How to Write an IELTS Task 2 Discussion Essay (Both Views Essay) – A Complete Guide for High Scores
When preparing for the IELTS Writing Task 2, you will frequently come across the Discussion Essay, also known as the Both Views Essay. This is one of the most common and challenging essay types in the exam because it requires you to not only discuss two opposing perspectives on a given topic but also present your own opinion in a well-structured and coherent manner.
Many IELTS candidates struggle with this essay type for several reasons. Some find it difficult to develop balanced arguments, while others struggle with structuring their ideas logically or maintaining a high level of coherence and cohesion. If you’ve ever felt stuck when trying to organize your thoughts, worried about how to present both views clearly, or unsure about how to express your opinion effectively, you’re not alone! These are common challenges, and overcoming them is key to achieving a band 7, 8, or even 9 in IELTS Writing Task 2.
But here’s the good news—once you learn the right approach, writing a high-scoring discussion essay becomes much easier! This guide will take you through every step of the process, from understanding the question correctly to structuring your essay effectively and writing with clarity and coherence. You’ll learn how to analyze both perspectives critically, support your ideas with strong arguments, and express your opinion in a way that impresses the examiner.
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If you're serious about achieving a high band score, check out our comprehensive IELTS Writing Task 2 eBook, which provides in-depth strategies how to write a high scoring task 2 essay. Additionally, our personalized IELTS essay correction service offers expert feedback on your essays, helping you identify mistakes, improve coherence, and refine your writing for a higher score. These resources are designed to maximize your potential and boost your confidence in IELTS Writing Task 2!
Now, let’s dive deep into how to master the IELTS Discussion Essay step by step. 🚀
Understanding the IELTS Task 2 Discussion Essay Question
Before you start writing your IELTS Task 2 Discussion Essay, it’s crucial to understand what exactly the question is asking you to do. A Discussion Essay (also known as a Both Views Essay) is one of the most common question types in the IELTS Writing Task 2, and it requires you to analyze two opposing perspectives on a given topic before presenting your own opinion in a clear and well-supported manner.
🔹 Typical IELTS Discussion Essay Questions
In the exam, you will usually see a statement followed by a question such as:
✅ Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
✅ Discuss both sides of this argument and then give your own opinion.
Even though the wording may vary slightly, the task remains the same—you must present both perspectives on the issue and then clearly state your own opinion.
🔹 Example IELTS Discussion Essay Question
Let’s look at a real example of a discussion essay question:
💡 Some people believe that online education is the future of learning, while others argue that traditional classroom learning is irreplaceable. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
At first glance, this may seem simple, but many candidates lose marks because they fail to fully understand what is required. So, let's break it down step by step.
What You MUST Do in a Discussion Essay
For a high-scoring response, your essay should include the following elements:
✔️ Explain both perspectives clearly.
Each view must be analyzed thoroughly, explaining why some people support it and providing relevant examples to support your explanation.
✔️ Present a balanced discussion.
You should critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of both viewpoints rather than just listing them. This will show the examiner that you can think critically and present well-developed ideas.
✔️ State your own opinion and justify it.
Many test-takers forget this crucial part! You must clearly express your own opinion and support it with strong arguments. Whether you agree with one view, disagree with both, or prefer a balanced approach, make sure your opinion is well-reasoned and justified.
🚨 Common Mistake to Avoid
💡 Only describing both views without giving your own opinion.
Many candidates focus too much on explaining the two perspectives and forget to clearly state their opinion. However, in an IELTS Discussion Essay, your opinion is an essential requirement. Without it, you cannot score well in the Task Achievement criterion, which significantly affects your overall band score.
To avoid this mistake, always reserve a part of your introduction and conclusion for stating your opinion and make sure to reinforce it in the body paragraphs with strong supporting ideas.
🔹 Why Understanding the Question Matters
Misinterpreting the essay question is one of the biggest reasons IELTS candidates struggle to achieve a high score. If you fail to identify that you need to discuss both views and provide an opinion, your response may be off-topic, leading to a lower band score.
By fully understanding what the IELTS Discussion Essay requires, you are already one step ahead in writing a well-structured, high-scoring response!
