Task 2 Opinion vs Discussion Essay: Strategy Guide
Confused between Opinion and Discussion essays in IELTS Writing Task 2? This guide breaks down the differences, strategies, and sample prompts to help you respond with precision and boost your band score.
One of the biggest hurdles IELTS candidates face in Writing Task 2 is misidentifying the essay type. Confusing an Opinion essay with a Discussion essay can result in a completely off-topic response, which affects your Task Response score—a major component in the IELTS Writing Band Descriptors.
This blog will walk you through how to recognize each essay type, plan your structure, and write high-band responses with clarity and confidence.
Understanding the Core Difference
| Feature | Opinion Essay | Discussion Essay |
|---|---|---|
| Prompt Style | "Do you agree or disagree?" “To what extent do you agree?” | “Discuss both views and give your opinion” |
| Main Task | Take a clear position | Present both views + your opinion |
| Essay Tone | Persuasive | Balanced + Analytical |
| Paragraph Structure | 2 body paragraphs supporting your opinion | 1 for each view + 1 for your opinion |
💡 Tip: Always identify the instruction in the prompt. If it includes "discuss both views," it's a Discussion essay. If it's about "agree/disagree," it's an Opinion essay.
How to Structure Each Essay Type
✅ Opinion Essay Structure
-
Introduction
- Paraphrase the question
- Clearly state your opinion
-
Body Paragraph 1
- First reason supporting your opinion
- Explanation + example
-
Body Paragraph 2
- Second reason supporting your opinion
- Explanation + example
-
Conclusion
- Summarize your opinion
✅ Discussion Essay Structure
-
Introduction
- Paraphrase the question
- Mention both views + your opinion
-
Body Paragraph 1
- Discuss the first view
- Explanation + example
-
Body Paragraph 2
- Discuss the second view
- Explanation + example
-
Body Paragraph 3 (Optional)
- Clearly state and support your own opinion
-
Conclusion
- Restate both views and your final opinion
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Only presenting one view in a Discussion essay
- ❌ Not stating a clear opinion in either essay
- ❌ Using both-sides tone in an Opinion essay
- ❌ Repeating ideas without development or examples
- ❌ Mixing structures and confusing the examiner
Sample IELTS Essay Prompts
🎯 Opinion Essay Prompts
- Some people think that the best way to reduce crime is to give longer prison sentences. Others believe there are better ways to reduce crime. Do you agree or disagree?
- Many believe that the use of mobile phones in public places should be banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
🎯 Discussion Essay Prompts
- Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programs. Others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
- Some think watching TV causes more harm than good to children. Others believe it is beneficial. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Writing Task 2 vs Task 1: Quick Refresher
Still unclear how Task 2 differs from Task 1? Check out this guide on Writing Task 1: Academic vs General Training to avoid any confusion on test day.
🎯 Ready to Boost Your Band Score?
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