IELTS Writing Task 2 — The Essay Structure That Hits Band 7+

Task 2 is 67% of your Writing score. A clear structure, strong examples and varied grammar are all you need for Band 7+. This is the framework our students use every week.

1. 1Introduction — paraphrase the question + state your position.
2. 2Body 1 — main reason + example + mini-conclusion.
3. 3Body 2 — second reason or opposing view + example.
4. 4Conclusion — restate your position in fresh words.

• 5 mins — read the question carefully + plan paragraph points.
• 30 mins — write 250–280 words.
• 5 mins — proofread for tense, articles and spelling.

Adding ideas

• Furthermore / Moreover / In addition
• What is more / Not only that but also

Contrasting

• However / Nevertheless / On the other hand
• Despite this / While it is true that…

Showing cause and effect

• As a result / Consequently / Therefore
• This leads to / This results in

1. 1Opinion — "To what extent do you agree?" → take a side.
2. 2Discussion — "Discuss both views." → balance both, then choose one.
3. 3Problem-Solution — list 2 problems + 2 solutions.
4. 4Two-Part — answer both parts equally.
5. 5Advantage-Disadvantage — outweigh one over the other if asked.

Before you hand in the paper, check three things: (1) is each paragraph 5+ lines? (2) did you stay above 250 words? (3) did you write a conclusion? Missing any of these caps you at Band 6.