Tips for IELTS Writing Task 2 – Essay
Many IELTS candidates find writing an essay for Task Two difficult. Here is an overview of the task and some tips for organising your essay:
There are a number of different types of essay questions.
In the first four essay types listed below, you are required to discuss an argument.
-
AGREE/ DISAGREE
Write about the following topic:
(Topic)…
To what extent do you agree with this view? (To what extent = How much)
-
DISCUSS TWO OPINIONS
Write about the following topic:
Some people believe …Others believe …
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
-
ADVANTAGES / DISADVANTAGES
Write about the following topic:
(Topic)…
What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?
-
FOR AND AGAINST
Write about the following topic:
(Topic)…
Examine the arguments for and against …, and come to a conclusion on this issue.
After reading the question, you should choose which side of the argument you believe represents your opinion, and this will be the THESIS of your essay.
The other side of the argument will be your ANTI-THESIS (the opposite of your opinion).
When presenting ideas in your essay, you need to discuss the ANTI-THESIS first to show that you have a thoughtful, well-balanced argument, but you should always try to make your THESIS ideas stronger or more convincing.
Your essay can follow the structure below:
- 1st Paragraph – Introduction
- 2nd Paragraph – Anti-thesis
- 3rd Paragraph – Thesis
- 4th Paragraph – Conclusion
The other two types of essays do not require you to choose between two sides of an argument. Instead, you need to discuss the CAUSES, EFFECTS and/or SOLUTIONS of a particular topic.
For example:
-
PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS
Write about the following topic:
(Topic)…
What are some of the problems that have resulted from this issue, and how can we solve it?
-
CAUSES AND EFFECTS
Present a written argument to an educated reader with no specialist knowledge of the following topic.
(Topic)…
Discuss the causes and effects of this disturbing trend.
The structure of your essay can be as follows:
- 1st Paragraph – Introduction
- 2nd Paragraph – Causes / Problems
- 3rd Paragraph – Effects / Solutions
- 4th Paragraph – Conclusion
It is important to remember:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
You should write at least 250 words (it is okay to write more).
For all of the essay types, you should give reasons for your answers.
You can also include any relevant examples from your own experience and knowledge.
You must NOT rewrite phrases used in the question. Try to paraphrase as much as possible.
Follow these tips, try the four-paragraph structure and see if it makes IELTS Task Two easier for you. Good luck!
Find out more about our popular IELTS exam preparation course
Click here !
Interested?
Contact us !
Related blog posts:
IELTS – What To Expect !
Structural Overview of the Academic IELTS exam
Tips to pass your IELTS exam
How do I improve my writing?
What are the differences between TOEIC and IELTS exams?