous situations.
This revision provides a more precise and effective way to express the point.
For instance, taking a test could be difficult for children and people who use bicycles only for short distances. Nevertheless, I believe that these problems could be solved by making the test simple and inexpensive, especially for people who only use bicycles.
Coherence & cohesion
RevisedOn the other hand, this proposal also presents some problems.
This revision provides a clearer transition to the contrasting point.
Lexical resource
RevisedIt might also lead to additional costs and inconvenience for cyclists.
This revision provides a more precise and effective way to express the point.
Lexical resource
RevisedSome people may even opt for other forms of transportation, which may not always be environmentally friendly.
This revision provides a more precise and effective way to express the point.
In my opinion, knowing the basic traffic rules is important for everyone who uses public roads, and this requirement could help prevent accidents and protect people's lives.
Coherence & cohesion
RevisedIn conclusion, despite the potential difficulties, I maintain that requiring cyclists to pass a test is a generally good idea.
This revision provides a clearer and more formal expression of the conclusion.
Select a highlighted passage to see its suggested revision.
What Axiom wrote for each criterion: why the answer earned its band, and what to work on next.
Coherence & cohesion
Band 8.0/ 9
The essay is logically organized and ideas are connected well. The introduction and conclusion are clear and relevant. The essay is well-organized, with clear paragraphs for each main idea. Each paragraph begins with a clear topic sentence, and the ideas flow logically from one to the next. Transitions between ideas are smooth, and the conclusion effectively summarizes the main points.
Suggestions
- Try to use a wider range of linking words to connect your ideas more effectively.
- Ensure that your arguments are fully developed and explained.
Sentence revisions 3
RevisedOn the other hand, this proposal also presents some problems.
This revision provides a clearer transition to the contrasting point.
RevisedFor instance, they may cross the road while the traffic light is red or change directions without checking for oncoming traffic.
This revision provides a more concise and direct example to support the point.
RevisedIn conclusion, despite the potential difficulties, I maintain that requiring cyclists to pass a test is a generally good idea.
This revision provides a clearer and more formal expression of the conclusion.
Grammar & accuracy
Band 8.0/ 9
The essay uses a wide range of complex structures. A variety of sentence structures is used effectively, including complex sentences and passive constructions. The grammar and punctuation are consistently well controlled, with no significant errors.
Sentence revisions 3
RevisedFirstly, requiring cyclists to pass a test can help reduce the number of accidents on the roads.
This revision provides a more concise and direct way to express the point.
RevisedCurrently, many people believe that only car drivers need to understand traffic regulations, a view with which I do not entirely agree.
This revision provides a more precise and effective way to express the point.
RevisedFurthermore, a test could educate them on the use of safety equipment and appropriate responses to dangerous situations.
This revision provides a more precise and effective way to express the point.
Lexical resource
Band 8.0/ 9
The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary and there is evidence of less common and idiomatic language. The writer demonstrates a good control of a variety of sentence structures. The essay demonstrates a strong command of vocabulary, with a variety of terms related to traffic safety and cycling. The language is clear and appropriate for the topic, with no significant issues in word choice or expression.
Sentence revisions 3
RevisedThese actions can pose a danger to not only cyclists, but also to drivers and pedestrians.
This revision provides a more precise and effective way to express the point.
RevisedIt might also lead to additional costs and inconvenience for cyclists.
This revision provides a more precise and effective way to express the point.
RevisedSome people may even opt for other forms of transportation, which may not always be environmentally friendly.
This revision provides a more precise and effective way to express the point.
Task response
Band 8.0/ 9
The essay addresses the task effectively, presenting a clear position throughout. The writer's position is well supported with relevant examples and explanations. A clear and well-developed thesis statement is presented in the introduction, and the body paragraphs provide detailed support for the main argument. The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and restates the position.
Suggestions
- Ensure that you fully develop all of your arguments and provide detailed explanations and examples.
- Try to anticipate and address potential counterarguments to strengthen your position.
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