The agree/disagree essay (also called “opinion essay”) is the most common IELTS Writing Task 2 question type. You’ll be given a statement and asked whether you agree or disagree with it.

This guide covers everything you need: how to identify this question type, a proven structure template, sample essays at Band 6, 7, 8, and 9 with annotations, essential vocabulary, common mistakes to avoid, and practice prompts to sharpen your skills.

What Is an Agree/Disagree Essay?

An agree/disagree essay presents a statement or claim. Your task is to:

1. State your position — Do you agree, disagree, or partially agree?
2. Support your position — Give reasons and examples

This question type tests your ability to form and defend an opinion clearly. It appears in roughly 25-30% of IELTS Writing Task 2 exams.

How to Identify This Question Type

Look for these phrases:

• “To what extent do you agree or disagree?”
• “Do you agree or disagree?”
• “What is your opinion?”
• “Do you think this is a positive or negative development?”

Example prompt:

Some people believe that children should not be given homework every day. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

“Agree or Disagree” vs. “To What Extent”

These two phrasings allow different approaches:

Important: “To what extent” explicitly invites nuance. You can say “I largely agree but…” or “I agree to a certain extent.” This isn’t sitting on the fence—it’s showing sophisticated thinking.

The 3 Ways to Answer

You have three valid approaches for agree/disagree essays:

1. Full Agreement

You completely agree with the statement. Both body paragraphs support your position.

Best when: The statement is clearly true or you have strong supporting arguments.

Example thesis: “I completely agree that daily homework places unnecessary burden on students.”

2. Full Disagreement

You completely disagree with the statement. Both body paragraphs argue against it.

Best when: The statement is clearly flawed or you can strongly argue the opposite.

Example thesis: “I strongly disagree with the view that homework should be eliminated.”

3. Partial Agreement (For “To What Extent” Questions)

You agree with some aspects but not others. One body paragraph supports the statement; one presents limitations or exceptions.

Best when: The question asks “to what extent” AND the issue genuinely has multiple valid perspectives.

Example thesis: “While I agree that excessive homework can harm students, I believe moderate daily assignments remain valuable.”

Pro tip: Partial agreement shows nuanced thinking, but your overall position must be clear. Don’t say “there are both advantages and disadvantages”—that’s a different essay type entirely.

Essay Structure Template

Use this 4-paragraph structure for every agree/disagree essay:

Introduction (2-3 sentences)

• Paraphrase the statement in your own words
• State your position clearly

Template (Full Agreement/Disagreement):

[Paraphrase the topic]. I [completely/strongly] [agree/disagree] with this view because [brief preview of reasons].

Template (Partial Agreement):

[Paraphrase the topic]. While I agree that [concession], I believe [your main position].

Body Paragraph 1 (4-5 sentences)

• Topic sentence stating your first reason
• Explanation of why this reason matters
• Specific example or evidence
• Link back to your main argument

Body Paragraph 2 (4-5 sentences)

• Topic sentence stating your second reason
• Explanation of why this reason matters
• Specific example or evidence
• Link back to your main argument

For Partial Agreement: Body 1 = what you agree with; Body 2 = your reservations or exceptions

Conclusion (2 sentences)

• Restate your position in different words
• Summarize your main reasons briefly

Template:

In conclusion, I [agree/disagree] that [topic] because [summary of reasons].

Step-by-Step Writing Process (40 Minutes)

Here’s how to allocate your time:

Word count target: 270-300 words. This gives you room to develop ideas without rushing.

Planning Template (5 Minutes)

Before writing, fill in this quick template:

Position: Agree / Disagree / Partially Agree

Reason 1: ________________
Example: ________________

Reason 2: ________________
Example: ________________

Sample Essays at Every Band Level

Prompt:

It is now possible to order almost any item over the Internet and have it delivered to one’s home. Some people say this is making people lazy, impatient, and prone to making unnecessary purchases. Do you agree?

The following four essays respond to the same prompt. Reading them in order—from Band 6 to Band 9—shows how improvements in vocabulary, development, and structure lead to higher scores.

Band 6 Sample Essay

Nowadays people can buy almost anything on the internet and have it delivered to their home. Some people say this makes people lazy, impatient, and they buy things they do not need. I disagree with this opinion.

First, online shopping does not make people lazy. When you shop online, you still need to search for products on different websites. You also need to compare prices and read about the products. This takes time and thinking. So shopping online is not lazy.

Second, online shopping needs patience because you have to wait for delivery. When you buy in a shop, you can take the item home immediately. But online shoppers must wait many days. This teaches patience, not impatience.

Third, people can make better decisions online. They can read reviews from other customers and compare many products. This helps them buy only what they really need.

In conclusion, I disagree that online shopping makes people lazy or impatient. I think it actually helps people be more patient and make better choices when they buy things.

Word count: 182 words | Band score: 6

Why This Is Band 6:

• Below minimum word count (250 required)—this alone limits the score
• Limited vocabulary (“many,” “things,” “good,” “need”)
• Simple sentence structures throughout
• Ideas present but underdeveloped—no specific examples
• Repetitive phrasing (“online shopping,” “I disagree”)

Band 7 Sample Essay

These days, it is possible to order almost any product online and have it delivered directly to your home. Some people believe this convenience makes consumers lazy, impatient, and more likely to make unnecessary purchases. However, I disagree with this view for the following reasons.

Firstly, online shopping actually requires patience rather than encouraging impatience. Unlike shopping in physical stores where customers can take items home immediately, online shoppers must wait for their orders to be delivered. This waiting period, which can range from several days to weeks for international orders, means that online consumers need to plan ahead and delay their gratification. This is clearly the opposite of impatient behavior.

Secondly, the claim that online shopping promotes laziness is not accurate. Searching for products online requires active effort and engagement. Consumers must browse multiple websites, compare prices, and read product descriptions carefully before making a purchase. This process of research and comparison is mentally engaging rather than passive or lazy.

Finally, online shopping often leads to more thoughtful purchasing decisions rather than unnecessary ones. Consumers have easy access to customer reviews and product ratings, which help them evaluate whether an item is truly worth buying. Many people specifically use online platforms to find the best deals and avoid the impulse purchases that might happen in physical stores.

In conclusion, I disagree that online shopping makes people lazy, impatient, or prone to unnecessary purchases. Instead, it encourages patience, active research, and more informed buying decisions.

Word count: 254 words | Band score: 7

Why This Is Band 7 (Not 8):

• Meets word count but ideas could be more developed
• Adequate vocabulary but lacks sophistication (“not accurate,” “active effort”)
• Some complex sentences but limited variety
• General statements without specific examples
• Conclusion summarizes but doesn’t synthesize

Band 8 Sample Essay

The rise of online shopping has fundamentally transformed how consumers purchase goods, with almost any item now available for home delivery at the click of a button. While some argue that this convenience promotes laziness, impatience, and impulsive spending, I strongly disagree with this characterization.

First, online shopping cultivates patience rather than undermining it. Traditional retail offers instant gratification—customers select an item and take it home immediately. Online shoppers, by contrast, must wait for delivery, often several days or even weeks for international orders. Someone purchasing a birthday gift online, for example, must anticipate delivery times and plan accordingly. This requirement for forward planning is fundamentally incompatible with impatience.

Second, the assertion that online shopping encourages laziness overlooks the considerable active engagement it requires. Finding the right product demands real effort: comparing specifications across multiple retailers, analyzing customer reviews, and researching alternatives. This deliberate research process is far from passive—it represents engaged, thoughtful consumer behavior that requires both time and mental energy.

Third, online platforms frequently lead to more considered purchasing decisions, not fewer. The abundance of customer reviews, price comparison tools, and detailed product information empowers consumers to make truly informed choices. Many shoppers specifically turn to online platforms to escape the in-store sales tactics that can pressure them into unnecessary purchases. The ability to leave items in a virtual cart overnight and reconsider provides a natural barrier against impulse buying.

In conclusion, online shopping makes consumers more patient, more engaged, and more deliberate—not lazier or more impulsive. The claim that internet shopping promotes negative consumer behaviors fails to account for the planning, research, and thoughtfulness that online purchasing actually requires.

Word count: 283 words | Band score: 8

Why This Is Band 8 (Not 9):

• Strong vocabulary (“cultivates,” “fundamentally incompatible,” “deliberate”)
• Well-developed ideas with one specific example (birthday gift)
• Good range of sentence structures
• Clear position throughout
• Minor room for more natural phrasing and fuller examples

Band 9 Sample Essay

The growth of online shopping has transformed how people buy goods, making it possible to order almost anything and have it delivered to your door. Some argue that this convenience makes consumers lazy, impatient, and prone to unnecessary purchases. I strongly disagree—the reality is quite the opposite.

First, online shopping actually requires patience, not impatience. In a physical store, you can pick up an item and take it home within minutes. Online buyers, however, must wait days or even weeks for delivery. Someone ordering a birthday gift online, for instance, needs to think ahead, factor in shipping times, and plan around potential delays. This kind of forward planning is the opposite of impatient behavior.

Second, online shopping is far from lazy—it demands genuine engagement. Finding the right product means comparing options across different websites, reading through customer reviews, and weighing up alternatives before making a decision. This process takes time and real mental effort, which is hardly the behavior of someone looking for the easy option.

