So, you want to learn everything about IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 huh? Great!
Can I be straight up with you?
It's nothing new to you. You already deal with it back in your high school.
Maybe you just forget it!
IELTS writing task-2 is nothing but a task of writing 250 words high school essay.
(Although the required standard is bit higher than your high school)
After all of those years of schooling, you`re still confused to write an essay.
Can you relate?
Wait. You are not alone. I used to be an IELTS candidate like you back in 2003, and I knew nothing about writing task-2. In fact it was just a week before the exam, I learnt about the IELTS writing section.Now I know tons of information about them, and it was through teaching. It is through the act of IELTS teaching and in-depth research that I was able to dredge up secrets and technique I never knew before that in turn allows my knowledge of this subject to fully blossom.
Well, I am not claiming to be some sort of expert in this field, but I certainly know the basics to keep you going in order to achieve a good band score.
And you`re going to learn everything right here.
I promise it’ll be simple, joyous, conversational, and definitely painless to understand (no gibberish).
In any case, I hope this tutorial brings you the smile of success on your face!
Shall we proceed? Good.
Why IELTS Writing Task 2 is important?
I really don’t want to talk about anything that has no value in your Ielts test.
I’m going to outline why you should pay your attention to task-2:
- In a 60 minute writing test, you`ll be spend staggering 40 minutes on it.
- Two third of your writing score depends on how well you perform here.
- This is where you`ll be on your own. It`s not visual prompt like task-1 where you`d have plenty of clues and data to write about the task.
I bet you all know these facts, but it’s nice to be reminded.
Look:
It’s nowhere near as difficult to teach yourself about IELTS Writing Task-2.
It`s not a rocket science.
In fact, very little you need to do to achieve a good band score anything up to 6.5. Good news, huh?
You see: We live in a jam-packed information-world. Lots of the advice out there… and you`re confused. The information surge that appears in web, books, lectures- give you no time whatsoever to absorb one until there’s another.
That`s why I am providing you a 16 minutes comprehensive tutorial about writing task-2.
That`s why I am providing you a 16 minutes comprehensive tutorial about writing task-2.
So, here in this tutorial, I include what you need to know minimally for not getting lost in your IELTS writing test.
VIDEO: IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 Explained
Are you looking for easy to understand video tutorial for learning all about academic IELTS writing task -2? Start with this easy to digest video about how to write your essay from introduction to conclusion:But, unless you are not bored with reading text, here in this step by step tutorial, I include what you need to know minimally for not getting lost in your IELTS writing test.
The Lesson Covered In This Comprehensive Guide
The Lesson Covered In This Comprehensive Guide
In particular, there’s 7 things you need to know in order to train yourself about IELTS essay writing.
As you follow everything exactly, you’ll be able to write any IELTS essay in 30 minutes or less.
Let’s jump in…
- IELTS academic writing task 2 topics
- IELTS academic writing task 2 question types
- How to Write an IELTS essay in 3 Steps
- IELTS writing task 2 Essay structure/plan
- IELTS academic writing task 2 Sample Answer
- IELTS academic writing task 2 tips and tricks for score hype
That`s all you need…Top Gun..to write better than ever.
So, without further delay, let’s jump into lesson 1.
Lesson 1: IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 Topics
I guess it`s not insane to tell you that academic IELTS task: 2 is a question to write a 250 words essay in pencil & paper.
Ouch! You Know that? I know…I know…
But do you know that whenever someone comes across any task2 question, there are two things first come in mind:
#1. Whether the person knows something about the topic?
#2. How to discuss about that topic in pencil and paper?
Let`s suppose you are that person. In that case, the topic of the question is pretty much the first thing you need to relate with your experience and wisdom.
The flip side…..
Even if you can relate your knowledge with the topic, you may sweat yourself profoundly to write anything about it.
Don’t worry. I`ll explain everything about the writing process.
Now, before I move on, I want you to look at the first question that may arise in your mind:
Am I familiar with the topic?
Look. Back in school, you may write essays about topics like “your memorable day in your life”, “your aim in life”, “a journey by train” etc.
Just forget those days..
