Writing Task 2: Essay Types for the IELTS Exam

Common failure modes

These are the patterns that cause most candidates to lose marks on this topic. Recognising them in advance is half the work.

• !Writing an opinion essay when the prompt asks "discuss both sides"
• !Failing to address both parts of a two-part question (e.g., "What are the causes? What can be done?")
• !Going over time on Task 2 by rewriting introductions instead of starting body paragraphs
• !Memorizing template phrases that examiners flag as inauthentic

Study tips

• 1Memorize the 5 Task 2 prompt patterns: agree/disagree, discuss both views, problem-solution, advantages/disadvantages, two-part question.
• 2Spend 5 minutes planning before writing — outline thesis, two body-paragraph topic sentences, and conclusion stance.
• 3For agree/disagree, take a clear position (do not sit on the fence) and support it with two well-developed reasons.
• 4Aim for 270–290 words; below 250 incurs a penalty, above 320 wastes time without raising the band.

Sample IELTS Writing Task 2: Essay Types questions

These sample items mirror the format and difficulty of real IELTS questions. Practice with thousands more on the free Koydo question bank.

1. 1

   A Task 2 prompt reads: "Some people think governments should provide free healthcare; others believe individuals should pay. Discuss both views and give your own opinion." This requires:

   • AOnly describing both views without taking a side
   • BBoth presenting both views fairly AND stating a personal position with justificationCorrect
   • COnly stating personal opinion
   • DListing advantages and disadvantages of healthcare
   Why this answer?

   "Discuss both views and give your own opinion" requires three components: (1) present view 1 with reasoning, (2) present view 2 with reasoning, (3) state and justify your own position. Failing any of the three drops Task Response to Band 5–6.