Third, online platforms tend to encourage more careful spending, not less. With detailed reviews, price comparisons, and product information readily available, consumers can make truly informed choices. Many people specifically shop online to avoid the pushy sales tactics they encounter in stores. The ability to add something to your cart, sleep on it, and decide the next day creates a natural pause that helps prevent impulse buys—something that rarely happens when you’re standing at a checkout counter.

In conclusion, online shopping encourages patience, active decision-making, and thoughtful spending rather than the laziness and impulsivity that critics suggest. The claim that it promotes poor consumer habits overlooks the planning and consideration that online buying actually involves.

Word count: 284 words | Band score: 9

Why This Is Band 9:

Note: Band 9 vocabulary is sophisticated through precision and naturalness, not complexity. Phrases like “sleep on it” and “pushy sales tactics” show native-level control without showing off.

What Separates Band 6, 7, 8, and 9?

Vocabulary for Agree/Disagree Essays

Expressing Strong Agreement

• I strongly believe that…
• I am firmly of the opinion that…
• I completely agree with the view that…
• It is undeniable that…
• There is no doubt that…

Expressing Strong Disagreement

• I strongly disagree with the notion that…
• I completely reject the idea that…
• It is unreasonable to suggest that…
• The claim that… is unfounded
• I cannot accept the argument that…

Expressing Partial Agreement

• While I agree that…, I also believe…
• Although there is some merit to this argument…
• To a certain extent this is true; however…
• I largely agree, but with some reservations…
• This is partially true, but it overlooks…

Introducing Reasons

• The primary reason for my view is…
• One significant factor is…
• This is primarily because…
• The main argument supporting this is…

Introducing Examples

• For instance, …
• A clear example of this is…
• This can be seen in…
• To illustrate, …

Concluding Phrases

• In conclusion, …
• To summarize, …
• Taking everything into account, …
• For the reasons mentioned above, …

7 Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Sitting on the Fence

Wrong: “There are advantages and disadvantages to this issue, so it is hard to say.”

Right: “While there are valid points on both sides, I believe the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.”

Your position must be clear. Examiners specifically look for this.

2. Changing Your Position Mid-Essay

If you agree in the introduction, don’t suddenly disagree in body paragraph 2 or the conclusion. Your thesis should guide the entire essay.

3. Writing a Discussion Essay Instead

Wrong approach: Body 1 = why some people agree; Body 2 = why others disagree

Right approach: Body 1 = your first reason; Body 2 = your second reason

Both paragraphs should support YOUR position.

4. Introducing New Ideas in the Conclusion

The conclusion should summarize, not introduce new arguments. If you have a third point, put it in the body paragraphs.

5. Overusing “I think” and “In my opinion”

State these once in the introduction. After that, your arguments speak for themselves. Constantly repeating “I think” weakens your writing.

6. No Specific Examples

Weak: “Many people experience this problem.”

Strong: “A 2024 study found that 65% of remote workers report improved work-life balance.”

Specific examples strengthen your arguments significantly.

7. Ignoring Part of the Question

If the prompt mentions three things (lazy, impatient, unnecessary purchases), address all three—not just one or two.

Practice Prompts

Practice with these common IELTS topics:

1. Technology: Social media does more harm than good for young people. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
2. Education: University education should be free for all students. Do you agree or disagree?
3. Environment: Individuals can do nothing to improve the environment; only governments and large companies can make a difference. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
4. Work: People should be required to retire at age 65. Do you agree or disagree?
5. Health: Governments should ban advertising for unhealthy food. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
6. Society: The gap between rich and poor is growing. Is this a positive or negative development?
7. Crime: Prison is the best punishment for criminals. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
8. Culture: Globalization is destroying local cultures. Do you agree or disagree?
9. Media: News media has too much influence on people’s opinions. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
10. Family: Parents should be held legally responsible for their children’s behavior. Do you agree or disagree?

Pro tip: For each prompt, practice the 5-minute planning method before writing. This builds the habit of structured thinking.

For more practice with feedback, Magoosh IELTS Prep includes Writing assessments with professional feedback and 10 full mock tests.

FAQs

Can I partially agree on all agree/disagree questions?

Only on “to what extent” questions. If the question asks simply “do you agree or disagree,” take a clear side. You can acknowledge the other view briefly, but your position should be definitive.

How many reasons should I give?

Two well-developed reasons is ideal. This gives you enough depth within the word limit. Three reasons often leads to underdevelopment.

Should I include counterarguments?

For a standard agree/disagree essay, focus on supporting your position. You can briefly acknowledge the other side in one sentence, but don’t develop it fully—that’s for discussion essays.

What if I don’t have a strong opinion on the topic?

Choose the side you can argue more easily. You don’t need to believe your position personally—you need to support it with clear reasoning and examples.

Is it okay to use personal examples?

Yes, sparingly. “In my country…” or “In my experience…” can work, but balance them with broader examples or evidence.

The causes and solutions essay (also called “problem-solution”) is one of the most common IELTS Writing Task 2 question types. You’ll be asked to identify why a problem exists and propose ways to fix it.

This guide covers everything you need: how to identify this question type, a proven structure template, a Band 9 sample essay with annotations, essential vocabulary, common mistakes to avoid, and practice prompts to sharpen your skills.

What Is a Causes/Solutions Essay?

A causes/solutions essay presents a social, environmental, or economic problem. Your task is to:

1. Identify the causes — Why does this problem exist?
2. Propose solutions — How can we address it?

This question type tests your ability to analyze issues logically and think critically about real-world problems. It appears in roughly 15-20% of IELTS Writing Task 2 exams.

Important: Some variations ask for “problems and solutions” rather than “causes and solutions.” The approach is the same—just substitute “problems caused by X” for “causes of X.”

How to Identify This Question Type

Look for these phrases in the question:

• “What are the causes and solutions?”
• “What are the reasons for this, and how can it be addressed?”
• “Why is this happening, and what measures can be taken?”
• “What problems does this cause, and how can they be solved?”

Example prompt:

In many countries, plastic waste is becoming a serious environmental problem. What are the causes of this issue, and what solutions can you suggest?

If you see two parts—one asking why and one asking how to fix it—you have a causes/solutions essay.

Essay Structure Template

Use this 4-paragraph structure for every causes/solutions essay:

Introduction (2-3 sentences)

• Paraphrase the problem in your own words
• State that you will discuss causes and solutions

Template:

[Paraphrase the problem]. This essay will examine the main causes of this issue and propose practical solutions.

Body Paragraph 1: Causes (80-100 words)

• Topic sentence introducing causes
• Cause 1 + explanation + effect
• Cause 2 + explanation + effect

Template:

There are several reasons why [problem] has become prevalent. Firstly, [cause 1 + explanation]. As a result, [effect]. Additionally, [cause 2 + explanation], which leads to [effect].

Body Paragraph 2: Solutions (80-100 words)

• Topic sentence introducing solutions
• Solution 1 + how it works + expected outcome
• Solution 2 + how it works + expected outcome

Template:

Several measures could be implemented to address this problem. One effective solution would be [solution 1 + how it works]. This would [expected outcome]. Furthermore, [solution 2 + explanation], which could [expected result].

Conclusion (2 sentences)

• Summarize briefly
• End with a forward-looking statement

Template:

In conclusion, [problem] is primarily caused by [brief summary of causes]. By [brief summary of solutions], significant progress can be made.

5-Minute Planning Method

Before you write, spend 5 minutes planning. Use this simple template:

Problem: ________________

Causes:
1. ________________ → Effect: ________________
2. ________________ → Effect: ________________

Solutions:
1. ________________ → How it helps: ________________
2. ________________ → How it helps: ________________

Example (plastic waste):

Problem: Plastic waste damaging environment

Causes:
1. Single-use packaging → Convenience prioritized over sustainability
2. Lack of recycling infrastructure → Most plastic ends up in landfills

Solutions:
1. Ban single-use plastics → Forces businesses to find alternatives
2. Invest in recycling facilities → Makes proper disposal easier

Pro tip: Link each solution to a cause. If “lack of education” is a cause, then “awareness campaigns” should be a solution. Examiners look for this logical connection.

Step-by-Step Writing Process (40 Minutes)

Here’s how to allocate your time:

Word count target: 270-300 words. This gives you room to develop ideas without rushing.

Band 9 Sample Essay with Annotations

Prompt: Many large cities around the world lack affordable housing. What problems does a lack of affordable housing cause? How can these problems be overcome?

Introduction:

Affordable housing has become increasingly scarce in major cities worldwide, creating significant social and economic challenges. This essay will explore the problems caused by this shortage and suggest measures to address them.

✓ Why it works: Paraphrases the topic without copying. Clearly signals essay structure.

Body Paragraph 1 (Problems/Causes):

The most pressing issue arising from expensive housing is homelessness. When rental costs consume most of a person’s income, many individuals and families cannot afford even basic accommodation. Beyond direct homelessness, high housing costs create a ripple effect throughout the economy. Businesses such as grocery stores and restaurants must pay elevated rents, and these costs are passed on to consumers through higher prices for everyday goods and services.

