IELTS Writing Task 2: Essay Structure and Tips for Band 7+

IELTS Writing Task 2 is the part of the test that worries many candidates most. You have to write a well-organised academic essay of at least 250 words on a topic you have never seen before, in about 40 minutes. It is also worth more than Task 1 in your Writing score, so a strong Task 2 is essential for Band 7 or higher.

In this guide, you will learn how Task 2 is scored, the main essay types, a simple four-paragraph structure, a planning method and tips that move you from Band 6 to Band 7+.

The Basics

• Length: at least 250 words (about 260–290 is a comfortable target).

• Recommended time: about 40 minutes.

• Weighting: Task 2 counts for more of your Writing score than Task 1.

How Task 2 Is Scored

1. Task Response: Do you answer every part of the question with a clear position and developed ideas?

2. Coherence and Cohesion: Is your essay logically organised with clear paragraphs and linking?

3. Lexical Resource: Do you use a good range of accurate vocabulary?

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Do you use varied sentence structures with few errors?

Common Essay Types

• Opinion: "To what extent do you agree or disagree?"

• Discussion: "Discuss both views and give your own opinion."

• Advantages and disadvantages: "Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?"

• Problem and solution: "What are the causes? What solutions can you suggest?"

• Two-part question: Two direct questions to answer.

Always check exactly what the question asks. Answering only half of it lowers your Task Response score.

A Simple 4-Paragraph Structure

Introduction (40–50 words)

Paraphrase the question in your own words and give a clear position or outline.

Body paragraph 1 (90–110 words)

One main idea: topic sentence, explanation and a specific example.

Body paragraph 2 (90–110 words)

A second main idea, or the other view in a discussion essay, developed in the same way.

Conclusion (30–40 words)

Summarise your main points and restate your position. Don't add new ideas.

This follows the same logic as any good essay. See our general guide on how to write an essay in English.

A 40-Minute Plan

1. 5 minutes: Read the question carefully, decide your position and plan two main ideas with examples.

2. 30 minutes: Write the essay.

3. 5 minutes: Check grammar, spelling, punctuation and word count.

Tips for Band 7+

• Keep a clear position throughout the essay.

• Develop ideas fully: explain why and give a specific example, not just a list of points.

• Use linking words naturally, not in every sentence.

• Use topic-specific vocabulary accurately rather than rare words you are unsure about.

• Mix sentence types: complex sentences with "although", "which" and conditionals.

• Avoid memorised templates that don't fit the question.

• Check punctuation. See our guide to English punctuation rules.

Common Mistakes

• Writing under 250 words

• Not answering all parts of the question

• Unclear or changing opinions

• Too many ideas, none developed

• Informal language like "gonna" or "lots of stuff"

Also preparing for the speaking test? Read our IELTS Speaking tips.

Develop Your Ideas Through Conversation on EngoTalk

Many candidates struggle to think of ideas quickly. Discussing common IELTS topics out loud helps you build arguments and vocabulary. On EngoTalk, you can do this with tutors and learners on live 1-on-1 video calls. Start practising now.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many words should I write for IELTS Writing Task 2?

At least 250 words. Around 260–290 is a good target.

How many paragraphs should a Task 2 essay have?

Four or five: an introduction, two or three body paragraphs and a conclusion.

Can I use "I" in IELTS Task 2?

Yes, especially when giving your opinion, for example "I believe that...".

Is it better to write more than 300 words?

Not necessarily. Quality and clear development matter more than length.