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Task 2 Masterclass (67% of Score)

IELTS Writing Task 2Complete Guide

Task 2 is worth 67% of your writing score. Master all 5 essay types with our proven structure templates and 15+ Band 7+ samples.

15+ Sample Essays
40-Minute Strategy
5 Essay Types

Why Task 2 is Critical

67%

of your writing score

250+

words required

40

minutes recommended

5 Types of Task 2 Essays

Each type requires a different structure. Know them all.

Opinion (Agree/Disagree)

Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Structure: Intro → Opinion → Body 1 (Reason + Example) → Body 2 (Reason + Example) → Conclusion
Example: The best way to reduce crime is to give criminals longer prison sentences. Do you agree or disagree?

Discussion (Both Views)

Discuss both views and give your opinion

Structure: Intro → View A → View B → Your Opinion → Conclusion
Example: Some people think technology improves life, while others believe it creates more problems. Discuss both views.

Advantage/Disadvantage

What are the advantages and disadvantages?

Structure: Intro → Advantage 1 + 2 → Disadvantage 1 + 2 → Conclusion
Example: What are the advantages and disadvantages of online learning for university students?

Problem/Solution

What problems does this cause and what solutions can you suggest?

Structure: Intro → Problem 1 → Problem 2 → Solution 1 → Solution 2 → Conclusion
Example: Traffic congestion is a serious problem in many cities. What are the causes and what solutions can you propose?

Direct Question

Answer two direct questions

Structure: Intro → Answer Q1 → Answer Q2 → Conclusion
Example: Why do people work? What are the benefits of working for an individual and society?

The Universal Band 7+ Structure

Use this 4-paragraph structure for any essay type

Introduction

5 mins

40-60 words

  • Background sentence (paraphrase the topic)
  • Thesis statement (your position/opinion)
  • Outline sentence (preview main points)
It is often argued that the most effective method to decrease criminal activity is to impose longer prison terms on offenders. I strongly agree with this view because extended incarceration serves as both a punishment and a deterrent, while also protecting society from dangerous individuals.

💡 NEVER copy the question word-for-word

Body Paragraph 1

12 mins

80-100 words

  • Topic sentence (main idea)
  • Explanation/Reason
  • Specific example
  • Link back to thesis
The primary reason longer prison sentences are effective is that they act as a powerful deterrent. When potential criminals know they face many years in prison, they are less likely to commit serious crimes. For example, after the UK introduced mandatory minimum sentences for knife crimes in 2015, violent incidents dropped by 15% within two years.

💡 Use specific examples from your country or real events

Body Paragraph 2

12 mins

80-100 words

  • Topic sentence (second main idea)
  • Explanation/Reason
  • Specific example
  • Link back to thesis
Furthermore, extended imprisonment protects society from dangerous repeat offenders. Some criminals show no sign of rehabilitation and pose a continuous threat to public safety. By keeping these individuals in prison for longer periods, we prevent them from committing further crimes. Research from the US Department of Justice shows that 70% of released prisoners reoffend within five years.

💡 Use transition words: Furthermore, Moreover, In addition

Conclusion

6 mins

40-50 words

  • Restate thesis (different words)
  • Summarize main points
  • Final thought/Recommendation
In conclusion, I firmly believe that longer prison sentences are an effective way to reduce crime because they deter potential offenders and protect society from dangerous criminals. Governments should implement stricter sentencing policies to create safer communities.

💡 Never introduce new ideas in conclusion

Band 7+ Sample Essays

Study these examples to understand examiner expectations

Opinion EssayBand 8.0

Topic: Should governments ban dangerous sports?

Introduction: Extreme sports such as skydiving and motor racing have become increasingly popular in recent years. While some argue that these activities should be prohibited due to their inherent risks, I believe that outright bans are neither feasible nor desirable, and that regulation and education are better alternatives.

Body 1: Those who advocate for banning dangerous sports often cite public safety as their primary concern. They argue that when accidents occur in these activities, they not only harm participants but also place a burden on healthcare systems and emergency services. For example, when a BASE jumper requires rescue after an accident, it diverts police and medical resources that could be used elsewhere...

Body 2: However, I would argue that prohibition is neither practical nor justified. Firstly, defining what constitutes a 'dangerous' sport is highly subjective; even common activities like swimming or cycling carry risks. Secondly, adults should have the autonomy to make informed decisions about their own safety, provided they understand the risks involved...

Conclusion: In conclusion, while dangerous sports do present genuine safety concerns, banning them is not the solution. Instead, governments should focus on implementing strict safety regulations and ensuring participants are properly educated about risks...

✓ Clear position✓ Balanced argument✓ Specific examples✓ 285 words
Discussion EssayBand 7.5

Topic: Technology and social interaction

Introduction: In the modern era, technology has revolutionized the way people communicate and interact with one another. While some argue that digital devices have enhanced our ability to connect, others believe they have damaged real human relationships. This essay will examine both perspectives.

Body 1 (View 1): Proponents of technology argue that it has made communication more accessible and efficient than ever before. Social media platforms and messaging apps allow people to maintain relationships across vast distances instantaneously. For instance, families separated by continents can now have daily video calls, something impossible just decades ago...

Body 2 (View 2): Conversely, critics contend that these digital interactions lack the depth and authenticity of face-to-face communication. They argue that excessive screen time has reduced the quality of our relationships, with many people feeling more isolated despite having hundreds of online 'friends'...

Conclusion: In my view, while technology has undoubtedly transformed communication, its impact depends largely on how it is used. When balanced with in-person interaction, digital tools can enhance rather than replace genuine human connection...

✓ Both views discussed✓ Clear opinion✓ Logical structure✓ 268 words

Critical Mistakes to Avoid

These errors will drop you an entire band

No Clear Position

State your opinion clearly in intro and conclusion

Under 250 Words

Aim for 270-300 words

No Examples

Include specific examples in every body paragraph

Irrelevant Ideas

Stay focused on the question throughout

Informal Language

Use academic vocabulary and formal register

No Conclusion

Always write a conclusion, even if running out of time

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