✓ Why it works: Clear topic sentence. Two distinct problems with logical explanation. Shows cause-and-effect thinking.

Body Paragraph 2 (Solutions):

To tackle these issues, governments could implement rent control policies that limit how much landlords can charge. This would make existing housing more accessible to middle and lower-income residents. Additionally, increasing welfare payments and housing subsidies would provide a safety net for those struggling to afford accommodation. When people have stable housing, they can participate more fully in the economy, which benefits society as a whole.

✓ Why it works: Solutions directly address the problems mentioned. Explains HOW each solution works and WHY it would help.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the lack of affordable housing leads to homelessness and increased living costs across the board. Through a combination of rent regulation and enhanced public assistance, governments can create more equitable housing markets that benefit all citizens.

✓ Why it works: Summarizes without repeating exact phrases. Ends on a constructive note.

Word count: 300 words | Band score: 9

What makes this Band 9:

• Task Response: Fully addresses both parts of the question
• Coherence and Cohesion: Clear paragraph structure with logical flow
• Lexical Resource: Range of vocabulary (“scarce,” “ripple effect,” “equitable”)
• Grammatical Range: Mix of simple and complex sentences

What Separates Band 6, 7, and 9?

Band 6 example weakness:

“One cause is pollution. Another cause is too many cars. A solution is to use buses.”

This lists ideas without explanation. Compare to the Band 9 sample, which explains WHY each cause creates problems and HOW each solution addresses them.

Vocabulary for Causes/Solutions Essays

Introducing Causes

• One major cause of this problem is…
• The primary reason for this is…
• This issue stems from…
• A contributing factor is…
• This can be attributed to…

Explaining Effects

• As a result, …
• This leads to…
• Consequently, …
• The impact of this is…
• This results in…

Proposing Solutions

• One effective solution would be…
• This problem could be addressed by…
• To tackle this issue, …
• A practical measure would be…
• Governments/individuals could…

Linking Causes to Solutions

• To address the issue of [cause], [solution] could be implemented.
• Since [cause] is a major factor, [solution] would help mitigate this.
• By targeting [cause], [solution] could bring significant improvements.

Concluding

• In conclusion, …
• To summarize, …
• Ultimately, …
• Taking everything into account, …

7 Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Unrealistic Solutions

Wrong: “Governments should provide free housing for everyone.”

Better: “Governments could subsidize affordable housing developments in urban areas.”

Solutions must be practical and implementable.

2. Unbalanced Coverage

Don’t write 150 words on causes and 50 words on solutions. Aim for roughly equal development—both parts of the question matter equally for your Task Response score.

3. Listing Without Explaining

Wrong: “The causes are pollution, overpopulation, and lack of education.”

Better: “One significant cause is rapid urbanization. As more people move to cities seeking employment, the demand for housing outpaces supply, driving up prices.”

4. Solutions That Don’t Match Causes

If you identify “lack of public awareness” as a cause, one solution should involve education or awareness campaigns. Examiners notice when your solutions seem disconnected from your causes.

5. Vague, General Statements

Wrong: “The government should do something about this.”

Better: “Local governments could invest in recycling infrastructure, making it easier for residents to dispose of waste responsibly.”

6. Missing Conclusion

Always include a conclusion, even if brief. An essay without a conclusion looks unfinished and will affect your Coherence score.

7. Using Wrong Terminology

For Task 2 essays, the scoring criterion is Task Response (not “Task Achievement”—that’s for Task 1). This matters if you’re discussing scoring criteria in your study materials.

Practice Prompts

Practice with these common IELTS topics:

1. Environment: Air pollution in major cities is reaching dangerous levels. What are the causes of this problem, and what solutions can you suggest?
2. Health: Obesity rates among children have increased significantly in recent decades. What are the reasons for this trend, and how can it be addressed?
3. Employment: Youth unemployment is a growing problem in many countries. What causes this issue, and what measures could be taken to reduce it?
4. Urban Issues: Traffic congestion in cities continues to worsen. Why is this happening, and what can be done to improve the situation?
5. Technology: Many people are becoming addicted to social media. What are the causes of this addiction, and how can it be prevented?
6. Education: Educational inequality persists between wealthy and disadvantaged communities. What causes this gap, and how can it be reduced?
7. Social Issues: Homelessness is increasing in many developed countries. What are the causes, and what solutions would you recommend?
8. Environment: Food waste has become a significant problem globally. Why does this occur, and what can be done to reduce it?
9. Workplace: Workplace stress is affecting more employees than ever before. What are the causes, and how can employers address this issue?
10. Society: Cyberbullying among young people is on the rise. What causes this behavior, and what measures can prevent it?

Pro tip: For each prompt, practice the 5-minute planning method before writing. This builds the habit of structured thinking.

For more practice with feedback, Magoosh IELTS Prep includes Writing assessments with professional feedback and 10 full mock tests.

FAQs

How many causes and solutions should I include?

Two of each is ideal. This gives you enough depth to develop your ideas properly within the word limit. Three of each is possible but risks being superficial.

Should causes and solutions be in separate paragraphs?

Yes. This creates clear organization and makes it easy for the examiner to see you’ve addressed both parts of the question.

What if I can only think of one cause?

Develop that one cause thoroughly with examples and effects. A well-explained single cause is better than two weak ones. The same applies to solutions.

Do I need to give my opinion?

Unlike agree/disagree essays, causes/solutions essays don’t typically require a personal opinion. Focus on analysis and practical recommendations.

Can I use the same structure for “problems and solutions” questions?

Yes. The structure is identical—just discuss problems (effects of the issue) instead of causes (reasons for the issue).

Knowing how to identify and structure each IELTS Writing Task 2 question type is one of the fastest ways to improve your score. Each type requires a slightly different approach, and using the wrong structure can hurt your Task Response score—even if your English is strong.

In this guide, you’ll learn the five question types, how to recognize each one instantly, and the exact structure to use for each. We’ll also cover the common mistakes that cost students marks on each type.

Understanding IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types

IELTS Writing Task 2 gives you 40 minutes to write a 250+ word essay. This task counts for two-thirds of your Writing score, so getting it right matters.

Every Task 2 question falls into one of five types:

Important: Both Academic and General Training use the same Task 2 format and question types. The only difference is in Task 1.

Pro tip: Spend the first 1-2 minutes identifying the question type. Using the wrong structure is one of the most common reasons students score below Band 6 on Task Response.

How IELTS Writing Task 2 Is Scored

Your essay is marked on four criteria, each worth 25%:

1. Task Response — Did you answer the question fully?
2. Coherence and Cohesion — Is your essay organized logically?
3. Lexical Resource — Did you use a range of vocabulary accurately?
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Did you use varied sentence structures correctly?

Understanding question types directly affects your Task Response score. If you write a discussion essay when the question asks for your opinion only, you haven’t fully answered the question—and your score will reflect that.

For a deeper dive into scoring, see our IELTS Writing Task 2 guide.

Opinion Essays (Agree/Disagree)

Opinion essays are the most common type. You’ll be given a statement and asked whether you agree or disagree with it.

How to Identify This Question Type

Look for these phrases:

• “To what extent do you agree or disagree?”
• “Do you agree or disagree?”
• “What is your opinion?”
• “Do you think this is a positive or negative development?”

Example prompt:

Some people believe that children should not be given homework every day. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Essay Structure Template

Introduction (2-3 sentences)

• Paraphrase the topic
• State your position clearly

Body Paragraph 1 (4-5 sentences)

• First reason supporting your position
• Explanation + example

Body Paragraph 2 (4-5 sentences)

• Second reason supporting your position
• Explanation + example

Conclusion (2 sentences)

• Restate your position
• Summarize main reasons

Sample Introduction

The question of whether daily homework benefits students is widely debated. I strongly disagree with assigning homework every day, as it reduces time for other developmental activities and can lead to student burnout.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Sitting on the fence — Saying “there are advantages and disadvantages” without taking a clear position. Examiners want to see your opinion.
2. Changing your position — If you agree in the introduction, don’t suddenly disagree in the conclusion.
3. Confusing “to what extent” with “discuss both views” — “To what extent” still requires YOUR opinion. You can partially agree, but you must be clear about your stance.

Band Score Tip

For Band 7+, you can express partial agreement on “to what extent” questions. For example: “While I agree that homework has some benefits, I believe daily assignments do more harm than good.” This shows nuanced thinking—just make sure your overall position is clear.

Discussion Essays (Discuss Both Views)

Discussion essays require you to present both sides of an argument before giving your opinion (if asked).

How to Identify This Question Type

Look for:

• “Discuss both views and give your opinion”
• “Discuss both sides and give your view”
• “Some people think X, while others believe Y. Discuss both views.”