IELTS writing Task-2 questions are focused on rather debatable issues. The topics generally cover developmental, environmental, public well-being, socio-cultural and technological related problems.
Notice, I say “problem”.
If there was no problem, there would be no reason for writing an essay, and definitely no reason for question makers to present it in your exam.
So below, I’m going to outline some topics based problems and questions.
TOPIC | PROBLEM | TASK-2 PROMPT |
Development | Local development through tourism can negatively affect the social environment. | Many people believe that international tourism is a bad thing for their countries. What are the reasons? Provide solutions to change negative attitudes? |
Public Well-Being | Fast food can affect public health although it`s so popular. | In today's busy world, consumption of fast-food has increased dramatically. But frequently eating out can have serious long-term health effects. To what extent the advantages outweigh its disadvantages? |
Environment | Who` must pay for climate change? | Some people argue that individuals can do nothing to prevent the climate change. Therefore, only governments and large companies can make a difference. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? |
Socio-Culture | Consumption culture is depleting the moral fabric of the society. | Some people think that modern consumerism have a negative impact on the society overall. Others, however, think that modern consumerism isn’t inherently bad. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. |
Technology | Do social media distort people from partial worldviews? | Many people believe that social media (such as Facebook) reinforce individuals and society to have narrow biases. To what extent do you agree or disagree? |
Now listen: I don`t want you to get panicked about aforementioned IELTS essay topics.
I`ll give you plenty of education how to answer each topic related tasks.
My idea is to get you thinking about what kind of “subject matter” you can expect in your IELTS writing test.
Remember three points: (1) Spot the topic; (2) Spot the task type; and (3) Write according to the topic and the task type.
So next, we`ll discuss how to identify the question type at a glance.
Lesson 2: IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 Question Types
You know...
At the end, questions are questions.
A question would ask you a question by putting the question sign (?) at the end of it.
Well, that`s the universal perception about questions. But, in the IELTS writing task-2 you may never see the question mark (?)anywhere in the prompt.
Note: If you already have a solid idea about task-2 question types, then skip this and go to the next lesson.
Just give quick glance on this task-2:
Some people believe that anyone can learn to play music or sport well. However, others believe that people must be born with talents like these
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
You don`t see any question marks (?) in the above prompt. Do you? This example is a discussion type IELTS essay question. But, there are other types (where you could see question marks).
Now, if you really want to learn about different question types, here`s the list:
(1) Agree/Disagree: Here you see an opinion about an issue and the task asks you to write a argumentative response by supporting or rejecting that proposition.
Example:
Children all over the world should learn to speak a single, universal language fluently in addition to their native language.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
(2) Discussion Type: On this question you see two different opinions about the same issue and a question asking you to discuss both points of view and to give your own opinion about this topic.
Example:
"Some people believe that the activities of large multinational corporations most benefit the economies of developing countries. Other people take the opposite view and feel that these large multinationals are generally harmful".
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
(3) Advantages / Disadvantages Type: Here you see a specific viewpoint and you have to evaluate advantages and disadvantages based on that perception.
Example:
"Some people think that our lives are more comfortable now because of new communication technology such as cellular phones and emails. Others say it only gave us a hurry sickness, where wealways felt to be rushed and thus faster communications hardly improved our lives".
What are the advantages and disadvantages of modern communication technology?
(or, Do the advantages of modern communication technology outweigh the disadvantages?)
(4) Causes or Effects and Solutions: On the question paper, you see a statement about a contemporary problem and then two questions. One question asks you to identify the causes or effects of the problem and the other question asks you to propose solutions to the problem.
Example:
"One problem faced by almost every large city is traffic congestion".
What do you think are the causes of this?
What solutions can you suggest?
(5) Theme oriented Questions: The task presents an idea about a topic and you would be required to answer one or more questions that relate to the theme.
Example:
"Happiness is considered very important in life."
Why is it difficult to define?
What factors are important in achieving happiness?
So, those are the few many types of IELTS task-2 questions.
Confusing. Right?
Well, at the start, these categories look confusing, but it gets very understandable quickly as you go through your preparation. Don’t worry!
Lesson 3: How to Write an IELTS Essay in 3 Steps
Now, the fun bit.