Now that you understand the question, let’s move on to how to structure your IELTS Task 2 Discussion Essay effectively. 🚀
How to Structure Your IELTS Task 2 Discussion Essay (Both Views Essay) for a High Band Score
A high-scoring IELTS Discussion Essay (Both Views Essay) must follow a clear and logical structure to ensure strong coherence and cohesion. Organizing your response effectively is crucial for achieving a band 7, 8, or 9 in IELTS Writing Task 2. Below is the best structure to follow, ensuring that your ideas are presented logically and make it easy for the examiner to follow.
🔹 Introduction (Paragraph 1) – Setting the Foundation
Your introduction should capture the examiner’s attention and provide a roadmap for your essay. It consists of three key elements:
✔ Paraphrase the question using synonyms while keeping the same meaning.
✔ Mention both views neutrally without taking sides.
✔ State your opinion clearly in a thesis statement.
💡 Detailed strategies on how to write an engaging introduction will be discussed in the following section.
🔹 Body Paragraph 1 – Presenting the First Viewpoint
✔ Introduce the first perspective with a clear topic sentence.
✔ Explain the viewpoint with strong reasoning.
✔ Support your argument with an example to make it more convincing.
💡 A step-by-step guide on writing a well-developed first body paragraph will follow.
🔹 Body Paragraph 2 – Presenting the Opposing Viewpoint
✔ Introduce the second perspective using contrastive linking phrases.
✔ Explain why some people support this argument with logical reasoning.
✔ Provide a real-world example to strengthen your discussion.
💡 The next section will show you exactly how to craft a compelling second body paragraph.
🔹 Body Paragraph 3 – Stating Your Opinion (If Needed)
✔ Clearly express your opinion in a separate paragraph if necessary.
✔ Justify your stance with strong reasoning.
✔ Use a relevant example to reinforce your argument.
💡 A detailed breakdown of how to integrate your opinion seamlessly into your essay will be covered later.
🔹 Conclusion (Final Paragraph) – Summarizing Your Essay
✔ Summarize both viewpoints concisely without repeating entire sentences.
✔ Restate your opinion confidently without introducing new arguments.
💡 A comprehensive guide on writing a strong and effective conclusion will be discussed in the upcoming section.
Now that you have an overview of the best IELTS Task 2 Discussion Essay structure, let’s move on to detailed strategies for crafting each section effectively! 🚀
💡 Mastering the IELTS Writing Task 2 Discussion Essay requires more than just knowing the structure—it takes strategic practice and expert guidance. Our Comprehensive Task 2 eBook provides you with detailed high-scoring guide, advanced vocabulary, and in-depth techniques to help you write with clarity and confidence. If you want personalized feedback on your essays, our Essay Correction Service offers detailed corrections and expert insights, helping you identify mistakes and refine your writing for a higher band score.
How to Write a High-Scoring Introduction for a Discussion Essay (Both Views Essay)
Your introduction is one of the most crucial parts of your IELTS Task 2 essay. It sets the tone for your response and gives the examiner a clear preview of what to expect in the rest of your essay. A well-structured introduction helps you create a strong first impression, demonstrating clarity, coherence, and a high level of lexical resource, all of which are essential for achieving a band 7, 8, or 9 in the IELTS Writing test.
In this section, you'll learn a simple yet powerful three-step formula to craft an effective introduction for your IELTS Discussion Essay, also known as the Both Views Essay.
🔹 Step 1: Paraphrase the Question (Avoid Direct Copying!)
The first sentence of your introduction should rephrase the question statement using synonyms and alternative sentence structures while keeping the original meaning intact. This shows the examiner that you have a strong command of vocabulary and can express ideas in different ways.
💡 Why is paraphrasing important?
✔️ Avoids repetition of the exact words from the question.
✔️ Demonstrates lexical resource (advanced vocabulary use).
✔️ Shows the examiner that you can articulate ideas in your own words.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid When Paraphrasing:
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Copying the question word-for-word (this reduces your ability to score high for Lexical Resource).
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Overcomplicating the sentence structure, making it unnatural or confusing.
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Changing the meaning of the question, leading to an off-topic essay.
