IELTS Writing Task 2: Structure, Types and Tips
IELTS Writing Task 2 asks you to write an essay of at least 250 words responding to a point of view, argument or problem. It carries more weight than Task 1, so a clear strategy here makes a big difference to your writing band.
Updated 21 October 2026 · EssayWriting.com editorial team
- Write at least 250 words in about 40 minutes.
- Task 2 counts for more than Task 1.
- Four criteria are each worth 25 percent: Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy.
The essentials
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Word count | At least 250 words |
| Suggested time | About 40 minutes (the whole Writing test is 60 minutes, including Task 1) |
| Weighting | Task 2 contributes twice as much as Task 1 to your Writing score |
| Marking criteria | Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy, each worth 25% |
Check the official IELTS website for the latest test information and band descriptors.
The five common question types
| Type | Typical wording | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Opinion (agree/disagree) | To what extent do you agree or disagree? | Give a clear position and keep it throughout |
| Discussion | Discuss both views and give your opinion. | Explain both sides fairly, then state your view |
| Advantages and disadvantages | Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? | Weigh both and answer the exact question |
| Problem and solution | What are the problems, and what solutions can you suggest? | Explain problems, then matching solutions |
| Two-part (direct) question | Why is this happening? Is it positive or negative? | Answer both questions fully |
A reliable four-paragraph structure
- Introduction (2-3 sentences): paraphrase the question; state your position or outline.
- Body 1 (5-7 sentences): main idea, explanation, example, link to the question.
- Body 2 (5-7 sentences): second main idea (or the other view), same pattern.
- Conclusion (1-2 sentences): restate your position clearly.
This gives roughly 270 to 320 words: enough to develop ideas without rushing.
How to approach each criterion
Task Response
Answer every part of the question, give a clear position where asked, and develop ideas with explanation and examples. Off-topic or memorised content scores poorly.
Coherence and Cohesion
One central idea per paragraph, logical order, and linking words used accurately and not mechanically ("Firstly, Secondly, Moreover" in every sentence can lower the score).
Lexical Resource
Use a range of topic vocabulary precisely. Accurate, natural word choice beats rare words used wrongly. Paraphrase the question rather than copying it.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy
Mix simple and complex sentences (relative clauses, conditionals, passives) and keep errors rare. Accuracy matters as much as range.
40-minute plan
| Time | Task |
|---|---|
| 0-5 min | Analyse the question, decide position, note two main ideas with examples |
| 5-35 min | Write introduction, two body paragraphs and conclusion |
| 35-40 min | Check answer to every part of the question, grammar, spelling and word count |
Annotated sample introduction and body paragraph
Question: Some people think that children should start school at a very early age, while others believe they should not begin formal education until they are older. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Introduction: There is disagreement about the best age for children to begin formal schooling. While some argue that an early start gives children an academic advantage, I believe that most children benefit more from beginning formal lessons a little later, after a period of play-based learning.
Body paragraph: Supporters of early schooling argue that young children absorb information quickly, so structured lessons can build literacy and numeracy sooner. In addition, school can provide routine and social contact, which may be especially valuable for children from homes with fewer resources. For instance, a child who attends a well-run reception class may arrive at primary school already able to recognise letters and follow instructions. From this perspective, delaying school could mean missing a valuable window for learning.
Illustrative sample written for this guide; it is not an official IELTS model answer and no band score is implied.
Why it works: the introduction paraphrases the question and states the opinion; the body paragraph has a clear topic sentence, explanation, an example and a link back to the question.
Useful language
- Giving opinion: I believe that..., In my view..., I would argue that...
- Presenting views: Some argue that..., Supporters of X claim..., Critics point out...
- Examples: For instance..., A clear example is..., This can be seen in...
- Contrast: However..., On the other hand..., Although...
- Conclusion: In conclusion..., Overall..., To sum up...
Common mistakes
- Writing fewer than 250 words.
- Not answering all parts of a two-part question.
- Changing your opinion halfway through.
- Memorised introductions or phrases that do not fit the question.
- Listing many ideas without developing any.
- Overusing linking words.
How to practise
- Collect past-style questions for each of the five types.
- Write under timed conditions (40 minutes).
- Check your answer against the official public band descriptors for each criterion.
- Get feedback from a qualified teacher where possible.
- Rewrite one paragraph from each essay to fix the weakest criterion.
Related
- Argumentative essay (similar to opinion questions)
- Essay introductions · Essay conclusions
- Essay writing: the complete guide
Quick answers to common questions
Can I write more than 250 words?
Yes. There is no maximum, but very long essays risk more errors and less time to check. Around 270 to 320 words is a practical target.
Should I use memorised phrases?
Learn flexible phrases, but avoid memorised paragraphs. Examiners recognise them and they rarely fit the question.
Is it okay to use "I" in IELTS Task 2?
Yes, when giving your opinion, especially in opinion and discussion questions.
Frequently asked questions
How many words is IELTS Writing Task 2?
At least 250 words.
How long should I spend on IELTS Task 2?
About 40 minutes, since it carries more weight than Task 1.
What are the IELTS writing marking criteria?
Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy, each worth 25% of the task score.
How many paragraphs should IELTS Task 2 have?
Four or five paragraphs is common: an introduction, two or three body paragraphs and a conclusion.
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