IELTS Writing Task 2: Tips, Lessons & Model Answers

Unlike IELTS writing task 1, writing task 2 has a similar structure for both Academic and General. However, the IELTS Academic writing task is slightly more difficult than the IELTS General writing task. Overall, you get 60 minutes for the writing test. Whether Academic or General, spend 20 minutes on Task 1 and 40 minutes on Task 2. Task 2 in both - Academic and General - is worth double the marks of Task 1.

To conclude, the difference between IELTS General and IELTS Academic is only about the difficulty level.

As per the structure of the essay, you are supposed to write an essay in at least 250 words and you get 40 minutes for it. In this task, you will be asked to write your response to the given issue, problem or opinion mentioned in the essay question. You will write a discursive essay in 250 words, in which you may even be asked to compare and contrast different ideas or challenge an idea. In case it’s a problem or an issue topic, you may be asked to evaluate the problem and provide a solution.

You are assessed according to your ability to achieve the following:

• Task achievement/ Task response: You should be able to cover all the requirements of the task.
• Coherence and Cohesion: You should be able to present all the information logically in paragraphs.
• Lexical Resource – Range of Vocabulary: You should be able to use a wide range of vocabulary to convey precise meanings.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: You should be able to use a wide range of structures. Your sentences should be a good mix of Simple and Complex sentences with rare grammatical errors.

Your Band in IELTS Writing is calculated according to your level in the above-mentioned areas. You get Band 1 if your answer is completely unrelated to the task. You get Band 9 when you address all parts of the task with a wide range of error free vocabulary and sentence structure in logically coherent paragraphs. IELTS Writing Task 2 is worth double the marks of IELTS Writing Task 1.

Furthermore, in order to score high in each IELTS marking parameters that are mentioned above, you must understand what they mean and what all things you can do to impress the examiner. 

IELTS writing task 2 essay topics can be on family, society, work, technology, education, sports, tourism, etc. You can get any of the following five types of questions on these topics. 

• Discussion Under this type of question, a statement is provided in the question and the writer has to justify why and to what extent do they agree or disagree.
• Advantage and Disadvantage: In this question type, a scenario is laid out in the question. The writer has to jot down all the possible advantages and disadvantages of the scenario.
• Problem and Solution: As the name suggests, the question provided to the writer is a problem, and they must provide solutions to the problem in their answer. 
• Discussion Essay: In this type of question, the writer needs to strike a balance between all aspects of the situation put forward by the question. The writer also, briefly, needs to elaborate on their own opinion. 
• Opinion Essay: As the name suggests, the writer needs to give their opinion on a certain issue or topic as posed by the question. 

There also exists a sixth type of question that rarely appears in the Writing Task 2, but its importance cannot be neglected. Under this type of question, the writer needs to answer in two parts about one or two connected pressing social issues. 

IELTS Writing Task 2 Format Structure

You should write your essay in four or five paragraphs (Body paragraphs can be two or three).

• Paragraph 1: Introduce the IELTS writing topic by giving a background statement followed by the thesis statement.
• Paragraph 2: This is the first paragraph to support your thesis. It should have a topic sentence followed by a supporting example and an explanation. The last sentence of the paragraph should conclude its topic.
• Paragraph 3: This is the second paragraph to support your thesis. It should have a topic sentence followed by a supporting example and an explanation. The last sentence of the paragraph should conclude its topic.
• Paragraph 4: This is the concluding paragraph of the essay. It should summarize the points mentioned in the previous two paragraphs in one or two sentences. Then the thesis statement should be restated. The last sentence should include a recommendation, suggestion or prediction.

The above-mentioned structure will have 15-20 sentences which will be written in around 250-275 words.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Template 

Here’s an example of one such essay question: Computers are gaining importance in modern education. Some people believe that certain subjects such as science and mathematics are better taught using computers. What is your opinion? 

You can follow this template to write your essay:

• Paraphrase the question statement in the first paragraph, followed by your thesis statement.
• Elaborate on one detail in the second paragraph – how some subjects can be better taught by using computers.
• Elaborate on the second detail in the third paragraph – how teaching without computers can be more beneficial.
• Conclude your essay in the last paragraph by paraphrasing your thesis statement. Use linkers.

This question can be answered in two different ways, find it in the next section.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Tips and Strategies 

• Understand what has been asked in the essay question.
• Plan your essay before writing it. Collect all the points you would like to include in your essay.
• Use a mix of simple and complex sentences.
• Use transition words.
• Take care of grammar pitfalls.
• Use low-frequency words in between to show your lexical ability.
• Use examples from personal life to support your argument in the essay.
• Write short sentences.
• Link your points to make your essay cohesive.
• Do not repeat points.