Example prompt:

Some people think that the best way to reduce crime is to give longer prison sentences. Others believe there are better ways to reduce crime. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Essay Structure Template

Introduction (2-3 sentences)

• Paraphrase both viewpoints
• State which view you support (if opinion is requested)

Body Paragraph 1 (4-5 sentences)

• First viewpoint + reasons/examples
• Present this view fairly, even if you disagree

Body Paragraph 2 (4-5 sentences)

• Second viewpoint + reasons/examples
• Present this view fairly

Conclusion (2-3 sentences)

• State your opinion clearly
• Brief summary of why

Sample Introduction

There is ongoing debate about the most effective approaches to reducing crime. While some advocate for longer prison sentences as a deterrent, others argue that prevention and rehabilitation programs are more effective. I believe that addressing root causes of crime is ultimately more beneficial than extended incarceration.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Forgetting to give your opinion — If the question says “give your opinion,” you MUST include it. Leaving it out significantly hurts your Task Response score.
2. Unbalanced discussion — Don’t write 150 words on one view and 50 words on the other. Give roughly equal treatment to both sides.
3. Being biased in the “other” view — When presenting the view you disagree with, use neutral language. Don’t say “Some people foolishly believe…”

Band Score Tip

Save your strongest arguments for the view you support. Present the opposing view fairly but briefly, then develop your preferred view with more detail and better examples.

Advantages and Disadvantages Essays

These essays ask you to examine the pros and cons of a situation, trend, or proposal.

How to Identify This Question Type

Look for:

• “What are the advantages and disadvantages?”
• “Discuss the advantages and disadvantages”
• “Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

Important distinction:

• “What are the advantages and disadvantages?” = No opinion needed
• “Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?” = Opinion required

Example prompt:

More and more people are working from home. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?

Essay Structure Template

Introduction (2-3 sentences)

• Paraphrase the topic
• State that you will discuss both sides (add opinion if “outweigh” question)

Body Paragraph 1: Advantages (4-5 sentences)

• 2 advantages with explanations and examples

Body Paragraph 2: Disadvantages (4-5 sentences)

• 2 disadvantages with explanations and examples

Conclusion (2-3 sentences)

• Summarize key points
• Give opinion only if question asks “outweigh”

Sample Introduction (for “outweigh” question)

Remote work has become increasingly common in recent years. While working from home offers significant benefits such as flexibility and reduced commuting, I believe the disadvantages—including isolation and blurred work-life boundaries—outweigh these advantages for most employees.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Giving an opinion when not asked — If the question only asks for advantages and disadvantages, you don’t need to say which is stronger. However, giving a brief opinion in the conclusion won’t hurt you.
2. Listing without explaining — Don’t just list “flexibility, no commute, comfort.” Each point needs 1-2 sentences of explanation.
3. Mixing advantages and disadvantages in one paragraph — Keep them clearly separated for better coherence.

Band Score Tip

Quality over quantity. Two well-developed advantages are better than four superficial ones. Aim for clear topic sentences like “One significant advantage is…” and “On the other hand, a major drawback is…”

Problem and Solution Essays

These essays ask you to identify causes of a problem and propose solutions.

How to Identify This Question Type

Look for:

• “What are the causes and solutions?”
• “What problems does this cause, and how can they be solved?”
• “Why is this happening, and what measures can be taken?”

Example prompt:

In many countries, plastic waste is a growing environmental problem. What are the causes of this issue, and what solutions can you suggest?

Essay Structure Template

Introduction (2-3 sentences)

• Paraphrase the problem
• State that you will discuss causes and solutions

Body Paragraph 1: Causes (4-5 sentences)

• 2 main causes with explanations

Body Paragraph 2: Solutions (4-5 sentences)

• 2 solutions that address the causes

Conclusion (2 sentences)

• Summarize the issue
• Express hope or emphasize importance of action

Sample Body Paragraph (Solutions)

Several measures could help address this problem. Governments could implement stricter regulations on single-use plastics and invest in recycling infrastructure. On an individual level, consumers can reduce their plastic consumption by choosing reusable alternatives. If both public policy and personal habits change, significant progress is possible.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Unrealistic solutions — “Governments should ban all plastic” isn’t practical. Propose achievable solutions.
2. Solutions that don’t match causes — If you identify “lack of education” as a cause, one solution should involve education.
3. Unbalanced coverage — Don’t write extensively about causes and then rush through solutions in 2 sentences.

Band Score Tip

Connect your solutions to your causes. If consumer demand is a cause, then changing consumer behavior should be part of the solution. This shows logical thinking and boosts your Coherence score.

Two-Part Question Essays

Two-part essays give you a topic followed by two distinct questions. Both must be answered fully.

How to Identify This Question Type

Look for two separate questions, often including:

• “Why…? Do you think…?”
• “What…? How…?”
• “Why…? What…?”

Example prompt:

Many young people today are choosing not to learn to drive. Why is this happening? Is this a positive or negative development?

Essay Structure Template

Introduction (2-3 sentences)

• Paraphrase the topic
• Briefly preview your answers to both questions

Body Paragraph 1 (4-5 sentences)

• Answer the first question fully

Body Paragraph 2 (4-5 sentences)

• Answer the second question fully

Conclusion (2 sentences)

• Summarize both answers

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Only answering one question — This is the biggest mistake. If you ignore half the question, you can’t score above Band 5 on Task Response.
2. Unequal treatment — Give roughly equal depth to both questions.
3. Treating it as a different essay type — Don’t turn it into a pure advantages/disadvantages essay if that’s not what’s asked.

Band Score Tip

Use clear signposting: “There are several reasons why young people are avoiding driving…” and “In my view, this trend is largely positive because…” This helps the examiner see you’ve addressed both parts.

Quick Reference: Question Type Identification Cheat Sheet

Which Question Type Should You Practice Most?

If you’re short on time, prioritize Opinion and Discussion essays—they appear most frequently and share similar structures.

However, don’t ignore the others. The worst outcome is facing an unfamiliar question type on test day.

A balanced practice approach:

1. Master Opinion essays first (most common)
2. Practice Discussion essays next (similar structure, adds complexity)
3. Work through Advantages/Disadvantages and Problem/Solution
4. Don’t forget Two-Part questions (less common but tricky)

Pro tip: If you’re preparing for IELTS on computer, remember that One Skill Retake is available—you can retake just the Writing section within 60 days if needed.

For structured practice with feedback on your essays, Magoosh IELTS Prep includes Writing and Speaking assessments with professional feedback, plus 10 full mock tests.

FAQs About IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types

Can question types be combined?

Rarely, but yes. You might see “What are the causes of this problem, and do you think the government or individuals should be responsible for solving it?” This combines Problem/Solution with a Two-Part structure. When in doubt, make sure you answer every question asked.

Is one question type harder than another?

Not inherently. The difficulty depends on the topic, not the type. However, many students find Two-Part questions challenging because they require managing two distinct answers within the word limit.

Does Academic vs. General Training have different question types?

No. Both versions use the same five question types for Task 2. The only difference between Academic and General Training is in Task 1.

What if I can’t identify the question type?

Read the question carefully and look for the key phrases in our cheat sheet above. If you’re still unsure, focus on answering exactly what the question asks—that’s what matters most for Task Response.

How long should I spend on each section?

For most question types:

• Planning: 5 minutes
• Writing: 30 minutes
• Reviewing: 5 minutes

This gives you time to identify the question type, plan your response, and check for errors.

IELTS Writing Task 2 is a 40-minute essay where you respond to a point of view, argument, or problem. You must write at least 250 words. This task counts for two-thirds of your total Writing score, making it the most important part of the Writing section.

You will see one of five question types: opinion, discussion, advantages/disadvantages, causes/solutions, or two-part questions. Success requires understanding how examiners score your essay and practicing each question type with a clear structure.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Task 2, with links to detailed resources for each topic.

What Is IELTS Writing Task 2?

IELTS Writing Task 2 is an essay task that appears in both the Academic and General Training versions of the test. The task is identical for both versions.

Here are the key facts:

You will receive a statement or question about a general topic. Topics include education, technology, health, environment, society, and work. You do not need specialized knowledge. The examiners want to see how well you can organize and express your ideas in English.

Task 2 is worth twice as much as Task 1. Many students spend too much time on Task 1 and rush through Task 2. This is a mistake. Aim to spend no more than 20 minutes on Task 1, leaving 40 full minutes for Task 2.

Pro tip: Write Task 2 first if you struggle with time management. This ensures your higher-weighted task gets your full attention.

How IELTS Writing Task 2 Is Scored

Examiners score your essay on four criteria. Each criterion is worth 25% of your Task 2 score.

What Separates Band 6, 7, and 8

Understanding the difference between band scores helps you target your improvements.

Band 6 essays:

• Address the task but may not fully develop all points
• Have a clear structure but linking may be mechanical (“Firstly… Secondly… Finally…”)
• Use adequate vocabulary with some errors
• Mix simple and complex sentences with noticeable errors

Band 7 essays:

• Present a clear position throughout the response
• Organize ideas logically with clear progression
• Use less common vocabulary with awareness of style
• Use a variety of complex structures, like conditional sentences, with good control

Band 8 essays:

• Respond to all parts of the task with fully extended, well-developed ideas
• Sequence information and ideas skillfully
• Use a wide range of vocabulary fluently and precisely
• Use a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy

The biggest jump for most students is from Band 6 to Band 7. This requires moving beyond basic essay formulas and developing ideas with specific examples.

For the official band descriptors, visit ielts.org.

Pro tip: The difference between Band 6 and Band 7 often comes down to specificity. Instead of writing “this can cause many problems,” explain exactly what problems and why they matter.

