essay writing ielts questions

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50 Recent IELTS Essay Questions

Hey! It is so important that when you sit down to practice IELTS writing, you only use questions that are “genuine”. This means using either questions that come from the IELTS Cambridge 1 – 15   series or those that have been created by an exam writer like those in my 100 IELTS essay question blog post.  However, many students like to practice recent IELTS essay questions i.e. topics that have been reported by recent test-takers.

I understand why students want to do this – knowing what the recent IELTS essays questions are and checking that you can answer them is reassuring. However, unfortunately, test-takers rarely (if ever) manage to accurately remember the wording of the question that they had in their test.

Can they remember the general topic? Sure.

Can they remember the exact wording? Definitely not!

Sadly, changing even one word in a test can change the focus of a question and, therefore, make it impossible to answer! So, every month, I collect 50 recent IELTS essay questions from students in  My IELTS Classroom  , and edit them so that they are as close to perfect as possible.

Plus, I divide the questions into Academic and General Training (so you can be sure you are tackling the right type of questions) and have highlighted the main topic of each question for you.

This page is updated monthly and is now showing questions from 2021. If you want to see exam questions that reportedly appeared earlier in 2021, then you can look at our 2021 archive .

As always, these questions are provided so that you can check that you have ideas for the nw topics. If you are preparing with a teacher or want high-quality feedback on your  writing  then you should always use a question from the original IELTS Cambridge Series .

Academic IELTS Essay Questions (February 2021 – September 2021)

1. Some people think that criminal behaviour has genetic causes . Others believe that it is circumstances that lead people to commit a crime. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

2. Some people think that new houses should be built in the same style as older houses in an area. Others believe that local councils should allow people to choose different designs for their houses. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

3. Some people say that the best way to teach children to behave well is to punish them. Others argue that rewarding and praising children is a better way to teach them the difference between right and wrong. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

4.  Some people believe that women should be able to join their country’s army and police forces . Others think that only men should be allowed to work in these areas. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

5.  In some countries, there are not enough medical or educational facilities in rural areas. Therefore, some people believe newly graduated teachers and doctors should be sent to work in rural areas for some time. Others think that people should be free to choose where they work after graduation. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

6. A lot of research has shown that overeating can have a number of negative effects on the body. Some people therefore believe that the advertising of certain foods should be banned in the same way that some countries have banned advertising cigarettes. Do you agree or disagree?

7 Some people think that parents should teach their children about the importance of recycling . Others believe recycling should be taught in schools. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

8. The media has the right to publish information about the personal life of celebrities . To what extent do you agree or disagree?

9. Some people say that instead of preventing climate change, we need to find a way to live with it. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?

10. Young people today mostly learn by reading books or watching movies and TV shows , rather than personal experience. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

11. Big companies should provide sports and social facilities for the local communities where they operate. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

12. Some people argue that thanks to the widespread accessibility of the internet, libraries are no longer necessary. Do you agree or disagree?

13. If asked to choose between a life without work and a life that involves working most of the time, people will always choose not to work. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

14. Eighteen is the appropriate age for children to finish school. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

15. Schools should stop using books to teach and use films, TV and computers in the classroom instead. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Writing a good IELTS essay doesn’t have to be difficult. Follow our step-by-step guide to every type of essay to find out what the examiner expects and exactly what you can do to satisfy the band descriptors in our Task Two course. The first three lessons are free!

16. Nowadays foreign visitors show more interest in the museums of a country than its local residents do. Why is this? What can be done to attract more local residents to visit museums in their country?

17 Many companies sponsor sports teams and events to advertise their products or service . What advantages and disadvantages does this bring for the teams and individuals that these companies sponsor?

18. Most information today is available online whereas in the past it was stored in books or on paper. Do you think the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

19. The difference between countries is becoming less and less evident as people all over the world wear the same fashions, watch the same TV channels, use the same brands, and have similar eating habits. Do you think that the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?

20. Nowadays many people get the news online instead of reading it in newspapers or watching it on TV. Is this a positive or negative development?

21. In many countries today the proportion of older people in the population is higher than the proportion of younger people . Do you think this is a positive or a negative development?

Discover the secret to writing a Band 7.0+ essay

Th en download a copy of our FREE e-book, which explains the most common errors made by test-takers and how you can avoid them. Just click here for your copy.

22. More and more tasks in the home and at work are being performed by robots . Why do you think this is the case? Is this a negative or positive development?

23. Nowadays tourists and scientists are allowed to travel to remote natural environments . Do you think the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

24. Due to population growth many people these days live in apartments with limited space and no outdoor areas. Do the advantages of this trend outweigh its disadvantages?

25. Every country in the world has its own road rules , but many drivers don’t obey them. What do you think are the reasons for this? What can be done to solve this problem?

BONUS In many countries, shopping is now one of the most popular types of leisure activity . Why do you so many young people like shopping? Is this a positive or a negative development?

What are the current Aacdemic writing trends?

My observation of the most recent IELTS essay questions from 2021 is that there have been A LOT of Discuss Both Sides and To What Extent questions. In fact, this is more or less all that I have seen in the first month of the new year, so be sure that you are ready to answer these.

GT IELTS Essay Questions (February 2021 – September 2021

1. Some people believe that individuals who earn a lot of money are the most successful in life . Others say that the individuals who contribute to the society (such as scientists or teachers) are more successful. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

2. It is universally accepted that eating too much  sugar has a negative effects on people’s health . Therefore, some believe that the government should control the amount of sugar people consume. Others think that it is the responsibility of an individual to monitor their sugar intake. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

3. Some people say that the development of technology means that people no longer need to learn the skill of handwriting . Others believe that it is still necessary for people to learn how to write by hand. Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

4. Some people believe that individuals over 65 should not be allowed to continue working . Others think that people should be allowed to work for as long as they choose. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

5. Some people think that it is a good idea for parents to help their children with their homework. Others believe that children should do their homework on their own. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

6. Some people think that the government should spend money on cultural activities such as music or art. Others think this is a waste of taxpayers’ money. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

7. Some people think that children should be taught how to become good parents at school . Do you agree or disagree?

8. Many mothers stay at home to take care of their family and don’t go out to work . Some people believe these mothers should be paid by the government. Do you agree or disagree?

9. In many countries, it is common for people to consume fast food. However, some people believe that fast food has too much influence on our lifestyle and diet. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

10. Some people say that playing sports helps to prepare children for their future jobs . Do you agree or disagree?

11. Some people say that the Olympic Games no longer play a role in the 21st century . Do you agree or disagree?

12.   People’s behaviour (for example, their table manners and they way they dress) varies from country to country. When traveling to a different country, people should copy the behaviour and habits of the inhabitants of the country they  visit. Do you agree or disagree?

13.  The best way to increase road safety is to make car drivers retake their driving test every year. Do you agree or disagree?

14.  Some people believe that family is more important than friends . What do you think?

15.  The Internet is the best place to find information . Do you agree or disagree?

16.  In many countries traditional customs are being lost.  Why do you think this is? What can parents and schools do to keep traditional customs alive? 

17.  People who are learning a foreign language can face a number of difficulties. What are some of these problems? In your opinion, what are the best ways to overcome these difficulties?

18. Young people today are often less polite and show less respect than previous generations . Why do you think this is? What can be done to solve this problem? 

19. Developments in technology mean that more and more machines are being used in the workplace instead of human employees. Does this development have more advantages or more disadvantages?

20. In some countries, young people choose to move from their parents’ home to their own house at an early age. In other countries, young people stay with parents for a longer time. Do you think young people who leave their parent’s home at a younger age have more advantages or disadvantages than those who stay?

21. In many parts of the world, more and more large supermarkets are opening and smaller local shops are closing down. Does this development have more advantages or more disadvantages for local people?

22. In some countries it is illegal to stop people applying for a job because of their age . Is this a positive or a negative development?

 23.  In many countries, people are earning more money today than in the past, so they are able to buy more things. Is this a positive or a negative development?

24. Nowadays, people prefer to shop at large shopping centres rather than in local shops or markets. Why is this? Is this a positive or negative development?

25. Nowadays in many countries traditional customs are becoming less popular than in the past . Do you agree or disagree? What can parents and teachers do about this?

BONUS –  Playing team sports at school can teach students a number of lessons that are useful outside of sport. What values can students learn from playing team sports? How can they apply these values in the future? 

What are the current GT writing trends?

So far this year, I have noticed two main trends for the recent IELTS essay questions for General Training students. First, there continue to be more 2-part questions than in the Academic test, and the topics seem to be more and more diverse.

Also, the test writers seem to making small changes to the wording of questions, which don’t actually change what you are expected to do, but may confuse some students. For example, in the past, you were always asked “Is this a positive or negative trend?” but recently the same question has been phrased as:

• Is this a good thing or a bad thing?
• Do you think this is right or wrong?
• Do you think this this a good or bad use of public money?

If you enter the exam room and feel confused by the question, my advice is always to simply answer the question that you have been given.

Yes, there are question types that repeat, but if you are given a direct essay question or a type of question that is unfamiliar, simply focusing on answering the question/s you have been given clearly is always the best approach!

Looking for an IELTS school run by native speakers who have a proven track record of helping students achieve their potential in IELTS? Then come join the students at  My IELTS Classroom  who are using our unique video courses, live lessons and marking service to maximise their scores. 

OK – those are the 50 most recent IELTS essay questions. I will try to do this every month so that you can be sure you have ideas for every possible IELTS question in your exam. Well, maybe not to every question, but at least by practicing with these, you will have sharpened your idea-generation skills . Plus, you can help me by adding any questions that you can remember from a recent IELTS exam in the comments below 🚀

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IELTS Writing Topics April & May 2024

The collection of writing topics that were reported by IELTS student in 2024 . These questions could be repeated from previous months. Keep in mind that the provided questions are not predictions.

Pick one of the topics and improve your writing skills every day. If you can't come up with ideas for a topic just click the "Show answers" button and you will see the different ideas.

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• Free online IELTS Academic Writing practice tests - paper

IELTS practice Academic Writing test - Task 2

How to approach academic writing task 2.

In the actual IELTS Academic Writing test, you will have one hour to complete the two questions or tasks: 20 minutes for the first task and 40 minutes for the second. So, you should expect to spend a little longer on practice Task 2 than you did on practice Task 1.

While you shouldn’t put yourself under too much pressure when practicing, it’s a good idea to set a timer or alert, so you can keep a track of your progress and how close you are to the time limit.

An easy reminder…

Q: How long should I spend on IELTS Writing Task 2?

A: We suggest 40 minutes.

Q: How many words for IELTS Writing Task 2?

A: 250 words is about the right length, but don’t be afraid to go a little over.

Q: Should I be formal or conversational in style?

A: You should write in a formal style, suited to an academic environment.

Task 2 - Write about the following topic:

You should give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own experience or knowledge to support your response.

What should I do next?

Once you’ve finished, you can download the model answer for Writing Task 2 and see how your work compares.

Remember, you don’t have to agree with the opinion expressed in the model answer; this Task 2 sample is a guide to illustrate the style, content, level of detail, structure, length and so on. A good way to improve is to spend some time reflecting on how your answer compares to the model answer - and keep practicing, of course.

If you want to see an example of an actual answer sheet for the IELTS Academic Writing test (‘on paper’ version), you can download a sample copy below.

• IELTS practice Academic Writing test - Task 1

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IELTS Writing Task 2: ✍️ Everything You Need to Know

When helping students prepare for the IELTS test, one of the biggest fears is how to do well in IELTS Writing Task 2. 