Opinion Essay – A situation is presented to you and you are asked to give your opinion on it. While writing this type of essay, the thesis statement should be used to state your opinion, and the rest of the essay can be an elaboration of your opinion. 

One sample question for an Opinion essay is - 

Computers are gaining importance in modern education. Some people believe that certain subjects such as science and mathematics are better taught using computers. What is your opinion

Here’s a sample answer to the above question on Computers:

Sample Essay 1 (High Band Score)

The use of computers in education is increasing everyday. Many opine that the teaching of various concepts, especially in science and maths, is comparatively efficacious in a class where teaching can be aided with computers. Even I think that knowledge of a number of subjects can be imparted more effectively by using computers. However, teaching through interactions, discussions, experiments and activities has its own significance. Computers are becoming powerful tools for generating students’ interest in subjects such as science, social Science and mathematics. They can greatly help to solve students’ language and problem solving skills. Huge amount of information on the latest developments in science can be gathered using internet. Students get motivated to work on their science projects even during recess and are able to handle more complex assignments in maths and science. Hence, technology, especially computers, is increasingly becoming a significant factor in school and college classrooms. Conversely, the number of scientists has not increased with the proliferation of computers in school classrooms. Moreover, most of the teachers across the world do not have time for learning and practicing technology. Resultantly, the computers are there but not for all subjects and teachers. Also, computers restrict teaching to the four walls of the classroom, thereby stopping outdoor activities and projects through which learning happens faster and certain soft skills are also imbibed in the learners. To conclude, computers can enhance the process of teaching by encouraging students to get into the habit of researching independently or in teams. In fact, science and maths can be taught effectively with computer support. But having just computer based teaching would not be the correct method of teaching various other subjects. 

Sample Essay 2 (Low Band Score)

The use of computers in education is increasing everyday. Many feel that the teaching of various concepts, especially in science and maths, is comparatively better in a class where teaching can be aided with computers. Even I think that knowledge of a number of subjects can be imparted more effectively by using computers. Computers are becoming powerful tools for getting students’ interest in subjects such as Science, Social Science and Mathematics. They can greatly help to solve students’ language and problem solving skills. Huge amount of information on the latest developments in science can be gathered using internet. Students get motivated to work on their science projects even during recess and can able to handle more complex assignments in Maths and Science. Hence, technology, especially computers, are increasingly becoming a significant factor in school and college classrooms. Conversely, the number of scientists has not increased with the proliferation of computers in school classrooms. Moreover, most of the teachers across the world do not have time for learning and practicing technology. Resultantly, the computers are there but not for all subjects and teachers. Also, computers restrict teaching to the four walls of the classroom, thereby stopping outdoor activities and projects through which learning happens faster and certain soft skills are also imbibed in the learners. So, computers can make the process of teaching better by encouraging students to get into the habit of researching independently or in teams. In fact, Science and Maths can be taught effectively with computer support. But having just computer based teaching would not be the correct method of teaching various other subjects. 

Advantages/ Disadvantages Essays – A prevalent trend or situation or technology is presented to you in the question and you are asked to write its advantages and disadvantages. The writer should jot down all possible advantages and disadvantages, and they can choose between giving or not giving their own opinion. 

Sample Question of Advantages and Disadvantages Essay -

In the 20th century, contact between many different parts of the world has developed rapidly through air travel and telecommunications. Discuss the advantages and the disadvantages.

Here’s a sample answer to the above question on travel and communications - 

Sample Essay of Advantage & Disadvantage Essay - Without Opinion

In today’s age of advanced technology, we can stay connected worldwide, thanks to the innovations in the field of travel and communication. Airplanes and internet access have become crucial in a variety of ways, including social interaction, healthcare, tourism, and business. Although it has improved connectivity across the globe, it has also caused immense disruption in the state of our environment and culture.

The developments in the aviation industry have unquestionably played a key role in globalization and industrialization. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, air transportation was indispensable for a quick exchange of vaccines, medical equipment, food and other essential resources, worldwide. In addition to that, sophisticated telecom solutions have given an opportunity to people to stay in contact with their loved ones, or for companies to improve businesses. For instance, in COVID-19 pandemic, due to internet facilities, it was easier to stay connected with friends and family, and to adapt to the “work from home” culture.

However, despite the abundant benefits, there are also a few setbacks to these transformations. Firstly, the rise in pollution is one of the major drawbacks of the increase in the number of flights. For example, the substantial surge in air transport has contributed to global warming, air pollution and has left a significant carbon footprint. Furthermore, due to redefined telecommunication, the integration of the culture and tradition has taken place, which has caused irrecoverable cultural damage. For instance, due to the presence of the internet, the amalgamation of multiple cultures in the western world has led to the loss of the cultural identity of several places.