Hey, hey!! Wait.
Did you read this lesson title- How to Write…..in 3 Steps?
Just 3 steps- you can FINISH writing!!
Incredible wonder?
The best part...
It`s going take you 30 minutes from start to finish.
The question says..
“You should spend about 40 minutes on this task”.
IF you finish in 30 minutes, what you do in the rest 10 minutes?
I ask.
Well, get up and visit the exam room to see the nervous faces- making war with a pitiable piece of paper and pencil! I mean: A war to finish the essay. Just kidding..but it`s true.
It`s true that even 40 minutes is a short time to complete the essay if you don`t know how to write it.
Now, I`ll admit you are not ready to gulp down that fact that an essay can be written in 30 minutes.
So, let`s break down the process minute by minute:
Step-1: Understand the question (2 min)
Do you know what the hardest part of the writing process is?
It`s "getting started".
We hate to write.
Let's face it: Who else like to sit in an exam room and struggle with a blank piece of paper when he could chat with friends outside?
But, we are forced to write sometimes in our life…an email, a letter, a job application, an IELTS essay...
Very sad! Ya?
And when you first see your IELTS writing question, you feel a 60 minutes pressure to start writing without waiting for a second.
But, don’t start writing, slow down there!
I suggest…
Take a breather to explore the ideas and topic of the task.
Aka spend 2 minutes to absorb the question carefully and understand what it is asking.
Behold to find out key areas of the task that cannot be overlooked in the response.
Look at this task as an example:
Some people believe that it is good to share as much information as possible in scientific research, business and the academic world. others believe that some information is too important or too valuable to be shared freely.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
The task is asking you to write on whether it`s better to share information or not… to what extend..and specially in scientific, business and academic field.
Just keep in mind that you need to cover all these key areas in your answer.
Explore the key discussion areas of the task is powerful…
Sweetly, these are the keys to generate or think topic related ideas.
Step-2: Jot down ideas (10 min)
At this stage, don`t wait for ideas to spark in your mind.Just ask yourself 3 basic questions (below) and wait for the magic to happen.
Tons of ideas will sprout in your mind if you do so. And as they appear in your mind, quickly write them down in the question booklet (not in the answer sheet).
Here are the questions you need to ask yourself about the task:
First Question: What situations would disprove the first/second claim?
Think about some sensitive areas where the claims fail.
For example:
Claim: Sharing as much as information is good in the field of scientific research.
Failing situation: Sharing scientific information about nuclear weapons design can be insane.
Think about some sensitive areas where the claims fail.
For example:
Claim: Sharing as much as information is good in the field of scientific research.
Failing situation: Sharing scientific information about nuclear weapons design can be insane.
Second Question: What is unjust about the claim?
Simply think about some areas where the claim contradicts itself.
Claim: It is good to share as much information as possible in business.
Unjust: Businesses could not outperform rivals by sharing too much insider information.
Simply think about some areas where the claim contradicts itself.
Claim: It is good to share as much information as possible in business.
Unjust: Businesses could not outperform rivals by sharing too much insider information.
Third Question: What could strengthen the claim?
Lastly, think how you can make the claim more reasonable, may be, by adding or changing some words. For example:
It is good to share as much information as possible in scientific research, business and the academic world, unless they do not cause any risk to anybody.
Lastly, think how you can make the claim more reasonable, may be, by adding or changing some words. For example:
It is good to share as much information as possible in scientific research, business and the academic world, unless they do not cause any risk to anybody.
Now, by now, I can almost guarantee that some solid ideas are emerging in your dizzy mind.
I bet, at this stage, you are going to somewhere from nowhere.
These 3 magic questions will certainly power you up to think about a number of answering ideas.
Step -3: Write the Essay (18 min)
Alright, now, after all this you should be ready to start the writing process.
A good essay follows this simple structure:
1. Introduction
2. Body
3. Conclusion
So, let`s write down the introduction.
1. Introduction -3 Minute
An IELTS essay begins with an introduction to quickly "introduce" the reader to the topic and to state your main arguments.
In other words, here you tell the reader what the essay is about.
