IELTS Task 2 Writing Guide
Task 2 carries twice the weight of Task 1. Here's how to approach every essay type — Opinion, Discussion (Both Views), Problem-Solution, Advantages-Disadvantages, and Two-Part — structure your response, and avoid the mistakes that keep candidates stuck below Band 7.
250
Minimum words
40 min
Recommended time
67%
Weight of total score
The 5 Essay Types
Opinion (Agree/Disagree)
"To what extent do you agree or disagree?"
Take a clear position in the introduction. Defend it throughout. Don't sit on the fence.
Discussion (Both Views)
"Discuss both views and give your own opinion."
Present both sides fairly, then give your own view. Your opinion must be clear — don't leave it ambiguous.
Problem & Solution
"What are the causes of this problem? What solutions can you suggest?"
Equal depth on both halves. Don't write three causes and one vague solution.
Advantages & Disadvantages
"Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?"
Weigh both sides, then reach a verdict. The question asks for your judgement — give one.
Two-Part Question
"Why is this? / What can be done about it?" (two separate questions)
Answer both questions with roughly equal coverage. Many candidates answer one well and neglect the other.
Writing a Strong Introduction
1. Paraphrase the topic
Restate the subject of the essay in your own words. Change vocabulary and sentence structure — never copy.
Example
Q: 'Many people think that social media has had a negative effect on society.' A: 'The widespread use of social networking platforms has led some to argue that their overall impact on communities has been harmful.'
2. Acknowledge the discussion
Briefly acknowledge that different views exist, or state the issue clearly.
Example
'While some believe this to be true, others point to the significant benefits these platforms provide.'
3. State your position
For opinion and discussion essays, your thesis must be explicit. Don't make the examiner guess.
Example
'This essay will argue that, on balance, the disadvantages outweigh the advantages.'
Body Paragraph Formula
Aim for 90–110 words per body paragraph.
Topic sentence
State the main idea of the paragraph in one clear sentence.
Explanation
Explain why this is true — don't assume the examiner will make the connection.
Example
Give a specific example to support the point. It doesn't need to be factually verified, but it must be plausible.
Link (optional)
Connect back to the essay question or lead into the next point.
Common Task 2 Mistakes
✗ Copying the question
→ Paraphrase every word in your introduction
✗ No clear thesis statement
→ End your introduction with your direct opinion or position
✗ One-sentence body paragraphs
→ Develop every point with explanation + example (5–8 sentences per body paragraph)
✗ Listing points without developing them
→ Write fewer points and explain each one fully
✗ Writing under 250 words
→ Practise writing introductions of 50–60 words and body paragraphs of 90–110 words
✗ Generic examples ('for example, in many countries…')
→ Name a specific country, statistic, or scenario
Band 7.5 Model Answers
Full annotated essays with paragraph-by-paragraph examiner notes and Band 6 vs Band 7+ intro comparisons.
Deep Dive by Essay Type
Structure, vocabulary, Band 7+ examples, and common mistakes — for each question type.
Opinion Essay
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Discussion Essay
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Problem-Solution Essay
What are the problems? What solutions can you suggest?
Advantages & Disadvantages
Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
Two-Part Question
Two separate questions in one prompt.