IELTS Writing Task 2 is the second part of the writing test, where you are presented with a point of view, argument or problem and asked to write an essay in response. Your essay should be in a formal style, at least 250 words in length and you should aim to complete it in under 40 minutes. 

IELTS Writing Task 2: Everything You Need to Know

In this video, I’ll outline exactly what you must do to create an IELTS Writing Task 2 essay that could score a Band 7, 8 or 9.

It doesn’t matter if you’re new to IELTS or if you’ve failed the exam before – I’ve broken everything down into a simple 3-step process that anyone can use to improve their scores! Watch the video above to find out what they are.

5 Steps to a Band 7 in IELTS Writing Task 2

1. Understand the question.

You must understand the question before you attempt to answer it. This way, you’ll know exactly what the examiner is looking for. One of the biggest mistakes students make is not answering the question fully, which stops them from getting a score higher than a Band 5.

To analyse the question , you must first identify the question type, then identify the keywords in the question and finally identify the instructions words. This will help you understand exactly what the examiner wants you to do with the question.

2. Plan your answer.

The students who get the highest marks in Writing Task 2 always plan their answers for up to 10 minutes. Planning helps you organise your ideas and structure your essay before you write it, saving you time and helping you produce a clear and coherent essay.

3. Write an introduction.

The introduction should answer the question directly. This tells the examiner that you know what you are doing straight away and helps you write your main body paragraphs.

4. Write the main body paragraphs.

This is where you give the examiner more detail . You do this by stating your main points and supporting these with explanations and relevant examples.

5. Write a conclusion.

In your conclusion , you should provide a summary of what you already said in the rest of your essay.

4 Ways to Improve your Score in IELTS Writing Task 2

Many people know they need to improve their writing skills but don’t know how to do it. Here are 4 ways you can boost your score in Writing Task 2:

1. Understand the exam.

You must first understand what IELTS Writing Task 2 is, what you are expected to do and how to give the examiners what they want. This is the first stage and one that is often overlooked.

There are many online resources, often with conflicting and poor-quality information, so finding a reliable source of information is key.

2. Identify your weak areas.

If your car breaks down, you would try and identify which part caused the problem. If you get sick, your doctor will run tests to determine the exact cause of your symptoms.

IELTS Writing Task 2 is the same. We must first identify WHY you are not getting the score you need before we can help you improve.

However, be very careful! You wouldn’t ask the average man on the street for medical advice, so make sure you find someone who knows what they are doing and has the expertise to help you with this.

3. Fix the problems.

Now that we know what the problems are, we must fix them.

If your grammar needs work, fix those issues. If your vocabulary is lacking, work on fixing this issue.

Just as a good doctor can help you fix a medical problem, a good IELTS teacher can help you fix your specific issues.

4. Practice and get feedback.

Practice alone will not help you. It is an essential part of your preparation, but you must also get feedback on your work if you are really going to improve.

You wouldn’t try to teach yourself how to drive without an instructor, would you?

Find someone who will give you accurate and helpful feedback on your work. Otherwise, you will not be able to move to the last stage.

Now that you have understood what you need to do, identified the exact areas you need to work on, improved those areas, and received feedback on your work, you are now ready to get the IELTS Writing Task 2 score you deserve.

Writing Task 2 Structures 

I want to warn you about structures because they are not a magic wand that will help you automatically get a higher score. They WILL help you, but please realise that they are just a small part of your overall score.

These structures provide a sentence-by-sentence template for all the main Task 2 question types, making your job much easier on exam day.

• Task 2 Essay Structures

Essential Writing Task 2 Skills 

No matter how good your English is, you must still learn IELTS writing skills before taking the Writing Task 2 test. These helpful guides will take you through each of these skills step-by-step:

• How to Plan an Essay

Making a good plan actually saves you time when you write your essay. This guide will show you how to plan and write a clear essay every time.

• How to Think of Relevant Ideas

This guide provides 5 different methods to help you quickly think of relevant ideas that are directly linked to the question.

• How to Write a Complex Sentence

Complex sentences help you boost your score for grammar. They are actually very simple to write and are not complex at all.

• How to Paraphrase

Paraphrasing is one of the essential IELTS skills for all parts of the IELTS test. You should paraphrase the question in the very first sentence of your essay to help boost your vocabulary score in Writing Task 2.

• How to Write a Supporting Paragraph

Supporting paragraphs are the main body paragraphs and are the meat in the sandwich. This is where you provide the detail the examiner is looking for in the form of explanations and examples.

• How to Write a Thesis Statement

A thesis statement tells the examiner your opinion. Many IELTS Writing Task 2 questions specifically ask for your opinion, and if you don’t write it clearly, you have not answered the question properly. This article shows you how, where and when to give your opinion.

How many words should I write?

Around 250 words? Exactly 250 words or over 250 words? How many words over? How do I know how many words I have? Will I lose marks if I write too many words? This article answers all those questions.

• How to Understand and Analyse Any Question

A critical part of answering any question. This article shows you how to break down any Task 2 question and identify the keywords, micro-keywords and instruction words to help you answer the question effectively.

• How to Write a Great Introduction

The introduction is the first thing the examiner reads; therefore, we must give them a good first impression. I share a very specific sentence-by-sentence structure in this article to help you write introductions quickly and effectively.

• Task 2 Marking Criteria 

Do you know how Task 2 is marked? What is the difference between a Band 5 and a Band 8 answer? This article breaks down the marking criteria and explains it in simple language so you can give the IELTS examiners exactly what they want.

• How to Write a Conclusion

A good conclusion should be a summary of your main points. The conclusion is the last thing the examiner reads, and if you can write a good one, you will leave them with a very good impression.

• Using Examples

Each of your supporting paragraphs should have a specific example that supports and illustrates your main point. This is an essential skill to learn if you want to get one of the higher band scores.

• Cohesive Devices

Cohesive devices (sometimes called linking words) are one of the most misunderstood and misused elements of writing. Therefore, you must learn how to use them and when to use them.

• The Danger of Synonyms

While synonyms are very important, they can also really reduce your mark if used incorrectly.

• Paragraphing and Editing

This article will show you how to make your writing as clear and as easy to read as possible. It will also advise you on whether to use a pen or pencil.

• IELTS Writing Task 2: 8 Steps to Success

Read this blog now to access our 61-page Task 2 strategy.

• IELTS Writing Tips

I have compiled these tips after years of teaching IELTS, and all of them have been approved by IELTS examiners.

• Coherence and Cohesion

This is a video lesson that shows you in practical terms how to improve your coherence and cohesion score.

Writing Task 2 Common Topics 

Knowing the common topics can help you prepare for the test more efficiently. Here are the 10 most common topics over the last few years. Studying hard is great, but don’t forget to study smart.

The article below will show you the top 10 most common IELTS topics.

• Most Common Task 2 Topics 

Full IELTS Writing Task 2 Practice Lessons 

Here are some lessons that I have used when teaching students about IELTS Writing Task 2. I have changed them so that you can easily learn from home. They are very long but contain all the necessary information combined with the skills above.

• Agree or Disagree (Opinion) Lesson

In this lesson, we look at how to tackle an ‘agree or disagree’ question. Many people worry about whether to take one side of the other or discuss both sides. Additionally, people also worry about how to deal with ‘To what extent’ question types. We allay all of these fears in this lesson.

• Discussion Essay Lesson

‘Discuss both views’ questions often confuse people because you are asked to do many things in one essay. As such, it is very important to remember that the question asks you to discuss BOTH views AND give YOUR opinion.

• Problem and Solution Essay Lesson

These questions are much easier than you think. You probably discuss problems and solutions in your day-to-day life all the time. Keep it simple.

• Advantages and Disadvantages Lesson 

There are a couple of different types of advantages and disadvantages questions. This lesson will show you how to answer them.

• Writing Task 2 Exercise with Video

Writing is a skill, and just like any other skill, it is important to practice to improve.

• From Band 6.5 to 8 Demo Lesson

This is my most comprehensive free lesson on IELTS Writing Task 2. We show you how we took one VIP student from Band 6.5 to an amazing 8.

Sample Answers

You must have some good examples to compare your writing and see if you are on the right track. Click the link below for lots of sample answers and over 100 questions.

Task 2 Sample Answers

• Agree or Disagree Sample Essays
• Task 2 Band 9 Sample Essay
• Latest Real Task 2 Questions
• Official Sample Test Questions
• Cambridge Sample Questions
• Free Practice Test
• How To Use Task 2 Samples
• Recent Confusing Questions
• IELTS Writing Practice Guide

IELTS Writing Task 2 Essential Information

• You must write an essay in response to a question.
• You must write 250 words or more.
• Task 2 is worth 2/3 of your total mark on the Writing test.
• You should spend around 40 minutes on this part of the test.
• General Training and Academic are essentially the same for Task 2. However, they are different for Task 1.
• There are certain types of questions that you will be asked, for example, opinion, discussion etc. See below for more detail on these.
• Task Achievement (25%)
• Coherence and Cohesion (25%)
• Lexical Resource (25%)
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (25%)

Grammar and Vocabulary

Grammar is one of the four things you will be marked on in the Writing Task 2 test. Finding out what your common grammar mistakes are and then fixing them is a very powerful way to boost your score in this area. Here are some common grammar mistakes I have found after making hundreds of tests.

• Top 10 Grammar Mistakes

For most IELTS students, the problem is not grammar in general. In fact, it is usually just 1-2 problem areas. Therefore, when you fix these main weaknesses, you’ll be able to improve your grammar and your writing score dramatically.

• Using Personal Pronouns

Hint- They aren’t as big of a deal as you think.

See the interactive tool below for the answers to the most commonly asked questions we receive about IELTS Writing Task 2: 

IELTS Writing Task 2 FAQs

How can i improve my writing.

You will find all the resources you need on our Writing Task 2 page. Click the link below:

Writing Task 2

We also have two Task 2 courses for those that need to improve their Task 2 skills and strategy. They are both based online and completely free of charge. Learn more about them below:

Task 2 5 Day Challenge

Task 2 Essay Builder

If you need serious help or personalised feedback, you should check out our VIP Course. There is a waiting list, but you can add your name here:

How can I get a Band 7, 8 or 9?

The answer to this question is different for every individual IELTS student, as it depends on a number of factors, including your work ethic, English skills and exam strategy. You'll find a guide to answering this question in this article

If you need serious help with improving your IELTS scores, you should check out our online writing course. There is a waiting list, but you can add your name by clicking the link below:

Can you correct my writing?

Please click the link below and it will give you all the information you need about our writing correction service:

Writing Correction Service

Do you have any sample answers?

Yes, you will find them at the link below:

Will using 'high level' or 'academic' words help me improve my score?

Probably not.

Read my recent article about IELTS vocabulary here:

5 Things You Need to Know about IELTS Vocabulary

Can I use idioms?

No, you should not write idioms for Task 2.

Can I use personal pronouns?

You should avoid using personal pronouns, but it is fine to use them when giving your personal opinion.

Do you write a conclusion for Task 2?

Yes, it is very difficult to get a good score in Task 2 if you haven't finished your essay with a conclusion. You will find an in-depth lesson on conclusions here:

How to Write an Effective Task 2 Conclusion

How many paragraphs should I write?

Most IELTS task 2 essays follow the same basic four paragraph structure:

• Introduction
• Supporting Paragraph 1
• Supporting Paragraph 2

However, you can find more comprehensive help with structuring your Task 2 essays here:

5 Day Challenge

Do I need to plan my essay?

