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IELTS Writing Task 2: Essay Writing Guide

IELTS Writing Task 2 requires you to write an essay of at least 250 words in response to a given topic, question, or statement. You should spend about 40 minutes on this task, as it carries more weight than Task 1.

Your essay should present well-developed ideas, a clear structure, appropriate vocabulary, and accurate grammar.

Common Essay Types

Understanding the type of essay required is crucial for addressing the prompt correctly. Common types include:

  • Opinion Essay (Agree/Disagree): Present your opinion on a statement and support it with reasons and examples. (e.g., "To what extent do you agree or disagree?")
  • Discussion Essay (Discuss Both Views): Discuss two opposing viewpoints on a topic, often followed by giving your own opinion. (e.g., "Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.")
  • Advantages and Disadvantages Essay: Discuss the positive and negative aspects of a particular development or situation. You might also be asked if the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.
  • Problem and Solution Essay: Identify the causes of a specific problem and suggest possible solutions.
  • Two-Question Essay (Direct Questions): Answer two specific questions related to a topic presented in the prompt.
Read the question very carefully to identify the exact task required.

Standard Essay Structure (4-5 Paragraphs)

  1. Introduction (Approx. 3 sentences):
    • Paraphrase the question/topic in your own words.
    • State your position or outline what the essay will discuss (thesis statement). This depends on the essay type.
  2. Body Paragraph 1 (Approx. 5-7 sentences):
    • Start with a clear topic sentence introducing the main idea of the paragraph.
    • Explain the main idea.
    • Provide supporting details, reasons, or examples.
    • (Optional) Concluding mini-sentence linking back to the main point.
  3. Body Paragraph 2 (Approx. 5-7 sentences):
    • Similar structure to Body Paragraph 1, presenting the next main point (or the opposing view in a discussion essay).
    • Use linking words (e.g., Furthermore, However, In contrast) to connect ideas smoothly.
  4. (Optional) Body Paragraph 3: Sometimes needed for more complex arguments or if discussing multiple aspects (e.g., causes AND solutions).
  5. Conclusion (Approx. 2-3 sentences):
    • Summarise the main points discussed in the body paragraphs.
    • Restate your opinion (if applicable for the essay type) using different wording from the introduction.
    • Do NOT introduce new ideas here.

The Importance of Planning

Don't start writing immediately! Spend 5-10 minutes planning your essay:

  • Analyse the Question: Make sure you understand exactly what is being asked. Identify keywords and the specific task.
  • Brainstorm Ideas: Jot down relevant ideas, reasons, and examples for each part of the question.
  • Create an Outline: Organize your ideas into the paragraph structure (Introduction, Body 1, Body 2, Conclusion). Decide on the main point for each body paragraph.

A good plan ensures your essay is well-structured, relevant, and addresses all parts of the task, which is crucial for a good Task Response score.

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