10 Task 2 Essay Templates That Work

Writing a high-scoring IELTS Task 2 essay isn’t just about having good ideas — it’s about structuring them clearly and logically. Examiners are trained to look for coherence, cohesion, and task response. If you struggle with organizing your essays under pressure, using a reliable template can be a game-changer.

In this blog, you'll find 10 flexible yet effective essay templates that you can adapt to nearly any Task 2 question. Whether you're aiming for a Band 7, 8, or even 9, mastering structure is non-negotiable. Let’s dive in!

Why Templates Work for IELTS Task 2

• Save time brainstorming during the exam
• Ensure complete Task Response by covering all question parts
• Showcase coherence and cohesion, two key marking criteria
• Minimize the risk of missing logical progression

👉 Want a deeper understanding of what examiners look for?
Check out IELTS Writing Band Descriptors Explained.

10 IELTS Task 2 Essay Templates

Here are 10 templates divided by common essay types:

1. Opinion Essay (Agree/Disagree)

Introduction:

• Paraphrase the question
• State clear opinion

Body 1:

• First reason for your opinion + example

Body 2:

• Second reason for your opinion + example

Conclusion:

• Summarize opinion + reinforce key points

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2. Discussion Essay (Discuss Both Views and Give Your Opinion)

Introduction:

• Introduce both views
• State your opinion

Body 1:

• Discuss the first view + example

Body 2:

• Discuss the second view + example

Conclusion:

• Summarize discussion + restate opinion

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3. Problem-Solution Essay

Introduction:

• Paraphrase the problem
• State that you will discuss problems and solutions

Body 1:

• Describe major problems + example

Body 2:

• Offer practical solutions + example

Conclusion:

• Summarize the key points + optimistic closing

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4. Advantage-Disadvantage Essay (Neutral)

Introduction:

• Paraphrase the topic
• Say you will discuss both sides

Body 1:

• Advantages + example

Body 2:

• Disadvantages + example

Conclusion:

• Summarize and give a balanced view

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5. Advantage-Disadvantage Essay (With Opinion)

Introduction:

• Paraphrase and state your opinion

Body 1:

• Advantages + explain why not outweighing

Body 2:

• Disadvantages + support your stance

Conclusion:

• Reaffirm your opinion

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6. Two-Part Question Essay

Introduction:

• Paraphrase
• Preview answers to both questions

Body 1:

• Answer first question + example

Body 2:

• Answer second question + example

Conclusion:

• Summarize and suggest broader impact

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7. Direct Question (Opinion Only)

Introduction:

• Rephrase question
• Directly answer

Body 1:

• First supporting reason

Body 2:

• Second supporting reason

Conclusion:

• Summarize opinion

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8. Compare and Contrast Essay

Introduction:

• Introduce two items for comparison

Body 1:

• Similarities + examples

Body 2:

• Differences + examples

Conclusion:

• Overall evaluation

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9. Cause and Effect Essay

Introduction:

• State the cause-effect relationship

Body 1:

• Main causes + examples

Body 2:

• Main effects + examples

Conclusion:

• Summary + possible solutions

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10. Mixed Essay (Hybrid Types)

Introduction:

• Address multiple parts briefly

Body 1:

• Handle part 1 of question

Body 2:

• Handle part 2 of question

Conclusion:

• Tie everything together

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Common Mistakes to Avoid with Templates

• Forgetting to adapt: Don’t copy the template blindly — tweak it to fit the question.
• Too mechanical: Use natural linking phrases to create flow.
• Ignoring Task Requirements: Make sure you fully address every part of the prompt.

Sample Task 2 Prompts for Practice

Here are a few prompts you can practice applying templates to:

• Some people think that the best way to improve road safety is to increase the minimum legal age for driving cars or riding motorbikes. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Many people believe that social networking sites have a negative impact on both individuals and society. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• What are the causes of obesity in children, and how can it be tackled?

💡 Pro Tip: Practice writing outlines first before writing full essays to strengthen your template skills!

Bonus: Linking Task 1 and Task 2

Strong writing skills benefit both tasks!
Learn how Writing Task 1 differs between Academic and General IELTS here:
👉 Writing Task 1 Academic vs General: Key Differences

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