IELTS Writing Task 2: All You Need to know
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“With the help of this article, know all about the format, tips, and techniques to crack your IELTS Writing Task 2 all before kickstart your IELTS preparations!“
Understanding IELTS Writing Task 2
IELTS Writing Task 2 requires you to write an essay in response to a given general topic. This task is designed to assess your skills based on presenting a clear position, developing an argument logically, and organizing ideas coherently.
To achieve a high score, you must understand the task format and question types, analyze prompts effectively, and structure your essay appropriately. This blog post will break down everything you need to know from the format of the IELTS task 2 writing to tricks to solve it effortlessly.
IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 Test Papers
IELTS General Writing Task 2 Test Papers
Difference Between IELTS Writing Task 2 Academic Vs General
To understand the differences between Academic and General Training in IELTS Writing Task 2, here is a helpful comparison table:
Feature | Academic | General Training |
Topics | Related to education, science, technology, social issues | Related to everyday life situations, hobbies, work, relationships |
Writing Style | Formal, impersonal | Semi-formal, personal experiences are acceptable |
Language | Complex vocabulary, high-level grammar | Intermediate vocabulary, grammar |
Example Topics | - Technology use in schools, Government investment in sciences, Causes of unemployment | - Importance of hobbies, Managing workplace stress, Raising children |
Example Prompts | "As major cities continue to grow, the problems of overcrowding and traffic congestion are worsening. What causes these issues, and what are some possible solutions?" | "Stress and mental health issues are becoming increasingly common among high school students. What are some of the causes and what can be done to address this problem?" |
IELTS Writing Task 2 Format
Task Requirement: Write an academic-style essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem.
Assessment: Assesses your ability to present a solution or opinion in a logical, structured way.
Duration: 40 minutes
IELTS Writing Task 2 Scoring Criteria
To understand how your IELTS Writing Task 2 essay is evaluated by the examiner, it is crucial to be familiar with the assessment criteria!
Have a look at the table below to learn more about the evaluation criteria!
Criteria | Description |
Task Achievement | Measures how well you address all parts of the task and present a fully developed position. |
Coherence and Cohesion | Assesses how clearly linked and logically structured your essay is. |
Lexical Resource | Evaluates your range and accuracy of vocabulary usage. |
Grammatical Range and Accuracy | Measures the variety and precision of your grammar. |
IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types
There are 6 types of questions in the IELTS Writing Task 2 and you may get any one type in your IELTS test. Hence, get to know about them to identify the question prompts effortlessly!
- Opinion
You need to pick a side of the given two sides of an argument write in support of it and provide reasons for your opinion.
- Agree/Disagree
Here, you need to state whether you agree or disagree with a given statement and support it with reasons and examples.
- Discussion (Discuss Both Views)
This type requires you to discuss both sides of an issue and then give your own opinion at last.
- Problem/Solution
You have to identify problems related to the topic and suggest possible solutions.
- Advantages/Disadvantages
This question asks you to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a particular situation or issue.
- Double Question (Direct Questions)
You must answer two or more direct questions related to a single topic and support it with proper examples as well.
Useful IELTS Writing Task 2 Tips
IELTS Writing Task 2 is the second part of the two writing tasks and is one of the most challenging parts of the IELTS test. Most students also find it more difficult than Writing Task 1. Therefore, access to some quick tips for task 2 writing IELTS:
- Understand the Task: Test-takers should identify the key components, the question type, and any specific instructions before outlining the key points that should be covered.
- Plan Before You Write: Before diving into the essay, candidates should spend a few minutes planning the response. A clear outline needs to include an introduction, the main points for each body paragraph, and the conclusion.
- Follow a Structured Essay Format: Every essay type has a specific structure. So, sticking to the traditional essay structure with a clear introduction, well-developed body paragraphs, and a concluding summary enhances the readability of the essay.
- Provide Supportive Examples: Test-takers should support their arguments with concrete examples and evidence. This not only strengthens the expressed opinion but also showcases the ability to develop ideas.
- Use Linking Words and Phrases: Candidates should employ linking words and phrases to connect ideas within and between sentences. This improves the overall flow and coherence of the essay.
- Revise and Proofread: This is one of the most vital steps and test-takers need to allocate some time at the end to review and edit their essay. They should check for grammatical errors, clarity, and coherence and ensure that the essay effectively communicates their ideas.
- Write Regularly Under Time Constraints: Practice writing essays within the 40-minute. This helps improve your time management skills and ensures that you can effectively express your ideas within the given constraints.
- Seek Feedback: To understand the weak areas and improve them, test-takers need to share their practice essays with teachers, peers, or online communities like the one created by IELTSMaterial. Constructive feedback helps identify areas for improvement and provides valuable insights.
