In a Cashless Society People Use More Credit Cards- IELTS Writing Task 2

In IELTS Writing Task 2, Advantages/Disadvantages Essays ask candidates to discuss the positive and negative aspects of a topic. This blog focuses on “In a Cashless Society People Use More Credit Cards” and provides three Band 8 sample answers, along with useful vocabulary and exam tips to help you write a well-structured, high-scoring essay.

Question

Outline

Essay Type

• Advantage and Disadvantage Essay

Introduction

• (State your opinion)  In my opinion, a cashless society is not a realistic idea.
• Of course, we can reduce the use of cash but some amount of paper currency will be in circulation at all times.

Body Paragraphs

• Paragraph 1: (Discussion of pros) As for the advantages, they increase the purchasing power of people.
• Paragraph 2 : (Discussions of cons)  In spite of having numerous benefits of a cashless society, credit cards do have few demerits as well.

Conclusion

• Summarize your answers

In a Cashless Society People Use More Credit Cards - Sample Answer 1

Credit cards play a crucial role in our economy by enabling cashless payments. Since they eliminate the need to carry cash in the wallet, they protect the users from the risk of getting robbed. Even so, in my opinion, a cashless society is not a realistic idea. Of course, we can reduce the use of cash, but some amount of paper currency will be in circulation at all times.

As for the advantages, they increase the purchasing power of people. If you have a credit card, you can purchase even if you do not have sufficient cash in your wallet. This ability, however, can be good or bad, depending upon your spending habits. Using credit cards, people can also make payments in emergencies. For example, in a medical emergency like an accident, the patient or their family can use the card to pay for the medical treatment they need. Card payments also allow people to keep track of their spending. Also, since card transactions are permanently recorded, they make it easy for the government to claim the tax. Overall, cashless transactions ensure transparency in society.

Despite having numerous benefits of a cashless society, credit cards do have a few demerits as well. Excess expenditure is one of the primary cons of having a credit card with oneself. Humans are enticed to spend more than what they earn, as they have more availability of credit.  For example, if a person doesn’t pay the credit card bill on time, they must pay extra interest. In addition, if an individual loses their credit card, it can be easily misused by anyone. Apart from that, the interest rates of credit cards are very high, which is not affordable for a middle-class person. For example, if the person doesn’t pay on time, the bank may charge 15 to 20% interest rates as a late penalty.

These cards come with great responsibility and have their benefits and drawbacks. In my opinion, if a person uses credit cards carefully, then they can be an asset to humankind. We, as a user, should always be aware of all the frauds and embezzlement that can happen with them while using cards.

In a Cashless Society People Use More Credit Cards - Sample Answer 2

In recent years, the shift towards a cashless society has led to a significant increase in credit card usage. While this trend offers several advantages, it also has some drawbacks that should be considered.

One major advantage is convenience. Credit cards allow people to make payments quickly without the need to carry cash, which is particularly useful for online shopping and travel. Additionally, credit cards often come with reward programs, discounts, and security features, making transactions safer and more beneficial for users. For instance, many people earn cashback or loyalty points on everyday purchases, which adds financial value.

However, there are also disadvantages. Increased reliance on credit cards can lead to overspending, as people may be tempted to buy items they cannot afford. This can result in debt accumulation and financial stress. Furthermore, cybercrime and credit card fraud pose risks for users, especially those who are not careful with online transactions.

In conclusion, while the rise of credit card usage in a cashless society brings convenience and financial incentives, it also carries the risk of overspending and fraud. By using credit responsibly and staying aware of security measures, individuals can enjoy the benefits while minimizing the drawbacks.

In a Cashless Society People Use More Credit Cards - Sample Answer 3

The trend towards a cashless society has made credit cards increasingly popular for everyday transactions. This phenomenon presents both advantages and disadvantages, which are important to evaluate.

A key advantage of using credit cards is ease of access and efficiency. People no longer need to carry large sums of cash, and online payments have become seamless. Credit cards also offer purchase protection and tracking of expenses, which helps users manage their finances more effectively. For example, bank statements allow individuals to monitor spending patterns and avoid mismanagement of funds.

On the downside, heavy reliance on credit cards can encourage impulsive buying and overspending, especially among young or inexperienced users. This may lead to financial difficulties if bills are not paid on time. Additionally, technological failures or security breaches can result in loss of money or sensitive data, making users vulnerable to fraud.

In conclusion, while credit cards provide convenience, financial tracking, and safety in a cashless society, they also increase the risk of overspending and fraud. Responsible usage and awareness of potential pitfalls are crucial to reap the benefits while avoiding negative consequences.

In a Cashless Society People Use More Credit Cards - IELTS Vocabulary

The following are some of the IELTS Vocabulary found in the above writing sample answers. 

• Eliminate 

Meaning : completely remove or get rid of (something)
Eg . There is a new policy that would eliminate inflation in the economy.

• Transactions

Meaning : an instance of buying or selling something
Eg. In an ordinary commercial transaction, a delivery date is always provided.

• Misuse 

Meaning : use (something) in the wrong way or for the wrong purpose
Eg. He was found guilty of misusing public funds.

• Embezzlement 

Meaning : theft or misappropriation of funds placed in one’s trust or belonging to one’s employer
Eg. He was found guilty on the charges of fraud and embezzlement.

• Enticed

Meaning : attract or tempt by offering pleasure or advantage.
Eg.  There is a new show which should entice the audience into the theatre.

• Interest

Meaning : money paid regularly at a particular rate for the use of money lent, or for delaying the repayment of a debt
Eg. The monthly rate of interest provided by the local bank is less in comparison to private banks.

• Transparency 

Meaning : the condition of being transparent
Eg. Cashless transactions ensure transparency in society.

• Penalty

Meaning : a punishment imposed for breaking a law, rule, or contract
Eg. The charge issued to him carries a maximum penalty.

• Expenditure 

Meaning : the action of spending funds
Eg . The expenditure of taxpayers’ money was used by the government.

• Credit 

Meaning : an entry recording a sum received, listed on the right-hand side or column of an account.
Eg.  The columns should be added across and down and the total debits should equal the total credits.

In conclusion, the IELTS direct question essay topic “In a Cashless Society People Use More Credit Cards - IELTS Writing Task 2” requires candidates to discuss both positive and negative effects of lifestyle changes. With 3 sample answers and useful vocabulary, this blog helps learners present balanced arguments, organise ideas clearly, and achieve a higher band score in IELTS Writing Task 2.

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