I would highly recommend planning your essay. A good plan acts like a map that guides you through the essay, ensuring that you give the examiner exactly what they need to award you the score you need. You can find help with planning your essays here: How to Plan an IELTS Essay

You must write at least 250 words in Writing Task 2.

I would suggest that you aim to write around 270-280 words in total. Aiming for 20-30 words more than the required amount makes you more likely to reach the word limit without setting an unrealistic goal.

Will I lose marks if I don't write enough words?

Yes, if you don't write the required number of words, you will lose marks in 'Task Achievement' for not answering the question fully. Read more here .

Can I use contractions?

No, should not use contractions when you are writing an academic essay.

Fulfilling Your Dreams

IELTS Essay Questions

IELTS essay questions based on types of essays in IELTS for writing task 2.

It is essential to understand the structure you need to follow while writing an essay. Read model answers

Essay Links:      Discussion essays       Agree Disagree Essays       Problem Solution Essays       Advantage Disadvantage Essays       Opinion Essays       Positive or negative development essays       Direct question essays    

Discussion essay questions.

Employers sometimes ask people applying for jobs for personal information, such as their hobbies and interests, and whether they are married or single. Some people say that this information may be relevant and useful. Others disagree. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Some people say that parents should encourage their children to take part in organised group activities in their free time. Others say that it is important for children to learn how to occupy themselves on their own. Discuss these views and give your own opinion. Model answer By Prema Australia

Some people say that now we can see films on our phones or tablets there is no need to go to the cinema. Others say that to be fully enjoyed, films need to be seen in a cinema, Discuss both views and given your own opinion. Model answer .

Some people think it is better to impose a tax on companies which produce pollution while others think that there are other solutions. Discuss both views and give your opinion. Model Answer .

Some people say History is one of the most important school subjects. Other people think that, in today’s world, subjects like Science and Technology are more important than History. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Some people believe that it is best to accept a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job or shortage of money. Others argue that it is better to try and improve such situations. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Some people say that the main environmental problem of our time is the loss of particular species of plants and animals. Others say that there are more important environmental problems. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Some people believe that it is good to share as much information as possible in scientific research, business and the academic world. Others believe that some information is too important or to valuable to be shared freely. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

In a number of countries, some people think it is necessary to spend large sums of money on constructing new railway lines for very fast trains between cities. Others believe the money should be spend on improving existing public transport. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Some people believe that allowing children to make their own choices on everyday matters (such as food, clothes and entertainment) is likely to result in a society of individuals who only think about their own wishes. Other people believe that it is important for children to make decisions about matters that affect them. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Some people say that the only reason for learning a foreign language is in order to travel to or work in foreign country. Others say that these are not the only reasons why someone should learn a foreign language. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Many governments think that economic progress is their most important goal. Some people, however, think that other types of progress are equally important for a country. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Some people think that all university students should study whatever they like. Others believe that they should only be allowed to study subjects that will be useful in the future, such as those related to science and technology. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. 

Some people say that the best way to improve public health is by increasing the number of sports facilities. Others, however, say that this would have little effect on public health and that other measures are required. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Some people think that the teenage years are the happiest time of most people’s lives. Others think that adult life brings more happiness, in spite of greater responsibilities. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Some people think that parents should teach children how to be good members of society. Others, however, believe that school is the place to learn this. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Some people think that it is better to educate boys and girls in separate schools. Others, however, believe that boys and girls benefit more from attending mixed schools. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

It is generally believed that some people are born with certain talents, for instance for sport or music, and others are not. However, it is sometimes claimed that any child can be taught to become a good sports person or musician. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Some people believe that there should be fixed punishments for each type of crime. Others, however, argue that the circumstances of an individual crime, and the motivation for committing it, should always be taken into account when deciding on the punishment. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Successful sports professionals can earn a great deal of more money than people in other important professions. Some people think this is fully justified while others think it is unfair. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Some people believe that visitors to other countries should follow local customs and behaviour. Others disagree and think that the host country should welcome cultural differences. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. 

Some people prefer to spend their lives doing the same things and avoiding change. Others, however, think that change is always a good thing. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Some people think that a sense of competition in children should be encouraged. Others believe that children who are taught to co-operate rather than compete become more useful adults. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Some people work for the same organisation all their working life. Others think that it is better to work for different organisations. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Sugar is harmful to the body. Some people say that the government is responsible for limiting the amount of sugar from people’s food. Others think that individuals should take responsibility for limiting the sugar they take. Discuss both views and give your opinion.( 10 April 2020 IDP )

Some people say that modern technology has made shopping today easier, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion. Model Answer

Some people think that climate change reforms will negatively effect businesses. Other feel it is an opportunity for them. Discuss both views and give your opinion. Model Answer

Agree disagree essay questions

Some people say that in all levels of education, from primary schools to universities, too much time is spent on learning facts and not enough on learning practical skills. Do you agree or disagree?

Some people say that it is possible to tell a lot about a person’s culture and character from their choice of clothes. Do you agree or disagree?

Some people believe that governments should not provide international aid when they have unemployment and homelessness in their country. Do you agree or disagree? Model Answer .

Some people think that having a set retirement age(e.g 65 years) for everybody, regardless of occupation, is unfair. They believe that certain workers deserve to retire and receive a pension at an earlier age. Do you agree or disagree? Which types of workers do you think should benefit from early retirement?

Rising university fees and scarce employment prospects for graduates have led some people to say that universities should not teach arts subjects, like philosophy and history, and only offer practical degree courses that maximise chances of employment. Do you agree or disagree?

Living in a country where you have to speak a foreign language can cause serious social problems, as well as practical problems. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? 

Some people believe that nowadays we have too many choices.Do you agree or disagree with this statement?  

Some people say that music is a good way of bringing people of different cultures and ages together. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Governments should spend money on railways rather than roads. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

It is important for children to learn the difference between right and wrong at an early age. Punishment is necessary to help them learn this distinction. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? What sort of punishment should parents and teachers be allowed to use to teach good behaviour to children?

Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programmes (for example working for a charity improving the neighbourhood or teaching sports to younger children). To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Every year several languages die out. Some people think that this is not important because life will be easier if there are fewer languages in the world. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Increasing the price of petrol is the best way to solve growing traffic or pollution problems. To what extent do you agree or disagree? What other measures do you think might be effective?

Some people feel that entertainers (e.g film starts, pop musicians or sports stars) are paid too much money. Do you agree or disagree? Which other types of job should be highly paid? 

Today, the high sales of popular consumer goods reflect the power of advertising and not the real needs of society  in which they are sold. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Universities should accept equal numbers of male and female students in every subject. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Creative artists should always be given the freedom to express their own ideas (in words, pictures, music or film) in whichever way they wish. There should be no government restriction on what they do. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Popular events like the football World Cup and other international sporting occasions are essential in easing international tensions and releasing patriotic emotions in a safe way. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

When a country develops its technology, the traditional skills and ways of life die out. It is pointless to try and keep them alive. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Improvements in health, education and trade are essential for development of poorer nations. However, the governments of richer nations should take more responsibility for helping the poorer nations in such areas. Do you agree or disagree?

Some people believe that children’s leisure activities must be educational, otherwise they are complete waste of time. Do you agree or disagree?

Fatherhood ought to be emphasised as much as motherhood. The idea that women are solely responsible for deciding whether or not to have babies leads on to the idea that they are also responsible for bringing the children up. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Out of country’s health budget, a large proportion should be diverted from treatment to spending on health education and preventive measures. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Without capital punishment (the death penalty) our lives are less secure and crimes of violence increase. Capital punishment is essential to control violence in society. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

The position of women in society has changed markedly in the last twenty years. Many of the problems young people now experience, such as juvenile delinquency, arise from the fact that many married women now work and are not at home to care for their children. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

In some countries, an increasing number of people are suffering from health problems as a result of eating too much fast food. It is therefore necessary for governments to impose higher tax on this kind of food. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

The continued rise in the world’s population is the greatest problem faced by the humanity at the present time. What are the causes of this continued rise? Do you agree that it is the greatest problem faced by humanity?

It is sometimes said that people should be encouraged to get married before they are 30, as this is best both for the individual and society. Do you agree or disagree?

The excessive use of television, mobiles and computers is inhibiting the development of children, which is proved by recent researches. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Eating a healthy diet is the most important step towards living a disease free life. Do you agree or disagree?

In the future, more people will choose to go on holiday in their own country and not travel abroad on holiday. Do you agree or disagree?

Some people believe that their family members will always be more important than their friends. Do you agree or disagree? (31 October 2020 IDP)

The education of young people is highly prioritised in many countries. However, educating adults who cannot write or read is even more important, and the government should spend more money on this. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Model Answer

Problem solution essay questions

Many working people get little or no exercise either during the working day or in their free time, and have health problems as a result. Why do many working people not get enough exercise? What can be done about this problem?

In spite of the advances made in agriculture, many people around the world still go hungry. Why is this the case? What can be done about this problem?

In some countries, the average weight of people is increasing and their levels of health and fitness are decreasing. What do you think are the causes of these problems and what measures could be taken to solve them?

Nowadays we are producing more and more rubbish. Why do you think this is happening? What can government do to help reduce the amount rubbish produced?

In many countries, schools have severe problems with student behaviour. What do you think are the causes of this? What solutions can you suggest?

It is generally accepted that families are not as close as they used to be. Give some reasons why this has happened and suggest how families could be brought closer together.

Car ownership has increased so rapidly over the past thirty years that many cities in the world are now ‘one big traffic jam’. How true do you think this statement is? what measure can governments take to discourage people from using their cars? 

Some people get into debt by buying things they do not need and cannot afford. What are the reasons for this behaviour? What action can be taken to prevent people from having this problem?

Nowadays many people complain that they have difficulties getting enough sleep. What problems can lack of sleep cause? What can be done about lack of sleep?

Some people believe that it is impossible to live a comfortable life in big cities. What problems do people face in big cities? What solutions can solve these problems?  (21 November 2020 IDP)

The demand for fresh water is increasing, but its level is decreasing in many countries. What are the causes of this problem? How the government and individuals can solve it? (15 January 2022 IDP) Model Answer

Some old people think that retirement life is happier, but it is not as happy as imagined when they retire. What are the reasons for this? Suggest some solutions. Model Answer

Advantage disadvantage essay questions

Today more and more tourists are visiting places where conditions are difficult, such as the Sahara desert or the Antarctic. What are the advantages and disadvantages for tourists who visit such places?

Many young people regularly change their jobs over the years. What are the reasons for this? Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? Model Answer.

Solar energy is becoming more and more popular as a source of household energy in many countries around the world. Why is this? What are the advantages and disadvantages of solar energy?

Nowadays many people choose to be self-employed, rather than to work for a company or organisation. Why might this be the case? What could be the disadvantages of being self-employed?

At the present time, the population of some countries includes a relatively large number of young adults, compared with the number of older people. Do advantages of this situation outweigh the disadvantages?

Many museum charge for admission while others are free. Do you think the advantages of charging people for admission to museum outweigh the disadvantages?

Some parents buy their children a large number of toys to play with. What are the advantages and disadvantages for the child of having a large number of toys?

Some experts believe that it is better for children to begin learning a foreign language at primary school rather than secondary school. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantage?

Being a celebrity- such as a famous film start or sports personality- brings problems as well as benefits. Do you think that being a celebrity brings more benefits or more problems?

Some people prefer to live in a house, while others feel that there are more advantages to living in an apartment. Are there more advantages than disadvantages of living in a house compared with living in an apartment?

