Understanding IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Types

IELTS Writing

Understanding the different IELTS Writing Task 2 essay types can help you navigate the writing process more effectively. In general, each essay type has its own rules, structure, and expectations. Whether you’re facing an opinion essay, a discussion essay, or a problem-solution challenge, knowing how to approach each type will transform your writing from uncertain to unstoppable.

Types of IELTS Essay Questions

In the IELTS Writing Task 2, there are typically five main types of essay questions:

  1. Opinion Essay (Agree or Disagree)

Overview

People often refer to the opinion essay as an “agree or disagree” essay. Essentially, you must state your position on a given statement to indicate whether you fully agree, fully disagree, or partially agree. This type of essay is quite straightforward, and you should present a clear position from the very beginning, preferably in the first paragraph. 

 

Essay key characteristics

  • Requires a definitive position
  • Needs strong supporting arguments
  • Demands clear reasoning and examples

Sample questions

  1. “Modern technology is creating a generation of socially isolated young people. Do you agree or disagree?”
  2. “Some people believe that competitive sports have a negative impact on children. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

Answering strategies

  • Clearly state your position in the introduction
  • Provide 2-3 main reasons supporting your stance
  • Use specific examples to illustrate your points
  • Acknowledge the opposing view briefly
  • Conclude by restating your position
  1. Discussion Essay 

Overview

The discussion essay requires you to investigate both sides of a topic fairly before providing your own viewpoint. Unlike the opinion essay, which seeks a clear stance, the discussion essay involves a more nuanced approach in which you give equal weight to opposing ideas. It tests your ability to think critically, present balanced arguments, and demonstrate language complexity.

 

Essay key Characteristics

  • Balanced analysis of two contrasting viewpoints
  • Neutral tone
  • Optional personal opinion in conclusion

Sample questions

  1. “Some people think that universities should provide graduates with the skills needed in the workplace. Others believe that the true function of a university is to create knowledge. Discuss both views.”
  2. “In many countries, people are choosing to have fewer children. Discuss the reasons for this and the consequences.”

Answering strategies

  • Introduce the topic neutrally
  • Dedicate one paragraph to each perspective
  • Provide balanced arguments and examples
  • Optional: Add a concluding paragraph with your overall perspective
  • Maintain an objective tone throughout
  1. Advantage and Disadvantage Essay

Overview

The advantage and disadvantage essay requires you to examine the positive and negative aspects of a particular situation. You should be able to present a comprehensive and balanced examination of the given topic. It tests your ability to carefully weigh different perspectives while maintaining a clear, logical structure. 

 

Essay key characteristics

  • Balanced exploration of pros and cons
  • Critical analysis
  • Potential for a balanced conclusion

Sample questions

  1. “What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in a big city?”
  2. “Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of working from home.”

Answering strategies

  • Clearly introduce the topic
  • Dedicate one paragraph to advantages
  • Dedicate one paragraph to disadvantages
  • Provide specific examples for each point
  • Optional: Conclude with a balanced perspective
  1. Problem and Solution Essay

Overview

This type of essay focuses on identifying a specific problem and proposing practical solutions. The problem and solution essay usually covers topics about social, economic, technological, global, and environmental challenges. It requires a substantial level of academic writing and critical thinking. You should be able to analyze underlying causes and propose well-reasoned, practical solutions that address the core issue.

 

Essay key Characteristics

  • Clear problem identification
  • Realistic and feasible solutions
  • Logical flow of ideas

 

Sample Questions

  1. “What are the main causes of obesity in children, and what solutions can be proposed?”
  2. “Traffic congestion is becoming a serious problem in many cities. What are the causes and what solutions can be implemented?”

Answering strategies

  • Introduce the problem clearly
  • Explain the causes in one paragraph
  • Propose 2-3 practical solutions in subsequent paragraphs
  • Discuss the potential impact of these solutions
  • Conclude by summarizing the key points
  1. Two-Part Question (Direct Questions) Essay

Overview

The two-part question essay, also called the direct question essay, requires you to address two distinct but related questions presented in the prompt directly. It tests your ability to organize ideas, respond to multiple questions coherently, and provide balanced and detailed answers. You are expected to analyze the questions carefully and maintain clarity while addressing both parts equally.

 

Essay key characteristics

  • Multiple components to answer
  • Clear, direct responses
  • Balanced coverage of both parts

Sample Questions

  1. “In many countries, the number of parents who home school their children is increasing. Why do parents choose to do this, and what are the effects on children?”
  2. “People are traveling more internationally these days. What are the reasons for this trend, and does this have positive or negative effects?”

Answering Strategy

  • Address both parts of the question
  • Divide your essay into clear, logical paragraphs
  • Ensure equal attention to both aspects
  • Use specific examples to support your points
  • Maintain a clear, logical connection between the two parts

Common IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions

In this section, we’ll dive into some of the most common IELTS Writing Task 2 questions and typical question patterns.

  1. Opinion Essay (Agree or Disagree) 

Typical question patterns

  • “To what extent do you agree or disagree…?”
  • “Do you agree or disagree that…?”

Example questions

  • “Nowadays, people are too dependent on technology. Do you agree or disagree?”
  • “Modern work environments should prioritize employee happiness over productivity. To what extent do you agree?”

 

  1. Discussion Essay

Typical question patterns

  • “Discuss both views and give your opinion”
  • “What are the different views on this issue?”

Example questions

  • “Some believe higher education should be free, while others think students should pay. Discuss both views.”
  • “Traditional learning versus online education: Discuss both perspectives.”

 

  1. Advantage and Disadvantage Essay

Typical question patterns

  • “What are the advantages and disadvantages of…?”
  • “Discuss the positive and negative aspects of…”

Example questions

  • “What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in a metropolitan city?”
  • “Discuss the pros and cons of global connectivity through social media.”

 

  1. Problem and Solution Essay

Typical question patterns

  • “What are the main causes of… and how can these be addressed?”
  • “Identify the problems and propose solutions for…”

Example questions

  • “Environmental degradation is a growing concern. What are the primary causes and potential solutions?”
  • “Youth unemployment is increasing globally. What problems does this create and how might they be resolved?”

 

  1. Two-Part Question Essay

Typical question patterns

  • “Why does… happen, and what are its effects?”
  • “What are the reasons for… and is this trend positive or negative?”

Example questions

  • “Why are more people choosing to live in urban areas, and what impact does this have on rural communities?”
  • “What motivates individuals to pursue entrepreneurship, and does this trend benefit society?”

Conclusion

While these are common question types, always read the prompt carefully. The exact wording can provide crucial hints about the expected response structure. Remember: Practice makes perfect! By familiarizing yourself with these question types and developing a structured approach, you’ll be well-prepared for the IELTS Writing Task 2.