IELTS Writing Task 2 asks you to write a 250-word essay responding to a point of view, argument, or problem — and it counts for twice as much of your Writing band score as Task 1, so it deserves the majority of your preparation time.

The Four Essay Types

  • Opinion (Agree/Disagree): States a view and asks if you agree or disagree.
  • Discussion (Discuss Both Views): Presents two opposing views and asks you to discuss both, then give your own opinion.
  • Problem/Solution: Describes a problem and asks you to suggest solutions, or discuss causes and effects.
  • Advantages/Disadvantages: Asks you to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of a situation or trend.

A Structure That Works for Every Type

  1. Introduction: Paraphrase the question, then state your position or preview what the essay will cover.
  2. Body paragraph 1: One main idea, explained and supported with a specific example.
  3. Body paragraph 2: A second main idea (or the opposing view, for Discussion essays), explained and supported.
  4. Conclusion: Summarize your position — don't introduce new ideas here.

What Examiners Actually Score

  • Task Response: Did you fully answer every part of the question, with a clear position and relevant supporting ideas?
  • Coherence and Cohesion: Is the essay logically organized, with clear paragraphing and linking words used naturally?
  • Lexical Resource: Vocabulary range and accuracy — using a wide range of words correctly beats using rare words incorrectly.
  • Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence structures, used accurately.

Common Mistakes

  • Memorized essays: Examiners are trained to spot generic content that doesn't directly address the specific question asked.
  • Not answering every part of the question: A discussion essay asking you to discuss both views and give your opinion loses marks if you only do one.
  • Writing under 250 words: Short essays are penalized under Task Response, even if the writing quality is otherwise strong.

Build the grammar and vocabulary foundation your essays depend on with our free English writing practice, organized by level.