IELTS Writing Task 2: All You Need to know

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“Kickstart your IELTS preparation and familiarize yourself with the format, tips, and techniques to crack your IELTS Writing Task 2 while aiming to ace the exam with a band score of 8+.“

The IELTS Writing Task 2 requires you to write an essay in response to a given general topic. This task in the IELTS exam is designed to assess your skills based on presenting a clear position, developing an argument logically, and organizing ideas coherently. To achieve a high score, you must understand the task format and question types, analyze prompts effectively, and structure your essay appropriately.

This blog post will break down everything you need to know from the format of the IELTS task 2 writing to tricks to solve it effortlessly. Remember that since there are different question types, you need to practice each one of them to become familiar with the specific strategies which need to be used. Most students also find it more difficult than IELTS Writing Task 1.

Let's check out everything about the IELTS Writing Task 2!

IELTS Writing Task 2 Format

The IELTS Writing Task 2 will prompt you to write an essay for which you will have specific time period. The important pointers of the IELTS test pattern for the Writing Task 2 are given below in the table.

Topic	Description
Task Requirement	Write an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem.
Assessment	Assesses your ability to present a solution or opinion in a logical, structured way.
Duration	40 minutes
Word Limit	250 - 280 words

IELTS Writing Task 2 Scoring Criteria

To understand how your IELTS Writing Task 2 essay is evaluated by the examiner, it is crucial to be familiar with the assessment criteria!

Have a look at the table below to learn more about the evaluation criteria!

Criteria	Description
Task Achievement	Measures how well you address all parts of the task and present a fully developed position.
Coherence and Cohesion	Assesses how clearly linked and logically structured your essay is.
Lexical Resource	Evaluates your range and accuracy of vocabulary usage.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy	Measures the variety and precision of your grammar.

Band Descriptors IELTS Writing Task 2

In the table below, have a look at the IELTS Writing Task 2 band descriptors that will guide you for a top IELTS Band Score.

Band	Description
9	Fully addresses all parts of the task Presents a fully developed position in an appropriate style with salient supporting details Well-organized with a logical progression of ideas and cohesive devices
8	Addresses all parts of the task Presents a well-developed response in an appropriate style with relevant details Logically structured with some cohesive devices
7	Addresses all parts of the task Presents a clear position throughout with relevant details Logically organized
6	Addresses all parts of the task though some parts may be more developed Presents relevant ideas with some elaboration Has a clear structure
5	Addresses the task only partially with limited development Presents some relevant ideas but these are limited and not sufficiently developed Structure is unclear
4	Responds to the task only in a minimal way with no elaboration Presents few ideas, that are largely irrelevant, vague, or repetitive Lacks logical structure
3	Barely responds to the task with irrelevant or vague ideas Fails to communicate a clear position Poorly structured
2	The answer is completely unrelated to the task Fails to communicate any relevant ideas No apparent structure
1	No real communication of ideas or position Totally illegible handwriting or contains only keywords
0	No assessment is possible due to illegible handwriting or answers containing only keywords

Time Management Tips for IELTS Writing Task 2

Since you have only 40 minutes to attempt this question, it is vital to divide the timing so that you can effectively write your answer. The table below suggests the tips for managing time which you can practice by putting the timer on as you prepare.

Time	Description
5 minutes	Brainstorm your ideas Identify the type of the essay Find keywords according to the topic Explore the reasons with pointers about justification and examples Write 5-7 vocabulary words
30 minutes	Focus on writing the essay according to the structure Look into the grammatical aspect and sentence structures. Watch out for any spelling mistakes
5 minutes	Proofread your answer and look for any mistakes Check if there is a logical arrangement of ideas

Useful IELTS Writing Task 2 Tips

IELTS Writing Task 2 is the second part of the two writing tasks and is one of the most challenging parts of the IELTS test. Therefore, access to some Best IELTS Writing Task 2 Tips for Achieving Band 9.

