Understanding the five main IELTS Writing Task 2 essay types is crucial for achieving a high band score. Here’s a comprehensive guide to each of the IELTS essay types, including structures, tips, and examples.
At the end of the lesson, I have added a self- assessment task for you to check your understanding.
1. Opinion Essays (Agree or Disagree)
What is an opinion essay?
You’re presented with a statement and asked to express your opinion—agree, disagree, or to what extent you agree/disagree.
Common Prompts:
- Do you agree or disagree?
- To what extent do you agree or disagree?
- What is your opinion?
Structure:
- Introduction: Paraphrase the question and state your opinion.
- Body Paragraph 1: First reason supporting your opinion.
- Body Paragraph 2: Second reason supporting your opinion.
- Conclusion: Summarize your opinion and main points.
Tips:
- Clearly state your opinion in the introduction.
- Maintain the same opinion throughout the essay.
- Support your opinion with relevant examples.
Example Question:
Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programs. Do you agree or disagree?
2. Discussion Essays (Discuss Both Views and Give Your Opinion)
What is a discussion essay?
You’re asked to discuss two opposing views and provide your own opinion.
Common Prompts:
- Discuss both views and give your opinion.
- Discuss both sides and state your opinion.
Structure:
- Introduction: Paraphrase the question and state your opinion.
- Body Paragraph 1: Discuss the first view.
- Body Paragraph 2: Discuss the second view.
- Conclusion: Summarize both views and restate your opinion
Tips:
- Present both views impartially before stating your opinion.
- Support each view with examples.
- Clearly state your opinion in the introduction and conclusion.
Example Question:
Some people think that the best way to increase road safety is to increase the minimum legal age for driving cars or riding motorbikes. Others think that there are better ways to improve road safety. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
3. Problem-Solution Essays
What is a problem-solution essay?
You’re required to identify problems related to a particular issue and propose solutions.
Common Prompts:
- What are the problems and how can they be solved?
- What are the causes of this problem and what measures can be taken to solve it?
Structure:
- Introduction: Paraphrase the problem and state that you’ll discuss solutions.
- Body Paragraph 1: Discuss the problem(s) and their causes.
- Body Paragraph 2: Propose solutions to the problem(s).
- Conclusion: Summarize the problems and solutions.
Tips:
- Clearly identify the problem(s) in the introduction.
- Ensure each problem has a corresponding solution.
- Use specific examples to illustrate problems and solutions.
Example Question:
Many cities around the world are facing traffic congestion. What are the problems associated with this, and what measures can be taken to solve them?
4. Advantages and Disadvantages Essays
What is an advantage or disadvantage essay?
You’re asked to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a particular issue or trend.
Common Prompts:
- What are the advantages and disadvantages?
- Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
Structure:
- Introduction: Paraphrase the question and state that you’ll discuss advantages and disadvantages.
- Body Paragraph 1: Discuss the advantages.
- Body Paragraph 2: Discuss the disadvantages.
- Conclusion: Summarize the main points and state your opinion if required.
Tips:
- Present a balanced view by discussing both advantages and disadvantages.
- If the question asks for your opinion, clearly state whether advantages outweigh disadvantages or vice versa.
- Support your points with relevant examples.
Example Question:
Some people believe that studying at university or college is the best route to a successful career, while others believe that it is better to get a job straight after school. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches.
5. Two-Part Questions (Direct Questions)
What is a two-part essay?
You’re presented with a statement followed by two separate questions.
Common Prompts:
- Why is this the case? Is this a positive or negative development?
- What are the reasons for this? How can it be solved?
Structure:
- Introduction: Paraphrase the statement and briefly mention the two questions.
- Body Paragraph 1: Answer the first question.
- Body Paragraph 2: Answer the second question.
- Conclusion: Summarize your answers to both questions.
Tips:
- Ensure you address both questions fully.
- Organize your essay so that each body paragraph answers one question.
- Provide clear examples to support your answers.
Example Question:
In many countries, people are choosing to live alone instead of living with family. What are the reasons for this trend? Is it a positive or negative development?
See our IELTS full writing strategy here
Assess Your Understanding
Topic: The Impact of Social Media on Society
You can shape this topic into each of the five essay types as follows:
- Opinion Essay
Prompt: Do you agree or disagree that social media has more negative effects on society than positive ones?
(You must choose a side and justify it.) - Discussion Essay
Prompt: Some people believe social media improves communication and brings people together, while others think it isolates individuals and promotes superficial relationships. Discuss both views and give your opinion. - Problem-Solution Essay
Prompt: Social media has been linked to rising mental health issues among teenagers. What problems are associated with this trend, and how can they be addressed? - Advantages and Disadvantages Essay
Prompt: What are the advantages and disadvantages of using social media platforms for news and information? - Two-Part Question Essay
Prompt: Social media is becoming a primary source of news for many people. Why is this happening, and do you think this is a positive or negative development?
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Mishal Iftikhar
Learning & Development Specialist
CEO at LEAP