In conclusion, it is undeniable that air travel and telecommunication has redefined how we live in today’s world. There are a plethora of benefits with these innovations. However, they often impact the ecosystem causing natural catastrophes and also, result in a loss of local heritage. If precautions are taken towards a conscious use of these developments, it can be a fruitful venture into a future of conveniences alongside a prosperous environment.

Sample Essay of Advantage & Disadvantage Essay - With Opinion

In today’s age of advanced technology, we can stay connected worldwide, thanks to the innovations in the field of travel and communication. While airplanes and internet access have become crucial in improving connectivity across the globe, it has also caused immense disruption in the state of our environment and culture. In my opinion, even though there are a few drawbacks, the benefits outweigh the disadvantages.

The rise in pollution is one of the major drawbacks of the increase in the number of flights. For example, the substantial surge in air transport has contributed to global warming, air pollution and has left a significant carbon footprint. Furthermore, due to redefined telecommunication, the integration of the culture and tradition has taken place, which has caused irrecoverable cultural damage. For instance, due to the presence of the internet, the amalgamation of multiple cultures in the western world has led to the loss of the cultural identity of several places.

However, the developments in the aviation industry have unquestionably played a key role in globalization and industrialization. These advancements provide extensive connectivity and ease in terms of travel and networking, which is an essential requirement in today’s world.  For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, air transportation was indispensable for a quick exchange of vaccines, medical equipment, food and other essential resources, worldwide.

In addition to that, sophisticated telecom solutions have created a new dimension in networking by stripping away geographical barriers and sharing information instantaneously. This has given an opportunity for people to stay in contact with their loved ones, or for companies to improve businesses. For instance, in COVID-19 pandemic, the internet facilitated easy connection with friends and family, and adaptation to the “work from home” culture. 

In conclusion, it is undeniable that air travel and telecommunication have redefined how we live in these modern times. I strongly believe that aviation and communication, albeit have some drawbacks, are far more advantageous because these innovations contribute positively by making things more accessible and convenient in today's digital world.

Problem & Solution Essay – In this type of question, a problem is presented in the form of a question. Examinees have to provide an answer, which sometimes includes only the solution, and sometimes both – the causes and solutions.

Sample Question of Problem and Solution Essay - 

Plastic bags, plastic bottles and plastic packaging are bad for the environment. What damage does plastic do to the environment? What can be done by governments and individuals to solve this problem?

Here’s are 3 sample answer to the above question on plastic:

Sample Essay of Problem Solution Essay - BOTH PROBLEM & SOLUTION

The present-day planet has been damaged by the excessive use of plastic products such as bottles, bags, and packaging, causing environmental catastrophes. It is threatening the survival of aquatic and terrestrial animals, as well as causing problems in the human body. There are numerous steps which can be taken by people and national organizations to alleviate this issue.

The primary damage caused by plastic is its devastating effect on the flora and fauna of the planet. Not only does this waste contaminate the ecology progressively, it also puts its inhabitants in danger of extinction. Because of their inability to decompose, plastic waste is often dumped into landfills and  the ocean. For instance, several birds or marine animals are dying due to plastic ingestion. Furthermore, since all of the food we consume is sold in plastic packaging, it has also made its way into the human body. For example, scientists have now discovered the traces of “micro plastics” in human blood. 

However, there are some measures that could be taken to mitigate this problem. Individually, mindful consumerism is the best way to tackle this issue. People should make more conscious choices of using alternative materials such as fabric, metal, and glass, rather than plastics. For example, using cloth bags while shopping is a small but a powerful step towards reduction of plastic. Additionally, national and international bodies should make stringent policies and regulations to eradicate the use of plastic. For instance, Rwanda became the world's first 'plastic-free' nation in 2009, 10 years after it introduced a ban on all plastic bags and packaging.

In conclusion, the impact of plastic waste produced today is a matter of global concern. Plastics irreversibly influence the whole ecosystem not only by damaging the environment, but also by putting the creatures in danger of extinction. However, conscious consumerism and bans on plastics can be effective approaches to solve this man-made crisis.

Sample Essay of Problem Solution Essay - PROBLEM ONLY

Plastic bags, plastic bottles and plastic packaging are bad for the environment. What damages does plastic do to the environment?

The present-day planet has been damaged by the excessive use of plastic products such as bottles, bags, and packaging, causing environmental catastrophes. The primary damage caused by plastic is its devastating effect on the flora and fauna of the planet. Not only does this waste contaminate the ecology progressively, it also puts its inhabitants in danger of extinction. 