Top 8 Common Mistakes to Avoid in IELTS Writing Task 2
1. Misunderstanding the Question
Many test-takers misunderstand the question, leading to off-topic essays.
2. Poor Time Management
Struggling to manage time effectively often results in incomplete essays.
3. Lack of Ideas
Difficulty in generating relevant ideas quickly is a common problem.
4. Disorganized Structure
Failing to organize thoughts into clear, logical paragraphs is a frequent mistake.
5. Grammar Errors
Frequent grammar errors can significantly lower the writing score.
6. Limited Vocabulary
Using a limited vocabulary makes it hard to express ideas effectively.
7. Weak Evidence
Providing weak examples usually weakens arguments and doesn’t provide a strong essay.
8. Incorrect Word Count
Not meeting the required word count can negatively affect the score.
Band Descriptors IELTS Writing Task 2
Band | Descriptor |
9 |
|
8 |
|
7 |
|
6 |
|
5 |
|
4 |
|
3 |
|
2 |
|
1 |
|
0 |
|
Structure For Answering the IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types
The IELTS Writing Task 2 section has different types of essays that may be asked, each requiring a specific structure and approach. The main 6 IELTS Writing Task 2 question types and their standard structure are summarized in the table below:
Question Type | Structure |
Opinion Essay | Introduction with background information and paraphrase of question. Body paragraphs with your opinion and supporting reasons/examples. Conclusion summarizing opinion. |
Discussion Essay | Introduction with background information and paraphrase of question. Body paragraphs discussing both sides/perspectives on the topic. Conclusion summarizing the discussion and providing your opinion. |
Agree/Disagree Essay | Introduction with background information and paraphrase of question. Body paragraphs agreeing and disagreeing with the statement, giving reasons/examples. Conclusion summarizing main points. |
Advantages/Disadvantages Essay | Introduction with background information and paraphrase of question. Body paragraphs discussing the advantages and disadvantages. Conclusion summarizing the main points. |
Problem/Solution Essay | Introduction with background information and paraphrase of question. Body paragraphs discussing the problem(s) and suggesting solutions. Conclusion summarizing main points. |
Direct Question Essay | Introduction rephrasing the question. Body paragraphs directly answer the question with reasons/examples/explanations. Conclusion summarizing answer. |
IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types with Sample Answers
Let's look at the different IELTS writing task 2 essay types that may appear in Writing Task 2:
Opinion Essay
These prompts simply ask for your opinion on a topic without presenting two views.
Sample prompt: "Some people think that the best way to reduce crime is to give longer prison sentences. Others, however, believe there are better alternative ways of reducing crime. What is your opinion on this?
Check out more IELTS Writing Task 2 Opinion Essay below:
- Some People Believe that Nowadays We Have Too Many Choices- IELTS Writing Task 2
- IELTS Writing Task 2 Opinion Essay Topic: Prevention is better than cure
- Universities Should Accept Equal Numbers of Male and Female Students in Every Subject – IELTS Writing Task 2
- Doing an Enjoyable Activity with a Child Can Develop Better Skills and More Creativity Than Reading – IELTS
- All Children Should be Made to Wear School Uniforms- IELTS Writing Task 2
Agree and Disagree Essay
These questions ask your opinion on a statement or proposal. You must decide whether you agree or disagree and support your view.
Sample prompt: "Unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programs." To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Check out more IELTS Writing Task 2 Agree and Disagree Essay below:
- It is more important to spend public money on promoting a healthy lifestyle – IELTS Writing Task 2
- Foreign Visitors Should Pay More Than Local Visitors for Cultural and Historical Attractions – IELTS Writing Task 2
- Some people believe that air travel should be restricted Sample Essay
- When a Country Develops its Technology the Traditional Skills and Ways of Life Die Out – IELTS Writing Task 2
- Reading stories from a book is better than watching TV Sample Essay
Discussion (Discuss Both Views)
These prompts present two perspectives on an issue and ask you to discuss and examine both sides.
Sample prompt: "Some people think the manufacturers and shopping malls should sell fewer packaged products while others argue that people have the responsibility to buy products with less packaging. Discuss both views and give your opinion."
Check out more IELTS Writing Task 2 Discussion Essay below:
- In Some Countries, a Few People Earn Extremely High Salaries – IELTS Writing Task 2
- Some People Think that Children Should Start School Sooner- IELTS Writing Task 2
- Some People Think that it is Better to Educate Girls and Boys in Separate Schools- IELTS Writing Task 2
- Some Companies Sponsor Sport and Sports Stars as a Way to Advertise Themselves – IELTS Writing Task 2
- University Students Should Study Whatever They Like Sample Essay
Problem/Solution Essay
These questions given in the problem/solution essay describe an issue and ask you to propose solutions.
