How many different essay types are there in IELTS Writing Task 2?

Modified on Thu, 25 Sep at 6:58 PM

We can categorise IELTS Writing Task 2 essays into five main types:


  • discussion essay - Discuss both sides of an issue.
  • advantage/disadvantage essay - Look at the positives and negatives of a situation/trend/thing.
  • opinion essay - Justify your position (possibly by analysing both sides of the issue, or mostly one side). You could also call these 'agree or disagree' questions.
  • direct question essay - Answer two (usually) questions on a topic, one of which is usually an opinion question.
  • problem & solution essay - Explain the cause(s) or effect(s) of a problem, then give (a) solution(s).


You can learn more about how to tackle all 5 types of essay question in our Guided Skills for Writing courses. Choose 'Study', select Course, then Writing Task 2 and work through each section. 


Watch the classes (live or on-demand) and do training and practice to really understand what you need to do in each essay question type.


See also: How do I study on this site?

 

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