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IELTS Writing Task 2: Essay Structure, Types and Tips

How to write a band 7+ IELTS Task 2 essay: question types, a four-paragraph structure that scores, what the examiner marks, and the mistakes to avoid.

Writing Task 2 is the essay, worth twice as much as Task 1. You write at least 250 words in about 40 minutes, giving a clear position on a question. It is the module where most learners lose marks, and the one where a good structure helps most.

Know the question type

Question typeWhat you must do
Opinion (agree/disagree)State your view and defend it throughout
DiscussionDiscuss both sides, then give your view
Problem and solutionExplain problems and propose solutions
Advantages/disadvantagesWeigh both, with a clear conclusion

A structure that scores

Four paragraphsIntroduction: paraphrase the question and state your position. Body 1: your first main idea, explained with an example. Body 2: your second main idea, explained with an example. Conclusion: restate your position. Clear, developed ideas beat clever vocabulary.

What the examiner marks

  • Task response: did you answer the exact question and develop your ideas?
  • Coherence: is it well organised and linked?
  • Vocabulary: range and accuracy.
  • Grammar: range and accuracy.
Common mistakeWriting a lot without answering the actual question, or memorising an essay and forcing it to fit.
CorrectAnswer the specific question asked, and develop two clear ideas fully. Depth beats length, and off-topic writing scores low no matter how good the English.
Quick tipSpend five minutes planning before you write. Two well-developed ideas with examples score higher than five rushed, undeveloped ones.

The only way to know your real Task 2 band is to have it marked against the descriptors. Our 1-on-1 IELTS coaching gives you that feedback on every essay, one to one, so you improve with each attempt instead of repeating the same mistakes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I structure an IELTS Task 2 essay?

Use four paragraphs: an introduction that paraphrases the question and states your position, two body paragraphs each developing one idea with an example, and a conclusion that restates your view. This clear structure scores well across question types.

How many words should IELTS Writing Task 2 be?

At least 250 words. Aim for around 260 to 290, enough to develop two ideas fully without padding. Writing under 250 words costs you marks, but very long essays waste time you need for accuracy.

Why is my IELTS writing band low even though my English is good?

Usually it is task response: not answering the exact question, or not developing ideas with examples. Good English alone does not score well if the essay is off-topic or underdeveloped. Feedback from a tutor pinpoints exactly where you lose marks.

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