IELTS
Writing

IELTS Writing Task 2

Master IELTS Writing Task 2 essay with proven band 7–9 templates, high-frequency topic strategies and AI-scored practice. Detailed feedback on Task Achievement, Coherence, Lexical Resource and Grammar.

⏱ 40 minutes 📊 High ⭐ Very High (2/3 of Writing score)

What is IELTS Writing Task 2?

IELTS Writing Task 2 is an academic or general essay of at least 250 words written in 40 minutes. It carries approximately 2/3 of the Writing score (Task 2 counts more than Task 1). Common types: Opinion, Discussion, Advantages/Disadvantages, Problem/Solution, Two-part question.

Strategy & Tips

  1. Plan 3–5 minutes: decide your essay type (opinion/discussion), choose 2 main points.
  2. Structure: Introduction (paraphrase + thesis) → Body 1 (main point + example) → Body 2 (second point or counterargument) → Conclusion (restate + implication).
  3. Write at least 250 words — going under 250 caps your Task Achievement score.
  4. One idea per body paragraph — do not mix two separate arguments in one paragraph.
  5. Use a range of linking devices: "Furthermore", "Nevertheless", "As a consequence", "In spite of this".
  6. Proofread: subject-verb agreement, article usage, tense consistency.

How is it Scored?

  • Task Achievement (25%) — addresses all parts of the task, relevant ideas, supported arguments
  • Coherence & Cohesion (25%) — logical progression, paragraphing, linking words
  • Lexical Resource (25%) — vocabulary range, accuracy, collocations
  • Grammatical Range & Accuracy (25%) — sentence variety, accuracy

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should an IELTS Writing Task 2 essay be?
At minimum 250 words. Most band 7+ responses are 280–320 words. Going significantly over 300 words risks more grammatical errors and wastes time. Going under 250 words automatically limits your Task Achievement score.
What are the IELTS Writing Task 2 essay types?
The five essay types are: (1) Opinion/Agree-Disagree, (2) Discussion (both views), (3) Advantages/Disadvantages, (4) Problem/Solution (or Cause/Solution), and (5) Two-part question. Each requires a slightly different structure. Identify the type before you plan.
What band score do I need in IELTS Writing?
Most university admission requirements range from band 6.0 to 7.0 in Writing. UK nursing registration (NMC) requires band 7.0 in all skills. Australian skilled migration requires minimum 6.0 (Competent English) or 7.0 (Proficient English) depending on the visa stream.
Can I use a template for IELTS Writing Task 2?
Yes — a structural template is appropriate and expected. Memorise the paragraph framework (introduction, body, conclusion structure) and adapt it to the specific task. What examiners do penalise is memorised "template language" substituted for genuine ideas.
How is IELTS Writing Task 2 scored by AI?
Our AI scoring engine analyses your essay on all four IELTS Writing criteria: Task Achievement (did you address all parts of the question?), Coherence & Cohesion (logical flow and paragraphing), Lexical Resource (vocabulary range and accuracy), and Grammatical Range & Accuracy (sentence variety and correctness).

Ready to practise IELTS Writing Task 2?

Join thousands of students improving their IELTS band score with AI-powered practice and instant feedback.

Start Free Practice