IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Structures
Simplified 4-Paragraph Format for All 5 Types
1. Opinion Essay (Agree/Disagree)
Prompt Example: To what extent do you agree or disagree?
- Introduction: Paraphrase the question and clearly state your opinion.
- Body 1: Present your first reason for agreeing/disagreeing. Explain and give an example.
- Body 2: Present your second reason or refute the opposing view. Explain and give an example.
- Conclusion: Summarize your opinion clearly.
2. Discussion Essay (Discuss both views + Opinion)
Prompt Example: Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
- Introduction: Paraphrase the question, mention both views, and state your opinion.
- Body 1: Explain the first view with reasoning and an example.
- Body 2: Explain the second view and include your opinion with reasoning and an example.
- Conclusion: Summarize both views and your opinion.
3. Advantage-Disadvantage Essay
Prompt Examples: What are the advantages and disadvantages? OR Do the advantages outweigh
the disadvantages?
- Introduction: Paraphrase the topic and state that both sides will be discussed (include your opinion
if relevant).
- Body 1: Discuss the disadvantages. Explain and give examples.
- Body 2: Discuss the advantages. Explain and give examples.
- Conclusion: Summarize both sides and clearly state your opinion if required.
4. Problem-Solution Essay
Prompt Example: What problems are caused by X and what solutions can be suggested?
- Introduction: Paraphrase the question and briefly outline the problems and solutions.
- Body 1: Describe the problem(s) with explanations and examples.
- Body 2: Propose solution(s) with explanations and examples.
- Conclusion: Summarize the main problem and recommended solution.
5. Two-Part Question Essay (Direct Questions)
Prompt Example: Why do people do X? What can be done about it?
- Introduction: Paraphrase the questions and outline that both will be answered.
- Body 1: Answer the first question with reasons and examples.
- Body 2: Answer the second question with reasons and examples.
- Conclusion: Summarize both answers briefly.