In some countries, young people are encouraged to work or travel for a year between finishing high school and starting university studies. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for young people who decide to do this.

One of the consequences of improved medical care is that people are living longer and life expectancy is increasing. Do you think the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages? 

Nowadays technology is increasingly being used to monitor what people are saying and doing (for example, through cellphone tracking and security cameras). In many cases, the people being monitored are unaware that this is happening. Do you think the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

In the past, when students did a university degree, they tended to study in their own country. Nowadays, they have more opportunities to study abroad. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this development?

The ownership of private vehicles is increasing day by day. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this development.

In many countries, paying for things using mobile phone apps is becoming increasingly common. Does this development have more advantages or more disadvantages? 

Due to increasing world demands for oil and gas energy, people need to look for new sources of energy in remote and untouched natural places. Do the advantages of locating these sources outweigh the disadvantages of damaging such places? (12 December 2020 IDP Academic)

Opinion essays questions

News stories on TV and in newspapers are very often accompanied by pictures. Some people say that these pictures are more effective than words. What is your opinion about this?

In many places, new homes are needed, but the only space available for building them is in the countryside. Some people believe it is more important to protect the countryside and not build new homes there. What is your opinion about this?

In some areas of the US, a ‘curfew’ is imposed, in which teenagers are not allowed to be out of doors after a particular time at night unless they are accompanied by an adult. What is your opinion about this?

Some people say it is important to keep your home and your workplace tidy, with everything organised and in the correct place. What is your opinion about this?

Learning English at school is often seen as more important than learning local languages. If these are not taught, many are at risk of dying out. In your opinion, is it important for everyone to learn English? Should we try to ensure the survival of local languages and, if so, how?

It is generally accepted that exercise is good for children and teenagers. Therefore, physical education and sports should be compulsory for all students in all schools. What do you think? 

Some people claim that not enough of the waste from homes is recycled. They say that the only way to increase recycling is for governments to make it a legal requirement. Do you think laws are needed to make people recycle more of their waste?

Some people think that universities should provide graduates with the knowledge and skills needed in the workplace. Others think that the true function of a university should be to give access to knowledge for its own sake, regardless of whether the course is useful to an employer.  What, in your opinion, should be the main function of a university?

In many countries, children are engaged in some kind of paid work. Some people regard this as completely wrong, while others consider it as valuable work experience, important for learning and taking responsibility. What are your opinions on this?

In some cities, historical buildings are destroyed to create space for new homes. What is your opinion about this? ( 17 September 2020 B.C. )

In many countries today, crime novels and TV crime dramas are becoming more and more popular. Why do you think these books and TV shows are popular? What is your opinion of crime fiction and TV crime dramas. 

Positive or negative development essays questions

In recent years, many small local shops have closed because customers travel to large shopping malls to do their shopping. Is this a positive or a negative development? Model Answer.

Most people accept that we now live in a globalised world but not everyone agree that this is beneficial. Is globalisation a positive or negative development. Model Answer .

Countries are becoming more and more similar because people are able to buy the same products anywhere in the world. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?

Nowadays the way many people interact with each other has changed because of technology. In what way has technology affected the type of relationships people make? Has this become a positive or negative development? 

In many countries, people decide to leave their parent’s homes once they finish school. They start living on their own or sharing a home with friends. Is this a negative or positive development?  Model Answer .

Direct question essays

In many countries, the amount of crime is increasing. What do you think are the main causes of crime? How can we deal with those causes? Model Answer

Today more people are travelling than ever before. Why is this the case? What are the benefits of travelling for the traveller?

As most people spend a major part of their adult life at work, job satisfaction is an important element of individual well-being. What factors contribute to job satisfaction? How realistic is the expectation of job satisfaction for all workers?

Research indicates that the characteristics we are born with have much more influence on our personality and development than any experiences we may have in our life. Which do you consider to be major influence?

Some people believe that children are given too much free time. They feel that this time should be used to do more school work. How do you think children should spend their free time?

Happiness is considered very important in life. Why it is difficult to define? What factors are important in achieving happiness?

Millions of people every year move to English-speaking countries such as Australia, Britain or America, in order to study at school, college or university. Why do so many people want to study in English? Why English such an important international language?

Should wealthy nations be required to share their wealth among poorer nations by providing such things as food and education? Or is it the responsibility of the governments of poorer nations to look after their citizens themselves?

We are becoming increasingly dependent on computers. They are used in business, hospitals crime detection and even to fly planes. What things will  they be used in the future? Is this dependence on computers a good thing or should we be more suspicious of their benefits?

Many people like to wear fashionable clothes. Why do you think this is the case? Is this a good thing or a bad thing?

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35 Sample Band 9 IELTS Essays

Take a look at these 35 sample Band 9 IELTS essays for writing task 2 of the IELTS exam . Task 2 can cover a wide range of essay topics for the IELTS writing task section of the test, so preparation is key. Use the following samples when preparing your IELTS essays to see how close you are to a band 9!

These IELTS band 9 essay samples will help you highlight your mistakes and improve your writing band 9 level.

See the below IELTS essay writing sample questions and answers to practice for your IELTS writing task 2 .

You will find the IELTS essay questions and answers categorised by the following essay types.

• Do you agree/disagree
• Discuss both views and give your opinion
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages
• Discuss the problems and possible solutions
• Is this a positive or a negative development

For a FREE ebook of our top 10 IELTS Band 9 essay samples in PDF, click here!

1. agree or disagree .

• Some people believe that technology has made man more social. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
• Some people think that a person improves their intellectual skills more when doing group activities. To what extent do you agree? Use specific details and examples to explain your view.
• In some countries, the number of shootings increase because many people have guns at home. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
• Some people believe that international sporting events are the ideal opportunity to show the world the qualities of the hosting nation. Others believe that these events are mainly a large unjustifiable expense. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Crime is a big problem in the world; many believe that nothing can be done to prevent it. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give your own opinion.
• Doing an enjoyable activity with a child can develop better skills and more creativity than reading. To what extent do you agree? Use reasons and specific examples to explain your answer.
• Improvements in health, education and trade are essential for the development of poorer nations. However, the governments of richer nations should take more responsibility for helping the poorer nations in such areas. To what extent do you agree?
• Advances in health and biology and other areas of society in the last 100 years have transformed the way we live as well as postponing the day we die. There is no better time to be alive than now. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
• The world is consuming natural resources faster than they can be renewed. Therefore, it is important that products are made to last. Governments should discourage people from constantly buying more up-to-date or fashionable products. To what extent do you agree with this statement?
• Some people believe that children’s leisure activities must be educational, otherwise, they are a complete waste of time. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your experience.
• Many governments in the world spend large amounts of money on art, which helps to improve the quality of people’s lives. However, governments should spend money on other things rather than art. Do you agree or disagree? Give your opinion.

2. Discuss both views and give your point of view?

• NEW SEPTEMBER 2022: Some people believe that professionals such as doctors and engineers should be required to work in the country where they did their training. Others believe they should be free to work in another country if they wish. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
• Nowadays most green energy is becoming evermore prevalent in both developed and developing countries. Some argue they greatly reduce costs and are better for the environment, others believe they are a serious threat to energy security. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Some people are of the opinion that children should be rewarded for good behaviour. Others think they should be punished for bad behaviour. Discuss both views and give your personal opinion and reasons.
• Some people think that keeping pets is good for children while others think it is dangerous and unhealthy. Which opinion do you agree with? Discuss both options and give examples .
• Some people think that secondary school children should study international news as one of the school subjects. Other people think that it is a waste of valuable school time. What do you think? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
• Some products can be made quickly by a machine. Other items take a long time to be made by hand. As a buyer, which do you prefer and why? Give specific details and examples in your answer.
• Some people think women should be given equal chances to work and excel in their careers. Others believe that a woman’s role should be limited to taking care of the house and children. Which opinion do you agree with and why? Include specific details and examples to support your choice.
• Most schools are planning to replace sports and exercise classes with more academic sessions. How will this change affect children’s lives in your view?
• Some people think that schools have to be more entertaining, while others think that their sole purpose is to educate. Which do you agree with? Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion.
• Some people think that it is acceptable to use animals in medical research for the benefit of human beings, while other people argue that it is wrong.
• Should humans adapt to technology or should technology be adapted to us? Is technology making us intellectually weaker or more intelligent?
• Do copyright laws limit creativity or reward it? Would society function better without such rules and regulations?
• Should education and healthcare be free of charge and funded by the government, or should it be the responsibility of the people to pay for these services? Discuss the above and give your opinion using examples.

3. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages

• Is it good for children to start using computers from an early age and spend long hours on them? Discuss the advantages and disadvantages.
• Some people think high school graduates should travel or work for a period of time instead of going directly to study at university. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

4. Two questions, for example: Why is this happening? Is this a positive or negative development?

• These days some people spend a lot of money on tickets to go to sporting or events. Do you think this is a positive or negative development ?
• Some people like to travel outside their country. Others would rather travel to tourist spots in their own country first, before travelling abroad. Which do you prefer to do and why? Include specific details and examples to support your choice.
• Women can do everything that men can and they even do it better. They also can do many things that men cannot. But it is a fact that their work is not appreciated as much as men’s, although they have to sacrifice a lot for their family and career… It is said: “A woman’s place is in the home.” What do you think?

5. Discuss the problems and possible solutions OR discuss the causes and what problems it causes?

• People are using a lot of online language translation apps. Do the benefits of this outweigh the disadvantages?
• Obesity is a serious problem in many countries, especially in rich countries. Discuss ways to solve the problem. Provide specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
• Today, the quality of life in large cities is decreasing.  Discuss the causes and solutions.
• Research shows that global warming is caused by human activity. What are the possible effects of climate change and what can governments and individuals do to reduce these?
• In many countries, recently young single people have been living far from their parents, from the time they began studies or work and until they married. Do you think there are more advantages or disadvantages to this trend?
• Traditional schooling is out of date, boring and stifles a child’s natural talents, various professionals have pushed for an education revolution. Are there alternatives in the education system? Is traditional education doing more harm than good?

Take a look at some of our writing tasks to help you prepare for your IELTS exam , and if you need more help, we have a course that is guaranteed to help you pass IELTS. Practicing IELTS writing task 2 essays is very important for your exam preparation.

Video: IELTS Band 9 Writing Sample – Body Paragraphs

Click here for a FREE ebook of our top 10 IELTS Band 9 samples for writing task 2 in PDF,

For more preparation, take a look at our latest tutorials:.

• Band 9 Model Essay and Vocabulary-Cryptocurrency
• Sample task 2 questions
• Sample Band 9 Essay: Children and Education
• Sample Answers: discuss the advantages and disadvantages
• How to get ideas for task 2
• Full guide to academic collocations
• How to write a agree/disagree essay
• IELTS Writing Task 2: advantages and disadvantages questions

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Enhance Your Essays with Our Efficient Online IELTS Essay Checker

Practicing for IELTS Writing Task 2? You’re in the right place. But after you practice, how can you know if your essay is good? We have a tool to help! It’s called the online IELTS essay checker .

You can find it here . This tool is very easy to use. You write your essay, and our tool checks it. It tells you what mistakes you made and how to fix them. This means you can learn and get better faster. The best part? You save money.

Many students pay a lot for IELTS classes or teachers to check their essays. But our online IELTS essay checker is cheaper and works fast. You don’t have to wait! So, after you read the sample essays on this page, use our online IELTS essay checker .