The 5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types

Every Task 2 question falls into one of five categories. Each type requires a slightly different approach.

1. Opinion (Agree/Disagree)

Example prompt: Some people believe that children should start learning a foreign language at primary school. Others think they should wait until secondary school. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

For this type, you must give your opinion clearly and support it throughout the essay. You can fully agree, fully disagree, or partially agree.

See our complete guide: IELTS Agree/Disagree Sample Essay

2. Discussion (Both Views)

Example prompt: Some people think that governments should invest in public transportation. Others believe that money should be spent on building more roads. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

You must discuss both perspectives before giving your own opinion. Failing to address both sides will hurt your Task Response score.

See our complete guide: IELTS Discussion Sample Essay

3. Advantages and Disadvantages

Example prompt: Many people now work from home rather than in an office. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?

Some versions ask you to also give your opinion on whether advantages outweigh disadvantages. Read the prompt carefully.

See our complete guide: IELTS Advantages/Disadvantages Sample Essay

4. Causes and Solutions (Problem/Solution)

Example prompt: In many countries, obesity is becoming a major health problem. What are the causes of this trend, and what solutions can you suggest?

You must address both parts equally. Do not spend your entire essay on causes with only one sentence about solutions.

See our complete guide: IELTS Causes/Solutions Sample Essay

5. Two-Part Questions

Example prompt: Many young people today leave their home country to work abroad. Why is this happening? Is this a positive or negative development?

These questions have two distinct parts. Answer both clearly. Organize your essay so each part has dedicated paragraphs.

For a complete breakdown of all five types with example prompts, see our guide to IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types.

How to Structure Your Essay

A clear structure makes your essay easier to read and improves your Coherence and Cohesion score.

Basic Essay Structure

Introduction (2-3 sentences)

• Paraphrase the question
• State your position or preview your main points

Body Paragraph 1 (4-6 sentences)

• Topic sentence stating your first main point
• Explanation
• Specific example
• Connection to the question

Body Paragraph 2 (4-6 sentences)

• Topic sentence stating your second main point
• Explanation
• Specific example
• Connection to the question

Conclusion (2-3 sentences)

• Summarize your main points
• Restate your position (if applicable)

For most question types, two body paragraphs are sufficient. You can write three if you have time and clear ideas, but two well-developed paragraphs score higher than three underdeveloped ones.

Writing Strong Introductions

Your introduction should do two things: show you understand the question and preview your answer.

Avoid memorized phrases like “In today’s modern world” or “This essay will discuss.” These add nothing and waste words.

See our guide: IELTS Writing Task 2 Introduction and Vocabulary

Developing Body Paragraphs

Each body paragraph needs a clear topic sentence, supporting explanation, and a specific example.

Weak example:

“Education is very important. It helps people get jobs. Many people agree with this.”

Strong example:

“Access to higher education opens career opportunities that would otherwise remain closed. A student from a low-income family who earns a university degree gains access to professional fields like medicine or engineering. Without that education, the same student might be limited to minimum-wage positions regardless of their abilities.”

Notice the specific example and the cause-effect reasoning.

See our complete guide: How to Structure Body Paragraphs

Using Templates Wisely

Templates can help you organize your ideas, but do not memorize entire essays. Examiners recognize memorized content and will penalize it.

Use templates as a starting framework, then adapt them to each specific question.

See our guide: The Best IELTS Task 2 Writing Template

IELTS Writing Task 2 Tips

These strategies will help you maximize your score.

Time Management

• Spend 5 minutes planning before you write
• Use 30 minutes writing your essay
• Save 5 minutes for review and corrections

Many students skip planning and start writing immediately. This leads to disorganized essays and wasted time restructuring halfway through.

Vocabulary Strategies

You do not need rare or complicated words. You need accurate words used appropriately.

Common vocabulary mistakes:

• Using words you do not fully understand
• Repeating the same word throughout the essay
• Using informal language (“kids” instead of “children”)

Focus on:

• Paraphrasing key terms from the question
• Using topic-specific vocabulary naturally
• Choosing precise words over vague ones (“beneficial” vs. “good”)

See our guides:

• Vocabulary for IELTS Writing Task 2
• Advanced Vocabulary for Band 8-9

Linking Words and Cohesion

Linking words help your essay flow. However, overusing them sounds mechanical.

Overused: “Firstly, I believe education is important. Secondly, it helps the economy. Thirdly, it reduces crime. In conclusion, education is very important.”

Better: “Education benefits individuals by expanding their career options. Beyond personal advancement, widespread education also strengthens the broader economy through a more skilled workforce.”

See our guide: Linking Words for IELTS Writing Task 1 and Task 2

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not answering the question — Read the prompt twice. Identify exactly what it asks.
2. Writing too little — Aim for 270-300 words. Under 250 words receives a penalty.
3. Writing too much — More than 300 words increases error opportunities without improving your score.
4. No clear position — For opinion questions, state your view clearly and maintain it throughout.
5. Memorized phrases — Examiners recognize “in this day and age” and similar phrases.

Pro tip: After writing your conclusion, re-read the question. Check that you actually answered what was asked, not what you wanted to discuss.

Recent IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics [2025-2026]

IELTS draws from a consistent set of themes. Recent exams have featured these common topics:

Education

• Online learning vs. traditional classrooms
• University education: necessary or overrated?
• Teaching practical skills vs. academic subjects

Technology

• Social media’s impact on communication
• Artificial intelligence and employment
• Screen time and children’s development

Environment

• Individual vs. government responsibility for climate action
• Sustainable cities and transportation
• Wildlife conservation priorities

Work and Society

• Remote work: benefits and drawbacks
• Work-life balance challenges
• Age diversity in the workplace

Health

• Mental health awareness
• Healthcare system funding
• Lifestyle diseases and prevention

You do not need to memorize facts about these topics. Focus on having opinions you can support with reasoning and examples.

Sample Essays by Band Score

Reading high-scoring essays helps you understand what examiners want.

We have sample essays for each question type:

When reading sample essays, notice:

• How the introduction paraphrases the question
• How each body paragraph develops one main idea
• How examples support general statements
• How the conclusion summarizes without introducing new ideas

How to Prepare for IELTS Writing Task 2

Create a Study Plan

Consistent practice matters more than cramming. Aim to write 2-3 full essays per week under timed conditions.

Each practice session should include:

1. Reading and analyzing the prompt (2 minutes)
2. Planning your response (5 minutes)
3. Writing the essay (30 minutes)
4. Reviewing for errors (5 minutes)
5. Comparing to sample essays or getting feedback

Get Feedback on Your Writing

Self-study has limits. You need external feedback to identify patterns in your mistakes.

Options for feedback:

• Professional tutoring or essay grading services
• Study partners who can review your work
• Magoosh IELTS Prep — includes writing assessments with professional feedback

Practice with Realistic Conditions

Write by hand if you will take the paper-based test. Type if you will take the computer-based test.

Time yourself strictly. Do not pause to look up vocabulary or check grammar rules during practice. You will not have these options on test day.

One Skill Retake Option

If you take IELTS on computer and are unhappy with only one section score, you can retake just that section within 60 days. This is called One Skill Retake and has been available since 2024.

This means if your Writing score is lower than expected but your other sections are strong, you do not need to retake the entire test.

Pro tip: Take a free IELTS practice test to assess your current level before creating your study plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many words should I write for Task 2?

The minimum is 250 words. Aim for 270-300 words. Writing significantly more than 300 words increases your chances of making errors without improving your score.

How long do I have for Task 2?

You have 60 minutes total for both Writing tasks. The recommended split is 20 minutes for Task 1 and 40 minutes for Task 2.

Can I use bullet points in Task 2?

No. Task 2 requires a formal essay with complete paragraphs. Save bullet points for Task 1 if needed.

Do I lose points for spelling mistakes?

Minor spelling errors will not significantly hurt your score. However, frequent errors affect your Lexical Resource score. British and American spellings are both accepted.

What if I do not finish my essay?

An incomplete essay will receive a lower score for Task Response. If you are running out of time, write a brief conclusion rather than leaving the essay unfinished.

Is Task 2 the same for Academic and General Training?

Yes. Both versions have the same Task 2 format, timing, and scoring criteria.

Next Steps

1. Identify your weakest area — Is it vocabulary, structure, or developing ideas?
2. Study the question types — Make sure you understand what each type requires
3. Practice regularly — Write at least two timed essays per week
4. Get feedback — Use professional grading or study partners
5. Review band descriptors — Know exactly what examiners look for at each level

Good luck with your IELTS preparation.

What are the best essay topics for IELTS? Looking at recent IELTS Writing Task 2 questions can help. In this post, I’ll show you real official IELTS Writing Task 2 topics that have been released in the past several years, and I’ll help you predict which new Task 2 topics you’ll see on test day!

Table of Contents

How to Be Well Prepared for any IELTS Essay Topic

Before we get into specific Task 2 topics that are found on the real IELTS exam, let’s look at some general “best practices.” These tips and tricks can help you get a winning score in IELTS Writing Task 2, no matter what the topic is!

