Key takeaways
- IELTS Task 2 has five common essay types: opinion, discussion, problem and solution, advantages and disadvantages, and two part questions.
- Identify the type from the question wording before you plan, because each type needs a different structure.
- Answer every part of the question, state a clear position and support each idea with an example.
- Write at least 250 words in about 40 minutes.
IELTS Writing Task 2 is worth more than Task 1, and the main reason candidates lose marks is that they do not answer the question that was asked. A discussion question needs both views, a problem and solution question needs causes and fixes, and an opinion question needs your own clear position. Learn to recognise the type first, and then follow its structure.
The five common types
| Type | Typical wording | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Opinion | To what extent do you agree or disagree? | State your position and support it. Show you understand the other side briefly. |
| Discussion | Discuss both views and give your opinion. | One paragraph for each view, then your opinion in the introduction and conclusion. |
| Problem and solution | What problems does this cause? What can be done? | Explain the problems, then suggest solutions that link to them. |
| Advantages and disadvantages | Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? | Describe both, then say which is stronger. |
| Two part question | Why is this happening? Is it a positive or negative development? | Answer each question in its own paragraph. |
A basic structure for every type
- Introduction (2 sentences): paraphrase the question, and give your position or outline.
- Body paragraph 1 (4 to 6 sentences): main idea, explanation and example.
- Body paragraph 2 (4 to 6 sentences): second main idea, explanation and example.
- Conclusion (1 to 2 sentences): restate your position in different words.
Opinion essays
The question tells you to say how far you agree. A partial agreement is fine, but it must be clear. Choose a position before you write, and keep to it in the introduction, body and conclusion. Typical introduction: 'While some people believe that zoos are cruel, I would argue that they play an important role in protecting endangered species.'
Discussion essays
These ask you to discuss both views and give your opinion. Give each view a full paragraph, and give a reason for each. Then state your opinion in the introduction and restate it in the conclusion. Do not wait until the final sentence to decide.
Problem and solution essays
Plan two paragraphs: one on problems or causes, one on solutions. Make sure each solution responds to a problem you named. A strong solution names who should act and how, for example 'schools could introduce a daily sports period'.
Advantages and disadvantages essays
Read the final sentence carefully. 'Discuss the advantages and disadvantages' needs both without a preference. 'Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?' needs a judgement. Plan which side is stronger before you write.
Two part questions
Each part needs a clear answer. Use the first body paragraph for the first question and the second for the second. Keep to two main ideas per paragraph so that each is properly developed with an example.
Planning in five minutes
- Underline the key words and the instruction words in the question.
- Decide the type and write your position in one sentence.
- Choose two main ideas, and for each write one explanation and one example.
- Write the plan in note form, then start. Spend the last three minutes checking.
- Use linking words such as for example, however and as a result, but not in every sentence.
Common mistakes
- Answering only half of the question.
- Using a memorised template that does not fit the topic.
- Giving ideas without examples or explanation.
- Changing your position between the introduction and the conclusion.
- Writing fewer than 250 words, or spending so long that Task 1 is rushed.
See the guide to scoring Band 8 in Task 2, build your range with Task 2 vocabulary and sentences with complex sentences. Practise on our IELTS Writing practice tests, which include notes for every Task 2 question.
Frequently asked questions
How many paragraphs should a Task 2 essay have?
Four is a safe structure: an introduction, two body paragraphs and a conclusion. Some questions work well with a third body paragraph.
Can I use personal examples?
Yes, if they are relevant, but general examples from society also work well. Keep them short and specific.
Do I need to give my opinion in every essay?
Only when the question asks for it. In a discussion question you are asked to give your opinion too. For problem and solution you should answer both parts directly.
How do I avoid memorised templates?
Learn flexible phrases for introductions and linking, but write the ideas fresh for each question.