It can help you see where you can do better. And it’s a good way to get ready for the IELTS exam without spending a lot of money. So, if you want to write better essays and save money, try our online IELTS essay checker .

We made it for students like you. We hope it helps you get the score you want.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How to score band 9 in ielts writing.

You can score band 9 in IELTS writing by following these steps:

• Make sure you understand the question and answer what is being asked.
• Plan out your essay before you start writing
• Write your essay, review it and then “rewrite” it .
• Get feedback on your essays and find out where you may be losing points.
• Improve your language skills.

Read this post for more tips.

How do you write a 9 band essay?

Practice each essay type and be clear about the criteria for a perfect score. Basically, you need clear formal paragraphing, an essay that ‘flows’ logically and stays focused on the question, which is answered fully with high-level vocabulary and near-perfect grammar.

How can I get 9 in IELTS writing?

Look at model answers and memorize phrases that work for most essays – ‘In the modern world’ is a great way to start. A focus on global issues and international examples rounds out your answer and practice timed essays before the test.

Can you get 10 in IELTS?

No, the top band score is a 9. Be realistic though, some of the best universities in the world require a band 7 or 7.5 for their most challenging courses so a perfect score isn’t necessary in most situations.

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IELTS Sample Essays

Here you will find IELTS Sample Essays for a variety of common topics that appear in the writing exam.

The model answers all have tips and strategies for how you may approach the question and comments on the sample answer.

You can also view sample essays with band scores on this page. 

Looking at IELTS essay topics with answers is a great way to help you to prepare for the test. 

These IELTS sample essays have been categorised in a way that makes it easy for you to see how certain essay question types require you to provide certain responses to ensure the question is fully answered. 

Specifically these are:

• Agree / Disagree
• Discuss Two Opinions
• Problems and Solutions
• Advantages and Disadvantages
• Other Types

Agree / Disagree Type Questions

In these types of question you are given one opinion and you then have to state the extent to which you agree or disagree with that opinion:

• Advertising
• Alternative Medicine
• Spending on the Arts
• Human Cloning
• Social Interaction & the Internet
• Airline Tax
• Free University Education
• Scientific Research
• Banning Smoking
• Employing Older People
• Vegetarianism
• Paying Taxes  
• Examinations or Formal Assessment 
• Multinational Organisations and Culture
• Internet vs Newspapers
• Technology Development  
• Dying of Languages
• Animal Extinction
• Truth in Relationships
• Role of Schools
• Return of Historical Artefacts

Discuss Two Opinions Type Questions

In this essay question type you are given two opinions, and you have to discuss both of these and then give your own view:

• University Education
• Reducing Crime
• Animal Rights
• Child Development
• Diet & Health
• Donating Money to Charity
• Closing Zoos   
• Becoming Independent  
• Formal and Informal Education  
• Influence of Scientists and Politicians
• Sources for Stories
• Searching for Extraterrestrial Life

Cause Type Questions

There are a variety of 'cause type' essay questions. In these you first have to give the reasons why something has happened, in other words the causes, but then discuss a different aspect of it, such as the effects, solutions or the extent to whether it is a positive or negative development:

Causes & Effects:

• Child Obesity
• Skin Whitening Creams
• Family Size
• Having Children Later in Life
• Time Away from Family

Causes and Solutions:

• Youth Crime
• Global Warming
• Paying Attention in Class
• International Travel & Prejudice 
• Museums & Historical Places
• Disappearance of Traditions
• Communication Between Generations

Causes, Pros & Cons:

• Family Closeness
• Living Alone
• Rural to Urban Migration

Problems & Solutions Type Questions

In these type of questions, instead of discussing the causes of a problem, you need to discuss the problems related to a particular issue in society, and then suggest what can be to solve these problems:

• Overpopulation
• Competing for Jobs  
• Professionals Immigrating

Advantage & Disadvantages Type Questions

In these type of questions you are asked to discuss the positive and negative sides of a particular topic. You will usually be asked this in the context of giving an opinion ( e.g. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? Is it a positive or negative development? ): 

• Traffic Problems
• Food Additives
• Computer Games
• Age Discrimination at Work  
• Children using Tablets and Computers  
• Cell Phones, Internet, & Communication  
• Working from Home 
• Eating Locally grown  Produce  
• Oil and Gas Essay  
• Peer Pressure on Young People
• Online Fraud
• Decreasing House Sizes

'Hybrid' Types of Essay Question

There are sometimes questions that don't fit easily into a particular category as above. I've called these 'hybrid', as they are of mixed character, are composed of different elements from other types of essay, or are perhaps just worded differently. 

• Protecting Old Buildings
• Animal Testing
• Fear of Crime
• Communication Technology
• Influence of Children's Friends  

Sample Essays with Band Scores

You can also view some sample essays that have been written by candidates practising for the test and have band scores and comments by an experienced ex-IELTS Examiner based on the IELTS marking criteria. 

• IELTS Band 8 Essay Samples
• IELTS Band 7 Essay Samples
• IELTS Band 6 Essay Samples
• IELTS Band 5 Essay Samples
• IELTS Band 4 Essay Samples

Student Sample Essays

For more IELTS essay topics with answers you can also view essays that have been written by students. Some have feedback from other students or IELTS teachers:

• Student Model Essays  (with comments by other students)
• Student Model Essays (with comments by IELTS buddy)

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ESSAYS PAST QUESTIONS MODEL ANSWERS

Past IELTS writing questions as well as model answers and vocabulary written by IELTS examiners to help you learn how to structure and write your own essays to pass your test.

Click on questions below for model answers: ARTS AND MEDIA Some people feel that entertainers such as film stars, pop musicians or sports stars are paid too much money. Do you agree or disagree? Which other types of job should be highly paid?

Some museums and art galleries charge admission fees, while others have free entry. Do you think the advantages of free admission outweigh the disadvantages?

CRIME AND LAW Some people feel that the design of newly constructed buildings in big cities should be controlled by governments. Others believe those who finance the construction of a building should be free to design it as they see fit. Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

Some people think that there should be strict laws to control the amount of noise a person makes because of the disturbance it causes to people. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages.

CULTURE A country becomes more interesting and develops more quickly when its population includes a mixture of nationalities. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

It’s generally believed that success in fields such as art and sport can only be achieved if a person has natural talent. However, it’s sometimes claimed that any child can be taught to become a good sports person or artist. Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

ECONOMY Some people think that we live in a society where money and possessions are given too much importance. Others believe that this is improving our lives. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Rich countries often give money to poorer countries, but it does not solve poverty. Therefore, developed countries should give other types of help to the poor countries rather than financial aid. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

EDUCATION Learning about the past has no value for those of us living in the present. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Some people think that a sense of competition in children should be encouraged. Others believe that children who are taught to co-operate rather than compete become more useful adults. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

ENVIRONMENT Nowadays we are producing more and more rubbish. Why do you think this is happening? What can governments do to help reduce the amount of rubbish produced?

There is growing evidence that man-made activities are making global temperatures higher. What are the causes of temperatures rising? How should we deal with this problem?

ETHICAL ISSUES Universities should accept equal numbers of male and female students in every subject. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Teenagers who commit serious crimes, such as burglary or murder, should be treated in the same way as adults who commit crimes. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this and give your own opinion?

HEALTH Many people say that cooking and eating at home is better for the individual and the family than eating out in restaurants. Do you agree or disagree?

In some countries, the average weight of children is increasing and their level of health and fitness is decreasing. What do you think are the causes of these problems and what measures could be taken to solve them?

TECHNOLOGY The Internet has transformed the way information is shared and consumed, but it has also created problems that did not exist before. What are the most serious problems associated with the Internet? What are the best ways to solve them?

Some people believe that time spent on television and computer games can be valuable for children. Others believe this has negative effects on a child. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

TRAVEL AND LANGUAGES Many people believe children should begin learning a foreign language in primary school instead of secondary school. Do you think the advantages of learning a foreign language in primary school outweigh the disadvantages?

Some people believe that visitors to other countries should follow local customs and behaviour. Others think that the host country should welcome cultural differences. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Recent questions in 2018 In some countries, young people are encouraged to work or travel for a year between finishing high school and starting university studies. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for young people who decide to do this.

Some people think that parents have a great influence on their children. Others believe that the media is a bigger influence. Discuss both views and give your own opinion

Many people believe cities should not try to preserve its old, historic buildings and instead, they should destroy them and replace them with modern buildings. To what extent do you agree?

Past IELTS Essay Questions without answers Some people think that the education system should prepare students for employment, while others believe it has other functions. Discuss both sides and then give your own opinion.

Some people believe that sports people and entertainers are paid too much money. What is your opinion?

The range of technology available for individuals will increase the gap between the rich and poor. Others think it is having an opposite effect. What is your opinion?

Some people think that elderly people should be forced to retire at a certain age, such as 65. Others say that people should be allowed to work for as long as they are able and want to. Discuss both sides of this argument and then give your own opinion.

Nowadays, people in some countries can choose to live and work anywhere they want, because of the improvement of the communication technology and transport. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this and then give your own opinion.

In some countries the elderly are put into nursing homes rather than being taken care of by their family. Do you see this as a positive or a negative development?

In some countries students who do not behave are asked to leave the school permanently. In other countries they can return to their school after a suspension period.

Discuss both options and give your opinion.

Today more and more young children have electronic gadgets such as computers and mobile phones. Some people say that this is a positive development. Do you agree or disagree?

Some people believe that environmental problems are too big for individuals to deal with, and that action is needed from the government while others think that individuals should take some action. Discuss both sides of the argument and then give your opinion.

Some people believe that the fast pace and stress of modern life is having a negative effect on families. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Some people think music plays an important role in society. Others think it is it is simply a form of entertainment. Discuss both sides of this argument and give your own opinion

Some people believe that it is the government’s responsibility to take care of every citizen who is disadvantaged. What is your opinion?

Nowadays people live in a society where consumer goods are relatively cheaper to buy. Do you think the advantages far outweigh its disadvantages?

When visiting foreign countries, visitors should take full advantage of learning the culture and traditions of that country. Why are some people not interested in learning about the culture and traditions of a country? What are some ways to learn about the culture and traditions of the country?

Some people claim that students should focus on the subjects that they are interested or in best at, while others believe that should learn all school subjects. Discuss both sides of this argument and give your own opinion.

Oil and coal are the main sources of energy in many countries. However, in some countries the use of renewable sources of energy, such as solar or wind energy are encouraged. Is it a positive or negative development?

As cities get bigger, many people do not know their neighbours and the sense of community is being lost What problems does this cause? What are some potential solutions?

Some think that in the 21st. Lots of changes will occur that will improve our society. Do you agree or disagree? What kind of changes will be occur?

Obesity is an increasing problem in today’s society. Some people say that the government should put our tax on fast foods in order to solve this problem. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this and then give your own opinion.

Some people argue that teachers should make the choice about the subjects and lesson contents for their classes. Others think this should be decided by the government.. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

In countries all over the world the volume of road traffic is increasing at are faster rate than new roads can be built.

What are the causes of this problem? What are some potential solutions?

Some people think that young people should go to university, while other people say that they should skip university and go straight to work. To what extent do you agree?

People in the past would always repair damaged products. However, nowadays, people like to throw out and purchase new products. What are the reasons for this? What problems might this cause?

Many people these days believe that young people should travel abroad for a year after finishing high school. But others think, it is a waste of time and money What is your opinion?

In some countries, some school leavers choose to work or travel for a year between finishing secondary school and attending university. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this and then give your opinion.