• Learn the most basic info on Task 2: the format of the task, time limit, instructions, and so on. You can find these in our IELTS Writing Task 2 Basics post. (There’s so much more to this task than just the recent IELTS Writing Task 2 questions.)
• Mind your word count! This is the easiest way to avoid losing points. For more information, see our article on how many words to write on the IELTS and our guide to the IELTS Writing word count penalty.
• Look at model answers. The best essay topics for IELTS come with model responses. Sample high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 responses can help you see how to write top-scoring responses of your own. Magoosh’s guide to the most common IELTS Writing Task 2 question types includes links to practice questions with full Band 9 example responses.
• Don’t forget to brainstorm. As you write your own response, take a few minutes at the beginning to come up with ideas and plan your essay. Our post on brainstorming your Writing Task 2 response guides you through this important step! Learn it before you start to answer recent IELTS writing topics.
• Don’t just brainstorm, though. Also plan your Task 2 essays by using a template. For an example of this, try out Magoosh’s best IELTS Writing Task 2 template. This template is flexible, designed to work for any recent IELTS Writing Task 2 questions.
• Don’t stop at the essay template; plan your paragraphs too! Planning is especially important for body paragraphs. Here again, Magoosh has you covered, with our Task 2 body paragraph tutorial.
• Make sure you take a tone that sounds professional and academic, to match the kind of formal writing you’ll do at your future school or workplace once you pass the IELTS. This article on formal vs. informal language on the IELTS should help you use the right language.
• Know the rubric! The makers of the IELTS have an official score guide for IELTS Writing Task 2. Here on the blog, you can also read advice on how how to get an 8-9 rubric score for Writing Task 2 and benefit from a detailed explanation of the official IELTS Writing Task 2 rubric. In addition to that, I’ve also written up some special guides to each of the four IELTS Writing Task 2 rubric categories: Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy.

IELTS Essay Topics for 2021: How to Predict Them

How can we predict best essay topics for IELTS prep if you’re taking the exam in 2021? Well, IELTS topics often repeat themselves, and all-new IELTS topics are usually related to recent events, or recent topics of public debate around the world. So by looking at recent IELTS Writing Task 2 topics and looking at the news over the past year, it’s possible to put together a list of topics you could easily see on test day this year.

Below are my predictions for categories and topics, based on the news of the world, and based on an analysis of about 60 recent IELTS Writing topics. I found these latest IELTS essay topics on the official websites and in official IELTS books. The topics that may be new to this year have been highlighted in bold.

The 17 Best Essay Topics for IELTS, with Subtopics (2021)

1. Advertising

• the effectiveness of advertising
• using real customer experiences in advertising
• the impact of online advertising

2. Education

• learning English as a second language
• financial education
• online learning vs. traditional learning
• home schooling
• the best age for children to start school
• school safety measures
• longer vacations from school vs. shorter school breaks
• education preparing students for work vs. preparing them for university
• health classes for school

3. Diet and food

• the impact of being vegetarian
• taxing unhealthy foods
• the impact of organic food
• instant food vs. home cooked food
• locally grown foods vs. non-local foods

4. Entertainment

• high budget vs. low budget movies
• celebrity lifestyles
• popularity of different types of novels and movies
• online entertainment vs. traditional broadcasting
• how celebrities communicate with their fans

5. Environment

• habitat destruction
• endangered species
• the impact of climate change
• natural disasters
• the importance of recycling
• environmental conservation laws

6. Health

• taking care of the elderly
• standards of health and quality of health
• increases in human life span
• the importance of doctors
• medical technology
• lack of sleep
• preventing the spread of contagious diseases
• the effectiveness of vaccines
• public health and safety laws
• medical assistance in the home vs. medical assistance at a hospital
• how to pay for healthcare for the poor

7. Housing

• housing shortages
• owning a home vs. renting one
• tiny homes
• affordable housing
• government control or subsidy of rent costs

8. Natural resources

• renewable fuels
• water as a limited resource
• clean energy
• importing and exporting natural resources
• mining and drilling vs. conservation

9. Parenting

• children being raised in wealthy households vs. poor or middle class ones
• raising children to be confident vs. raising them to understand their limitations
• controlling screen time for children
• strict discipline vs. giving children a lot of freedom

10. Personal choices

• the best age to get married
• moving out of one’s hometown
• modern moral values versus older ones
• living with parents as an adult vs. living alone as an adult

11. Population

• rise in global population
• population decline in some countries

12. Shopping and purchases

• shopping for fun vs. shopping out of necessity
• personal spending
• personal debt
• the importance of fashion
• large national stores vs. small local ones
• online shopping
• the decline of shopping malls

13. Sports

• watching sports vs. participating in sports
• competitive sports for children
• injuries in professional sports

14. Technology

• technology and privacy/surveillance
• reading in print vs. reading online
• paying via mobile app
• the trustworthiness of information found on the Web
• social impact of internet and social media
• multiplayer online video games

15. Travel

• future travel trends
• international tourism
• studying abroad
• domestic tourism
• travel health and safety
• government restrictions on travel

16. Transportation

• car ownership and use
• alternatives to car transportation
• high speed rail
• bicycles and scooters for transportation
• driverless cars
• ride-share services

17. Work

• the importance of training and certification
• retirement age
• staying at the same company vs. working for different companies
• the importance of job satisfaction vs. the importance of high pay
• commuting vs. telecommuting to work
• unemployment benefits
• sick days at work

Recent Official IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics (confirmed)

In addition to the general IELTS Writing Task 2 topics listed above, there are a number of confirmed, official IELTS Task 2 prompts. These recent IELTS Writing Task 2 questions originally come from real IELTS exams. They’re the very best essay topics for IELTS, because they’re so authentic. 14 official topics are listed below, with direct links to the questions associated with the topic!

For these IELTS Writing Task 2 recent topics, click the source link below to directly see the question and model answer. When noted, the model answer is at a separate link.

14 Common Essay Topics for IELTS Writing Task 2

1. Lack of fresh water around the world: causes and solutions (Source: IELTS.org)
2. What makes a movie good, the budget or other factors? (Source: IELTS.org)
3. Are children raised in wealthy households less well-prepared for adulthood? (Source: IELTS.org; click here for a model response.)
4. The advantages and disadvantages of international tourism (Source: IELTS.org; model response at this link.
5. Should eldercare be paid for by families or by the government? (Source: IELTS.org; click this link for sample answers.)
6. Why is shopping a popular pastime, and what is the impact of this popularity? (Source: IELTS.org; model answer found in this document.)
7. Will average health standards be lower in the future? (Source: IELTS.org; click here for a model essay)
8. Do we only judge people by their social status and class, or are traditional moral judgements still common? (Source: British Council)
9. The reason there are so many well-qualified, well-educated job applicants who are out of work. (Source: British Council)
10. Is it better to homeschool children or send them to a school outside the home? (Source: British Council)
11. Should people in certain professions be able to retire before they’re 65? (Source: British Council)
12. Are celebrities too wealthy to care about others? (source: Cambridge English Resources; no model answer)
13. Should schools teach children about the value of money? (Source: Cambridge English Resources; no model answer.)
14. Moving away from one’s hometown: advantages and disadvantages (Source: IELTS IDP; click here for sample response.)

Past IELTS Topics: Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a number of common questions about past IELTS questions that I hear from students, along with my answers!

What are the topics in IELTS writing?

Are IELTS Writing topics repeated?

Do IELTS essays repeat?

Can IELTS papers be leaked?

Additional Resources for the Best Essay Topics for IELTS

Past IELTS questions are valuable, but they’re just one part of your preparation for IELTS Writing Task 2. Be sure to check out our complete guide to IELTS Writing Task 2 for the “big picture” on how to prepare for this part of the Writing section. And for more sample questions, check out our IELTS Writing Task 2 question types post. And for Task 1 tips and tricks, check out our IELTS Writing Task 1 guide!

If you want more structured IELTS prep, consider a subscription to Magoosh IELTS as your next step. (You can start by trying a free trial to IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training if you like!)

IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 is the second and slightly longer writing task on the IELTS exam. While it’s the harder of both tasks, preparation and familiarity with the task can help you score well on it. Please be encouraged to check out our complete guide to IELTS Academic Writing Task 2, but below are the basics about IELTS writing task 2.

IELTS Writing Task 1 vs. IELTS Writing Task 2

IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 involves composing a formal five-paragraph essay in 40 minutes. The first section—Task 1—should take you only 20 minutes. Why spend more time on IELTS Writing Task 2? This basic comparison offers a few reasons:

• Points: Task 2 counts more towards your Writing band score
  Task 1 = 1/3rd of your score
  Task 2 = 2/3rds of your score
• Word count minimums: Task 2 is longer
  Task 1 = 150 word minimum
  Task 2 = 250 word minimum
• Planning your response: Task 2 questions require more thought
  Task 1 = transfer of information from a visual into writing
  Task 2 = answer an open/abstract question with no clear or “correct” answer

Handwritten Responses (for paper-based IELTS)

While you can now take the IELTS exam on a computer in most places (which you can read more about here), many test takers still take the IELTS on paper. If your IELTS is a pencil and paper exam, your responses will be handwritten. In that case, it is essential that you handwrite (don’t type!) your practice essays for Task 2. Writing by hand helps you develop a sense of pacing. In other words, you will learn how quickly (or slowly!) you write with pencil and paper in English. (Paper-based IELTS test takers can go to this article for more information on handwritten IELTS responses.)