Understand the Task: Test-takers should identify the key components, the question type, and any specific instructions before outlining the key points that should be covered.
Plan Before You Write: Before diving into the essay, candidates should spend a few minutes planning the response. A clear outline needs to include an introduction, the main points for each body paragraph, and the conclusion.
Follow a Structured Essay Format: Every essay type has a specific structure. So, sticking to the traditional essay structure with a clear introduction, well-developed body paragraphs, and a concluding summary enhances the readability of the essay.
Provide Supportive Examples: Test-takers should support their arguments with concrete examples and evidence. This not only strengthens the expressed opinion but also showcases the ability to develop ideas.
Use Linking Words and Phrases: Candidates should employ linking words and phrases to connect ideas within and between sentences. This improves the overall flow and coherence of the essay.
Revise and Proofread: This is one of the most vital steps and test-takers need to allocate some time at the end to review and edit their essay. They should check for grammatical errors, clarity, and coherence and ensure that the essay effectively communicates their ideas.
Write Regularly Under Time Constraints: Practice writing Common IELTS Essay Topics for Writing Task 2 within the 40-minute. This helps improve your time management skills and ensures that you can effectively express your ideas within the given constraints.

Get constructive feedback through the free IELTS Writing essay evaluation services and receive valuable insights to score a band 8+.

Top 8 Common Mistakes to Avoid in IELTS Writing Task 2

1. Misunderstanding the Question - Many test-takers misunderstand the question, leading to off-topic essays.

2. Poor Time Management - Struggling to manage time effectively often results in incomplete essays.

3. Lack of Ideas - Difficulty in generating relevant ideas quickly is a common problem.

4. Disorganized Structure - Failing to organize thoughts into clear, logical paragraphs is a frequent mistake.

5. Grammar Errors - Frequent grammar errors can significantly lower the writing score.

6. Limited Vocabulary - Using a limited vocabulary makes it hard to express ideas effectively.

7. Weak Evidence - Providing weak examples usually weakens arguments and doesn’t provide a strong essay.

8. Incorrect Word Count - Not meeting the required word count can negatively affect the score.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types

There are 6 types of questions in the IELTS Writing Task 2 and you may get any one type in your IELTS test. Hence, get to know about them to identify the question prompts effortlessly!

Opinion - You need to pick a side of the given two sides of an argument, and write in support of it along with reasons for your opinion.
Agree/Disagree - In this essay type, you need to state whether you agree or disagree with a given statement and support it with reasons and examples.
Discussion (Discuss Both Views) - This type requires you to discuss both sides of an issue and then give your own opinion at last.
Problem/Solution - You have to identify problems related to the topic and suggest possible solutions.
Advantages/Disadvantages - This question asks you to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a particular situation or issue.
Double Question (Direct Question) - You must answer two or more direct questions related to a single topic and support it with proper examples as well.

Structure For Answering the IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types

The IELTS Writing Task 2 section has different types of essays that may be asked, each requiring a specific structure and approach. The main 6 IELTS Writing Task 2 question types and their standard structure are summarized in the table below:

Question Type	Structure
Opinion Essay	Introduction with background information and paraphrase of question. Body paragraphs with your opinion and supporting reasons/examples. Conclusion summarizing opinion.
Discussion Essay	Introduction with background information and paraphrase of question. Body paragraphs discussing both sides/perspectives on the topic. Conclusion summarizing the discussion and providing your opinion.
Agree/Disagree Essay	Introduction with background information and paraphrase of question. Body paragraphs agreeing and disagreeing with the statement, giving reasons/examples. Conclusion summarizing main points.
Advantages/Disadvantages Essay	Introduction with background information and paraphrase of question. Body paragraphs discussing the advantages and disadvantages. Conclusion summarizing the main points.
Problem/Solution Essay	Introduction with background information and paraphrase of question. Body paragraphs discussing the problem(s) and suggesting solutions. Conclusion summarizing main points.
Direct Question Essay	Introduction rephrasing the question. Body paragraphs directly answer the question with reasons/examples/explanations. Conclusion summarizing answer.