Some people believe cities should try to preserve its old, historical building, but others think we should destroy them and replace them with modern buildings.

Discuss both points of view on this issue and then give your own opinion.

Some people think advertising is discouraging us from being different individuals and makes everyone to be the same.

To what extent do you agree or disagree.

Human activities in many countries have negative effects on plant and animal species.

What do you think are the negative effects?

What are some potential solutions ?

Some people think that the education system should prepare students for employment, while others believe it has other functions.

Discuss both sides of the argument and then give your own opinion.

In some countries the elderly are put into nursing homes rather than being taken care of by their family.

Do you see this as a positive or a negative development?

Today more and more young children have electronic gadgets such as computers and mobile phones. Some people say that this is a positive development.

Do you agree or disagree?

Some people believe that the fast pace and stress of modern life is having a negative effect on families.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

In countries all over the world the volume of road traffic is increasing at a faster rate than new roads can be built.

People in the past would always repair damaged products. However, nowadays, people like to throw out and purchase new products.

What are the reasons for this? What problems might this cause?

In some countries, some school leavers choose to work or travel for a year between finishing secondary school and attending university.

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this and then give your opinion about it. eBook for Essays Complete writing eBook Get your writing corrected Join my website to receive updates Essay writing on my website

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About Mike I’m Mike Wattie from Australia. I have been teaching IELTS for over 20 years in Asia and Australia.

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IELTS Writing Task 2/ Essay Topics with sample answer.

Ielts academic and gt essay/ writing task 2 sample.

IELTS Writing Task 2 ( also known as IELTS Essay Writing ) is the second task of your IELTS Writing test. Here, you will be presented with an essay topic and you will be scored based on your ability to respond to the topic.

You need to write at least 250 words and justify your opinion with arguments, discussion, examples, problem outlining, proposing possible solutions and supporting your position. You will have approximately 40 minutes to finish your Essay Writing. IELTS Writing Task 2 carries more weights than Writing Task 1.

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IELTS Charlie

Your Guide to IELTS Band 7

Authentic IELTS Essay Questions

One of the best ways to prepare for the  IELTS Writing Task 2  is to practise writing essays. But it is very important that you do this in an effective way.

One problem I often see is students writing essays in response to poor quality questions that they’ve found on the Internet. Such questions might be confusing, or on obscure or extreme topics. They might even be almost impossible to answer! These kinds of questions will make your writing practice much less effective.

To overcome these problems, and make your writing practice better, make sure you use authentic IELTS essay questions.

What Are Authentic IELTS Essay Questions?

Authentic IELTS essay questions are questions that you can find in practice materials and coursebooks from some of the top educational publishers, such as Cambridge, Macmillan, Collins, Longman and Pearson. These questions will have been carefully written and checked by trained test writers, so you can be sure they are reliable essay questions.

The best source of IELTS essay questions is the “Authentic Practice Tests” series published every year by Cambridge University Press. Not only have these questions been checked by a team of test writers, they have also been tested on actual students to ensure they are reliable.

Why You Should Use Authentic IELTS Questions

It’s very easy today to find IELTS questions on the Internet. But be very careful with these questions. They often have a number of problems. This is why you should only use authentic essay questions.

Authentic essay questions have been carefully written

You need to be 100% clear what you need to write about in your essay, or you could easily write an essay that is off-topic or completely irrelevant. So authentic IELTS essay questions are written very carefully.

But questions found on the Internet may be written very carelessly. Look at this question I found on 2 different websites:

Many people argue that eating junk food has led to an unhealthy lifestyle. This problem has become more common among young people these days. Do you agree or disagree that junk food is the cause of the issue.

First of all, junk food doesn’t “lead to” or “cause” an unhealthy lifestyle, so it is impossible to discuss if junk food “causes” an unhealthy lifestyle.  Secondly, what is “the issue” mentioned at the end of the question? Is it the causes of “an unhealthy lifestyle” or is it “young people leading an unhealthy lifestyle”, as this was mentioned in the second sentence of the question?

This confusing question means that I’m not sure what my task is. And if I’m not sure what my task is, how can I write an essay that responds to the task? It’s impossible!

Another problem I see is websites taking an authentic question, and then changing a word or a phrase . Look at this question:

Nowadays parents put too much pressure on their children to succeed. What is the reason for doing this? Is this a positive or negative development?

I think the original (authentic) wording was “a lot of pressure”, but it’s been changed to “too much pressure”. But changing this phrase changes the whole question: the phrase “too much pressure” implies the pressure is a problem…so how can you argue that “too much pressure” is a positive thing? It’s very difficult to do.

So using questions created or changed by website owners can make essay writing much harder or even impossible.

Authentic essay questions are on topics about which you can reasonably be expected to have an opinion.

In the IELTS test, you are asked to write your thoughts on a topic in 40 minutes. This means you need to be able to think of ideas quickly. So authentic IELTS essay questions tend to be on topics that are commonly discussed , or where you should be able to quickly form an opinion.

It would also be unfair to give you an obscure topic, or a topic that required some kind of specialised knowledge. But many of the essay questions written for websites have this problem. Look at this example I found on another popular website:

Marketing and promotion is the key to a successful business. To what extent do you agree?

This question requires some knowledge of how to run a successful business, so it would be unfair to anyone with no business knowledge. I’ve also seen similar fake essay questions which require the writer to have some medical knowledge.

Many students say they have difficulty generating ideas for IELTS essays , and I think this is often because they are trying to writer essays about obscure or specialised topics. Again, authentic IELTS essay questions are on common, everyday topics, so you will find it much easier to generate ideas for these essays.

Authentic ‘discuss both views’ essay questions have 2 sensible views

One of the most common question types in the IELTS Writing Task 2 is the ‘discuss both views’ essay, where you are asked to discuss two views on an issue and come up with your own opinion.

Authentic IELTS essay questions will present you with 2 sensible views on the issue. These 2 views are usually very different to each other, but it’s possible to see good points in both views. This makes it easy to discuss the topic in a balanced way.

For example, look at this authentic IELTS essay question from the Cambridge IELTS Authentic Practice Papers:

Some people say that now we can see films on our phones or tablets there is no need to go to the cinema. Others say that to be fully enjoyed, films need to be seen in a cinema. 

(Cambridge IELTS 13 General Training)

As you can see in this question, the 2 views are different, but it is possible to argue in favour of parts of both views: e.g. that some movies (e.g. those with special effects) are best seen in a cinema, while for other films, the convenience of watching them at home is preferable.

However, many questions found on websites present two views that are complete opposites or very extreme. They might also include views that are not very sensible! This makes it very difficult to discuss the topic in a balanced way.

To summarise, using “fake” IELTS essay questions can give you a number of problems:

• confusing questions
• questions that are almost impossible to answer
• questions on obscure topics
• questions on topics that require specialised knowledge
• discussion questions on views that are too extreme, or crazy

These problems simply make the task of writing an essay much harder!

Should I Use “Reported IELTS Questions”?

Many websites include a list of IELTS essay questions that have been reported by recent IELTS candidates, and many students mistakenly see these as authentic questions.

However, you should be very cautious with reported IELTS questions .

Firstly, candidates are very unlikely to remember the exact wording of the exam essay question, so they might get one word or phrase slightly wrong. But do you remember what I wrote above? Changing just one word or phrase can change the whole meaning of the question. So if the wording is just slightly wrong, this can change the whole question.

Secondly, many candidates will report simplified versions of the actual exam because they can’t remember every word. I recently saw this “reported” question on a website  (By the way, I’ve corrected the grammar mistakes in the question!) :

Some people believe that a country can be both economically successful and also have a clean environment. Some people disagree. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

I suspect that part of the second view is missing. Normally, an authentic exam question would say “Some people disagree and argue that….”

So be very cautious of reported questions. They may contain wording errors and they may have been simplified.

Where Can I Find Authentic IELTS Questions?

At the start of this post, I mentioned the  authentic practice tests  published by Cambridge English. This is by far the best source of authentic IELTS essay questions (and they also include several complete tests for reading, listening and speaking, as well as writing, both for Academic and General Training).

I have also created a selection of questions from the Cambridge practice tests on this website. Each question also includes some comments and tips for how to answer the question, and some questions have a model essay answer. Here is the link to that page:

https://ieltscharlie.com/ielts-writing-sample-questions/

So use authentic IELTS essay questions when you do your writing practice. This will ensure that you don’t waste your valuable preparation time writing answers to poor quality essay questions.

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About the author

Charlie is a former IELTS Examiner with 25 years' teaching experience all over the world. His courses, for both English language learners and teachers, have been taken by over 100,000 students in over 160 countries around the world.

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Discover the 7 STEPS to BAND 7 in IELTS Writing Task 2

60+ IELTS Essay Topics 2024: IELTS Writing Task 2

Table of Contents

Evaluation criteria for ielts academic writing task 1 and task 2 scores, ielts writing task 1 & task 2 for academic, latest ielts essay topics for 2024, types of ielts essays, preparation tips for ielts writing task 2, how to answer task 2 essays in the ielts writing section.

The IELTS writing section is a part of the International English Language Testing System, which assesses your writing skills in English for academic and work settings. It's a one-hour test that encompasses two questions - IELTS writing task 1 and IELTS writing task 2.

IELTS writing checks your vocabulary, grammar, word count, collocations, and ability to construct complex sentences with clarity and repetition. Before you start your IELTS writing practice, you must see essay topics that vary from IELTS academic to IELTS general training.

Task 1 of IELTS Academic requires you to create a report based on a graph, diagram, or chart, whereas Task 1 of IELTS General requires you to write a letter. Further, IELTs writing task 2 of the General and Academic modules is essay writing, but topics may differ, and the method stays consistent.

Here, in this blog, we will walk you through IELTS Essay Topics 2024 and the evaluation criteria, types of essays, and preparation tips. So, let’s get started!

Before moving ahead, it is crucial to understand the marking criteria for better preparation for the IELTS writing exam . To perform your best, you must know what criteria your examiner is following. So, take a look at them below:

Task Achievement/Task Response measures how successfully you answer the question or complete the task. You here need to address the prompt directly, provide pertinent information, and maintain your focus on the task only.

Coherence determines if your writing is well-structured or not. And also, it has to make sense. So, you are required to form paragraphs logically, connect ideas in a coherent sequence, and maintain a smooth flow of information. 

Grammatical Range and Accuracy evaluate your grammar skills for English. You must show proper sentence formations, make sure your sentences are grammatically correct, and show your command of the English language. 

Lexical Resource is about your vocabulary usage. You must use a good collection of words and phrases to score higher in IELTS writing. Also, you have to choose acceptable words and show a strong mastery of the terminology. 

After understanding the evaluation criteria for academic tasks 1 and 2, let’s focus on what we are here for. The IELTS Academic Writing part has two tasks that must be finished within an hour: 

IELTS Writing Task 1

Task 1 requires you to describe a graph, visual information, table, or chart in your own words. You must create a 150-word report that accurately describes the data in the graph or graphic.

The IELTS writing task 1 marking criteria account for 33% (⅓) of the total IELTS writing evaluation score. Finish this portion in 20 minutes or less, while IELTS writing task 2 is more challenging and requires at least 40 minutes to complete.

IELTS Writing Task 2

In IELTS Writing Task 2, your essay is worth 66% (⅔) of the total score. As a result, it's critical to devote adequate time and effort to developing a well-structured and coherent response within the 40-minute timeframe. Concentrate on addressing the given problem, point of view, or argument concisely and effectively in approximately 250 words.

Introduction: Provide context and a clear thesis statement. 

