Writing Task 2 (Academic): Essay Types

The common types of essays may be based on direct questions, discussions, advantages or disadvantages, solutions, opinions and so on. Each essay type in IELTS Writing task 2 has a dedicated structure.

Opinion Essay

An opinion essay is an essay in which candidates have to explain the given topic based on the opinion that they have regarding that topic.

How to plan an opinion essay?

Learning the way to plan an opinion essay is crucial for effective preparation, as it helps candidates tailor their writing style and approach to the specific requirements of the essay type.

Learning the way to plan an opinion essay is crucial for effective preparation, as it helps candidates tailor their writing style and approach to the specific requirements of the essay type.
Read the question properly and pick a side/opinion.
Figure out why you have that opinion.
Know the reasons behind your opinion and use them as main points.
List out your supporting reasons + examples.

Example of an opinion essay:

Many people say that the only way to guarantee a good job is to complete a course in university education. Others claim that it is better to start work after school and gain experience in the world of work. How far do you agree or disagree with the above views? Give a reason for your answer and include any relevant examples from your knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.

Discussion Essay

In the discussion essay, the topic along with two opposing statements are given. Test-takers are asked to discuss both the opposing statements and give supporting points for both the statements. They should not give their opinion unless it’s been asked.

How to plan your Discussion essay?

Recognizing how to structure a discussion essay is vital for efficient preparation. It empowers candidates to adapt their writing strategy and style to meet the specific demands of the essay format. This understanding ensures that their responses are well-organized, coherent, and aligned with the expectations of the task.

Read the question properly and understand if you’ve got to give an opinion.
If you don’t, think about the main ideas revolving around both the statements.
If you do, think about the opinion and the main ideas linking to that opinion.
Ponder on the supporting points and examples related to the main idea.

Example of a Discussion Essay

Some people prefer to directly help or support people who need it in the local community, however, others prefer to give money to national or international charities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. Write at least 250 words.

Advantage or Disadvantage Essays

In an advantages/disadvantages essay, a topic is given and candidates will be asked to write for and against that particular topic. However, sometimes they may be asked to state their opinion too. In such cases, they should use another body paragraph to explain their opinion.

How to plan your advantages/disadvantages essay?

Efficiently preparing for an opinion essay requires a solid understanding of its organizational structure. This knowledge equips candidates to tailor their writing approach to meet the unique requirements of this essay format. By doing so, they can craft well-structured and cohesive responses that adhere closely to the prescribed guidelines.

Read the question properly and understand if you’ve got to give an opinion.
Make a list of the advantages and disadvantages that you want to write about in your essay.
Make a list of points supporting each advantage or disadvantage.
If you’re supposed to give an opinion, make sure you have reasons to support your opinions.

Example of an advantages/disadvantages question:

Some people think that youngsters should be required to do unpaid work helping people in the community. Are disadvantages of this requirement greater than the benefits for the community and individuals? Write at least 250 words.

Problem/Solution Essays

In problem/solution essays, the topic will be given regarding normal problems or issues people face and test-takers will be asked to give the solution. Sometimes the question may also be why this particular issue happened and they may be asked to give their opinions based on the issues.

How to plan a problem solution essay?

The ability to organize an opinion essay is fundamental for effective preparation. It allows candidates to adjust their writing style and strategy to suit the specific requirements of the essay format. This comprehension ensures that candidates can navigate the task adeptly, delivering responses that are not only well-crafted but also conform to the expected structure and coherence standards.

Make a list of the problems related to the topic given. 2-3 problems can be taken up.
The solutions to these problems should be addressed.
Construct your paragraphs in such a way that the problems are in one paragraph and solutions in the other (or) paragraphs consisting of a problem and solution.

Example of a cause-solution essay:

People today do not feel safe either at home or when they are out. What are the causes? What are the solutions? Write at least 250 words.

Direct Question Essays

In direct question essays are slightly difficult when compared to other types of essays, as test-takers will not be given a direct task but some general questions and based on these questions they will have to answer the essay. Candidates can give different paragraphs for all the general questions.

How to plan a direct question essay?

Understanding how to organize an opinion essay is essential for efficient preparation since it enables applicants to modify their writing strategy and style to fit the particular demands of the essay format.

Read the questions given.
Focus on each question separately.
Figure out an answer for each question separately.
These answers should have a main point, supporting points to your main point and examples.
Recheck if all the questions are answered before you begin writing the answer.

Example of a Direct Question Essays

The world’s natural resources are consumed at an ever-increased rate. What are the dangers of this situation? What should we do? Write at least 250 words.