Firstly, plastic bags, bottles and packaging materials are non-biodegradable and remain in the environment for a long time. Because of its inability to decompose, plastic waste is often either burned, or dumped into landfills or the ocean. Burning causes air pollution due to the release of toxic fumes into the atmosphere resulting in climate change. Additionally, it also pollutes the oceans, which causes the destruction of marine life. For instance, several marine animals are often found choking or tangled by the floating plastic product and affecting the marine ecosystem

Secondly, plastic has become increasingly common with almost all of our products either made or at least packaged in this material. These range from gadgets, edibles, beverages, equipment, paints, and so on, causing excessive amounts of disposal of the same. Being surrounded with such toxic substances has detrimental effects on both animals and humans. Since plastic is a non-biodegradable material, it does not decompose. Due to this, plastic items end up in landfills and several animals often confuse them for food. For instance, numerous birds or marine animals are dying due to plastic ingestion.  Furthermore, since all of the food we consume is sold in plastic packaging, it has also made its way into the human body. For example, scientists have now discovered the traces of “micro plastics” in human blood. 

In conclusion, the impact of plastic waste produced today is a matter of global concern. Plastics irreversibly influence the whole ecosystem by not only damaging the environment, but also by putting the creatures in danger of extinction, which, if unaddressed, can lead to a disastrous man-made crisis.

Sample Essay of Problem Solution Essay - SOLUTION ONLY

Plastic bags, plastic bottles and plastic packaging are bad for the environment. What can be done by governments and individuals to solve this problem?

The present-day planet has been damaged by the excessive use of plastic products such as bottles, bags, and packaging, causing environmental catastrophes. Effective consumerism and regulations are some of the steps which can be taken by people and national organisations to alleviate this issue.

Firstly, on an individual level, mindful consumerism is the best way to tackle this issue. People should make more conscious and informed choices of using alternative materials such as fabric, metal, and glass, rather than plastics, since they are long lasting and biodegradable. Doing so also encourages and creates awareness among fellow people to opt for sustainable materials. For example, using cloth bags while shopping, or using refillable water bottles instead of packaged water are a few small but powerful steps towards reduction of plastic.

Secondly, on a larger scale, national and international bodies should make stringent policies and regulations to eradicate the use of plastic. For instance, Rwanda became the world's first 'plastic-free' nation in 2009, 10 years after it introduced a ban on all plastic bags and packaging. Moreover, apart from banning plastics, effective waste management strategies should be prioritized by the governments to organize and facilitate the disposal of plastics in a non-toxic manner. 

In conclusion, the impact of plastic waste produced today is a matter of global concern as plastics irreversibly influence the whole ecosystem. It has to be addressed on a micro as well as a macro level. Conscious choices by the public and bans on plastics by governmental bodies can be a few effective approaches to solve this man-made crisis.

Direct Essay Questions – In such essays, you are required to address the two or three questions presented in the question. As the name suggests, it is direct in nature and doesn’t require the examinee to provide solutions, opinions, or advantages and disadvantages. 

Sample Question of Direct Essay - 

Weddings are getting bigger and more expensive. What is the reason for this? Is it a positive or negative development?

Here’s a sample answer to the above question on weddings:

Sample Answer of Direct Essay - 

In recent times, wedding ceremonies have become supremely luxurious and extravagant in nature. The fundamental cause for this is to showcase the reputation in a social circle. This is largely a negative movement which should be discouraged, as it has numerous ill-effects.

The primary motivation for this growing culture is sophisticated materialism. While a marriage is considered to be a pivotal milestone in one’s life, the exorbitant celebrations are often just an opportunity for people to establish their presence and standard in the society, as well as to demonstrate affluence. Doing so amplifies the status quo of not only the families, but also of the newly-weds. For example, traditionally, marriage ceremonies were hosted in the residences of either the bride or the groom. However, nowadays, there is an ever-growing increase in orchestrating enormous and unforgettable destination weddings, just to reinforce their image in the community.

The outcomes of this progression are highly destructive and often financially crippling. Such practices often put families or even communities in an economic crisis as they often take loans due to the pressure of organizing a grand event. Furthermore, ceremonies like these are not only a waste of money but also a waste of resources. It is unsustainable and unnecessary. For instance, instead of splurging on a momentary festivities, the resources could rather be put to superior use on effective prospects such as buying a house or investing in a business, which will benefit the couple consequently.