✅ How to Paraphrase Effectively (Example)
💡 IELTS Discussion Essay Question:
"Some people believe that online education is the future of learning, while others argue that traditional classroom learning is irreplaceable. Discuss both views and give your own opinion."
💡 Paraphrased Version (Correct Approach):
"While some individuals claim that virtual education will dominate the future of learning, others believe that conventional classroom teaching remains indispensable."
🔹 Breakdown of the Paraphrasing Process:
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"Some people believe" → "While some individuals claim" (synonyms: believe → claim, argue, assert)
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"Online education" → "Virtual education" (synonyms: e-learning, digital learning)
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"Traditional classroom learning" → "Conventional classroom teaching"
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"Irreplaceable" → "Indispensable"
🔹 Step 2: Introduce Both Views Neutrally
After paraphrasing the question, the next step is to introduce both perspectives objectively, without taking a side yet. This makes your introduction balanced and clear, showing the examiner that you fully understand the task.
💡 Why is this important?
✔️ Provides a smooth transition between the paraphrased statement and your opinion.
✔️ Shows that you can present opposing arguments fairly.
✔️ Helps maintain coherence and cohesion in your essay.
✅ Example of Introducing Both Views Neutrally:
"While online education offers flexibility and accessibility to learners worldwide, traditional classroom learning is often considered more effective for student engagement and interaction."
🔹 Breakdown of the Sentence Structure:
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First View (Online Education): "While online education offers flexibility and accessibility..."
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Second View (Classroom Learning): "...traditional classroom learning is often considered more effective for engagement and interaction."
💡 Pro Tip:
Avoid stating your opinion at this stage! Keep your introduction neutral until you explicitly express your stance in the next step.
🔹 Step 3: Clearly State Your Opinion (Thesis Statement)
The final part of your introduction is your thesis statement, where you must clearly express your opinion. Your opinion should be direct and unambiguous so that the examiner immediately understands your perspective.
💡 Why is stating your opinion important?
✔️ The IELTS Task 2 Discussion Essay requires you to provide your opinion.
✔️ If your opinion is unclear, you will lose marks in Task Achievement.
✔️ A strong thesis statement helps structure your body paragraphs logically.
✅ How to State Your Opinion Effectively (Example)
"This essay will examine both perspectives before arguing that a blended approach, incorporating both online and classroom education, is the most effective learning method."
🔹 Breakdown of the Thesis Statement:
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Acknowledging both views: "This essay will examine both perspectives before arguing..."
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Expressing a clear opinion: "...that a blended approach, incorporating both online and classroom education, is the most effective learning method."
💡 Pro Tips for Writing a High-Scoring Introduction in an IELTS Discussion Essay:
🚀 Keep It Concise – Your introduction should be around 40-50 words (3-4 sentences). Avoid writing long, unnecessary details.
🚀 Use a Formal Tone – Avoid contractions (don’t → do not) and informal language.
🚀 Maintain Clarity – Make sure your thesis statement is clear and directly answers the question.
🚀 Use a Variety of Sentence Structures – Show grammatical range by using complex sentences, conditionals, and passive voice where appropriate.
🚀 Practice Paraphrasing Questions – The more you practice, the easier it will be to rephrase essay prompts naturally.
🎯 Final Example of a Perfect Introduction for an IELTS Discussion Essay:
💡 Essay Question:
"Some people believe that online education is the future of learning, while others argue that traditional classroom learning is irreplaceable. Discuss both views and give your own opinion."
✅ High-Scoring Introduction (Full Example):
"While some individuals claim that digital education will shape the future of learning, others maintain that in-person classroom experiences remain vital. Online education offers flexibility and accessibility, whereas traditional learning is often viewed as superior for student engagement. This essay will explore both perspectives before arguing that a hybrid approach, combining online and traditional education, is the most effective model."
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Developing Strong Body Paragraphs for a Discussion Essay (Both Views Essay)
A well-structured IELTS Task 2 Discussion Essay must present both perspectives clearly, followed by a well-justified opinion. To achieve a band 7, 8, or 9, your body paragraphs must be coherent, well-developed, and fully supported with detailed explanations and real-world examples.
