What is Writing Task 2?
Task 2 is the "Essay" section of the IELTS Writing test. You are presented with a question or statement on a general topic and must write a well-structured essay in response. It accounts for two-thirds of your total Writing band score, making it the most important part of the Writing test.
You will be assessed on four equal criteria: Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy — each worth 25% of your Writing score.
Opinion Essay
Express your level of agreement or disagreement with a statement and provide well-supported reasons for your position.
Pros & Cons Essay
Discuss the positive and negative aspects of a situation, trend, or development — often asking for your own view as well.
Both Sides Essay
Present a balanced discussion of two opposing viewpoints on an issue, then state and justify your own opinion.
Causes & Solutions
Identify the causes of a given problem and propose realistic, well-explained solutions to address it.
Double Question
Answer two distinct but related questions within your essay — both must be addressed clearly to score well on Task Response.
The Three-Part Structure
Introduction (2–3 sentences)
Paraphrase the topic to show the examiner you understand it, then clearly state your thesis — your main argument or stance on the issue. Do not copy the question word for word.
Body Paragraphs (2–3 paragraphs)
Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, supported by a specific reason or example. Open each paragraph with a clear topic sentence, then develop and support it. Aim for roughly 90–110 words per body paragraph.
Conclusion (2–3 sentences)
Summarise your main points and restate your thesis in different words. Never introduce new ideas in the conclusion — it should bring your argument to a clear, logical close.
Understand the prompt
Read the question twice. Identify what it is actually asking before you write a single word.
Plan before you write
Spend 3–5 minutes outlining your main points. A plan prevents repetition and keeps your essay on track.
Hit the word count
Write at least 250 words. Going significantly under will be penalised. Aim for 260–290 for a comfortable margin.
Use formal language
Write in an academic style. Avoid contractions (don't → do not), slang, and overly casual expressions.
Give specific examples
Support every argument with a concrete example or reason. Vague claims will not score well on Task Response.
Vary your vocabulary
Avoid repeating the same words. Use synonyms and precise academic vocabulary to demonstrate Lexical Resource.
Manage your time
Allocate roughly: 5 min planning, 30 min writing, 5 min checking. Do not run out of time before your conclusion.
Proofread carefully
In the final 3–5 minutes, check for grammar errors, missing articles, and spelling mistakes. Small fixes add up.
Stay on topic
Every sentence should relate directly to the question. Off-topic writing is penalised heavily under Task Response.
Practise regularly
Write at least two full essays per week. Seek feedback from a tutor or use our Writing Coach for guided practice.
Ready to practise?
Use our Writing Coach — 40 prompts, a live timer, word count, and real-time coaching messages.