Learn to identify each question type and how to structure your response for a high band score.
IELTS Writing Task 2 questions fall into five distinct types. Each demands a different essay structure. The most common mistake candidates make is treating all types the same — a Discussion essay without a personal opinion loses Task Response marks instantly.
The exam does not label the question type for you. You must recognize it from the wording. Any of the five can appear on your test day, though Opinion and Discussion are most common.
| Type | Frequency | Must-do |
|---|---|---|
| Opinion | ~35% | Take a clear position |
| Discussion | ~30% | Cover both sides + give your view |
| Problem/Solution | ~15% | Answer both sub-questions |
| Two-Part Question | ~12% | Directly answer each part |
| Advantages/Disadvantages | ~8% | Weigh sides & reach a verdict |
Trigger phrases:
"To what extent do you agree or disagree?"
"Do you agree or disagree?"
"What is your opinion?"
The rule: You must state a clear position in your introduction and maintain it throughout. Sitting on the fence or saying "I partly agree" without qualification is penalized.
You can choose one of three positions:
Structure (4 paragraphs, ~260 words)
Intro: Paraphrase the question + state your position clearly.
Body 1: First reason for your position + example/explanation.
Body 2: Second reason or counterpoint (if balanced) + example.
Conclusion: Restate position + summarize main reasons.
Band 6–7 example opening
Some people believe that increasing fuel prices is the best way to address environmental problems. In my opinion, I strongly disagree with this view because it unfairly affects the poor and does not tackle the root causes of pollution.
Trigger phrases:
"Discuss both views and give your opinion."
"Discuss both sides and give your opinion."
"Discuss both these views and give your opinion."
The rule: You must discuss both viewpoints and give your own opinion. If you only argue one side or forget to state your view, you lose Task Response marks heavily.
Common mistakes:
Structure (4 paragraphs, ~270 words)
Intro: Paraphrase the topic + mention both views exist + preview your position.
Body 1: Explain the first view in detail — why do people hold it? Give an example.
Body 2: Explain the second view — why do others disagree? Give an example. This is where your opinion should become evident (e.g., "While this argument has merit, I would argue that...").
Conclusion: Summarise both sides + restate your opinion clearly.
Band 6–7 example opening
There is ongoing debate about whether tourism should be restricted in culturally sensitive areas. While some argue that tourism threatens local traditions, others believe that change is inevitable. This essay will discuss both perspectives before arguing that controlled tourism can actually help preserve culture.
Trigger phrases:
"What are the causes of this? What solutions can you suggest?"
"What is the reason for this? How can this problem be solved?"
"Why is this happening? What measures can be taken?"
The rule: Answer all sub-questions directly. If it asks for causes and solutions, you must provide both. Missing one costs Task Response marks.
Aim for 2 causes and 2 solutions — one per paragraph gives you space to develop each point properly.
Structure (4 paragraphs, ~260 words)
Intro: Paraphrase the problem statement.
Body 1: Cause/reason 1 + explanation + example. Cause/reason 2 + explanation.
Body 2: Solution 1 + how it would work. Solution 2 + expected outcome.
Conclusion: Summarise the seriousness of the problem + the effectiveness of the proposed solutions.
Trigger phrases:
"How do you think this has changed the way we work? Do you think there are disadvantages?"
"Why is this? Is this a positive or negative development?"
"What factors contribute to this? What effects does it have?"
The rule: Answer each question in order, roughly in proportion. This is the most straightforward type — no need to "discuss both views" or reach a verdict. Just answer what is asked.
Structure (4 paragraphs, ~260 words)
Intro: Paraphrase the topic + briefly mention both questions.
Body 1: Answer the first question in detail.
Body 2: Answer the second question in detail.
Conclusion: Summarise both answers.
Trigger phrases:
"Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?"
"What are the advantages and disadvantages?"
"Is this a positive or negative development?"
The rule: If asked "do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages", you must take a position. Don't just list pros and cons — compare them and state which side is stronger and why.
If the question simply asks "what are the advantages and disadvantages" (without "outweigh"), a balanced list without a verdict is acceptable — but giving a judgment still shows stronger critical thinking.
Structure (4 paragraphs, ~260 words)
Intro: Paraphrase + preview your position on which side outweighs.
Body 1: The weaker side (1–2 points with explanation).
Body 2: The stronger side (2 points with detailed examples — this should be the longest paragraph).
Conclusion: State clearly why one side outweighs the other.
Under exam pressure, scan the final sentence of the prompt. It is always the instruction line that tells you the type:
"To what extent do you agree or disagree?"
"Discuss both views/sides and give your opinion."
"What are the causes/reasons? What solutions/measures can be taken?"
Two distinct question marks — "How has this changed...? Do you think there are disadvantages?"
"Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?" or "What are the advantages and disadvantages?"
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