In this section, you will learn how to write high-band body paragraphs that effectively develop each argument, ensuring logical flow, strong reasoning, and relevant supporting evidence.
🔹 Body Paragraph 1 – First Viewpoint: Online Education Is the Future
This paragraph discusses why some people believe online education is the future of learning, focusing on accessibility, affordability, and flexibility.
✅ Topic Sentence – Clearly Introduce the First Viewpoint
💡 Example:
"Many people believe that online education is the future of learning because it offers unparalleled accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility compared to traditional classroom education."
✅ Explanation – Develop the Argument with Strong Reasoning
💡 Example Explanation:
"E-learning platforms enable students to study at their own pace, removing geographical barriers to education. Unlike traditional institutions, which require physical attendance, online education allows individuals from different parts of the world to enroll in high-quality courses without the need for relocation. Additionally, online learning often costs significantly less than face-to-face classes, making education more affordable for students from various socio-economic backgrounds. Moreover, with advancements in artificial intelligence and adaptive learning technologies, online courses can now provide personalized instruction, allowing students to focus on their weaknesses and improve their understanding more efficiently than in a one-size-fits-all classroom setting."
🔹 Why is this explanation effective?
✔️ Expands on the advantages of online education with a logical progression of ideas.
✔️ Includes key benefits such as accessibility, affordability, and personalized learning.
✔️ Uses precise academic vocabulary related to education and technology.
✅ Example – Supporting the Argument with Evidence
💡 Example Evidence:
"A recent study conducted by Harvard University found that students who completed online courses performed just as well academically as those who attended in-person classes. The research also indicated that students using adaptive learning platforms showed a 20% improvement in test scores compared to those in traditional classroom settings, proving that digital learning can be highly effective when supported by advanced educational technologies."
💡 Secret IELTS Tip!
🔹 Your example does NOT have to be real!
The examiner does NOT check the validity of your example. As long as your example is logical, relevant, and well-connected to your argument, you can create one yourself! Feel free to mention well-known institutions like Harvard, Oxford, or global organizations like UNESCO to add credibility to your essay.
🔹 Body Paragraph 2 – Second Viewpoint: Traditional Education Is Irreplaceable
Now, let’s present the opposing argument, explaining why traditional classroom learning remains superior due to direct interaction, engagement, and hands-on experience.
✅ Topic Sentence – Clearly Introduce the Second Viewpoint
💡 Example:
"On the other hand, many argue that face-to-face learning is irreplaceable because it fosters deeper interaction, enhances social skills, and provides hands-on experience that cannot be replicated in an online setting."
✅ Explanation – Expand the Argument with Clear Justifications
💡 Example Explanation:
"Traditional education allows students to actively engage with teachers and peers, encouraging real-time discussions that promote deeper comprehension. In a physical classroom, students can ask questions instantly, receive immediate feedback, and participate in group activities that strengthen problem-solving abilities. Furthermore, subjects like medicine, engineering, and laboratory sciences require hands-on training, which is difficult to replicate in an online environment. Practical skills, such as conducting experiments, handling lab equipment, and developing teamwork abilities, are best learned in a physical setting where students can collaborate, practice, and refine their techniques under expert supervision."
🔹 Why is this a strong explanation?
✔️ Clearly explains why classroom learning is superior for interaction and practical learning.
✔️ Highlights subjects that require hands-on experience.
✔️ Uses topic-specific vocabulary (practical skills, real-time discussions, collaboration, lab equipment).
✅ Example – Supporting the Argument with Research
💡 Example Evidence:
"A study conducted by Oxford University revealed that students who engaged in classroom discussions displayed significantly higher critical thinking and problem-solving skills compared to those who relied solely on virtual education. Additionally, the research found that 85% of students in face-to-face learning environments felt more confident in expressing their opinions and debating ideas, which are essential skills for professional and personal development."
💡 Secret IELTS Tip!
🔹 You don’t need to memorize real studies!
Your example doesn’t have to come from an actual research paper. The examiner will never verify your sources, so you can make up research studies as long as they sound credible and relevant to your discussion.
