A band 7+ Task 2 essay answers exactly the question asked, takes a clear position, uses four or five paragraphs with one main idea each, and supports every idea with an explanation and an example. It is around 270 to 300 words and written in 40 minutes.
The question types you will see
| Type | Typical wording |
|---|---|
| Opinion | To what extent do you agree or disagree? |
| Discussion | Discuss both views and give your own opinion |
| Advantages and disadvantages | Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? |
| Problem and solution | What are the causes? What solutions can you suggest? |
| Two-part question | Why is this happening? Is it a positive or negative development? |
For the paragraph-by-paragraph structure, read IELTS Writing Task 2: an essay structure that works. Below are two full sample essays.
Sample essay 1: opinion
Some people believe that online learning will soon replace classroom teaching. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Online education has grown rapidly over the past decade, and some argue that it will eventually make traditional classrooms unnecessary. While I accept that online learning will play a much larger role, I disagree that it will replace classroom teaching entirely.
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There are strong reasons why online learning is expanding. It removes the cost and time of travel, allows students in small towns to learn from specialist teachers, and lets learners revise recorded lessons at their own pace. For adults who work full time, it is often the only realistic way to gain new qualifications. These advantages mean that, for many subjects, online courses are now a genuine alternative.
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However, schools do far more than deliver information. Young children in particular develop social skills, discipline and confidence through daily interaction with classmates and teachers. Practical subjects such as chemistry or sport also require physical spaces and equipment that cannot be fully replicated on a screen. Moreover, not every family has a reliable internet connection or a quiet place to study, so an online-only system would widen existing inequalities.
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In my view, the most likely future is a blended model, in which schools remain the centre of learning but use online tools for revision, specialist subjects and flexible scheduling.
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In conclusion, although online learning offers clear benefits and will continue to grow, the social, practical and equity roles of classrooms mean that they are unlikely to disappear.
Notes: the position is stated in the introduction and repeated in the conclusion; each body paragraph has one main idea; examples are specific (small towns, chemistry, internet access); linking words vary naturally (However, Moreover, In my view).
Sample essay 2: discussion
Some people think that university students should study whatever they like. Others believe they should only study subjects that will be useful in the future, such as science and technology. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
The choice of university subject is a major decision, and people disagree on whether it should be driven by personal interest or by future job prospects. This essay will examine both views before explaining why I believe interest and usefulness should be balanced.
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On the one hand, there are good reasons to encourage subjects such as science and technology. Economies increasingly depend on engineers, programmers and medical professionals, and graduates in these fields usually find work more quickly. In countries where many graduates are unemployed, directing students towards high-demand fields could reduce wasted time and money.
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On the other hand, students who study a subject they are passionate about tend to work harder and achieve more. A student who loves history may become an excellent teacher, researcher or journalist, roles that society also needs. Furthermore, it is difficult to predict which skills will be valuable in twenty years, and the creativity developed in arts and humanities is increasingly valued by employers.
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In my opinion, students should choose subjects they are genuinely interested in, but with clear information about career outcomes. Universities and schools can support this by offering careers guidance and by allowing students to combine, for example, a humanities degree with practical digital skills.
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In conclusion, while subjects linked to future demand offer security, personal interest drives motivation and achievement. The best approach is an informed choice that considers both.
Notes: both views get a full paragraph before the writer's opinion; the opinion is stated clearly and is more nuanced than "I agree"; the essay uses topic vocabulary (high-demand fields, careers guidance) without forcing rare words.
How examiners score these
Your Task 2 is marked on four equal criteria:
- Task response: did you answer all parts and keep a clear position?
- Coherence and cohesion: are paragraphs logical, with clear links?
- Lexical resource: is vocabulary varied, precise and natural?
- Grammatical range and accuracy: do you use complex sentences with few errors?
How to use sample essays
- Do not memorise them. Examiners spot memorised text and penalise it.
- Study the moves: how the introduction states a position, how each paragraph is built, how the conclusion summarises.
- Rewrite one paragraph on a different topic using the same structure.
For a full study plan, see how to get band 7 in IELTS.
See our IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training programmes, or book a free IELTS demo class.
Frequently asked questions
How many words should an IELTS Task 2 essay be?
At least 250 words. Most band 7+ essays are around 270 to 300 words, which is enough to develop ideas without running out of time.
How many paragraphs should IELTS Task 2 have?
Usually four or five: an introduction, two or three body paragraphs and a conclusion.
Can I use these sample essays in my exam?
No. Use them to learn structure and techniques. Memorised essays are recognised and can lower your score.
Should I give my opinion in a discussion essay?
Yes, if the question asks for it, as most discussion questions do. State it clearly in the introduction and conclusion.
How long should I spend on IELTS Writing Task 2?
About 40 minutes, because Task 2 is worth twice as much as Task 1.
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Written by the Learning Bubble teaching team. If something here does not match your situation, ask us. We would rather give you a straight answer than have you guess.