Task 2 Complete Guide

IELTS Writing Task 2Essay Writing Mastery

Master all Task 2 essay types with proven strategies. Learn to write high-scoring essays with clear structure, compelling arguments, and advanced vocabulary.

40 minutes

250+ words

66% of writing score

Task 2 Question Types

Master each type to maximize your score

Most Common

Agree or Disagree

State your opinion clearly. Support with reasons and examples.

High Volume

Discuss Both Views

Present both perspectives before giving your opinion.

Advantage & Disadvantage

Balance positive and negative aspects of an issue.

Problem & Solution

Identify problems and propose effective solutions.

Direct Question

Answer the specific questions asked in the prompt.

To What Extent?

Evaluate the degree to which you agree or disagree.

Task 2 Scoring Criteria

What examiners look for (each criterion = 25%)

Task Achievement

How well you address the task:

Fully address all parts of the question
Clear position/opinion throughout
Relevant, extended arguments with examples
Word count: 250+ words (no penalty below)

Coherence & Cohesion

Logical organization:

Clear paragraphing with logical flow
Topic sentences for each paragraph
Appropriate linking words (not overuse)
Smooth progression of ideas

Lexical Resource

Vocabulary range and accuracy:

Wide vocabulary range (band 7+)
Topic-specific vocabulary
Correct collocations
Minimal spelling errors

Grammatical Range

Grammar variety and accuracy:

Varied sentence structures (simple & complex)
Complex sentences with subordinate clauses
Few grammatical errors
Good punctuation

Universal Essay Structure

Use this proven template for any Task 2 question

Introduction (2-3 sentences)

1. Paraphrase the question topic. 2. State your position/answer clearly.

Body Paragraph 1 (3-5 sentences)

1. Topic sentence with main idea. 2. Explanation with examples. 3. Link to position.

Body Paragraph 2 (3-5 sentences)

1. Topic sentence with second main idea. 2. Support with examples. 3. Link back.

Conclusion (2-3 sentences)

1. Restate position in different words. 2. Summarize main points. 3. Final thought.

How to Improve Your Band Score

Key differences between band levels

Band 6

Characteristics

• Addresses task but may miss some points
• Simple essay structure
• Basic vocabulary
• Simple sentence patterns
• Some grammatical errors

Focus: Add more detail and examples

Band 7

Characteristics

• Fully addresses all task parts
• Clear position throughout
• Good paragraph structure
• Varied vocabulary
• Mix of simple and complex sentences

Target: Practice opinion essays

Band 8-9

Characteristics

• Fully addresses with sophisticated response
• Well-developed arguments with examples
• Excellent paragraphing and flow
• Wide vocabulary with natural usage
• Complex structures with rare errors

Target: Perfect grammar and vocabulary

Common Task 2 Topics

Practice with these recurring themes

💻

Technology

AI, social media, internet

📚

Education

Schools, learning, students

🌍

Environment

Climate, pollution, resources

🏙️

Society

Crime, cities, population

💼

Work

Jobs, careers, employment

💰

Economy

Money, business, trade

🏛️

Government

Policies, public services

🏥

Health

Healthcare, lifestyle, fitness

Practice with AI Feedback

Submit your Task 2 essays and get instant band score predictions. Our AI analyzes all four criteria and provides specific improvement tips.

Related Resources

Task 1 Guide →

Master Task 1 for better overall score

Vocabulary →

Academic words for essays

Grammar →

Complex sentence structures