Let's Learn How to Write an Opinion Essay
Opinion essays are a common task in English exams like IELTS and B2 First. This guide will help you understand how to write a clear, structured opinion essay using simple steps.
What Is an Opinion Essay?
An opinion essay is a piece of writing where you present your point of view on a particular subject, supported by reasons and evidence. Unlike factual essays, opinion essays are personal and encourage the writer to argue for their own viewpoint.
- Example: If your opinion essay topic is "Should school uniforms be mandatory?" your task is to present a clear opinion and back it up with reasons and examples.
How to Start an Opinion Essay
Starting your opinion essay with a strong introduction is essential. It should grab the reader’s attention and clearly state your opinion.
Begin with a hook – a surprising fact, a question, or a brief background on the topic.
Then, follow with your thesis statement: one sentence that directly states your opinion. This sets the tone for the entire essay and helps the reader understand your position from the start.
Step 1: Understand the Structure of an Opinion Essay
A typical opinion essay includes:
- Introduction: Introduce the topic and state your opinion clearly.
- Body Paragraphs: Support your opinion with reasons, explanations, and examples.
- Conclusion: Summarise your main points and restate your opinion.
Each part of your essay has a purpose, so make sure to follow this structure to keep your writing clear and organised.
Step 2: Choose a Clear Topic
To write a strong opinion essay, start with a topic that interests you and allows you to form a clear stance. Ideally, choose a topic you are passionate about, as it will make your argument stronger and your writing more persuasive.
- Tip: If your teacher gives you a topic, try to brainstorm your stance before starting to write.
Step 3: Plan Your Opinion and Supporting Points
Before you begin writing, take a few minutes to outline your main points. Consider why you feel the way you do about the topic and how you can support your opinion with reasoning or examples.
Example Topic: Should children be limited in screen time?
Supporting Points:
- Reason 1: Too much screen time affects children’s health.
- Reason 2: It reduces social interactions.
- Reason 3: Limits help balance other activities, like homework and sports.
Planning your essay in this way helps keep your writing organised and prevents you from wandering off-topic.
Step 4: Write Your Introduction
In the introduction, make your position on the topic clear. Your introduction should grab the reader's attention and briefly introduce your main point.
Example Introduction:
"With the rise of smartphones and tablets, children are spending more time on screens than ever before. In my opinion, children should have limited screen time to promote a healthier lifestyle and encourage real-world interactions."
Step 5: Develop Your Body Paragraphs
In the body of your opinion essay, explain your reasons for holding your opinion, and back each reason with examples or evidence. Aim for at least two or three body paragraphs, each covering one point supporting your opinion.
- Topic Sentence: Begin each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that states your main point for that paragraph.
- Supporting Details: Provide facts, examples, or personal experiences that back up your argument.
Example Body Paragraph:
"Excessive screen time can have harmful effects on children’s health. Studies have shown that spending too much time on screens can lead to poor posture, eye strain, and reduced physical activity. By limiting screen time, children have more opportunities to engage in physical play and other important activities."
Step 6: Write a Strong Conclusion
Your conclusion should restate your opinion and briefly summarise the main points you made in the essay. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion; instead, focus on reinforcing your viewpoint.
Example Conclusion:
"Limiting children’s screen time is essential for their overall health and development. By reducing time spent on screens, children can focus more on physical activities, social interactions, and learning. For these reasons, I believe that setting screen time limits is important for children today."
Sample Band 7+ Opinion Essay
Essay Title: Should children have limits on screen time?
In today’s digital age, children are spending more time on screens than ever before. While technology offers many benefits, I strongly believe that screen time should be limited for young people. Setting boundaries can help protect their physical health, improve their social skills, and encourage other valuable activities.
Firstly, excessive screen time can negatively affect children's health. Long hours in front of screens can lead to eye strain, poor posture, and even disrupted sleep patterns. By setting limits, parents can ensure their children stay physically active and get enough rest.
