Originally published July 2026. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
Understanding Writing Task 2
In IELTS Writing Task 2, you are given a statement or question on a general topic and asked to write an essay. The task contributes two-thirds of your total Writing band score (Task 1 contributes one-third). You must write at least 250 words — most successful candidates write between 270 and 300 words.
Your essay is assessed on four criteria, each worth 25 %:
- Task Response — How fully you address the question
- Coherence and Cohesion — Logical organisation and use of linking devices
- Lexical Resource — Range and accuracy of vocabulary
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Variety of sentence structures with minimal errors
The Seven Essay Types
| Essay Type | What the Question Asks | Structure |
|---|---|---|
| Agree / Disagree (Opinion) | “To what extent do you agree or disagree?” | Introduction → 2 body paragraphs supporting your position → Conclusion |
| Discussion (Both Views) | “Discuss both views and give your own opinion” | Introduction → Body 1 (View A) → Body 2 (View B) → Conclusion with your opinion |
| Advantages / Disadvantages | “Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?” | Introduction → Body 1 (Advantages) → Body 2 (Disadvantages) → Conclusion |
| Problem / Solution | “What are the problems? What solutions can you suggest?” | Introduction → Body 1 (Problems) → Body 2 (Solutions) → Conclusion |
| Cause / Effect | “What are the causes and effects?” | Introduction → Body 1 (Causes) → Body 2 (Effects) → Conclusion |
| Positive / Negative | “Is this a positive or negative development?” | Introduction → Body 1 (Positive aspects) → Body 2 (Negative aspects) → Conclusion |
| Direct Question (Two-Part) | Two separate questions asked together | Introduction → Body 1 (Question 1) → Body 2 (Question 2) → Conclusion |
Common Topic Categories
Based on analysis of exam questions reported by test takers across multiple years, the following twelve categories account for the vast majority of Writing Task 2 prompts:
1. Education
Consistently the most frequently tested topic. Questions cover formal schooling, university education, online learning, the role of teachers, and educational policy.
Example prompts:
- Some people think that all university courses should be available to all students. Others think that some restrictions should apply. Discuss both views.
- Children should be taught the importance of the environment at school. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
2. Technology
Questions explore how digital tools affect communication, work, privacy, and daily life.
Example prompts:
- Many people feel that technology has made life more complex. Do the advantages of modern technology outweigh the disadvantages?
- Some people think that the increasing use of technology in the workplace is a positive development. Others disagree. Discuss both views.
3. Society and Culture
Topics include social values, traditions, cultural change, community, and generational differences.
Example prompts:
- In many countries, traditional customs are disappearing. What are the causes? What can be done to preserve them?
- Some people believe that social media has brought people closer together. Others argue it has made them more isolated. Discuss both views.
4. Environment
Questions address pollution, climate change, wildlife protection, sustainability, and individual vs government responsibility.
Example prompts:
- Some people think that instead of preventing climate change, we should find ways to live with it. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
- Plastic pollution is a growing problem. What are the causes and what solutions can be implemented?
5. Health
Topics cover lifestyle choices, public health policy, diet, exercise, and mental well-being.
Example prompts:
- In many countries, the number of people suffering from stress-related illnesses is increasing. What are the causes and what measures could be taken?
- Some people think that governments should promote a healthy lifestyle. Others believe it is a personal choice. Discuss both views.
6. Government and Public Policy
Questions about government spending, law enforcement, taxation, and public services.
Example prompts:
- Some people believe that the government should spend money on building public libraries. Others think that the money should be spent on other things. Discuss both views.
- Should governments invest more in public transport or road infrastructure?
7. Work and Employment
Topics include remote work, work-life balance, job satisfaction, automation, and career choices.
Example prompts:
- Some people work best when they set their own targets. Others perform better when their employer sets targets. Discuss both views.
- Many people change careers several times during their working lives. Is this a positive or negative development?
8. Crime and Law
Questions about criminal justice, punishment, crime prevention, and rehabilitation.
Example prompts:
- Some people think that the best way to reduce crime is to have longer prison sentences. Others believe there are better approaches. Discuss both views.
9. Media and Advertising
Topics cover news reporting, advertising influence, freedom of speech, and misinformation.
Example prompts:
- Advertising has a negative effect on society. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
10. Globalisation
Questions about international trade, cultural exchange, global inequality, and travel.
Example prompts:
- International tourism has brought enormous benefits to many places. At the same time, it has caused problems. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
11. Family and Children
Topics include parenting styles, children’s rights, family structure, and childcare.
Example prompts:
- Some people think parents should monitor their children’s activities closely. Others believe children should have more freedom. Discuss both views.
12. Arts and Leisure
Questions about government funding for arts, the value of sport, and creative industries.
Example prompts:
- Some people think that governments should spend money on art and culture. Others think this money should be spent on public services. Discuss both views.
How to Approach Any Task 2 Question
- Read the question twice — underline the key instruction words (discuss, agree/disagree, causes, solutions).
- Identify the essay type — this determines your paragraph structure.
- Plan for 5 minutes — write down 2–3 ideas per body paragraph with brief supporting reasons.
- Write your introduction — paraphrase the question and state your position or outline.
- Develop body paragraphs — one main idea per paragraph, supported by explanation, example, or evidence.
- Write a conclusion — summarise your main points without introducing new ideas.
- Check your work — spend 2–3 minutes reviewing for grammar, spelling, and word count.
- Task 2 is worth two-thirds of your total Writing score — prioritise it in preparation.
- Seven essay types exist — learn the structure for each one.
- Twelve topic categories cover the vast majority of questions: Education, Technology, Society, Environment, Health, Government, Work, Crime, Media, Globalisation, Family, and Arts.
- Education and Technology are the most frequently tested categories.
- Always plan for 5 minutes before writing.
- Write 270–300 words for a safe margin above the 250-word minimum.
- Do not memorise essays — examiners are trained to detect templates and memorised content.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many words should I write for Task 2?
The minimum is 250 words. Writing fewer than 250 words will result in a penalty. Aim for 270–300 words to ensure you comfortably exceed the minimum without running out of time.
Should I write Task 1 or Task 2 first?
Many test preparation experts recommend starting with Task 2 because it carries more weight. Spend approximately 40 minutes on Task 2 and 20 minutes on Task 1. However, the order is your choice.
Do I need to use academic vocabulary?
You should use formal, academic-style language. Avoid slang, contractions, and overly casual expressions. Using topic-specific vocabulary and less common words will help improve your Lexical Resource score.
Can I give a balanced opinion in an Agree/Disagree essay?
Yes, but you must make your position clear. You can partially agree or disagree, but every paragraph should consistently support your stated position. Avoid sitting on the fence without a clear stance.