📘 IELTS Writing Task 2 (Essays)

Opinion Essay Outline

Structure for an Opinion Essay:

1. Introduction: Paraphrase topic, state clear thesis (your stance).
2. Body Paragraph 1: First argument + example.
3. Body Paragraph 2: Second argument + example.
4. Conclusion: Restate your stance clearly.

Discussion Essay Outline

Structure for a Discussion Essay:

1. Introduction: Paraphrase topic, mention both sides of the argument.
2. Body Paragraph 1: Explain the first viewpoint.
3. Body Paragraph 2: Explain the second viewpoint.
4. Conclusion: State and balance your opinion.

Advantages/Disadvantages Essay Outline

Structure for an Advantages/Disadvantages Essay:

1. Introduction: Paraphrase topic, introduce pros and cons.
2. Body Paragraph 1: Discuss the advantages.
3. Body Paragraph 2: Discuss the disadvantages.
4. Conclusion: Present a balanced statement on which outweighs the other.

Problem/Solution Essay Outline

Structure for a Problem/Solution Essay:

1. Introduction: Paraphrase topic, state thesis about problem/solution.
2. Body Paragraph 1: Identify and describe the problem(s) and their effects.
3. Body Paragraph 2: Suggest solutions with justification.
4. Conclusion: Summarize key points discussed.

Double Question Essay Outline

Structure for a Double Question Essay:

1. Introduction: Paraphrase topic, present your thesis.
2. Body Paragraph 1: Answer the first question clearly.
3. Body Paragraph 2: Answer the second question clearly.
4. Conclusion: Wrap up by summarizing your answers.

Opinion Thesis Template (Agreement)

It is evident that [topic/action] is a beneficial/necessary development because [reason 1] and [reason 2].

Opinion Thesis Template (Disagreement)

While some argue for [opposing view], others contend that [topic/action] is detrimental/unnecessary due to [reason 1] and [reason 2].

Discussion Thesis Template (Both Sides)

The issue of [topic] involves contrasting perspectives; while some advocate for [viewpoint A], others strongly argue for [viewpoint B].

Advantages/Disadvantages Thesis Template

This essay will explore the significant advantages and disadvantages of [topic], ultimately arguing that the [pros/cons] outweigh the [cons/pros].

Problem/Solution Thesis Template

The pervasive problem of [problem] demands urgent attention, and this essay will propose several key solutions, including [solution 1] and [solution 2].

Double Question Thesis Template (Example: Reasons & Impacts)

The primary reasons behind [first question's topic] are [reason 1] and [reason 2], which have led to [impact 1] and [impact 2].

General Thesis Template (Controversial Issue)

A significant debate exists regarding [topic]. Supporters argue that [argument], while opponents emphasize [counter-argument].A contentious debate surrounds [topic], with proponents asserting [argument] and opponents highlighting [counter-argument].

General Thesis Template (Neutral Exploration)

This essay critically examines various aspects of [topic], exploring its complexities and implications.This essay aims to critically examine various aspects of [topic], shedding light on its complexities and implications.

Emphatic Thesis Statement

I strongly believe that [statement], for several compelling reasons.

Qualifying Thesis Statement

While there are valid arguments for [one side], the evidence suggests that [your stance] is more persuasive.

Introducing a Complex Issue Thesis

The multifaceted nature of [topic] warrants a thorough investigation into its causes and potential repercussions.

Essay Connectors and Transition Phrases

Connectors for various purposes:

• For Agreement: 'it is evident that', 'clearly', 'undoubtedly'
• For Disagreement/Contrast: 'however', 'on the other hand', 'some argue that'
• For Introducing Viewpoints: 'advocates (of)', 'opponents (of)', 'supporters of'
• Complex Contrasting: 'while some believe… others argue…', 'nevertheless'
• Listing/Adding: 'firstly', 'secondly', 'in addition', 'furthermore'
• Consequence/Result: 'consequently', 'as a result', 'therefore', 'thus'
• Emphasis/Highlighting: 'indeed', 'significantly', 'crucially', 'most importantly'
• Illustrating/Example: 'for instance', 'to illustrate', 'such as', 'a case in point is'
• Concluding: 'in conclusion', 'to summarize', 'all in all', 'ultimately'
• Concessive: 'Although it is acknowledged that…', 'While it is true that…'
• Stating another perspective: 'Conversely', 'In contrast', 'From another perspective'

Academic Essay Phrases

Common phrases for academic writing:

• General Opening: 'It is widely believed that…', 'There is a growing consensus that…'
• Introducing Issue: 'This raises the pertinent question of…', 'A fundamental challenge lies in…'
• Expressing Importance: 'It is imperative to consider…', 'Of paramount importance is…'
• For Nuance/Qualification: 'To a certain extent…', 'In some regards…', 'It can be argued that…'
• Following from Evidence: 'In light of this…', 'Based on the evidence, it can be concluded that…'
• Discussing Implications: 'The implications of this are far-reaching…', 'This trend has significant ramifications for…'
• Suggesting Balance: 'It is essential to strike a balance between…', 'A balanced perspective would acknowledge…'
• Stating Essay's Aim: 'This essay aims to explore…', 'The primary objective of this essay is to analyze…'
• Acknowledging Opposing Views: 'Opposing viewpoints contend that…', 'Skeptics might argue that…'
• Highlighting Negative Aspects: 'The potential drawbacks include…', 'A significant impediment to this is…'
• Highlighting Positive Aspects: 'The primary benefit is that…', 'A notable advantage stems from…'
• Supporting a View: 'This viewpoint is supported by…', 'Evidence suggests that…'
• Concluding (General): 'Ultimately, a comprehensive approach is required.', 'In sum, the issue is complex.'
• Stating a Cause: 'A significant factor contributing to this is…', 'The root cause of this problem is…'
• Expressing Certainty: 'It is undeniable that…', 'Without a doubt…'
• Expressing Caution: 'Careful consideration must be given to…', 'It is crucial to avoid oversimplifying…'

Paraphrasing 'Do you agree or disagree?'

Consider 'To what extent do you agree/disagree?', 'Discuss your viewpoint on…', 'Is this a positive or negative development?'

Paraphrasing 'What are the reasons/causes for…?'

Consider 'Discuss the factors contributing to…', 'Explain why… occurs', 'What led to…?'

Paraphrasing 'Discuss the advantages and disadvantages.'

Consider 'Examine the pros and cons of…', 'Analyze the benefits and drawbacks of…', 'Evaluate the merits and demerits of…'

Paraphrasing 'What are the problems and solutions?'

Consider 'Address the challenges and propose a resolution for…', 'Examine the issues and suggest ways to mitigate them.'

Paraphrasing 'To what extent…?'

Consider 'How significant is…', 'How far do you agree that…', 'Assess the degree to which…'

Paraphrasing 'Is this a positive or negative development?'

Consider 'Discuss the impacts and implications of…', 'Evaluate whether this trend is beneficial or detrimental.'

Paraphrasing 'The role of…'

Consider 'Examine the function of…', 'Discuss the importance of…', 'Analyze the contribution of…'

Paraphrasing 'Impact of…'

Consider 'Examine the effects of…', 'Analyze the consequences of…', 'How does… influence…?'

Paraphrasing 'Why is it important to…?'

Consider 'Discuss the significance of…', 'Explain the necessity of…', 'What are the justifications for…?'

Paraphrasing 'Difference between A and B'

Consider 'Contrast A and B', 'Distinguish between A and B', 'Compare and contrast A and B'.