To conclude, although gatherings and events are required to celebrate nuptials, they are often utilized as occasions to publicize the monetary status in the society. This development is unproductive to both the couple and the parents as the expenses can hamper reaching other constructive and meaningful goals for the future.

Sample Question of Discussion Essay -

Some feel that cities should be designed to be beautiful while others feel their functionality is more important. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

Sample Answer of Discussion Essay - 

The increasing urbanization is leading to the development of numerous megacities. Some people argue that the design of a metropolis should be visually attractive, whereas others believe that practicality should be paramount. In my opinion, I believe that city-planning should be a harmonious balance between aesthetics and functionality. 

On the one hand, organizing and optimizing every aspect of an area could result in increased efficiency. Planned, functional cities provide amenities for its people including transit, housing, offices, schools, industrial hubs, recreational areas, waste management etc., which are devised specifically for the convenience of the city-dwellers. For instance, Chandigarh is an urban planned municipality which is efficient & functional in its design. 

On the other hand, designing a gorgeous town has several advantages. Rather than being surrounded by the concrete jungle in an undesirable urban landscape, inhabitants could visit a scenic spot in the city, which has a significant impact on the well-being of people.  Moreover, the aesthetic appeal of architecture and natural landscapes attracts people, facilitating local tourism. To illustrate, Venice has become one of the most popular tourist attractions globally due to the mesmerizing canals that run through the town.

In my opinion, I strongly believe that a modern city should be an integration of beauty, as well as functionality. Living in a highly-engineered robotic town, without any beauty, leads to a monotonous life, while a picture-perfect locality without accessibility, infrastructure, and security results in the abandonment of the place. A city should consist of aesthetic functionality, which would create an ideal model of a present-day settlement. For instance, Auroville, an international township located in India is an example of a beautiful yet functional, designed urban habitat.

To conclude, when imagining a new area, it is clear that both beauty and functionality have to be considered before constructing a habitation. It is my firm belief that town-planners should not only pay attention to the usefulness of the city design, but also to the artistic and cultural aspects of the development, since both are inseparable components of a well-designed city.

Vocabulary contributes to a big percentage of the total marks when it comes to IELTS, especially in the Speaking Tasks. That is why it is important to know and actively use new and innovative vocabulary. In the world of IELTS, having a rich vocabulary with a big range is called Lexical Resources. 

Here are videos on the most common IELTS topics with the best vocabulary: 

• Weather
• Travel
• Technology
• Sports 
• Shopping 
• Restaurant
• Plants and Flowers
• People and Personalities
• Newspaper 
• Music
• Money
• Kinds of fear
• Work and Jobs
• Hotel
• Health care
• Food
• Films
• Environmental Problems
• Education
• Dance
• Coronavirus
• Clothes and Fashion
• Books
• Art and Museum
• Advertising
• Home and Accommodation
   

Below is a brief list of the latest IELTS questions of 2022. You can also visit our website to stay updated on every month’s latest IELTS Writing Task questions for IELTS Academic and General. 

• The governments should give each citizen a basic income so that they have enough money to live on, even if they are unemployed. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (Reported on IELTS January 17th).
• Many doctors recommend that older people exercise regularly, but most patients do not follow an exercise routine. Why do you think this happens? How can people be encouraged to exercise regularly? (Reported on IELTS January 15th).
• Today, TV channels broadcast more men's sports shows than women's sports shows. Why is this the case? Should TV channels give equal show time for each? (Reported on IELTS February 4th).
• Some people think the main purpose of school is to turn children into good citizens and workers, rather than to benefit them as individuals. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (Reported on IELTS February 2nd)
• Some people claim that too much focus and resources have been spent to protect wild animals and birds. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (Reported on IELTS March 5th).
• In some places, old age is valued, while in other cultures youth is considered more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion. (Reported on IELTS March 3rd).

IELTS Opinion Essay Practice Sample

Writing Task 2 Teaching is Better with Computers: Opinion Essay

Writing Task 2 Home Education Versus School Education: Opinion Essay

IELTS Advantage and Disadvantage Essay Practice Sample

Writing Task 2 Higher Studies: Advantage/ Disadvantage Essay

Writing Task 2 Popularity of E-Books: Advantage/ Disadvantage Essay

IELTS Discussion Essay Practice Sample

Writing Task 2 Teachers’ Role in Educational Success: Discussion Essay

Culture across the World: Discussion Essay

IELTS Solution Essay Practice Sample

Extinction of Wild Animals: Solution Essay

Plastic is bad for the environment : Solution Essay

IELTS Direct Question Essay Practice Sample- 

Weddings are getting bigger and more expensive: Discussion Essay 

Companies use a variety of methods to improve sales: Direct Essay