Types of IELTS Writing Task 2 Essays
IELTS Writing Task 2
Click on any question type to explore more!
Advantages and Disadvantages Essays
Discuss the pros and cons of a particular topic or issue. Consider the implications of each side and present a balanced argument.
Outweigh Essays
Evaluate whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, providing a reasoned argument to support your opinion.
Opinion/ Agree – Disagree Essays
Present your viewpoint on a specific statement or question, supporting it with relevant arguments and examples.
Discussion Essays
Analyze a topic from multiple perspectives, providing a well-balanced argument and suggesting possible solutions or conclusions.
Problem and Solution Essays
Identify a problem, discuss its causes and effects, and propose solutions to address the issue effectively.
Cause and Solution Essays
Examine the causes of a specific problem and suggest practical solutions to mitigate or resolve the issue.
Causes and Effects Essays
Explore the causes and consequences of a particular issue, analyzing the impact of the problem on different stakeholders.
Double Question Essays
Address two related questions in a single essay, providing detailed responses to both inquiries.
Direct Questions
Answer specific questions on a particular issue or topic, demonstrating your ability to provide clear and direct responses.
Mixed Essays
Combine two or more essay types in a single question, requiring you to balance different viewpoints or approaches.
✍️ IELTS Writing Task 2 – The Ultimate Guide
What is IELTS Writing Task 2?
IELTS Writing Task 2 is the second part of the IELTS Writing module and is common to both the Academic and General Training versions. It requires candidates to write a formal essay of at least 250 words in response to a viewpoint, argument, or problem.
You will be assessed on your ability to:
- Present a clear and relevant position,
- Support ideas with logical reasoning and examples,
- Use a wide range of vocabulary and grammar, and
- Organise ideas coherently and cohesively.
This task carries more weight (66%) than Writing Task 1. It is crucial for achieving a high band score.
📝 Types of IELTS Task 2 Essays
Understanding the question type is the first step to success. Here are the 5 major IELTS essay types:
- Opinion Essay (Agree or Disagree)
“Do you agree or disagree with this statement?”
➤ You must clearly express your opinion and support it throughout the essay. - Discussion Essay (Discuss Both Views)
“Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
➤ Present both sides of the issue objectively and state your own view. - Advantages and Disadvantages Essay
“What are the advantages and disadvantages?”
➤ Explore the benefits and drawbacks, and optionally give your opinion. - Problem and Solution Essay
“What problems are caused and what are the possible solutions?”
➤ Identify specific problems and suggest practical solutions. - Two-Part / Direct Question Essay
“Why is this the case? Is it a positive or negative development?”
➤ Answer both parts directly with balanced arguments and examples.
Each essay type has its own ideal structure and tone, which must be mastered for top scores.
📊 IELTS Task 2 Band Score Explained
Your essay is scored on four key criteria, each worth 25% of your total Writing Task 2 band score:
| Criterion | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Task Response | How well you address the question and develop a clear position |
| Coherence & Cohesion | Logical organisation, clear progression of ideas, paragraphing |
| Lexical Resource | Vocabulary range, word choice, use of collocations and accuracy |
| Grammatical Range & Accuracy | Variety and accuracy of grammar structures, tenses, and punctuation |
🔍 Band 9 Essay Characteristics:
- Fully addresses all parts of the task
- Ideas are well-developed and logically organised
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary naturally
- Demonstrates accurate and flexible use of grammar
🧩 Ideal Essay Structure
A perfect IELTS essay is not just about ideas—it’s about organisation. Use this fool-proof format:
- Introduction
- Paraphrase the question
- State your thesis (clear position)
- Outline the main points
- Body Paragraph 1
- Topic sentence
- Explanation
- Example
- Body Paragraph 2
- Topic sentence
- Explanation
- Example
- Optional Body Paragraph 3 (only if needed)
- Conclusion
- Summarise key points
- Reaffirm your opinion (no new ideas)
📌 Pro Tip: Use linking phrases like In contrast, However, For instance, On the other hand to improve cohesion.
⏱️ Time Management & Word Count
- Recommended Time: 40 minutes
- Minimum Word Count: 250 words
- Ideal Word Count: 260–280 words
🔴 Warning: Writing fewer than 250 words can result in a penalty. Writing too much may lead to loss of clarity or more grammar errors.
💡 Top Tips for IELTS Writing Task 2
- Analyse the question carefully – identify keywords and question type
- Plan your ideas for 5 minutes before writing
- Use a formal tone – avoid contractions or casual expressions
- Support your opinion with real-life examples or logical reasoning
- Vary your sentence structures – use conditionals, passives, modals
- Proofread your essay in the last 2–3 minutes
🧠 Practice Makes Perfect
The only way to improve is by writing regularly and getting feedback. You can use the resources on this website to:
✅ Practise each essay type
✅ Compare your writing to Band 9 model answers
✅ Build your academic vocabulary
✅ Check grammar, coherence, and spelling
✅ Develop a natural writing rhythm
🏁 Final Thoughts
IELTS Writing Task 2 is more than just an essay—it’s a demonstration of your critical thinking, linguistic precision, and academic communication skills.
At Lifestyle Training Centre, we guide you through each essay type with targeted feedback, practice strategies, and vocabulary enhancement. Whether you’re aiming for a Band 7 or Band 9, mastering Task 2 is the key to achieving your dream IELTS score.
Unlock your IELTS success at Lifestyle Training Centre! With expert guidance, personalised coaching, and tailored feedback, we’ll help you master Writing Task 2 and achieve your dream band score. Join us today and elevate your preparation!
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FAQ
1. What is IELTS Writing Task 2?
IELTS Writing Task 2 is an essay writing task where you are required to write at least 250 words on a topic. The task assesses your ability to present an argument, support ideas with evidence, organise your thoughts, and use proper language.
2. How many types of essays are there in IELTS Writing Task 2?
There are five main types:
Two-Part Questions
Opinion (Agree or Disagree)
Discussion (Both Views)
Problem-Solution
Advantages and Disadvantages
3. How is IELTS Task 2 scored?
Your essay is marked based on four criteria, each worth 25%:
Grammatical Range and Accuracy
Task Response
Coherence and Cohesion
Lexical Resource
4. What is the ideal structure for Writing Task 2?
The recommended structure is:
Introduction
Body Paragraph 1
Body Paragraph 2
Conclusion
Use linking phrases and topic sentences to maintain clarity.
5. What is the time limit for Writing Task 2?
You are advised to spend 40 minutes on Task 2. It carries twice as many marks as Task 1.
6. How many words should I write?
You must write at least 250 words. Writing fewer than this may lower your score. It’s best to stay under 300 words to maintain clarity and accuracy.
7. Is it okay to use personal opinions or examples?
Yes, especially if the question asks for your opinion. Personal but relevant examples are useful. However, keep your tone formal and academic.
8. What vocabulary should I use to get a high band score?
Use a range of academic vocabulary, connectors, and topic-specific words. Avoid repetition, slang, and memorised phrases. Aim for precision and variety.
9. Can I write bullet points in Task 2?
No. IELTS Writing Task 2 must be written in full sentences and structured paragraphs. Bullet points are not accepted and can reduce your score.
10. How can I practise for IELTS Writing Task 2 effectively?
Practise regularly by writing essays on common topics. Review band 9 model answers, focus on planning and grammar, and get feedback from qualified trainers.