The essay writing task is included in both general and academic IELTS. You will have 40 minutes to write a 250-word answer to your writing task 2 essay question. While there is a consistent essay formula to assist you to structure your essays and paragraphs, you need to be familiar with the different types of essay questions. How to use the formula depends on the type of question.
The Five most common types of IELTS Writing Task 2 questions
– Opinion (Agree or Disagree)
– Advantages and Disadvantages
– Problem and Solution
– Discussion (Discuss both views)
– Two-part Question
Below I will provide examples and structure approved by experienced IELTS instructors and examiners for each type of question. This will help you write a clear, consistent answer and hopefully improve your IELTS score. I also share essay templates and answers for each type of question so you can see what the structure would look like in a real essay.
The Essay structure was created to help you improve your written English. From by varying the range of words and expressions you use, your essays become richer and your grades will improve.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Questions Types
– Advantage / disadvantage – An essay question on advantages/disadvantages gives you a topic and then asks you to discuss the advantages and disadvantages.
– Agree/disagree – The agree/disagree essay question gives you a topic and asks whether you agree or disagree with an idea related to that topic.
– Discuss both views and give your opinion – Discuss both ideas and give your opinion. The question is very similar, but it also tells you which one you agree with, rather than just asking you to discuss two ideas.
– Problem/solution – A problem/solution essay question presents a problem to be discussed and then suggests possible solutions.
– Two-part question – In a double question essay, you are actually asked two questions, and you must make sure to answer both.