You should avoid long, extended introductions and thus make it short and get right to the point.
With that said…
You should spend more time in writing body paragraphs.
I suggest you to write just 3 sentences in the introduction:
In the first 2 sentences, restate the topic in your own words. Don’t copy words from the question here. See the example below:
Question Topic:
Some people believe that it is good to share as much information as possible in scientific research, business and the academic world. others believe that some information is too important or too valuable to be shared freely.
Here`s is how you can write these 3 sentences:
- First sentence: Describe the situation
Our lives have been revolutionized by the way we share scientific research, business and the academic information with others around the world so generously.
- Second sentence: Write about both views in your own words
Some would argue that it would be better to share any information without any restrictions, while others argue that some information is too precious to be shared freely.
- Last sentence: Say what side of the fence are you exactly on
Although both the arguments have its own justifications, I believe that a controlled approach of information sharing is beneficial throughout all arenas.
Spoiler Alert: It`s bad to write “I will discuss both of these views and give my opinion at the end” because you`re simply copying the task instruction.
Once you are done with writing up your introduction, it’s time to go for body paragraphs.
2. Body Paragraphs: 5+5=10 min
Body paragraphs are the MEAT of your essay.
Remember, well written body paragraphs will help bring you high band score.
In other words, if you want to score well, you`ve got to write good body paragraphs.
And it is tough to write-this is where the sweating starts.
One of the reasons why students struggle here is because any writing itself is hard.
There’s no short-cut way that you can make writing a fun and enjoy the process.
You`ve to read a lot, write a lot to get around this fatigue.
This heavy lifting is imperative.
After all, you`ll not write in your personal diary, you`ll write for the IELTS test.
I know this sounds like a lot of work for one language test to meet.
And I am telling you to do it all in 30 minutes? Impossible.
Not at all.
I’ve created a simple outline that satisfies every point of expectation of an IELTS examiner. I challenge you to take it, use it, and see your paragraph writing skills improve by leaps.
Presenting:
The 4-point body paragraph framework:
- Topic
- Example
- Validation
- Outcome
Let`s break out the process:
Topic (Write what some people think)
Start the paragraph with a single idea. Don’t think too much in this stage.
Thinking too much slows you down and distracts you from your purpose and points of the essay development.
So, here`s what you need to do:
Look at the question again and find what it asks for.
Did you get a look?
Yessir!
Alright…
Let`s recap:
The task asks you to discuss this view: Some people believe that it is good to share as much information as possible in scientific research, business and the academic world.
Now, I want to think of a very simple sentence that resonates with this view.
What about this one?
The notion of sharing knowledge regardless any field is indeed a good practice.
You see, students always THINK they don’t have enough ideas to write about.
Aha. That dreaded feeling when you sit down, but… you got nothing. You just don’t know what to write about.
Well, the real problem is not that you don’t have enough ideas. It’s that you don’t COLLECT your ideas from the task itself.
You see: generating a topic idea is very easy- when you read the question again and again.
Now, I must warn you about something:
When writing the topic, you must follow certain basics:
- It fits with the task arguments.
- It states a single main point or position.
- It is specific.
- It is something you can show, explain, or prove.
Sounds simple but don’t overlook these facts. As a matter of fact, I`ve seen many low scoring candidates are making big mistakes here.
Example
There are few things in the world of academia that people hate most about any writing.
The major one is LACK OF PERSUATION.
With that said…
You can`t just state your claim or topic without providing reasons and evidence.
It`ll backfire.
As because, it points towards your task achievement- the examiner will look for if you develop main ideas with specific support, including specific details and examples.
So, the facts or evidence are must to prove the main ideas of your body paragraphs.
Now, the question is: Can you relate any examples, facts, or evidence that back up your main point.
To remind you the main point is: The notion of sharing knowledge regardless any field is indeed a good practice.
If you can relate any fact, I think, following sentence wouldn`t be a bad choice:
For instance, it is sharing of ideas and doctrines that help mankind to evolve and sustain so far.
That`s it. Here we are saying the history of human would not come to this far without sharing information. How about when human share the basics of the creation and control of FIRE? This was the first invention of mankind that allowed their geographic dispersal, cultural innovations, and changes to diet and behavior. Doesn’t it?
