IELTS Writing
IELTS Writing Task 2
Task 2 asks for an essay of at least 250 words in about 40 minutes, responding to a point of view, argument or problem. It counts for twice as much as Task 1.
First decide what type of question it is (opinion, discussion, advantages and disadvantages, problem and solution, or two-part), because that decides what your paragraphs must do. Give a clear position and keep to it.
Example question
Some people believe that public libraries are no longer worth funding because so much information is available online. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.
Planning hint: Consider the benefits and limitations of online information as well as the wider services that public libraries provide.
A four-paragraph plan
- Introduction: paraphrase the question and state your answer or position clearly.
- Body paragraph 1: one main idea, explained, with a specific example.
- Body paragraph 2: a second main idea (or the other side), explained and supported.
- Conclusion: restate your position in new words; no new ideas.
More practice: IELTS Writing Task 2 questions by topic →
How to answer
Task Two Essay Purpose
- Task 2 asks you to write an essay that answers the question on the page.
- Read the whole question before planning. Identify the topic and exactly what you are asked to do.
- If asked whether you agree, give a clear position. If asked to discuss views, address the views named in the question.
- Keep your main ideas focused on the question, not just the general topic.
Example: Task 2 question: Some people think children should learn practical skills at school. To what extent do you agree or disagree?. I largely agree that schools should teach practical skills. These skills can help students manage everyday tasks as adults.
Classifying Essay Questions
- Classify the task from its instructions, not merely its topic. The same topic can require different response types.
- Look for command words such as “causes”, “problems”, “solutions” and “effects”. They signal what your essay must address.
- Count the tasks. A prompt may ask for two separate responses, such as reasons and effects.
- If a prompt combines tasks, plan a clear response to each one; do not answer only the part that seems most important.
Example: Task 2 prompt: “Traffic congestion is increasing in many cities. What problems does this cause, and what measures could be taken to solve them?”. This is a problem-and-solution prompt. The response must explain problems caused by congestion and suggest measures to address them.
Writing a Clear Thesis
- State your answer to the Task 2 question in a clear thesis, usually near the end of the introduction.
- Match your thesis to the task words, such as “agree or disagree” or “to what extent”.
- Make your position unmistakable. Words such as “partly agree” show the degree of your view.
- Avoid a thesis that only introduces the topic or promises to discuss it; it must answer the question.
Example: Task 2: Some people think online learning is as effective as classroom learning. To what extent do you agree or disagree?. I partly agree that online learning can be as effective as classroom learning, but it cannot replace it in every situation.
Writing Topic Sentences
- A topic sentence names the paragraph’s main supporting point, not the essay’s overall position.
- Put the main point near the start so readers can see what the paragraph will support.
- Use a clear claim rather than a vague opening such as “There are many things”.
- Keep the sentence focused: it should be broader than a single example but narrower than the whole essay topic.
Example: Task 2: Should employers allow flexible working hours?. Flexible working hours can help employees balance work with personal responsibilities.
Writing Effective Conclusions
- Answer the essay question directly in your first concluding sentence.
- Restate your position in fresh words rather than copying the introduction.
- Bring together the main reasons that support your position; do not list every detail.
- Do not add a new reason, example or recommendation in the conclusion.
Example: Essay question: Should employers prioritise work experience over formal qualifications? Position: qualifications matter more, although experience also has value.. In conclusion, employers should not treat work experience as more important than formal qualifications. Experience can show that candidates apply their skills in practice, while qualifications provide evidence of specialist knowledge; considering both gives employers a fuller basis for hiring.
Practise
Short items from the ielts.coach lessons. Answer them, then check to see why each answer is right.
1The question is: “Some people think employees should work from home. Do you agree or disagree?” Which opening directly answers it?
2The question asks: “Some people prefer city life, while others prefer life in the countryside. Discuss both views and give your opinion.” What does the essay question ask you to do?
3“More people are choosing to live alone. What are the reasons for this? What effects can this have on society?” What response type does this prompt require?
4“Many workers use digital tools throughout the day. What problems can this create, and how might these problems be reduced?” Which response type is required?
5Task 2 asks: “Some people believe that children should learn a musical instrument at school. Do you agree or disagree?” Which is the clearest thesis?
6Task 2 asks: “Some people think public transport should be free for everyone. To what extent do you agree or disagree?” Which thesis gives a direct, qualified answer?
7A paragraph will argue that libraries help people who cannot afford many books or devices. Which sentence best signals this supporting point?
8A paragraph’s main point is that school uniforms can reduce pressure to compete over clothing. Which is the best topic sentence?
Test hacks
Task 1 needs an overview
Write a sentence that sums up the main trends or the biggest differences, without numbers. Many writers skip it.
Why it works: An overview is essential for a high Task Achievement score.
Answer every part of Task 2
Underline each question in the prompt. A two-part question needs two clear answers.
Why it works: Missing part of the task limits your Task Response score, however good your English is.
Give Task 2 more time
Spend about 20 minutes on Task 1 (150+ words) and 40 minutes on Task 2 (250+ words).
Why it works: Task 2 counts for twice as much as Task 1 in your Writing score.
Practise with feedback on every answer
ielts.coach builds daily lessons and practice around your interests and level, marks Writing and Speaking like an examiner in seconds, and plans your weeks to test day.