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IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types with Sample Answers

Let's look at the different IELTS writing task 2 essay types that may appear in Writing Task 2:

1. Opinion Essay

The IELTS opinion essay prompts simply ask for your opinion on a topic without presenting two views.

Sample prompt: "Some people think that the best way to reduce crime is to give longer prison sentences. Others, however, believe there are better alternative ways of reducing crime. What is your opinion on this?

Check out more IELTS Writing Task 2 Opinion Essay below:

Some People Believe that Nowadays We Have Too Many Choices	Universities Should Accept Equal Numbers of Male and Female Students in Every Subject
Prevention is better than cure	Doing an Enjoyable Activity with a Child Can Develop Better Skills and More Creativity Than Reading

2. Agree and Disagree Essay

These questions ask your opinion on a statement or proposal. You must decide whether you agree or disagree and support your view.

Sample prompt: "Unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programs." To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Check out more IELTS Writing Task 2 Agree and Disagree Essay below:

It is more important to spend public money on promoting a healthy lifestyle	Some people believe that air travel should be restricted
Foreign Visitors Should Pay More Than Local Visitors for Cultural and Historical Attraction	When a Country Develops its Technology the Traditional Skills and Ways of Life Die Out

3. Discussion (Discuss Both Views)

These prompts present two perspectives on an issue and ask you to discuss and examine both sides.

Sample prompt: "Some people think the manufacturers and shopping malls should sell fewer packaged products while others argue that people have the responsibility to buy products with less packaging. Discuss both views and give your opinion."

Check out more IELTS Writing Task 2 Discussion Essay topics below:

In Some Countries, a Few People Earn Extremely High Salaries	Some People Think that it is Better to Educate Girls and Boys in Separate Schools
Some People Think that Children Should Start School Sooner	Some Companies Sponsor Sport and Sports Stars as a Way to Advertise Themselves

4. Problem/Solution Essay

These questions given in the IELTS problem/solution essay describe an issue and ask you to propose solutions.

Sample prompt: "In many cities, public transport systems are inadequate and road congestion is increasing. What are the causes of these problems and what measures could be taken to solve them?"

Check out more IELTS Writing Task 2 Problem/Solution Essay below:

Many Working People get little or no Exercise either During the Working Day	Doctors Recommend that Older People Exercise Regularly
Over Population Of Urban Areas Has Led To Numerous Problems	An Increase in Production of Consumer Goods Results in Damage to the Natural Environment

5. Advantages/Disadvantages Essay

These prompts ask you to analyze the advantages and disadvantages of an issue.

Sample prompt: "Studying overseas has many benefits for students. However, there are also some disadvantages. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages and give your own opinion."

Check out more IELTS Advantages/Disadvantages Essays for IELTS Writing Task 2 below:

People now have the Freedom to Work and live Anywhere in the World	Planners Tend to Arrange Shops, Schools, Offices and Homes in Specific Areas
In Some Countries People Prefer to Rent a House than Buy One	Technology is Increasingly Being Used to Monitor What People Are Saying And Doing

6. Direct Question Essay

These prompts, which are also known as IELTS Direct Question essay, give you a statement along with a related question.

Sample prompt: "A growing number of people are living alone in many major cities. What are the reasons for this? Why do they choose to live alone?

Check out more IELTS Writing Task 2 Direct Question Essay below:

Is freedom of speech necessary in a free society?	Consumers Are Faced With Increasing Numbers of Advertisements From Competing Companies
Many People Like to Wear Fashionable Clothes	There are Many Different Types of Music in The World Today

IELTS Writing Task 2 Test Papers

Practice Test 1	Practice Test 2	Practice Test 3	Practice Test 4	Practice Test 5
Practice Test 6	Practice Test 7	Practice Test 8	Practice Test 9	Practice Test 10
Practice Test 11	Practice Test 12	Practice Test 13	Practice Test 14	Practice Test 15
Practice Test 16	Practice Test 17	Practice Test 18	Practice Test 19	Practice Test 20
Practice Test 21	Practice Test 22	Practice Test 23	Practice Test 24	Practice Test 25
Practice Test 26	Practice Test 27	Practice Test 28	Practice Test 29	Practice Test 30

IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics with Answers

Below is the list of IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics with Answers which you can refer to for the exam.