Body: Present supporting and opposing arguments.

Conclusion: Restate the thesis with additional supporting details.

IELTS essay writing topics tend to focus on contemporary global issues. Here's a list of IELTS essay topics. In addition, preparing with sample essay questions is an excellent way to prepare for the Writing section. Here are some sample essay topics and writing samples to help you identify the most recent IELTS essay topics.

Environment

Environmental Crisis: A common IELTS topic which several students feel no reason to prepare for because it is one of the most specific areas, resulting in a loss of marks. 

Global Warming: Frequently appears in IELTS speaking and writing sections, covering climate change, greenhouse effect, global warming, and deforestation.

Sustainable Energy: This topic is highly vital for essay preparation. Sentences must relate coherently to provide transparent information and avoid off-topic penalties.

Fossil Fuels: A common IELTS essay topic emphasising renewable energy over nonrenewable resources like fossil fuels.

Personality

Importance of First Impression: IELTS examiners have short attention spans and read hundreds of essays daily. As a result, you must get off to a solid start and make a positive first impression in your IELTS essay.

Hobbies: The word 'hobbies' appears frequently in both IELTS Writing Task 2 and the Speaking section. This simple, mark-fetching topic presents a few challenges for students taking the exam.

Fashion: A global theme frequently addressed in IELTS, offering ample opportunity to hone public speaking skills .

Importance of Leisure Activities and School Values: The IELTS Essay on Education is one of the most challenging tasks, with surprising problems on the exam. These education essay themes, such as the importance of leisure activities, are opinion-based and evaluate students' ability to convey their knowledge and skills wisely.

Government and Society: As a student, you should review as many prevalent IELTS Writing Task 2 topics as possible. You should be well-versed in government and society, as it is a common theme in IELTS tests . 

Ideal Society: To increase your total band score and have a good grip on writing and vocabulary, you should practice answering example questions and answers for the Ideal Society IELTS essay.

Social Media: Social media essays are a common topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. The most basic method for a social media IELTS essay band 9 and comparable themes is to stick to the right word count and be aware of alternative approaches to the issue.

Business & Global Consumerism

International Trade: Throughout the years, the IELTS exam has consistently included topics on global business. In addressing such topics, it is essential to provide comprehensive responses containing solutions, arguments, reasons, opinions, and evidence.

Management and Leadership: Leadership and management play pivotal roles in any organisation. Essays on such topics should always directly relate to the question at hand.

Foreign Languages: Foreign languages and linguistic difficulties are common subjects in IELTS writing assignment 2. Express your own thoughts on such subjects. 

Essays about sports and children should stay focused on the essential issues and avoid deviating from them.

Obesity: Overweight essays are among the most prevalent topics in IELTS writing task 2. Obesity, contemporary health trends in children and adults, and other related subjects may be discussed concerning overweight.

Also read: The Triune Brain - IELTS Reading Answers

IELTS essay writing topics are typically categorised into various sections, encompassing a wide array of subjects. You can anticipate encountering essays in the IELTS exam that fall under any of the following types:

Opinion Essays

You must express your thoughts on the assigned topic in this essay category. Naturally, the best way to score high on such essays is to be familiar with common topics covered in the IELTS exam.

Sample Questions:

What are the benefits and drawbacks of social media usage among teenagers?

Discuss the impact of fast food consumption on people's health and lifestyle.

Should students be required to wear school uniforms? Share your perspective.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of online learning compared to traditional classroom education?

Do you believe video games positively or negatively influence young people's behaviour and development? Explain your viewpoint.

Discussion Essays

For discussion essays, you must provide evidence in favour of or against the topic of the essay. The majority of essays on the IELTS exam are of this type.

Do you think it's important for individuals to pursue higher education, or are vocational skills equally valuable in today's job market?

Is social media ultimately beneficial for society, or does it contribute to increased isolation and mental health issues?

Should governments prioritise funding for space exploration, or are there more pressing issues that require attention?

Do you believe technology has made interpersonal communication easier, or has it led to a decline in face-to-face interactions?

Should fast food companies be held responsible for the rise in obesity rates, or is personal responsibility the primary factor in maintaining a healthy lifestyle?

Solution Essays

You will need to address a specific problem in your solution essays. You may occasionally be asked to explain why a particular problem has arisen, and you will be required to offer your opinion on the matter.

Discuss the impact of excessive use of plastic on the environment and propose solutions to reduce plastic waste.

Analyse the causes of obesity in children and suggest strategies to promote healthy eating habits and physical activity.

Explore the challenges small businesses face in a competitive market and propose measures to support their growth and sustainability.

Examine the issue of air pollution in urban areas and recommend initiatives to improve air quality and mitigate its harmful effects on public health.

Investigate the prevalence of cyberbullying among teenagers and propose methods to prevent and address cyberbullying incidents effectively.

Advantage or Disadvantage Essays

Advantage or Disadvantage Essays require you to discuss a specific topic's positive and negative aspects. Such essays put your argument construction skills to the test, as well as your ability to communicate your ideas clearly and coherently in English.

With the rise of online shopping, brick-and-mortar stores are facing challenges. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of traditional retail stores in today's digital age.

Telecommuting is becoming increasingly common, allowing employees to work remotely. Analyse the pros and cons of remote work for both employers and employees.

The prevalence of fast food chains has increased worldwide. Evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of fast food consumption on individuals' health and well-being.

Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu have revolutionised the way people consume entertainment. Assess the impact of streaming platforms on traditional television and movie industries.

The gig economy, characterised by short-term freelance or independent contract work, is on the rise. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of gig work for workers and businesses alike.

Direct Question Essays

For this type of essay, the topics will be presented as direct questions to which students must respond based on their own experiences and thoughts. You must respond to such essays with direct questions that reflect your experiences.

Should governments provide free public transportation to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution?

Is social media beneficial or detrimental to interpersonal relationships?

Should schools abolish homework to promote students' well-being and creativity?

Is it ethical for companies to use targeted advertising based on users' online behaviour?

Should fast food advertisements be banned to combat rising obesity rates among children?

Also read: IELTS Score Required for USA

Now that you have good knowledge about the Types of IELTS Essays, you must go through the exam preparation process diligently and systematically, starting well in advance. So, here are some tips to score higher in IELTS writing.

Start with IELTS exam preparation at least 6 months before your scheduled test date, allocating daily time to all four sections.

Dedicate particular focus to writing topics for both tasks, especially task 2 and practising writing daily while adhering to time constraints.

Put in a lot of work to improve your grammar and increase your vocabulary. Develop structured thought processes to communicate ideas logically and compellingly. Put coherence, logic, and clarity first when writing.

Given the wide range of potential topics in task 2, expand your knowledge and vocabulary using various resources such as books , magazines, and online materials. In addition, take numerous mock tests to familiarise yourself with the exam format and improve your skills.

However, practice is paramount for achieving the desired scores. You must enrol in IELTS courses with Prepare IELTS Exam (PI) , which offers access to mock tests , speaking and writing evaluations, and comprehensive study materials .

Now that you have preparation tips for IELTS Writing Task 2, you should also dive deeper into answering Task 2 Essays . So, you can use the following steps to improve your skills to respond to essays in the Writing section:

Step 1: Grasp the Question's Essence

Begin by meticulously examining and comprehending the essay prompt. It's common for candidates to overlook key nuances, resulting in misguided responses. Identify the question type, dissect keywords, and grasp the instructions before responding.

Step 2: Blueprint Your Approach

With a clear understanding of the question, outline your response's structure. This strategic planning phase enables you to arrange your thoughts systematically, ensuring a coherent and organised essay.

Step 3: Write an Engaging Introduction

Initiate your essay with a compelling introduction that encapsulates its essence. Set the tone and provide a succinct overview to guide the reader's understanding of the forthcoming discourse.

Step 4: Deliberate Main Body Construction

The crux of your essay resides in its main body, where comprehensive elaboration is paramount. Present your arguments cohesively, supported by pertinent examples, explanations, and data. Conclude this section thoughtfully to segue into the final step.

Step 5: Conclude with Precision

Conclude your essay effectively, summarising key points and reinforcing your stance. End resonantly, leaving a lasting impression on the reader and cementing the essay's relevance and significance.

To conclude, mastering the nuances of IELTS essay writing is critical for achieving high scores. Candidates can increase their chances of success by preparing diligently, understanding the evaluation criteria, and using a structured approach to essay writing when tackling task 2 essays in the IELTS Writing section .

We hope the above information about IELTS Writing Task 2 helped you understand the task better. However, you can contact Prepare IELTS Exam (PI) expert counsellors for further guidance. Our team of education experts is dedicated to providing you with the best guidance in the IELTS exam . You can get a one-on-one counselling session online via our platform. Contact us at [email protected] or call us at +91 9773398388 .

To enhance your vocabulary, read extensively across various topics, noting down unfamiliar words and their meanings. Regularly practice using these words in sentences and essays to reinforce retention and application.

While memorising templates can be helpful, focusing more on understanding essay structures and practising adaptable frameworks is crucial. This way ensures you can effectively address a variety of essay prompts with clarity and coherence.

Prioritise planning and outlining your essay to allocate time efficiently. Aim to spend approximately 20 minutes on Task 1 and 40 minutes on Task 2. Practice timed writing sessions to improve speed and ensure completion within the allotted timeframe.

While it's generally advisable to avoid excessive use of personal pronouns (I, me, my) in academic writing, their occasional usage to express personal opinions or experiences can be acceptable in Task 2 essays. However, maintain a balance to ensure formal and objective language.

Begin by clearly presenting your own viewpoint in the introduction. In the subsequent paragraphs, dedicate separate sections to discussing supporting arguments and counterarguments, providing evidence and examples for each. Conclude by restating your stance while acknowledging opposing perspectives.

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IELTS Score for Germany: Minimum Score Required by Top Universities Since Indian students are writing and speaking in English with Indian accent, with not much exposure to foreign accent, it can be the cause of

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IELTS Preparation with Liz: Free IELTS Tips and Lessons, 2024

• Test Information FAQ
• Band Scores
• IELTS Candidate Success Tips
• Computer IELTS: Pros & Cons
• How to Prepare
• Useful Links & Resources
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IELTS Writing Task 1 Tips, Model Answers & More

Useful IELTS writing task 1 tips, answers, lessons & videos for success achieving a high score. This page contains all the information and help you need to do well. Learn about the IELTS marking criteria, paragraphing, vocabulary and much more. This page has tips for Academic writing task 1 and GT writing task 1 (see bottom of page).

IELTS Writing Task 1 Information

• IELTS recommend you spend no more than 20 mins on writing task 1. However, the time is yours to manage as you wish.
• You should write over 150 words.
• IELTS writing task 1 is worth only about 33% of your total writing marks.
• Task Achievement (25%)
• Coherence & Cohesion (25%)
• Vocabulary (25%)
• Grammar (25%)
• : IELTS Writing Task 1 Band Scores 
• Academic writing task 1 is a report on a chart (bar chart, line graph, pie chart, table, map, diagram/process). See below for practice charts, model answers, tips etc.
• General Training writing task 1 is a letter only. GT letter writing tips can be found towards the bottom of this page. Click here for Information about GT Writing Differences.  There are tips for letter writing, further down this page.
• All words will be counted and all numbers count as one word. See this page: How Words are Counted
• For more information about IELTS test rules, tips etc, see this page: IELTS  Test 1 FAQ

IELTS Writing Task 1 Practice Charts

A collection of useful IELTS writing task 1 practice samples to develop your writing at home.

