High-Score Essay Tips
Understanding IELTS Writing Task 2
You’ll be asked to write an essay of at least 250 words in 40 minutes.
The question presents a topic, an issue, or an opinion, and you must respond in a clear, well-organized essay.
Types of Task 2 Questions
1. Opinion Essay (Agree or Disagree)
2. Discussion Essay (Discuss both views)
3. Problem-Solution Essay
4. Advantages–Disadvantages Essay
5. Double Question Essay
Structure (4–Paragraph Model)
Introduction (40–50 words)
Purpose: Introduce the topic and show your position (if needed).
Steps:
-Paraphrase the question.
-State what your essay will discuss / your opinion.
High-Score Essay Tips
Example:
Nowadays, many young people spend their free time in shopping malls. Some believe this trend negatively affects both individuals and society. This essay will discuss the reasons for this behavior and whether it brings more harm than good.
Body Paragraph 1 (80–90 words)
Purpose: Present your first main idea with explanation and example.
Steps:
-Topic sentence (main point)
-Explanation (why or how)
-Example or evidence
Example:
One major reason why youngsters prefer shopping centres is that these places provide entertainment and social interaction. Teenagers can spend time with friends, watch movies, or eat out. For instance, a survey in the UK found that 60% of teenagers visit malls mainly to socialize rather than shop.
High-Score Essay Tips
Body Paragraph 2 (80–90 words)
Purpose: Present the opposite idea or your second point.
Steps:
-Topic sentence
-Explanation
-Example or evidence
Example:
However, spending excessive time in malls can lead to materialism. Young people may start believing that happiness depends on buying expensive items. For example, advertisements in malls often influence them to purchase unnecessary products, which may affect their financial habits in adulthood.
Conclusion (40–50 words)
Purpose: Summarize your main ideas and restate your position.
Example:
In conclusion, while shopping malls offer opportunities for socialization, the growing culture of consumerism among youths is concerning. Therefore, I believe that spending too much leisure time in malls has more negative than positive effects.
High-Score Essay Tips
Tips for a Band 8+ Essay
Plan before writing (2–3 minutes)
Use formal language – no contractions like don’t, can’t
Use linking words – however, moreover, in contrast, therefore
Vary sentence structure – mix simple and complex sentences
Stay on topic – avoid irrelevant examples
Check grammar and spelling in the last 3–4 minutes
Useful Linking Words
| Purpose | Examples |
| Adding ideas | moreover, in addition, furthermore |
| Giving examples | for instance, such as, to illustrate |
| Showing contrast | however, on the other hand, whereas |
| Showing cause/effect | therefore, as a result, due to |
| Concluding | in conclusion, to sum up, overall |
High-Score Essay Tips