IELTS Writing Task 2
An essay of at least 250 words in about 40 minutes, worth two thirds of the Writing band — the single largest mark in the paper outside Speaking. Everything turns on one decision made in the first minute: what kind of question it is.
Identify the question type first
| The prompt says | It is | And needs |
|---|---|---|
| To what extent do you agree or disagree? | Opinion | A clear position held throughout |
| Discuss both views and give your opinion. | Discussion | Both sides fairly, then your own view |
| What are the advantages and disadvantages? | Advantages / disadvantages | Both, weighed |
| What problems does this cause and what solutions…? | Problem / solution | Problems matched to solutions |
| Two questions in the prompt | Two-part question | Both answered, usually one paragraph each |
Answering a discussion prompt as though it were an opinion prompt is the most common Task Response failure, and it caps the band however good the English is.
The structure that fits all of them
- Introduction — rephrase the topic, then state what this essay will do. On an opinion essay, state your position here.
- Body 1 — one main idea, explained, then supported with an example.
- Body 2 — the second main idea, same treatment.
- Conclusion — restate the position in different words. No new ideas.
Two developed body paragraphs beat four thin ones. Task Response rewards ideas that are extended and supported, and 250 words divided four ways rarely allows either.
Task 2 essays — FAQs
2 questions
It is the minimum. Most band 7+ answers run 270–300. Much beyond that usually costs accuracy.
Yes. Task 2 asks for your view, and stating it plainly is clearer than a construction built to avoid the pronoun.
More writing question types
Sources
Written from the test board's own published material and checked on 1 October 2026.