IELTS Writing Task 2 Introduction
IELTS Writing Task 2 is one of the most important parts of the exam for anyone aiming to study, work or migrate to an English-speaking country. This task measures your ability to write a well-organised, logical essay on a given topic within 40 minutes.
This article offers a full IELTS Writing Task 2 overview — including essay types, structure, band descriptors, sample questions, and essential tips. If you're preparing for the IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training, this guide is designed to boost your confidence and help you write essays that score Band 7 and above.
What is IELTS Writing Task 2?
IELTS Writing Task 2 is the second part of the IELTS Writing section. You are required to:
- Write a formal essay
- Respond to a specific question or statement
- Use clear structure and vocabulary
- Write at least 250 words
- Complete the task in 40 minutes
It is worth two-thirds of your total writing score, so it's important to prepare well!
Task 2 in Academic vs General IELTS
Both the Academic and General Training tests use the same Task 2 format, marking criteria, and timing. The main difference is the topic:
- Academic IELTS topics tend to be more formal and education-focused.
- General Training IELTS topics are usually broader and more related to everyday issues.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Types
Understanding the types of essays you may be asked to write is crucial. Each type has a different purpose and structure.
1. Opinion Essay
- Question Example: Do you agree or disagree with the following statement...?
- Your Task: Clearly state and support your opinion.
2. Discussion Essay
- Question Example: Discuss both views and give your opinion.
- Your Task: Present both sides of an argument and offer your view.
➡️ Related: How to Write a Discussion Essay
3. Problem and Solution Essay
- Question Example: What are the causes of this problem? What solutions can you suggest?
- Your Task: Explain the issue and suggest ways to fix it.
4. Advantages and Disadvantages Essay
- Question Example: What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?
- Your Task: Explore both the benefits and drawbacks.
5. Two-Part Question Essay
- Question Example: Why is this the case? What measures can be taken...?
- Your Task: Answer both parts clearly and separately.
Essay Structure for IELTS Writing Task 2
A typical high-scoring IELTS essay includes four to five paragraphs:
🔹 Introduction
- Paraphrase the question
- Briefly mention what the essay will discuss
- Optionally include your opinion
🔹 Body Paragraph 1
- Present your first main idea
- Explain and give examples
🔹 Body Paragraph 2
- Present your second main idea
- Support with details and examples
🔹 Optional Paragraph (if needed)
- Present a contrasting viewpoint or extra example
🔹 Conclusion
- Summarise key points
- Restate your opinion (if required)
Band Descriptors: How You’re Marked
Your IELTS Writing Task 2 essay is scored based on four criteria, each worth 25%:
- Task Response
- Have you answered the question fully?
- Have you supported your ideas with examples?
- Coherence and Cohesion
- Is your essay logically organised?
- Do you use linking words effectively?
- Lexical Resource
- Do you use a wide range of vocabulary accurately?
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy
- Do you use a variety of sentence structures?
- Are your sentences mostly error-free?
🧾 View the official IELTS Writing Band Descriptors
Writing Tips to Improve Your Score
✅ 1. Plan Before You Write
Spend 5–10 minutes planning your ideas and structure. This will save time during writing.
✅ 2. Use Clear Topic Sentences
Start each paragraph with a sentence that shows what the paragraph will discuss.
✅ 3. Use Linking Words Wisely
Use connectors like however, therefore, on the other hand, but don’t overuse them.
🔗 Linking Words for Essays
✅ 4. Avoid Informal Language
Stick to formal, academic tone. Avoid slang or contractions.
✅ 5. Proofread Your Work
Leave 2–3 minutes at the end to check for grammar and spelling mistakes.
Sample Task and Model Outline
Question: Some people think that schools should teach children how to be good members of society. Others believe it is the responsibility of parents. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Essay Plan:
- Introduction: Paraphrase question + mention both views
- Paragraph 1: Schools provide social environment and civic education
- Paragraph 2: Parents shape early moral development and daily habits
- Conclusion: Both play a role, but schools have a more structured impact
Would you like full sample essays? Let us know and we’ll add them to the blog!
IELTS Writing Task 2 Checklist
✅ Analyse the question
✅ Decide your opinion (if needed)
✅ Create an outline
✅ Write at least 250 words
✅ Include 4–5 paragraphs
✅ Use formal tone
✅ Vary vocabulary and grammar
✅ Use clear examples
✅ Review before submitting
🌍 External Resources for Practice
Glossary
- Band Descriptor (noun) — official scoring criteria used in IELTS
- Lexical Resource (noun) — the range and accuracy of your vocabulary
- Paraphrase (verb) — express the same idea in different words
- Coherence (noun) — logical flow of ideas
- Task Response (noun) — how well the essay answers the question
