Master IELTS Writing Task 2: Tips, Vocabulary & Templates

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Master IELTS Writing Task 2: Tips, Vocabulary & Templates

The IELTS Writing Task 2 is one of the most challenging parts of the IELTS test — whether you’re preparing for Academic or General Training (GT). Both versions test your ability to express ideas clearly, develop arguments, and use appropriate grammar and vocabulary. However, understanding the subtle differences between the two and using the right approach can make all the difference between a Band 6.5 and a Band 8+.

If you’re preparing for IELTS Academic, don’t miss this detailed blog on Conquering IELTS Academic Reading & Writing.
And if you’re preparing for IELTS General Training, check out Crack IELTS General Training – Complete Preparation Guide.

Let’s now dive deep into IELTS Writing Task 2 — for both Academic and General Training candidates — with strategies, vocabulary, and ready-to-use templates.

Difference Between Academic and GT Writing Task 2

Both Academic and General Training test-takers get the same type of essay questions, such as:

  • Opinion (Agree or Disagree)
  • Discussion (Discuss both views)
  • Problem-Solution
  • Advantages-Disadvantages
  • Double Question (Mixed)

However, GT candidates can use a slightly more personal and conversational tone, while Academic candidates should maintain a formal, academic writing style with objective language and complex sentence structures.

Step-by-Step Strategy to Attempt IELTS Essays

Step 1: Understand the Question Type

Always identify the essay type first. Misunderstanding the task leads to poor Task Response scores.
Example:

  • “Some people believe that technology makes life more complicated, while others think it makes life easier. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
    This is a discussion + opinion essay.

Step 2: Brainstorm and Plan (5 Minutes Max)

Use this short time to:

  • Identify 2 main ideas for each side.
  • Think of examples (real-life, statistics, or personal).
  • Decide your final opinion (agree/disagree/partially agree).

Step 3: Write a Strong Introduction

  • Paraphrase the question.
  • State your opinion or outline what your essay will discuss.

Example (Academic Style):
While some individuals claim that modern technology complicates daily life, others argue that it brings remarkable convenience. This essay will discuss both perspectives before concluding that technology has simplified life in numerous ways.

Step 4: Develop Clear Body Paragraphs

Each paragraph should:

  • Start with a topic sentence.
  • Explain your idea.
  • Provide an example.
  • End with a linking or summarizing sentence.

Example (GT Style):
One of the biggest advantages of technology is easy communication. For instance, video calls help families stay connected across long distances, which would have been impossible a few decades ago.

Step 5: Write a Balanced Conclusion

Summarize your main ideas and clearly restate your opinion.
In conclusion, despite some drawbacks, technology has simplified human life by improving communication, efficiency, and access to information.


Essential Vocabulary and Phrases for High Band Scores

Here are some powerful academic phrases to use across essay types:

Function

Useful Vocabulary / Phrases

Introducing an opinion

I firmly believe that…, From my perspective…, It is widely argued that…

Adding points

Furthermore…, In addition…, Moreover…, Another key point is that…

Giving examples

For instance…, To illustrate…, A clear example of this is…

Contrasting ideas

However…, On the other hand…, Despite this…, In contrast…

Concluding

To sum up…, In conclusion…, Therefore…, Overall…

Expressing cause and effect

As a result…, Consequently…, Due to…, This leads to…

Using a variety of these connectors shows lexical range and coherence — two key scoring areas in IELTS Writing.

Essay Templates You Can Use

Template 1: Opinion Essay (Agree/Disagree)

Introduction:

  • Paraphrase the question
  • State your clear opinion

Body Paragraph 1:

  • Reason 1 supporting your opinion
  • Example + Explanation

Body Paragraph 2:

  • Reason 2 supporting your opinion
  • Example + Explanation

Conclusion:

  • Restate your opinion and summarize main ideas

Template 2: Discussion Essay (Both Views + Opinion)

Introduction:

  • Paraphrase the question
  • Mention both views
  • State your opinion

Body Paragraph 1:

  • Discuss first view + example

Body Paragraph 2:

  • Discuss second view + example

Conclusion:

  • Give your final opinion with summary

Tips to Boost Your Band Score

  1. Keep your essay 250–290 words — avoid writing too short or too long.
  2. Use linking devices naturally — not in every sentence.
  3. Avoid repetition — use synonyms to show vocabulary range.
  4. Maintain coherence — each paragraph should flow logically.
  5. Check for grammar and punctuation before time runs out.

Recommended IELTS Combo Books

If you’re serious about achieving a Band 8+, structured preparation with high-quality material is crucial.
Here are two complete IELTS preparation combos designed for your success:



For Academic Test Takers

📘 IELTS Academic Complete Combo (Reading + Writing + Speaking)
This combo includes:

  • 150+ solved Reading passages
  • Band 8 model essays for Writing Task 1 & 2
  • Solved Speaking cue cards, follow-ups, and vocabulary

For General Training Test Takers

IELTS General Training Complete Combo (Reading + Writing + Speaking)
This combo includes:

  • Solved Reading and Letter Writing tasks
  • Model Task 2 essays
  • 500+ Speaking Q&A with answers

Both sets are available exclusively on Amazon.in and ideal for candidates targeting Band 7–9.

Related Reading:

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re aiming for Academic or General Training, mastering essay writing is about clarity, structure, and precision. With consistent practice and the right study resources, you can confidently achieve your dream band score.

Start your preparation today with the IELTS Academic and General Training Combos on Amazon.in, and move one step closer to your international goals!

 

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