Secondly, limiting screen use can help children develop better social skills. When children spend too much time online, they may miss out on face-to-face interactions. Encouraging them to play with others or join group activities builds communication and teamwork.
Finally, restrictions on screen time can motivate children to explore other interests. Reading books, doing crafts, or playing outside are all important for creativity and development. These activities provide balance and help children grow in many ways.
In conclusion, limiting children’s screen time is essential for their well-being. It helps protect their health, improves their social skills, and promotes more meaningful activities. Therefore, I believe parents should set clear limits to support their children’s growth and happiness.
🔍 Why this essay exceeds Band 7:
- Clear and consistent opinion throughout
- Structured into logical paragraphs with linking phrases (Firstly, Finally, In conclusion)
- Good use of academic vocabulary (e.g. essential, boundaries, disrupted)
- Relevant examples to support each point
- Variety in sentence structure and connectors
Tips for Writing an Effective Opinion Essay
- Stay Focused: Keep your writing on-topic, and don’t wander from your opinion.
- Use Clear Language: Avoid using overly complex words or phrases. Simple language can make your opinion more understandable.
- Be Persuasive: Use convincing language to support your opinion.
- Proofread Your Work: Always check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.
Example Topics for Practice
Here are a few topics to help you practise writing opinion essays:
- Should homework be optional for students?
- Is it better to have online classes or in-person learning?
- Should animals be kept in zoos?
- Are video games beneficial for children?
Choose one of these topics and try writing an opinion essay following the steps outlined above. Then you can send it to me! I'll have a read through and reply with some comments.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
This confuses the reader and weakens your argument. An opinion essay requires you to choose a side and support it fully.
Without a clear opinion in the introduction, your reader won’t know your position. Always include one strong sentence that states your view.
Repeating the same point shows weak planning. Each paragraph should add a new reason or example.
Phrases like “kids are glued to screens” may sound natural, but they’re not suitable for academic writing. Use formal alternatives like “children spend excessive time using digital devices.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best structure for an opinion essay?
An opinion essay typically follows a five-paragraph format: introduction, 2–3 body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
Can I give both sides in an opinion essay?
No, unless the question asks for both sides. Most opinion essays require you to take a clear position and support it.
How long should an IELTS opinion essay be?
You should write at least 250 words. Writing less may reduce your score.
What’s the difference between an opinion essay and a discussion essay?
An opinion essay focuses on your personal opinion, while a discussion essay presents both sides of an issue without necessarily stating your view.
Do I need to use formal language in an opinion essay?
Yes. Avoid slang or contractions. Use academic English to show your writing skills.
Can I use “I think” or “In my opinion”?
Yes, but use them carefully and avoid repeating them. Vary your language with phrases like “I strongly believe” or “It seems to me that…”.
What ESL and IELTS Learners Should Know About Opinion Essays
Opinion essays are common in English language exams, especially in IELTS Writing Task 2 and Cambridge B2 First (FCE). In these tests, you must write a well-organised essay that clearly shows your opinion on a topic.
Here are key tips for ESL and IELTS learners:
- Take a clear position. Don’t try to discuss both sides unless asked. Choose one side and support it strongly.
- Use linking phrases to organise your ideas. Words like Firstly, However, In addition, On the other hand, and In conclusion help your writing flow.
- Use formal English. Avoid casual phrases or slang. Write in a neutral, academic tone.
- Answer the question directly. Make sure your opinion is clearly stated in the introduction and repeated in the conclusion.
- Keep grammar accurate. Pay attention to subject-verb agreement, articles, and sentence structure.
- Word count matters. In IELTS, writing fewer than 250 words will lower your score.
Practising opinion essays helps ESL learners build critical thinking, argument structure, and vocabulary – all useful for exams and real-life writing.
Conclusion
Writing an opinion essay is a great way to express your thoughts on a topic and improve your writing skills. By choosing a topic, planning your points, and using strong examples, you can create a clear and compelling opinion essay. Remember to practise and seek feedback to continue improving.
If you’d like more guidance on writing skills, check out our other resources on essay writing and grammar!
