Writing Task 2 Essentials

Analyzing the Essay Question

Highlight the topic, task, and directive words. Look for verbs such as discuss, agree, compare, or solve. Underline them in the prompt. Then paraphrase the question to ensure you fully understand what’s asked. For example:

Question: Some people believe that we should focus on teaching practical skills in schools. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Breakdown:

• Topic: teaching practical skills in schools
• Directive: to what extent do you agree or disagree

Planning and Structuring Your Essay

Spend 5–10 minutes planning. Brainstorm ideas and examples, then outline your essay:

1. Introduction: Paraphrase the prompt and present your thesis (your clear stance).
2. Body Paragraph 1: One main idea, supporting detail, example, mini-conclusion.
3. Body Paragraph 2: Second main idea, example, link back to thesis.
4. Conclusion: Summarize key points and restate your position.

This structure ensures coherence and full coverage of the task.

Developing Arguments with Examples

• Keep each paragraph focused on one central idea.
• Use specific examples: real-world facts, hypothetical scenarios, or personal experience.
• Tie examples directly to the point: explain how the example supports your argument.

For instance, if you argue that technology improves learning, you could mention how interactive apps engage students more effectively.

Using Academic Vocabulary and Grammar

• Use formal linking phrases: however, moreover, on the other hand.
• Paraphrase key terms using synonyms: children → young learners, improve → enhance.
• Vary sentence structures: combine simple, compound, and complex sentences.
• Check for common errors: subject–verb agreement, article misuse, and verb tense consistency.

How to Study for Writing Task 2

1. Practice under timed conditions: write a 250-word essay in 40 minutes using past IELTS questions.
2. Analyze model answers and compare with your own essays. Tools like Lingo Copilot can highlight vocabulary gaps and structural weaknesses.
3. Build a topic-specific vocabulary list and review it daily, focusing on collocations and academic phrases.
4. Arrange peer-review sessions or seek teacher feedback to identify blind spots in your arguments and language.

Understanding Common Question Types in Writing Task 2

• Opinion Essay (Agree or Disagree) Explain your level of agreement with a clear thesis. Use one paragraph for reasons you agree and another for reasons you disagree (if partially), concluding with your stance.

• Discussion Essay (Discuss both views and give your opinion) Present both sides equally with supporting examples, then clearly state your own viewpoint in the conclusion.

• Advantages and Disadvantages Essay List and explain benefits in one paragraph and drawbacks in another. Weigh them if asked, then offer a final judgment.

• Problem and Solution Essay Identify key problems in the first body paragraph and propose realistic solutions in the second. Link problems and solutions smoothly.

• Two-part Question Essay Answer each question separately, dedicating one paragraph per question and ensuring a clear response to both.

Practice Example for Writing Task 2

Question: Some people argue that governments should invest more in public transport rather than building new roads to reduce traffic congestion. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Show Essay Outline and Explanation

Essay Outline

Introduction: Paraphrase topic and state balanced view favoring public transport investment.

Body Para 1: Advantages of new roads (reduced travel time). Example: recent highway project improving commute.

Body Para 2: Benefits of public transport (long-term sustainability). Example: city subway reducing pollution.

Conclusion: Summarize both sides then reaffirm that investment in public transport offers greater long-term benefits.

Explanation: This outline covers both arguments, uses clear topic sentences and examples, and restates a clear opinion, fully addressing the prompt.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not answering all parts of the prompt or misinterpreting directive words.
• Presenting ideas without specific examples or explanations.
• Overusing common vocabulary and simple sentences.
• Poor paragraph coherence due to weak transitions.

Key Takeaways

• Focus on analyzing the question accurately so you address every part of the task.
• Develop balanced arguments supported by clear, relevant examples to strengthen your essay.
• Maximize your preparation efficiency: Utilize Lingo Copilot for unlimited practice across all sections. Its detailed, AI-powered feedback, especially for Writing and Speaking, helps identify weaknesses and provides suggestions for improvement, accelerating your progress towards your target band score.