🔹 Body Paragraph 3 – Your Opinion: Why Blended Learning Is the Best Approach
For a high-band IELTS Discussion Essay, your opinion must be clear, well-supported, and balanced. If you agree with aspects of both views, a separate paragraph presenting a balanced perspective is highly effective.
✅ Topic Sentence – Clearly State Your Opinion
💡 Example:
"While both perspectives have valid arguments, a blended learning approach, which integrates both online and traditional education, is the most effective learning model as it combines the flexibility of digital learning with the interactive benefits of classroom education."
✅ Explanation – Justify Your Opinion with Strong Reasoning
💡 Example Explanation:
"Blended learning allows students to enjoy the flexibility of online education while benefiting from real-time engagement in a classroom environment. By combining digital resources with face-to-face interaction, students can maximize their learning potential. For example, online lectures can be used for theoretical concepts, while in-person workshops and discussions can reinforce critical thinking and collaboration skills. Additionally, hybrid learning ensures that students who prefer different learning styles—visual, auditory, or kinesthetic—can engage with the material in a way that suits them best, leading to better comprehension and long-term retention."
🔹 Why is this an effective justification?
✔️ Acknowledges strengths from both perspectives.
✔️ Provides a clear and logical solution to the debate.
✔️ Uses precise academic vocabulary (hybrid learning, learning styles, real-time engagement).
✅ Example – Supporting Your Opinion with Real-World Evidence
💡 Example Evidence:
"Many leading universities, including MIT and Stanford, have adopted hybrid learning models, where students complete online coursework while attending in-person workshops and practical sessions. A report by UNESCO found that institutions implementing blended learning strategies saw a 30% increase in student engagement and academic performance, demonstrating that integrating both methods provides the most effective learning experience."
💡 Secret IELTS Tip!
🔹 If you can’t think of a real example, invent one!
The examiner is not going to fact-check whether MIT and Stanford actually use hybrid learning models. As long as your example is plausible, relevant, and well-structured, it will help you score higher in Task Achievement.
🚀 Achieving a high band score in IELTS Writing Task 2 isn’t about luck—it’s about using the right strategies and practicing effectively. Our Comprehensive Task 2 eBook is packed with powerful techniques, examiner insights, and step-by-step writing strategies to help you craft a well-structured and high-scoring essay. Plus, if you want to polish your writing, our Essay Correction Service provides detailed, personalized feedback, guiding you toward your target band score with expert precision.
Writing an Effective Conclusion for a Discussion Essay (Both Views Essay)
The conclusion is a crucial part of your IELTS Task 2 Discussion Essay because it reinforces your main argument and leaves a lasting impression on the examiner. A well-written conclusion should be concise, well-structured, and directly address the essay question.
Many IELTS candidates make the mistake of adding new ideas or writing a vague, repetitive conclusion that does not effectively summarize the discussion. To achieve a band 7, 8, or 9, your conclusion must be clear, well-connected to your body paragraphs, and reinforce your opinion effectively.
In this section, you’ll learn the best way to write a strong conclusion for an IELTS Task 2 Discussion Essay (Both Views Essay) using an SEO-optimized approach with long-tail keywords to boost visibility.
🔹 What Makes a Strong IELTS Discussion Essay Conclusion?
A high-scoring IELTS Task 2 conclusion should:
✔ Summarize both perspectives briefly – Remind the examiner of the two opposing views without repeating full sentences from previous paragraphs.
✔ Restate your opinion clearly – Ensure that your stance is reinforced in a direct and confident manner.
✔ Avoid adding new ideas – Your conclusion should summarize, not introduce new points.
✔ Be concise and impactful – Keep it short and to the point (around 40-50 words).
✔ Use strong concluding phrases – Expressions like "In conclusion," "To summarize," and "Overall," help indicate that you are wrapping up your response.
🔹 Example of a High-Scoring Conclusion for an IELTS Discussion Essay
💡 Example Question:
"Some people believe that online education is the future of learning, while others argue that traditional classroom learning is irreplaceable. Discuss both views and give your own opinion."
✅ Band 9 Example Conclusion:
"In conclusion, while online education provides unmatched flexibility and accessibility, traditional classroom learning remains essential for fostering social interaction and hands-on learning experiences. However, a blended learning approach that integrates both digital and face-to-face instruction combines the strengths of both models, making it the most effective educational method for the future."
