IELTS Writing Task 2
IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Structure
A clear four-paragraph structure is the fastest way to raise your Coherence and Task Response scores. This lesson gives you the template and the job of each sentence.
The four-paragraph structure
- Introduction — paraphrase the topic and state your position/thesis.
- Body 1 — one main idea, explained and supported with an example.
- Body 2 — a second main idea, explained and supported.
- Conclusion — restate your position and summarise the reasons.
Inside a body paragraph
- Topic sentence — state the paragraph’s main idea.
- Explanation — say why it is true or how it works.
- Example — a specific example that proves the point.
- Link — a sentence that ties it back to the question.
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Depth beats breadth. Two fully developed ideas score higher than four rushed ones. Aim for two strong body paragraphs, not four thin ones.
Model answer
It is sometimes argued that university education should be free for all students. While I understand the appeal of this idea, I firmly believe that a partly funded system is fairer and more sustainable, for the reasons discussed below.Test yourself with our free IELTS practice questions and instant scoring.
Take test →Frequently Asked Questions
How many paragraphs should an IELTS essay have?+
Four is ideal: an introduction, two developed body paragraphs and a conclusion. A fifth body paragraph is fine if each remains well developed.
Do I need examples in every paragraph?+
Yes — a specific example in each body paragraph strengthens Task Response and makes your ideas more convincing.