But, giving only the example is not enough to make your claim convincing.
Which brings me to…
Validate the Example
Do you think simply an example can 100% explain your claim aka the topic of your Paragraph?
When you state any example, you know everything about it. You know why you put this forward- it`s in your mind.
The only problem is that the reader has no idea what it supposes to mean.
In that case, you need to explain this in additional sentences. In other words, discuss the evidence.
What then?
I am going to recap the whole thing for your understanding:
You can see in above picture what we`ve written so far.
Now, I want to make this example more convincing.. persuading for getting a better score.
How about this……
“From fire lighting to the to the modern computer revolution, our history would become standstill without sharing our experience with everyone. It means that incubating intelligence can only hinder the progress potentials of scientific innovation, trades and academic research.”
Sounds great? Aha.
In either way, an example sounds more academic with some added discussions.
After you’ve completed these 3 steps (topic plus example plus validation), you’ve one more thing to do. You show the connection between example/validation with the topic.
This brings me to the next point…
Outcome
Look...there is no point to bring an example with explanation until you show how it connects with your topic.
So, you can repeat the point by stating the outcome of your discussion.
Here`s the example:
“So it can evidently be ascertained that advancements in these spheres are positively correlated with shared boundless ideas, which then in turn benefits the society as a whole.”
See blow how the above sentence resonates with the topic:
That`s it!
Four sentences on 4 points: Topic + Example + Validation + Outcome; every serious candidate will follow this strategy- – which in turn improves band score.
Now, rinse and repeat the same technique to write the second body paragraph by focusing on the second view of the task.
For example, you can write the second body paragraph as:
However, certain information outburst can lead to negative ramification on scientific to business sphere. For example, critical information leakage from a big company and a sensitive nuclear or bio-chemical research project can be sometimes lethal. With that said, corporate like Apple maintains their market share over the years by protecting technological secrets that give them an edge over competitors. Thus it can be inferred that all documents aren`t meant to be made public for the greater benefits.I wonder, are you still there?
Yes?
Congrats, you`ve just finished the heavy lifting.
You`ve discussed both views of the task.
Now, It`s the time to go for next job - give your own opinion.
Remember, you do not need to explain your opinion. Write it in the light of your arguments from both sides.
So, do not write a separate paragraph to give the opinion. Creep this into the last paragraph of your essay.
And the last paragraph is conclusion.
(3) Conclusion: 5 Minute
You`ve write some wonderful body paragraph with complicated thoughts.
At this stage, you can`t but wait to write a quick conclusion that`ll eventually set you free from this energy sucking IELTS test.
(By the by, Writing Section is the last part of the test and then you`ll be set free to leave the exam hall)
I absolutely agree with you.
So, let`s mush on and make it short.
- First sentence: Summarize the main points
In conclusion, the discussion of releasing or withholding all information is still under the scanner. However, probability to disperse certain types of information cannot be ruled out.
- Second sentence: Give your opinion
I thus favor in between-not all but a large portion can be left in the light for all.
- Last sentence: Give a future implication of your opinion
Nevertheless this difference in attitude can leads to profound advancement of our civilization.
Do you catch the drift? Spontaneous. Isn`t it?
But, there`s a catch.
I just present you how to write discussion type essays. If you recap, you`ll remember that there are other types- agree/disagree, advantages / disadvantages etc.
Each type has different essay writing structures (standard).
So, I can`t but give you the next lesson.
Lesson 3: IELTS writing task 2 structure/plan
Now, we’re at one of the most important sections in this entire article: IELTS essay writing structure.
You can call it strategy, formula or plan whatsoever. All are same.
What do I mean by “structure?”
Many candidates today take an ad hoc approach to writing essay. Sure, they all cover the basics- introduction, body and wrap it up with a conclusion…and….
Done!
I don’t recommend this. You`ve to constantly shifting this structure as the task demands.
