Clear Structure and Strategy for IELTS Writing Task 2

Writing Task 2 requires you to produce a well-organised academic essay of at least 250 words in approximately 40 minutes. 

To succeed, you need to understand the question type, develop a clear position, and present your ideas in a logical, persuasive way. 

Here we give you an introduction of the elements required to be successful in your essay writing.

What Writing Task 2 Requires

Task 2 assesses your ability to present and support an argument or viewpoint on a given issue. To achieve a strong score, you must:

• Address all parts of the question

• Present a clear and consistent position throughout

• Organise ideas into logical paragraphs

• Support your points with relevant explanations or examples

You will encounter several common essay types, including:

• Advantages and Disadvantages

• Opinion (Agree/Disagree)

• Problem and Solution

Universal Structure Tips

Although each question type has its own focus, a strong Task 2 essay follows a clear and predictable structure.

Introduction

• Paraphrase the question.

• State your position or clarify what the essay will cover.

Body Paragraphs

• Begin each paragraph with a clear topic sentence.

• Develop one main idea per paragraph.

• Support your point with explanations, examples, or evidence.

• Use linking words to maintain flow and cohesion.

Conclusion

• Summarise your key points.

• Reinforce your position.

• Avoid introducing new ideas.

Specific Structures for Common Essay Types

1. Advantages & Disadvantages Essays

Introduction: Paraphrase the task and outline that you will discuss both sides.
Body: Two to four paragraphs, usually presenting advantages first. Keep each idea in a separate paragraph.
Conclusion: Summarise the advantages and disadvantages and give a final view if the question asks for it.

2. Opinion (Agree/Disagree) Essays

Introduction: Paraphrase and clearly state your opinion.
Body: Two to three paragraphs supporting your view, plus one paragraph acknowledging the opposing perspective if relevant.
Conclusion: Restate your opinion confidently and summarise your main arguments.

3. Problem & Solution Essays

Introduction: Paraphrase and state that you will discuss problems and solutions.
Body: Present one problem and one practical solution per paragraph.
Conclusion: Recap the major problems and the most effective solutions. Include a brief closing thought if appropriate.

Quick Planning Routine (2–3 Minutes)

1. Identify the task type (advantages/disadvantages, opinion, problem/solution, etc.).

2. Note two or three main points, plus one counterargument if required.

3. Decide the paragraph order and think of a short example for each point.

4. Begin writing with a clear introduction.