🔹 Breakdown of a Strong IELTS Conclusion
✅ Step 1: Summarize Both Views in One Sentence
The first part of your conclusion should briefly summarize the two opposing perspectives.
💡 Example:
"While online education provides unmatched flexibility and accessibility, traditional classroom learning remains essential for fostering social interaction and hands-on learning experiences."
🔹 Why is this effective?
✔ Concise yet comprehensive – This sentence covers both views without unnecessary repetition.
✔ Uses precise vocabulary (flexibility, accessibility, social interaction, hands-on learning).
✅ Step 2: Restate Your Opinion Clearly
The final part of your conclusion should reinforce your stance confidently.
💡 Example:
"However, a blended learning approach that integrates both digital and face-to-face instruction combines the strengths of both models, making it the most effective educational method for the future."
🔹 Why is this effective?
✔ Restates the opinion in a confident, well-supported manner.
✔ Uses academic phrases ("combines the strengths of both models," "most effective educational method for the future").
✔ Maintains a formal tone, which is crucial for a high IELTS Writing score.
🔹 Common Mistakes to Avoid in an IELTS Discussion Essay Conclusion
🚨 Mistake #1: Adding New Ideas
❌ "Additionally, governments should invest more in online education to improve digital infrastructure."
🔹 Why is this wrong? – New ideas should be in the body paragraphs, not the conclusion.
🚨 Mistake #2: Writing an Unclear Opinion
❌ "Both online and traditional education are important."
🔹 Why is this wrong? – This statement is too vague and does not clarify which method is better or why.
🚨 Mistake #3: Repeating the Introduction Word-for-Word
❌ "Some people think online education is the future, while others believe traditional classrooms are irreplaceable. I think both are good."
🔹 Why is this wrong? – Avoid direct repetition; instead, rephrase key ideas concisely.
✍️ Writing a strong IELTS Discussion Essay takes skill, practice, and the right approach. If you want to learn how to structure your arguments, use advanced vocabulary, and impress the examiner, our Comprehensive Task 2 eBook is your ultimate study companion. And if you're looking for personalized writing corrections, our Essay Correction Service offers expert feedback, error analysis, and scoring insights, ensuring you write at your full potential. Start improving your writing today!
Special Tips for a High Band Discussion Essay (Both Views Essay)
Achieving a band 7, 8, or 9 in IELTS Writing Task 2 requires more than just knowing the essay structure—you need to demonstrate strong argumentation, coherence, lexical resource, and grammatical range. Below are expert tips that will help you write a high-scoring IELTS Discussion Essay (Both Views Essay) with precision, coherence, and clarity.
🚀 1. Use Formal and Academic Language (Avoid Informal Expressions)
The IELTS Writing Task 2 essay is an academic task, so you must use formal and precise language.
❌ Avoid Informal Language & Contractions
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Incorrect: “I don’t think online education is better because it’s not interactive.”
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Correct: “I do not believe that online education is superior, as it lacks direct interaction.”
✅ Use Sophisticated Vocabulary and Synonyms
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Instead of "a lot of", use "a significant number of" / "a considerable amount of".
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Instead of "kids", use "children" / "young learners".
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Instead of "get better", use "improve" / "enhance" / "develop".
💡 IELTS Tip: Using formal and academic language makes your writing more sophisticated and improves your Lexical Resource score.
🚀 2. Fully Develop Your Ideas with Clear Explanations & Examples
One of the most common reasons candidates fail to get a high band score is that they do not develop their ideas fully. Simply stating an opinion is not enough—you must explain it clearly and support it with an example.
❌ Weak Argument (Too General)
"Traditional education is better because students can interact with teachers."
✅ Strong Argument (Fully Developed)
"Traditional education is considered superior by many because it allows students to interact with teachers directly. This face-to-face communication helps learners seek clarification instantly, ensuring they understand complex concepts more effectively. For instance, a study by Oxford University found that students in physical classrooms scored 20% higher on problem-solving assessments than those studying remotely."
💡 IELTS Tip: Always use the E-E-E method in body paragraphs:
✔ Express your idea (Topic sentence).