Importantly, as you’re probably aware, precious points will be deducted if you do not meet the minimum word requirements in the Writing section. But it is a huge waste of time to actually count your words on exam day. If you take the additional step of using official IELTS Writing Task 2 response sheets (download and print them here), you can see how many words you typically write on each page. You won’t have to count because you will know what that number of words looks like on the IELTS answer sheet.

Timing

Writing speed varies a lot from student to student. How you allocate time depends a lot on how fast you can write. The more you practice Task 2 responses, the quicker you will become. Your goal should be to allow enough time for these three things:

• Essay planning 2 – 10 minutes
• Writing 25 – 32 minutes
• Editing 5 minutes (or more if possible)

As you practice, try very hard to cut down on the amount of time it takes to plan your responses before writing. Some students can take up to 10 minutes to brainstorm and plan. For most people, however, using 10 minutes at the beginning will take away too much time from writing and editing. I usually recommend three to five minutes of planning as a reasonable target. The more practice questions you answer, the faster you will become at generating ideas before you write.

A Final Word on IELTS Writing Task 2

Remember the absolute most important key to scoring well on IELTS writing task 2 is practicing! For more practice and support, check out our official IELTS prep materials which include over 125 lessons, 600 practice questions, email assistance, and more!

Happy studying and good luck!

IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 is the second of two writing tasks you’ll be asked to complete on the IELTS exam. As the name suggests, the writing you will be asked to do is academic by nature, so below we will be covering how to write in the the style necessary to perform well on the exam.

Academic/Formal Writing

The IELTS expects you to use an academic/formal writing style. This means you should use the same kind of language that you would when writing a report for work or an essay for school. Obviously, you would avoid using “slang” words. You would also write in complete sentences and use proper punctuation. Here are some additional features of academic/formal writing to keep in mind for Task 2:
 

• Organize ideas into separate paragraphs: You will lose points if you do not divide your essay into paragraphs. In the IELTS Writing Task 2 response template, you’ll find the essential paragraphs you should include in your Task 2 response. Generally speaking, your essay must have an introduction paragraph, 2 – 3 body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
   
• Write in complete sentences: Make sure each sentence you write has an independent clause with a subject and verb. When you write complex or compound sentences, use “connectors” like coordinating conjunctions (and, but, so, etc) or subordinating conjunctions (when, although, because, etc).
   
• Avoid repetition of words and ideas: Your ideas should move from one to the next logically, and you should show off your vocabulary by avoiding redundancy (don’t repeat the same words over and over).
   
• Avoid “slang:” The English you hear in the movies or read on social media is often inappropriate for formal writing. It is a big problem to use words like “dude” or spellings like “U” (for “you”) on the IELTS.
   
• Thoughtful and Neutral Tone: Academic/formal writing has a very careful and thoughtful tone. It rarely sounds angry, excited, or overly certain about an idea. It is also best to avoid broad generalizations in formal/academic compositions. Here are some examples to demonstrate:

NOT ACADEMIC: I hate this idea! (Too excited/angry)
ACADEMIC: This idea has some problems to consider.

NOT ACADEMIC: Everyone is distracted by cell phones these days.(Too broad)
ACADEMIC: Many people are distracted by cell phones these days.

NOT ACADEMIC: I have the best solution to the problem. (Too certain)
ACADEMIC: I would suggest this solution to the problem.

For more about this component of your test, check out our complete guide to IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 for everything you’ll need to know to score well.

A Final Word About IELTS Academic Writing Task 2

This writing task is definitely considered a bit harder than IELTT Academic Writing Task 1, but with the right preparation, you’ll be able to score well on it. For more support, check out our complete IELTS test prep including hundreds of lessons, practice questions, email support, and more.

Happy studying and good luck!

In the official score guide for IELTS Writing Task 2 (PDF), you can see that your essay will be marked based on four categories: Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. While each category represents 155 of your score, Task Response is arguably the most important category.

Why is Task Response the most important? Well, true to its name, Task Response measures whether you actually responded to the questions you were asked. Because of this, your Task Response influences all of the other three categories. If you haven’t correctly responded, then your Coherence and Cohesion (how clear your answer is), your Lexical Resource (whether you used good words to give a good answer) and your Grammatical Range and Accuracy (whether your sentence structure addresses the overall task) will also be at least partly incorrect.

Why Task Response Affects All IELTS Writing Task 2 Rubric Categories

Let me give you a simple example of how poor Task Response can lower your scores across all categories on the rubric. Suppose you are responding to this practice question:

• With modern transportation, workers and students are increasingly mobile, and have more and more opportunities to study and work abroad.

  Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this development. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

If you misunderstand this prompt, then you might mistakenly write about the way students and workers use mobile devices such as phones and tablets on public transportation such as the bus or the city train system. Or you might accidentally only focus on study abroad experiences and forget to address work ones. You could also possibly forget to give relevant details for every opinion to state.

If you make any of the kinds of mistakes above, it will affect your Coherence and Cohesion; writing about the wrong topic will prevent you from addressing the correct topic clearly and coherently. Partly addressing the topic will similarly hurt your ability to be coherent about the entire topic. And failing to give supporting details, a key requirement of the task, will make for paragraphs that feel incomplete and main ideas that seem less clear. This too will impact Coherence and Cohesion.

Similarly, if you make significant mistakes in Task Response, your Lexical Resource (use of vocabular) and Grammatical Range and Accuracy scores will suffer; even if you are using otherwise good words and grammar, you aren’t using the right words and grammar for the real task at hand.

Tips for Doing Well in IELTS Writing Task 2: Task Response

• Take a few extra seconds to reread the question after reading it once. Make sure there’s nothing you misread or mix.
• Make sure that the notes from your IELTS essay brainstorming cover every part of the question. It’s a lot harder to go in and add a point you missed after you’ve already written the essay.
• Whenever you state an opinion, think carefully. What supporting details will be the most convincing to a reader? What details or examples will be clear “reasons” and “relevant examples?”

Additional Task Response Resources

To see a model response to the example question we looked at above, check out our example agree/disagree IELTS Writing Task 2 essay. This is a perfect example of good Task Response. And as you read that essay, note the way that Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and accuracy ae all excellent partly because of how good the Task Response is.

Beyond that, it’s important to remember that Task Response is the “big picture” part of the official rubric, the category that deals with how accurate the essay is as a whole. To see the even bigger picture that Task Response fits into, see Magoosh’s Complete Guide to IELTS Writing Task 2. And of course, you may also benefit from our guides to the other rubric categories:

• IELTS Writing Task 2: Coherence and Cohesion
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Lexical Resource
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Grammatical Range and Accuracy

The best IELTS Writing resources—when it comes to practice materials at least—are the official resources from the makers of the test. For tutorials on how to write well, however, much of the best instruction comes from test prep companies, including Magoosh. In this post, we’ll look at all of the top official and unofficial sources of stellar IELTS Writing prep.

Real, Official IELTS Writing Questions

As I mentioned above, the highest quality practice questions come from official sources. One excellent way to get your hands on official questions is to purchase Cambridge IELTS prep books with practice tests, since these tests will include Writing sections.

But the makers of the IELTS (Cambridge, British Council, and IELTS IDP) also offer quite a few free IELTS Writing questions online. Below is a roundup of pages from the four official IELTS websites where you can get official practice questions:

• British Council Practice Tests for IELTS (Writing Sections)
• The IELTS.org practice test (click on the Academic or GT Writing tabs in the middle of the screen)
• IELTS.org sample practice questions for the paper IELTS (again, click on the appropriate tabs)
• IELTS.org sample practice questions for the computer-delivered IELTS (You guessed it– click the Academic or General Training Writing tabs!)
• IELTS IDP Practice Questions for IELTS CDT (Scroll down to Writing near the bottom of the page– Academic Writing only!)
• Cambridge.org IELTS Academic Writing Section (PDF)
• Cambridge.org IELTS General Training Academic Writing Section (PDF)

Between these different online IELTS Writing resources, you can get 25 free IELTS Writing Practice questions. The websites that host these practice materials also have additional tutorials and skills-building activities for Writing. For more info on these sites see my article on how to use the four main official IELTS websites.

Books That Can Help You With IELTS Writing

I honestly haven’t been able to find that many great IELTS Writing resources when it comes to books that focus exclusively on the Writing section. The good news is that there are still plenty of books that offer stellar IELTS Writing practice, tips, and tricks. It’s just that the best IELTS Writing resources in print are “whole IELTS books,” with really good Writing chapters. For a review of my top picks for IELTS books that offer Writing support, see Magoosh’s page of IELTS book reviews.

IELTS Writing Resources for the Different Question Types

Each of the three IELTS Writing tasks (Academic Task 1, General Training task 1, and Task 2) have a few different possible question types. Below are some IELTS Writing resources for these question types, including example questions and model essays for each type.

