How can I start my paragraphs in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays?

Different task 2 essay types will require different types of points to make in your body paragraphs. You might be:

1. Beginning with arguments on one side
2. Contrasting with arguments on the other side
3. Adding arguments on the same side
4. Giving advantages / disadvantages
5. Giving problems / causes / effects
6. Giving solutions

Here are some phrases you might use for each of these:

1. The first point to consider is that ...
One of the main arguments against / in favour of _____ is ....
Firstly, one could argue that ...

2. On the other hand ,...
Conversely, ...
However, from the other perspective, ...

3. Furthermore ,...
Moreover, ...
In addition to this, ...

4. One of the main dis/advantages of [this trend/situation] is ...
Another benefit/drawback to consider is ...

5. [This issue] is primarily caused by / down to / due to ...
One of the main consequences / effects / results of [this issue] is ...

6. One way to solve this could be to ...
In order to tackle this issue, I would propose __ing ...

These are examples only - you should also think of ways to say this in your own words, and pay attention when you read essays, too. You might find some useful phrases that other writers have used!

To learn more about the different types of essay and how to approach them, check out our study courses for Writing. Go to the Study area, select Course and Writing Task 2, and then work through the sections. Take classes, do training to learn more tips, and then do practice.

See also: How can I study on this site?