✔ Explain why it is true.
✔ Exemplify with a real-world example.
🚀 3. Maintain Coherence and Cohesion (Use Linking Words Effectively)
A high-scoring essay must be well-organized, meaning your ideas should flow logically. Examiners assess your ability to connect sentences and paragraphs smoothly.
✅ Useful Linking Phrases for Discussion Essays
To Introduce the First Viewpoint:
✔ On the one hand…
✔ Some people argue that…
✔ A common belief is that…
To Introduce the Opposing Viewpoint:
✔ On the other hand…
✔ Conversely…
✔ In contrast…
To Give Reasons or Examples:
✔ This is because…
✔ For example…
✔ For instance…
To Show Consequences or Results:
✔ As a result…
✔ Consequently…
✔ Therefore…
To Conclude:
✔ In conclusion…
✔ To summarize…
✔ Overall, it is evident that…
💡 IELTS Tip: Use a mix of simple and complex linking words to demonstrate grammatical range and coherence. Avoid overusing basic words like "and" / "but" / "so."
🚀 4. Clearly State Your Opinion and Justify It with Strong Arguments
Many IELTS candidates lose marks because they do not clearly express their opinion. In a Discussion Essay (Both Views Essay), the question always asks for your opinion:
✅ “Discuss both views and give your own opinion.”
If you fail to clearly state your stance, you will lose marks in the Task Achievement criterion.
✅ Best Ways to Express Your Opinion Clearly
✔ "While both perspectives have valid arguments, I strongly believe that…"
✔ "Although some people argue that ____, I personally think that ____."
✔ "In my view, the most effective approach is…"
💡 Example Opinion Statement (Well-Developed):
"Although online education provides flexibility, I believe traditional classrooms remain the superior method of learning because they allow for real-time interaction and hands-on experiences, which are essential for subjects like medicine and engineering."
💡 IELTS Tip: Your opinion should be consistent throughout the essay—do not change your stance midway.
🚀 5. Use a Variety of Sentence Structures (Show Grammatical Range)
The IELTS Writing Task 2 Band Descriptors state that to score a Band 7 or higher, candidates must use a variety of sentence structures.
✅ Sentence Structures That Impress Examiners
✔ Complex Sentences – "Although online education is convenient, it lacks real-time interaction, which is crucial for deep learning."
✔ Conditional Sentences – "If governments invest more in digital education platforms, online learning could become as effective as traditional methods."
✔ Passive Voice – "It is widely believed that face-to-face learning enhances comprehension and retention."
💡 IELTS Tip: Use a mix of simple, compound, and complex sentences to show your grammatical range.
🚀 6. Avoid Common Mistakes That Lower Your IELTS Band Score
🚨 Mistake #1: Writing Too Much or Too Little
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Recommended length: 250–290 words.
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Writing less than 250 words will lower your score.
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Writing over 300 words increases the risk of making grammatical mistakes.
🚨 Mistake #2: Repeating Words or Phrases Too Often
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Instead of repeating "important," use "crucial," "essential," "significant."
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Instead of saying "a lot of students," use "a considerable number of learners."
🚨 Mistake #3: Not Answering the Full Question
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Always discuss both views fully and clearly state your opinion.
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If the question asks for both perspectives and your opinion, ensure your opinion is clear in the introduction, body, and conclusion.
🚨 Mistake #4: Not Proofreading Your Essay
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Common IELTS Writing mistakes include spelling errors, subject-verb agreement mistakes, and incorrect punctuation.
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Spend the last 2-3 minutes proofreading your essay to correct small errors that could lower your grammar score.
By applying these expert IELTS tips, you can significantly improve your chances of achieving a band 7, 8, or 9 in IELTS Writing Task 2.
Remember, every point matters in the IELTS Writing exam, and small mistakes can hold you back from your dream score. That’s why our Comprehensive Task 2 eBook provides proven strategies, powerful essay structures, and essential tips to help you write with confidence and accuracy. For those who want a clear, expert assessment of their writing, our Essay Correction Service offers in-depth analysis and actionable feedback, so you can correct errors and improve faster. Your high IELTS band score is within reach—let’s make it happen!