Sample prompt: "In many cities, public transport systems are inadequate and road congestion is increasing. What are the causes of these problems and what measures could be taken to solve them?"
Check out more IELTS Writing Task 2 Problem/Solution Essay below:
- Many Working People get little or no Exercise either During the Working Day- IELTS Writing Task 2
- Doctors Recommend that Older People Exercise Regularly- IELTS Writing Task 2
- Over Population Of Urban Areas Has Led To Numerous Problems – IELTS Writing Task 2
- An Increase in Production of Consumer Goods Results in Damage to the Natural Environment- IELTS Writing Task
- In the Developed World, Average Life Expectancy is Increasing- IELTS Writing Task 2
Advantages/Disadvantages Essay
These prompts ask you to analyze the advantages and disadvantages of an issue.
Sample prompt: "Studying overseas has many benefits for students. However, there are also some disadvantages. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages and give your own opinion."
Check out more IELTS Writing Task 2 Advantages/Disadvantages Essay below:
- People now have the Freedom to Work and live Anywhere in the World- IELTS Writing Task 2
- In Some Countries People Prefer to Rent a House than Buy One – IELTS Writing Task 2
- Planners Tend to Arrange Shops, Schools, Offices and Homes in Specific Areas – IELTS Writing Task 2
- Technology is Increasingly Being Used to Monitor What People Are Saying And Doing Sample Essays
- In the Past, When Students Did a University Degree, They Tended to Study in Their Own Country – IELTS
Direct Question Essay
These prompts which are also known as Direct Question essays give you a statement along with a related question.
Sample prompt: "A growing number of people are living alone in many major cities. What are the reasons for this? Why do they choose to live alone?
Check out more IELTS Writing Task 2 Direct Question Essay below:
- Is freedom of speech necessary in a free society? – IELTS Writing Task 2
- Many People Like to Wear Fashionable Clothes – IELTS Writing Task 2
- Consumers Are Faced With Increasing Numbers of Advertisements From Competing Companies – IELTS
- There are Many Different Types of Music in The World Today – IELTS Writing Task 2
- More and more people want to buy famous brands with clothes- IELTS Writing Task 2
IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics with Answers
Below is the list of IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics with Answers which you can refer to for the exam.
- Topic: Family
- Topic: Press, news on internet & newspapers
- Topic: Families
- Topic - Environment
- Topic: Invention
- Topic: Aging Population
- Topic: Art & Technology
- Topic: Career
- Topic: Dangerous Sports
- Topic: Technology
- Topic: Travel & Tourism
- Topic: International Car-free Days & Sample Essay
- Topic: Traffic
- Topic: Transportation
- Topic: TV or Radio
- Topic: Communication Technology
- Topic: Living in Campus
- Topic: Crime
- Collocations - Topic: The Environment
- Useful Collocations - Topic: Government
Trending Essay Topics
- Every year several languages die out
- Some People Think That Parents Should Teach Children How to be Good Members of Society
- Happiness is considered very important in life
- In some countries the average weight of people is increasing
- Young people are encouraged to work or travel for a year between finishing high school
- Research Indicates That the Characteristics We are Born With Have Much More Influence On Our Personality
Academic IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics with Sample Essays
Below is the list of Academic IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics with Sample Essays:
- Topic 01: Media
- Topic 02: Successful Sports Professionals
- Topic 03:Smoking
- Topic 04: Children today play very violent games
- Topic 05:The birth rate in most developed countries
- Topic 06: Many families find it necessary for both parents go out to work
- Topic 07: Women and men are commonly seen as having different strength and weaknesses
- Topic 08: Increase in violent crime among youngsters
- Topic 09: Good Job
- Topic 10: Different medical traditions
- Topic 11:Need to prepare for tests and examinations
- Topic 12: Eating Fish
- Topic 13:Concerned about the number of children who are overweight
- Topic 14: Freedom of Speech
- Topic: Aging Population
- Topic: Architecture & History
- Topic: Digital Communication
- Topic: Economic Development
- Topic: Education
- Topic: Environment
- Topic: Food & Transport
- Topic: Government
- Topic: Newspapers
- Topic: Sports
- Topic: Television & Children
- Topic: Economic Growth
The key is to practice regularly and make writing a habit until your final IELTS Writing test! With this preparation, you'll be ready to achieve your desired band in no time. We bet you’re all aware of the IELTS Writing Task 2 so now get ready to gather our expert tricks to crack your writing task 1. Pick between IELTS General Writing Task 1 and the IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 as per your preference and start now!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many paragraphs should my essay have?
What’s better - a longer or shorter essay?
Should I write in the first or third person?
How strict are they on word count?
Can I bring in outside knowledge on the topic?
What’s the best way to prepare for Task 2?
Should I write legibly?
What if I make mistakes or cross things out?