For instance, this was the structure for our previous discussion essay:
Introduction
- Situation
- People`s view
- Your stand
Body 1
- First View
- Example
- Validation
- Outcome
Body 2
- Second View
- Example
- Validation
- Outcome
Conclusion
- Summary
- Opinion
- Forecast
Of course, this is the mind-map of a discussion type essay. It gives you an idea of what should you can write in different paragraphs.
The purpose of this structure is to help you to keep a high standard when it comes to IELTS Task -2 essay writing.
Once you become comfortable with this plan, it`ll have an instant reflex about writing anything.
An essay plan, on the other hand, works as a catalyst to your creativity. Your ideas flourish in every corner of this skeletal map.
Now, I am giving you a strict set of structure for writing other types of IELTS task-2 essays.
Follow this structure for agree/disagree type essay:
Introduction
- Situation
- Problem
- Thesis
Body 1
- First Point
- Example
- Reasoning
- Opposite View & Refute
Body 2
- Second Point
- Example
- Reasoning
- Refute
Conclusion
- Opinion
- Forecast
See why it’s important?
This structure is completely different from previous one.
That’s what I told you so. I told you to change the essay structure according to question types.
But, I am not accusing anyone who don`t understand the above IELTS writing task 2 structure for agree/disagree essays.
I totally understand this.
And that`s what I am going to explain this next (with a sample answer).
But, before I do so, I want you to know that there remain other 3 types:
- Advantage/Disadvantage
- Cause/Effect/Solution
- Theme Oriented Question
Keep in mind that you need to follow a distinct essay structure for each of these types.
If you need a little help I would highly recommend you check out my article How to Structure Your IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay in which I run through the steps you need to take in more details. It’s really not as hard as you might think!
Lesson 4: IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer
OK- In the last lesson, we`ve discussed about the structure of agree/disagree type essays. Let`s put this structure in action.
Here`s is an example of agree/disagree prompt:
Prison is the common way in most countries to solve the problem of crime. However, a more effective solution is to provide people a better education.
Do you agree or disagree?
INTRODUCTION | |
Situation | Convicts around the world are usually locked for longer to retard further crime, but some favor education as a means to produce better outcome. |
Problem | Fear of prison can change the mindset of criminal to offend; while imparting education can also change their criminal behavior. |
Thesis | In this essay, I will discuss whether I agree that education is more effectual than imprisonment. |
BODY 1 | |
Fist Point | Firstly, it is certainly the case that incontrovertible sentences discourage offences. |
Example | For example, no one expect to experience the harsh realities behind the bar by committing any punishable crime. |
Reasoning | In that case, loss of freedom, social isolation and separation from loved ones act as a mental deterrent. |
Refute | Despite the fact that modern prisons can be safe and comfortable places to live rather than dreaded dungeons, the fear of isolation can significantly restraint community violence. |
BODY 2 | |
Second Point | However, education can also help to weaken the urge to commit crime. |
Example | For instance, educational attainment can negatively correlates with many types of crime. |
Reasoning | The more people get educated, the more they become morally afflicted against doing any harm to anybody. |
Refute | But, the argument whether education reduces crime is rather theoretical rather than empirical and thus can merely establish a bold stand. |
CONCLUSION | |
Opinion | In conclusion, I do not agree that education can be a more efficient means over detention to minimize crime in the society. |
Future Implication | Perhaps education can have some passive influence to prevent felony recurrence; it would be judicious to lock up delinquents to maintain law and order in the long run. |
OK. I don`t mind if some questions (?) bubble in your mind while you read the above sample.
Don’t worry. I am here to make your life simple.
I am going to explain everything about the sample (step-by-step) now:
Don’t worry. I am here to make your life simple.
I am going to explain everything about the sample (step-by-step) now:
Introduction
- I begin the essay by simply restating the task in my own words.
- Next, I say what`s the problem with this argument. In fact, any of those assertions (prison or education) can be a strong candidate to prevent crime; so it`s a problem and thus a debatable topic.
- The last sentence is the “thesis”- where I say what I am going to discuss in this essay. I didn’t take any side here, I`ll do it in the conclusion-after I demystify both arguments.
Body Paragraph-1
- I start the body by focusing on the first view of the task, which is the practice of imprisonment to effectively reduce crime.
- Second I
