Learn the Pattern — Control the Task
Meta Description:
All IELTS Writing Task 2 questions follow four main types. Learn how to quickly identify the question, avoid common mistakes, and write a clear thesis statement every time.
Key Insight
Most students lose marks not because of grammar — but because they answer the wrong type of question.
There are only 4 core IELTS Task 2 essay types. Once you know how to recognize and respond to each one, you gain full control of the task.
“Learn the pattern — control the task.”
The 4 IELTS Essay Types
| Essay Type | Key Phrase | What It Asks You to Do |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Opinion (Agree/Disagree) | To what extent do you agree or disagree? | Clearly choose a side (agree, disagree, or balanced) and support it |
| 2. Discuss Both Views + Opinion | Discuss both views and give your opinion. | Show both perspectives + give your own |
| 3. Advantages / Disadvantages | What are the advantages and disadvantages? | List pros and cons, and sometimes give opinion if asked |
| 4. Problem / Solution | What are the problems and how can they be solved? | Identify causes or effects and suggest logical solutions |
Common Errors to Avoid
- Misidentifying the question type
(e.g., writing an opinion essay for a problem/solution question) - Mixing structures
(e.g., giving a solution in an agree/disagree essay) - Weak thesis statement
(e.g., “There are many opinions…” → unclear and generic)
How to Identify the Essay Type Quickly
Look for key verbs in the question:
| If the question says… | It’s probably… |
|---|---|
| “To what extent…” / “Do you agree…” | Opinion |
| “Discuss both views…” / “Give your opinion” | Discuss Both Views |
| “What are the advantages/disadvantages…” | Advantages/Disadvantages |
| “What problems…” / “What solutions…” | Problem/Solution |
Mini Practice: Identify the Essay Type
Task: Decide what type each question is. (Answers below)
- Some people believe children should learn how to cook. Others think it is a waste of school time. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
→ Type: __________ - In many cities, air pollution is becoming a serious issue. What problems does this cause, and how can they be solved?
→ Type: __________ - Some people think university should be free. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
→ Type: __________ - Many people prefer to work from home. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?
→ Type: __________
Answers:
- Discuss Both Views + Opinion
- Problem / Solution
- Opinion (Agree/Disagree)
- Advantages / Disadvantages
One-Sentence Thesis Formula
A clear thesis = a clear score. Use these formats.
| Essay Type | Thesis Formula |
|---|---|
| Opinion | “I completely agree that…” or “While some agree, I believe…” |
| Discuss Both Views | “This essay will discuss both views and explain why I believe…” |
| Advantages/Disadvantages | “This essay will examine the main benefits and drawbacks of…” |
| Problem/Solution | “This essay will explore the key problems and suggest practical solutions.” |
Exercise: Write Thesis Statements for 6 Sample Questions
1. Many people think social media is harmful to children. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Your Thesis (Opinion):
…
2. Some say museums should be free, while others believe visitors should pay. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Your Thesis (Discuss Both Views):
…
3. Cities are becoming crowded and polluted. What problems does this cause, and how can they be solved?
Your Thesis (Problem/Solution):
…
4. Online shopping is becoming more common. What are the advantages and disadvantages?
Your Thesis (Advantages/Disadvantages):
…
5. Some people believe exams are the best way to assess learning. Do you agree or disagree?
Your Thesis (Opinion):
…
6. Many people move abroad for work. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Your Thesis (Discuss Both Views):
…
Recap: Question Type = Essay Plan
If you know the type, you already know:
- How many sides to show
- Whether to give a solution
- How to structure your body paragraphs
- What kind of thesis you need
Memorize the 4 types. Spot the keywords. Win the task.
Next Step: Download the 4 Essay Type Cheat Sheet
Includes:
- 4 structures with examples
- Common mistakes
- Essay outlines for each type
- Model thesis statements
Download Free at TotallyFreeIELTS.com/free-lessons
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