IELTS Writing Task 2: a five-minute planning method

In IELTS Writing Task 2 you have about 40 minutes to write at least 250 words. Spending the first five of those minutes planning feels risky, but it is usually the difference between an essay that answers the question and one that only discusses the topic.

Step 1 — Identify the question type (30 seconds)

Underline the instruction. Common types:

• Opinion — To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Discussion — Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Problem / solution — What are the causes? What can be done?
• Advantages / disadvantages — Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
• Two-part question — two direct questions to answer.

Each type needs a slightly different structure. Answering the wrong question is one of the most common reasons for a lower score in Task Response.

Step 2 — Decide your position (1 minute)

Write your answer to the question in one sentence. This becomes your thesis. If you cannot write it in one sentence, you are not ready to start.

Step 3 — Choose two main ideas (2 minutes)

For each body paragraph, write:

• one main idea (one line)
• one explanation (why it is true)
• one example (specific and realistic)

Two well-developed paragraphs are better than four thin ones.

Step 4 — Check the plan against the question (1 minute)

Does every paragraph answer the question you underlined in Step 1? Does your conclusion repeat your position clearly?

Step 5 — Note useful language (30 seconds)

Write down two or three topic words you want to use accurately. This helps vocabulary range without forcing in memorised phrases.

A common mistake

Memorised introductions ("In this modern era, there is a controversial issue…") add words but not meaning. Examiners are trained to recognise them. A short, direct introduction that paraphrases the question and states your position is clearer.

Preparing for IELTS? See our IELTS preparation courses, where every essay is marked against the public criteria.