IELTS Charts for Practice : Academic Test Only

• Academic students may get bar charts, tables, line graphs, pie charts, maps and diagrams (processes).

IELTS Letters for Practice : GT Test Only

• GT students will only be given letters for task 1. GT students can find more tips lower down this page.

IELTS Writing Task 1 Tips & Free Videos

Free IELTS  writing task 1 tips and videos for the right techniques and understanding the test more clearly.

• Essential Tips : How to Prepare for Writing Task 1
• Tips : How Many Words Should you Write?
• Tips: What tense to use in writing task 1?
• Tips : Penalty for Under the Word Count
• Video : How to Describe a Bar Chart with model answer
• Video : Map Language: 1
• Video: Conclusion or Overview Tips
• Video : Vocabulary for Accurate Data
• Video : How many Paragraphs 
• Video : Official Writing Answer Sheet Tips
• Video : Line Graph 4 Main Sentences
• Video : Line Graph How to Write a Complex Sentence

IELTS Bar Chart Video

Learn how to describe a bar chart in IELTS writing task 1. You can find a model answer for this lesson here: Model Answer .

Writing Task 1 Model Answers

IELTS model answers for charts, graphs, diagrams, maps and tables.. Each sample answer is estimated band score 9.

• Diagram Model Answer
• Bar Chart & Pie Charts Model Answer
• Table Model Answer
• Map Model Answer
• Line Graph Model Answer
• Bar Chart Model Answer
• Pie Chart Model Answer
• Bar Chart of Age Groups Model Answer
• Table Future Form Model Answer
• Line Graph & Bar Chart Model Answer
• Practise at Home:  IELTS Sample Practice Charts

IELTS Writing Task 1 Practice Lessons

IELTS writing task 1 free practice lessons to help you develop skills and understand about the requirements of task 1 academic. More lessons will be added over time.

• Table & Pie Charts
• IELTS Diagram Rain Water
• Two Line Graphs: Exercise & Model
• IELTS Diagram Paragraphs and Organisation
• IELTS Life Cycle Diagram: Model & Gap Fill
• Bar Chart of Change over Time
• IELTS Line Graph Gap Fill Exercise
• IELTS Diagrams: Practice Exercise
• IELTS Line Graph: Vocabulary List
• IELTS Line Graph: How to Describe Guidelines
• IELTS Line Graph: Exercise & Model
• Task 1 Introduction Paragraph Practice
• IELTS Map: Comparison Exercise
• IELTS Two Charts Practice: Pie Chart & Bar Chart
• IELTS Bar Chart: Practice Exercise
• IELTS Diagram Water Supply
• Grammar Accuracy: Practice & Tips
• IELTS Bar Chart: Introduction & Overview Practice
• IELTS Pie Chart: How to Describe a Pie Chart Step by Step
• IELTS Diagram: Introduction & Overview Practice
• Introduction Paragraph: Common Errors
• IELTS Bar Chart Sample Answer

IELTS General Training Letter

The following links are for IELTS candidates who are preparing for the General Training Writing Test. Your task will be asked to write a letter. You will not be writing a report as in the Academic Test. Use the links below to help you prepare:

10 Essential Tips for IELTS Letter Writing

How to Improve your IELTS GT Letter

Differences between GT & Academic Writing

General training model letters and practice exercises:

• Apology Letter: Model Answers Formal & Informal
• Amendment Letter: Model Answer 2017
• Complaint Letter: Model Answer
• Complaint Letter: Error Correction
• Letter to a Friend: Model Answer
• Invitation Letter: Model Answer

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IELTS Writing: How to Use Academic Hedging in Task 2 Essays IELTS Podcast

• Language Learning

Unlock the secrets to enhancing your IELTS Writing Task 2 scores through academic hedging. Why Is Academic Hedging a Key to Higher IELTS Band Scores?   Mastering academic hedging can significantly impact your IELTS Writing Task 2 scores. This technique not only polishes your language but also embodies an academic tone, essential for achieving Band 7 and beyond. How Can Academic Hedging Propel Your Essay From Band 6.5 to Band 7? Academic hedging, by introducing nuanced language to express degrees of certainty, adds depth to your arguments, making a smooth transition from Band 6.5 to Band 7 achievable. What Role Does Grammatical Range and Accuracy Play? Subtle language adjustments in academic hedging not only convey complex ideas more effectively but also enhance grammatical range and accuracy, crucial for a higher score. Understanding the Importance of Distancing in Academic Writing Distancing from absolute statements without empirical evidence showcases your ability to approach topics with intellectual humility, reflecting critical thinking and Band 7 proficiency. Transforming Your Essays with Academic Hedging: Practical Examples See how academic hedging can transform statements, making your arguments more nuanced and academically rigorous: * Original: “Climate change is undoubtedly caused by human activities.” Hedged: “There is substantial evidence to suggest that human activities may significantly contribute to climate change.” * Original: “Technology always improves the quality of life.” Hedged: “In many instances, technological advancements have been observed to enhance the quality of life.” * Original: “Education is the only solution to societal problems.” Hedged: “Education is widely regarded as a potential catalyst for addressing various societal challenges.” Concluding Thoughts on Mastering Academic Hedging Integrating academic hedging into your essays not only boosts grammatical accuracy and coherence but also adds sophistication, leading to an improved band score. You can download or listen to the audio version here: | Direct Download Here | Stitcher | iTunes | Spotify | Transcript available by clicking here. Related Articles * IELTS Writing Task 2 Strategies * Top IELTS Speaking Tips * Effective IELTS Reading Tips Explore More Discover more about academic writing at Harvard University’s Writing Center. Share this article: Link to Article About the Author: Ben Worthington, founder of IELTSPodcast, has dedicated his career to helping students achieve their IELT goals ...

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• Essays Band 8 IELTS Writing – samples of IELTS essays of Band 8
• Essays Band 7 IELTS Writing – samples of IELTS essays of Band 7
• Essays Band 6 IELTS Writing – samples of IELTS essays of Band 6
• Essays Band 5 IELTS Writing – samples of IELTS essays of Band 5
• Reports Band 9 IELTS Writing – samples of IELTS reports of Band 9 (Academic Writing Task 1)
• Reports Band 8 IELTS Writing – samples of IELTS reports of Band 8
• Reports Band 7 IELTS Writing – samples of IELTS reports of Band 7
• Letters Band 9 IELTS Writing Task 1 – samples of IELTS letters of Band 9
• Letters Band 8 IELTS Writing – samples of IELTS letters of Band 8
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IELTS Speaking questions from the UAE – April 2024

• Recent IELTS exams

A very kind student of ours ZA has just taken IELTS in the UAE and remembered these questions:

Speaking test

Part 1 (Interview)

– What is your full name? – Do you work or study? – Where are you from? – What do you like about your hometown? – Is there anything you dislike about your hometown? – Why did you choose your job? – What kind of job would you like to do in the future?

Part 2 (Cue Card)

Describe a visit to a friend or a relative that you enjoyed. You should say

– who you visited – when you visited – what you did during your visit

and explain why you enjoyed the visit.

Follow-up question: Do you usually visit this person?

Part 3 (Discussion)

– Do people visit each other’s homes in your country? – Do you think most people enjoy having visitors? – When visiting someone in another city, is it better to stay at their hosts’ house or in a hotel? – How do people in your country welcome visitors? – Is visiting friends and family still popular in your country? – Why do you think people visit each other less frequently now compared to the past?

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• IELTS Speaking questions from the UK – January 2024 A kind IELTS test taker MZ took the IELTS test...
• IELTS Speaking questions from the UK – February 2024 Our student took IELTS in the UK quite recently and...
• IELTS Speaking questions from Pakistan – January 2024 A lovely IELTS test taker MF has just taken the...
• IELTS Speaking questions from Australia – February 2024 Our student took IELTS in Australia quite recently and remembered...

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Guest Essay

José Andrés: Let People Eat

By José Andrés

Mr. Andrés is the founder of World Central Kitchen.

In the worst conditions you can imagine — after hurricanes, earthquakes, bombs and gunfire — the best of humanity shows up. Not once or twice but always.

The seven people killed on a World Central Kitchen mission in Gaza on Monday were the best of humanity. They are not faceless or nameless. They are not generic aid workers or collateral damage in war.

Saifeddin Issam Ayad Abutaha, John Chapman, Jacob Flickinger, Zomi Frankcom, James Henderson, James Kirby and Damian Sobol risked everything for the most fundamentally human activity: to share our food with others.

These are people I served alongside in Ukraine, Turkey, Morocco, the Bahamas, Indonesia, Mexico, Gaza and Israel. They were far more than heroes.

Their work was based on the simple belief that food is a universal human right. It is not conditional on being good or bad, rich or poor, left or right. We do not ask what religion you belong to. We just ask how many meals you need.

From Day 1, we have fed Israelis as well as Palestinians. Across Israel, we have served more than 1.75 million hot meals. We have fed families displaced by Hezbollah rockets in the north. We have fed grieving families from the south. We delivered meals to the hospitals where hostages were reunited with their families. We have called consistently, repeatedly and passionately for the release of all the hostages.

All the while, we have communicated extensively with Israeli military and civilian officials. At the same time, we have worked closely with community leaders in Gaza, as well as Arab nations in the region. There is no way to bring a ship full of food to Gaza without doing so.

That’s how we served more than 43 million meals in Gaza, preparing hot food in 68 community kitchens where Palestinians are feeding Palestinians.

We know Israelis. Israelis, in their heart of hearts, know that food is not a weapon of war.

Israel is better than the way this war is being waged. It is better than blocking food and medicine to civilians. It is better than killing aid workers who had coordinated their movements with the Israel Defense Forces.

The Israeli government needs to open more land routes for food and medicine today. It needs to stop killing civilians and aid workers today. It needs to start the long journey to peace today.

In the worst conditions, after the worst terrorist attack in its history, it’s time for the best of Israel to show up. You cannot save the hostages by bombing every building in Gaza. You cannot win this war by starving an entire population.

We welcome the government’s promise of an investigation into how and why members of our World Central Kitchen family were killed. That investigation needs to start at the top, not just the bottom.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said of the Israeli killings of our team, “It happens in war.” It was a direct attack on clearly marked vehicles whose movements were known by the Israel Defense Forces.

It was also the direct result of a policy that squeezed humanitarian aid to desperate levels. Our team was en route from a delivery of almost 400 tons of aid by sea — our second shipment, funded by the United Arab Emirates, supported by Cyprus and with clearance from the Israel Defense Forces.

The team members put their lives at risk precisely because this food aid is so rare and desperately needed. According to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification global initiative, half the population of Gaza — 1.1. million people — faces the imminent risk of famine. The team would not have made the journey if there were enough food, traveling by truck across land, to feed the people of Gaza.

The peoples of the Mediterranean and Middle East, regardless of ethnicity and religion, share a culture that values food as a powerful statement of humanity and hospitality — of our shared hope for a better tomorrow.

There’s a reason, at this special time of year, Christians make Easter eggs, Muslims eat an egg at iftar dinners and an egg sits on the Seder plate. This symbol of life and hope reborn in spring extends across religions and cultures.

I have been a stranger at Seder dinners. I have heard the ancient Passover stories about being a stranger in the land of Egypt, the commandment to remember — with a feast before you — that the children of Israel were once slaves.

It is not a sign of weakness to feed strangers; it is a sign of strength. The people of Israel need to remember, at this darkest hour, what strength truly looks like.

José Andrés is a chef and the founder of World Central Kitchen.

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

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