• Types of IELTS Writing Questions (Task 1, Academic)
• Types of IELTS Writing Questions (Task 1, General Training)
• Question Types for the Second IELTS Writing Task

IELTS Writing Resources: The Writing Process

Writing a good IELTS essay involves prewriting— the process of brainstorming ideas and creating a rough outline of your essay. It also requires actual writing, of course– putting those prewritten ideas into a well-structured response. Right here on our IELTS Blog, Magoosh offers a lot of great IELTS Writing resources for the writing process, from your first thoughts to the finished essay:

Task 1 (Academic)

• Paragraph Structure in the First IELTS Academic Writing Task
• How to Get a Band 9 in Task 1 (Academic)

Task 1 (General Training)

• How to Take a Formal or Semiformal Tone in the first IELTS Writing task in General Training

Task 2

• Brainstorming Essay Topics for IELTS Writing Task 2
• The Best IELTS Writing Task 2 Template
• How to Write the Body Paragraphs in a Writing Task 1 Essay

IELTS Writing Resources for Vocabulary and Word Choice

Sometimes half the battle of writing a good IELTS essay is simply finding the right words. Here are some IELTS Writing resources to help you find and use the best words!

Vocabulary Guides for Task 1 Academic

• Vocabulary for the First IELTS Writing Task: An Overview
• Useful Words for Describing Task 1 Graphs in IELTS Writing
• How to Describe an IELTS Writing Task 1 Map
• Process Diagram Vocabulary for IELTS Academic Writing Task 1

A Vocabulary Tutorial for General Training Task 1

• Formal vs. Informal Word Choice in IELTS Writing Letters

Vocabulary IELTS Writing Resources (Task 2)

• Vocabulary for IELTS Writing Task 2: General Advice
• Advanced Vocabulary Use for a Band 9 in Task 2
• Vocabulary for the Introduction in a Task 2 Essay

Vocabulary for the Whole IELTS Writing Section

• Linking Words for Task 1 and Task in IELTS Writing
• The Complete Guide to IELTS Vocabulary

Tips and Tricks for IELTS Writing

Some IELTS Writing resources don’t focus on just one specific skill or one particular aspect of the tasks. Instead, they give general tips and tricks. I’ve rounded up Magoosh’s best “tips and tricks” IELTS Writing posts in this section:

Task 1 Tips and Tricks for IELTS Writing

• IELTS General Training Writing Task 1 Tips and Examples
• Making the Most of Your 20 Minutes In IELTS Academic Writing Task 1

Tips and Tricks for the Second IELTS Writing Task

• How to Get a Band 8 or 9 in IELTS Writing Task 2
• Paraphrasing Tips for IELTS Writing Task 2

Tips and Tricks that Apply to Both Tasks

• Magoosh’s Complete Guide to IELTS Writing
• How Many Words to Write in the IELTS
• The IELTS Word Count Penalty (and how to avoid it)
• The Best IELTS Writing Tips

That’s all we have for the best IELTS writing resources! Do you have other tried and true resources? Feel free to leave them in the comments below!

Today, we’re going to look at how to get a band 8 in IELTS Writing Task 2, or even possibly a band 9. Because the second task is the same on both IELTS versions, this post also tells you how how to get 8 in IELTS General Writing Task 2, or higher. Read on for IELTS Writing Task 2 Band 9 tips, a discussion of the differences between 8 and 9, and general advice on how to get a top score on Task 2.

Top IELTS Band 9 Tips for Writing Task 2

Whether you need to get an IELTS Band 8 or Band 9 on Writing Task 2, I recommend aiming for a 9. If you want your best score, aim as high as possible! Here are my top Band 9 tips, listed in the order you should do them. (You could also think of these as steps to a winning score!)

1. Read the Question Carefully

Carefully read the whole question so that you can answer every part of it. This is an easy first step toward a top IELTS Writing Task 2 score, but it’s also an easy step to miss. And it’s so important! You can be an amazing writer and still get low marks on IELTS Writing Task 2 if you don’t properly read the question and address it fully.

2. Brainstorm Your Essay

Do some prewriting to lay a strong foundation for your essay. Brainstorm ideas, writing them down. Then, choose the ideas that will go in your essay and write a very short outline that shows the ideas in the order they’ll appear. As you do this, here are a few key tips to remember.

• Your essay should generally have two body paragraphs, so you’ll want to select two key ideas that can serve as topics for these paragraphs.
• In your notes, it’s helpful to have separate lines for each body paragraph.
• Your brainstorming notes can be very simple, but they should be easy to translate into a fully written essay, complete with an introduction, conclusion, and body paragraphs with explanations and examples.

For tips on how to brainstorm, then translate your notes into a winning Task 2 essay pattern, see Magoosh’s guides to brainstorming for the second IELTS Writing task, structuring IELTS Writing Task 2 body paragraphs, and following an IELTS Task 2 essay template.

3. Vary Your Sentence Structure

Sentence structure is important. Sentences should demonstrate good grammar. Good grammar is varied. This tip isn’t fun to read.

The four sentences above demonstrate why you should have varied grammar. If your sentences vary in length and structure, they will be much more enjoyable to read, and they’ll showcase your fluency in English. This in turn will help you really impress the IELTS Writing scorers and get you top marks; see how that works? 🙂

In short, great grammar is key to getting an 8+ in either version of the IELTS. This is true if you are wondering how to get 8 in IELTS General Writing Task 2, or if you’re aiming for a full 9 in IELTS Writing Task 2 Academic!

4. Use Transitions

Variety of vocabulary is as important as variety of grammar. And, while it is important to vary your choice of words in general, the most important words you’ll choose are the transitions. Strong transitions don’t just connect ideas; they also make it very clear how the ideas in your Task 2 response are connected.

If you’d like to see examples of strong transitions and effective word use, Magoosh has you covered! Check out Rachel’s guide to IELTS Writing linking words, and Eliot’s post on the best vocabulary for IELTS Writing Task 2.

5. Double-Check Your Work

Manage your time carefully and try to have about 5 minutes left after you initially write your essay. This should be enough time for you to go back, double check your work, and add little improvements for one last boost to your score in IELTS Writing Task 2.

How to Get Band 8+ in IELTS Writing: FAQs

So I’ve just walked you through ways to aim specifically for the very top band. But there are other pressing questions when it comes to getting a score in the 8-9 range. Let me give you the answers to a few of the questions I hear most often from students.

How do I avoid going off-topic in IELTS writing task 2?

If you write your IELTS Writing Task 2 off topic, even a little, it can significantly hurt your score, particularly in the area of Task Achievement on the official IELTS Writing Task 2 rubric (PDF). The trick is to make sure you fully understand the question, addressing each part both fully and correctly. It may help to underline or otherwise note the key words in the question. You should also revisit the question during your brainstorming step, to make sure you are focused on the question’s true meaning.

How can I improve my Writing Task 2 in IELTS?

“How to improve IELTS Writing Task 2” really is a big-picture question. Whether you’re trying to learn how to get 8 in IELTS General Writing Task 2 or how to score high in the Academic IELTS, seek out as much information as possible. Magoosh’s Complete Guide to IELTS Writing Task 2 is a great place to start.

As you move forward from there, the next big thing you can do is practice, practice, PRACTICE. As you do this, don’t forget to look at sample top-scoring essays, emulating them in your own practice. Here at Magoosh, I’ve created a set of practice questions for each of the IELTS Writing Task 2 question types, complete with links to Band 9 model responses.

Why do I keep getting 6.5 in IELTS Writing?

If you’re asking this question, you may have reached the dreaded plateau: a point in your practice where you can’t seem to get any better than you already are. There are many possible reasons that your essays might stay at the 6.5 level. The trick is to identify the exact reasons you keep getting a 6.5. Maybe you need to improve your use of vocabulary, or grammar. Or perhaps you are consistently doing poorly in some other key aspect of this essay.

A careful reading of the official IELTS Writing Task 2 level descriptors PDF can help you isolate the reason or reasons that you are stuck at 6.5 But ideally, you should get essay feedback from a real person. In some cases, this means hiring a tutor or taking a course. But there are cheaper ways to do this, and even free ones.

• For relatively low cost, you could try out the Magoosh IELTS essay scoring service!

But you could also consult with a classmate for free, or share your essay and ask for feedback free-of-charge in an online IELTS forum, such as the Reddit IELTS community.

Final Thoughts on How to get 8 in IELTS General Writing Task 2 or Academic Writing Task 2

I would like to reiterate that the very best way to get a top IELTS score for Writing Task 2 is to aim as high as possible. This is why I recommend aiming for a band 9, even if the score you actually need is lower. So keep IELTS Band 9 in mind as you do the following:

• Avoid making your IELTS Writing Task 2 off topic
• Brainstorm and structure your essay
• Develop strong paragraphs and varied sentences
• Make good use of transitions and other word choices
• Manage your time well
• Practice with examples
• Seek out feedback

Also bear in mind, of course, that your Writing task 2 score is only half of your overall IELTS Writing score. Once you’ve tackled IELTS Writing Task 2, make sure you also pay attention to Task 1; Magoosh’s Complete Guide to Task 1 is a great place to start. There, we have some Task 1 tips to match these IELTS Writing Task 2 Band 9 tips.