Family	Newspapers Are Less Important Nowadays	There Have Been Many Inventions in Human History Such as the Wheel
People Are Living Longer. Some People Think That It Causes Big Problems	Whoever controls the media also controls opinions and attitudes	Living in Schools or Home
Crime and Punishment Vocabulary	Art and culture & Technology	Work and Career
Dangerous Sports	New Technologies have Changed the Way Children Spend their Free Time	Travel & Tourism
International car-free day is an effective way of reducing air pollution	In some cities and towns all over the world the high volume of traffic is a problem	Spend money on roads and motorways than on public transport systems
People Think that Radio is more Enjoyable	Technology and Communication	Celebrities earn more money than other professionals.
Despite health warnings a large number of people continue to smoke	Children today play very violent games	The birth rate in most developed countries is predicted to fall
Many families find it necessary for both parents go out to work	Is it right to exclude males or females from certain professions because of their gender?	Increase in violent crime
Guarantee a good job is to complete a course of university education	Different medical traditions	Too much emphasis is placed on testing these days
Some people choose to eat no meat or fish	Obesity in Children/ Child obesity	Is freedom of speech necessary in a free society?
The proportion of older people is steadily increasing	Any old buildings protected by law are part of a nation’s history	Excessive Use of Modern Technologies
Economic Growth	Computer skills should be the fourth largest branch	People are not paying attention to environmental protection
Government Investment in the Arts	Food	Best way to gather information is through newspapers
International Sporting Occasions are Essential in Easing International Tensions	Television injects violence in children	Some People Say That Economic Growth Is The Only Way To End Hunger And Poverty

Frequently Asked Questions

How many paragraphs should my essay have?

Aim for 3-4 paragraphs: an introduction, 1-2 body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

What’s better - a longer or shorter essay?

Your essay should consist of at least 250 words. Quality matters more than quantity, but too short and you may not fully address the prompt.

Should I write in the first or third person?

The first person ("I think...") is acceptable but the third person provides a more formal, academic tone.

How strict are they on word count?

You won't be penalized for writing more or less than 250 words but don't stray too far above or below this guideline.

Can I bring in outside knowledge on the topic?

Yes, as long as the information is factual, relevant, and supports your response to the given prompt.

What’s the best way to prepare for Task 2?

Practice writing timed essay responses, read sample essays and model answers, expand your vocabulary, and seek feedback from teachers.

Should I write legibly?

Yes, your handwriting must be clear enough to read easily. Avoid writing too small.

What if I make mistakes or cross things out?

Minor corrections are OK but avoid excessive errors. Leave time to write a final draft clearly.

Every Year several Languages Die Out	Some People Think That Parents Should Teach Children How to be Good Members of Society
In some countries the average weight of people is increasing	Happiness is Considered Very Important in Life
Research Indicates That the Characteristics We are Born With Have Much More Influence On Our Personality	Young people are encouraged to work or travel for a year between finishing high school

IELTS Writing Task 2: All You Need to know

IELTS Writing Task 2 Format

IELTS Writing Task 2 Scoring Criteria

Band Descriptors IELTS Writing Task 2

Time Management Tips for IELTS Writing Task 2

Useful IELTS Writing Task 2 Tips

Top 8 Common Mistakes to Avoid in IELTS Writing Task 2

IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types

Structure For Answering the IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types

IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types with Sample Answers

IELTS Writing Task 2 Test Papers

IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics with Answers

Trending Essay Topics

Frequently Asked Questions

Practice IELTS Writing Task 2 based on Essay types

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