Mobile banking apps have revolutionized the way customers interact with financial institutions, making it a popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This article will provide you with sample essays and expert analysis to help you tackle this subject effectively in your IELTS exam. Based on recent trends, we expect this topic to appear frequently in future tests, so it’s crucial to be well-prepared.
Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS exams:
Mobile banking apps have become increasingly popular in recent years. Some people believe these apps have had a positive impact on customers, while others argue they have caused problems. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the positive impacts of mobile banking apps on customers
- Explore potential problems caused by these apps
- Present your own opinion on the matter
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, starting with a high-scoring example.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In recent years, mobile banking applications have gained significant traction among consumers, transforming the way people manage their finances. While some argue that these apps have positively impacted customers, others contend that they have introduced new challenges. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
On the one hand, mobile banking apps have undoubtedly brought numerous benefits to customers. Firstly, they offer unparalleled convenience, allowing users to perform various financial transactions at any time and from anywhere, eliminating the need for physical bank visits. Additionally, these apps provide real-time account monitoring, enabling customers to track their spending habits and detect fraudulent activities promptly. Furthermore, many apps offer personalized financial insights and budgeting tools, empowering users to make informed decisions about their money management.
However, critics argue that mobile banking apps have also introduced certain problems. One primary concern is the potential security risks associated with digital transactions, as cybercriminals continuously develop sophisticated methods to exploit vulnerabilities in these systems. Moreover, the increasing reliance on mobile apps may lead to a digital divide, potentially marginalizing older generations or those without access to smartphones and reliable internet connections. Lastly, some worry that the ease of digital transactions might encourage impulsive spending and reduce financial literacy, as people become disconnected from the physical aspect of money management.
In my opinion, while the concerns raised about mobile banking apps are valid, the benefits they offer far outweigh the potential drawbacks. The convenience and efficiency these apps provide have significantly improved the banking experience for millions of customers worldwide. However, I believe it is crucial for financial institutions and app developers to continually enhance security measures and provide comprehensive education to users about safe digital banking practices. Additionally, banks should maintain alternative banking channels to ensure inclusivity for all customers.
In conclusion, mobile banking apps have revolutionized the financial industry, offering numerous advantages to customers despite some challenges. As technology continues to evolve, it is essential for stakeholders to address the associated risks while maximizing the positive impact of these innovative tools on customers’ financial well-being.
(Word count: 345)
Mobile banking apps offering convenience and security
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and fully addresses all parts of the question, making it worthy of a Band 8-9 score. Here’s why:
Task Response: The essay clearly discusses both views and provides a well-developed personal opinion. It covers all aspects of the task comprehensively.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices. Ideas flow logically from one paragraph to the next.
Lexical Resource: The writer uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately. Some examples include “unparalleled convenience,” “fraudulent activities,” and “digital divide.”
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a variety of complex sentence structures with very few errors. It demonstrates a high level of grammatical control.
Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-elaborated with relevant examples and explanations, showing depth of analysis.
Now, let’s examine a sample essay for a lower band score.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Mobile banking apps have become very popular these days. Some people think they are good for customers, but others say they cause problems. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On the positive side, mobile banking apps make life easier for customers. They can check their account balance and transfer money anytime, anywhere. This saves time because people don’t need to go to the bank. Also, these apps help customers keep track of their spending, which is good for managing money.
However, there are some problems with mobile banking apps. The biggest issue is security. Hackers might try to steal people’s information or money through these apps. Another problem is that some people, especially older ones, might find it hard to use these apps. They might prefer traditional banking methods.
In my opinion, mobile banking apps are mostly good for customers. They make banking more convenient and help people manage their money better. But banks need to make sure their apps are very secure and easy to use for everyone.
To conclude, mobile banking apps have both advantages and disadvantages. While they offer convenience, there are concerns about security and accessibility. I believe the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, but banks should work on improving their apps to address these issues.
(Word count: 219)
Mobile banking app user interface on smartphone
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good writing skills but has some limitations, placing it in the Band 6-7 range. Here’s why:
Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the question, discussing both views and providing a personal opinion. However, the ideas are not as fully developed as in the higher band essay.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure with introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. However, the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay. There’s room for improvement in using more advanced vocabulary.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control. However, it lacks the variety and sophistication seen in the Band 8-9 essay.
Development of Ideas: While main points are presented, they are not as thoroughly elaborated as in the higher band essay. More specific examples and deeper analysis would improve the score.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Unparalleled (adjective) /ʌnˈpærəleld/ – having no equal; exceptional
- Fraudulent (adjective) /ˈfrɔːdjʊlənt/ – intended to deceive
- Vulnerability (noun) /ˌvʌlnərəˈbɪləti/ – weakness or susceptibility to attack
- Impulsive (adjective) /ɪmˈpʌlsɪv/ – acting without forethought
- Marginalize (verb) /ˈmɑːrdʒɪnəlaɪz/ – treat as insignificant or peripheral
- Cybercriminal (noun) /ˈsaɪbərˌkrɪmɪnl/ – a person who uses the internet to commit crimes
- Digital divide (noun phrase) /ˈdɪdʒɪtl dɪˈvaɪd/ – the gap between those who have access to modern information technology and those who don’t
- Financial literacy (noun phrase) /faɪˈnænʃl ˈlɪtərəsi/ – the ability to understand and effectively use various financial skills
The impact of mobile banking apps on customers is a relevant and frequently discussed topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key points and using appropriate vocabulary, you can craft a well-structured and compelling essay. Remember to practice writing essays on similar topics, such as the importance of digital banking for businesses or the impact of fintech on global financial inclusion, to further enhance your skills.
As you prepare for your IELTS exam, consider practicing with related topics such as the effects of e-commerce on financial markets or how fintech is changing traditional banking. These subjects are closely related and may appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions.
We encourage you to write your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you improve your writing skills and receive feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.