IELTS Task 2 Essay Structure: The Only Guide You Need

Task 2 is worth twice as many marks as Task 1. Most candidates know this but still spend equal time on both. Your first decision: spend 40 of your 60 writing minutes on Task 2.

The 4-paragraph structure that scores 7.0+

Introduction (40–50 words): Paraphrase the question in your own words (1 sentence). State your position clearly (1 sentence). NEVER start with 'Nowadays' — examiners see it 50 times a day. Start with a strong claim or a surprising fact instead.

Body paragraph 1 (90–110 words): Topic sentence → Explain → Example → Link back to question. The example must be specific: not 'for example, in some countries' but 'for example, Finland's 2018 education reform showed that...'

Body paragraph 2 (90–110 words): Same structure. Address the counter-argument if your essay type is 'discuss both views.'

Conclusion (40–50 words): Restate your position in different words. One final thought. No new ideas.

What Band 7 looks like vs. Band 5

Band 5 uses simple connectors: 'First, Second, Finally, In conclusion.' Band 7 uses discourse markers naturally: 'This is particularly evident when...', 'What this suggests is...', 'The implications are clear...'

Task achievement is the biggest differentiator

You can have perfect grammar and score Band 5 if you don't answer the question. Read the question type: Opinion? Discuss both views? Problem-solution? Advantages-disadvantages? Each type has a different expected stance.