IELTS Writing Task 2 Tips for Band 7+

IELTS Writing Task 2 Tips: Your Complete Guide to Scoring Band 7+

IELTS Writing Task 2 is often considered the most challenging part of the entire IELTS exam. With 40 minutes to analyze a complex question, organize your thoughts, and write a coherent 250+ word essay, many candidates find themselves struggling to achieve their target band score. If you're searching for practical IELTS writing task 2 tips that actually work, you've come to the right place.

At Pounds and Dollars IELTS in Hyderabad, we've helped hundreds of students transform their writing scores from band 5-6 to band 7 and beyond. In this comprehensive guide, we'll share the exact IELTS essay writing tips and strategies that consistently deliver results for our students.

Table of Contents

• Understanding IELTS Writing Task 2
• Band Descriptors Explained Simply
• Step-by-Step Essay Structure
• Mastering Different Essay Types
• Time Management Strategy (40 Minutes)
• Common Topics and How to Approach Them
• Sample Essay Outline and Partial Example
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Final Tips for Band 7+

Understanding IELTS Writing Task 2

Before diving into specific how to write IELTS task 2 strategies, let's understand exactly what you're dealing with.

In Task 2, you're presented with a point of view, argument, or problem and asked to write an essay in response. You have approximately 40 minutes to complete this task, and your essay should be at least 250 words (though most band 7+ essays are 270-320 words).

Why Task 2 Matters More

Task 2 contributes twice as much to your Writing band score as Task 1. This means if you have limited preparation time, focusing on Task 2 improvement will give you the biggest return on investment. A strong Task 2 performance can significantly boost your overall Writing score even if Task 1 is slightly weaker.

What Examiners Are Looking For

IELTS examiners evaluate your essay using four specific criteria, each worth 25% of your Writing score. Understanding these criteria is crucial for knowing how to write IELTS task 2 effectively:

• Task Response (TR): Did you fully address all parts of the question?
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Is your essay logically organized with clear progression?
• Lexical Resource (LR): Do you use a wide range of vocabulary accurately?
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Do you use various sentence structures with minimal errors?

If you're preparing for IELTS comprehensively, we recommend reading our complete guide on how to prepare for IELTS at home, which covers strategies for all four modules.

Band Descriptors Explained Simply

To achieve IELTS writing band 7, you need to understand exactly what distinguishes a band 7 essay from a band 6 or band 6.5 essay. Let's break down each criterion:

Task Response (Band 7 Requirements)

What the examiner expects:

• All parts of the task are addressed
• A clear position is presented throughout the response
• Main ideas are extended and supported
• Some tendencies toward over-generalization or lack of focus may occur

What this means in practice: If the question asks for your opinion AND reasons, you must provide both. If it asks about advantages AND disadvantages, you must discuss both. Every point you make should have specific support or examples.

Coherence and Cohesion (Band 7 Requirements)

What the examiner expects:

• Information and ideas are logically organized
• Clear progression throughout the essay
• A range of cohesive devices used appropriately (though some under/over-use may occur)
• Each paragraph has a clear central topic

What this means in practice: Your essay flows naturally from one idea to the next. Each paragraph focuses on one main point. Linking words like "however," "furthermore," and "consequently" are used correctly but not excessively.

Lexical Resource (Band 7 Requirements)

What the examiner expects:

• Sufficient vocabulary range for flexibility and precision
• Less common lexical items used with some awareness of style and collocation
• Occasional errors in word choice, spelling, and word formation that do not impede communication

What this means in practice: You don't repeat the same words constantly. You use some advanced vocabulary naturally. Minor mistakes in less common words are acceptable.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy (Band 7 Requirements)

What the examiner expects:

• A variety of complex structures used
• Majority of sentences are error-free
• Good control of grammar and punctuation, with few errors

What this means in practice: You use a mix of simple and complex sentences. You use different tenses appropriately. Occasional minor errors don't affect understanding.

Step-by-Step Essay Structure

A clear, consistent structure is fundamental to achieving IELTS writing band 7. Here's the proven four-paragraph structure that works for most essay types:

Introduction (2-3 sentences, approximately 40-50 words)

Your introduction should accomplish three things:

1. Paraphrase the question: Restate the topic in your own words to demonstrate vocabulary range
2. State your thesis/position: Clearly indicate your stance or how you'll approach the topic
3. Outline your essay: Briefly mention what you'll discuss (optional but helpful)

Template for Opinion Essays:

"[Paraphrased topic statement]. While some argue [counterpoint], I firmly believe [your position] because [reason 1] and [reason 2]."

Template for Discussion Essays:

"[Paraphrased topic statement]. This essay will examine both [viewpoint 1] and [viewpoint 2] before presenting my own perspective."

Body Paragraph 1 (5-6 sentences, approximately 90-100 words)

Each body paragraph should follow this structure:

1. Topic sentence: State the main idea of the paragraph
2. Explanation: Expand on your main idea with reasoning
3. Example: Provide a specific example or evidence
4. Link: Connect back to the question or transition to the next point

Example:

"The primary reason I support [position] is [main point]. This is because [explanation/reasoning]. For instance, [specific example with details]. This clearly demonstrates that [link to thesis]."

Body Paragraph 2 (5-6 sentences, approximately 90-100 words)

Follow the same structure as Body Paragraph 1 but with your second main argument or the opposing viewpoint (depending on essay type).

Conclusion (2-3 sentences, approximately 30-40 words)

Your conclusion should:

1. Restate your position: Paraphrase your thesis using different words
2. Summarize key points: Briefly mention your main arguments
3. Final thought: (Optional) End with a recommendation or prediction

Template:

"In conclusion, [restated position]. While [acknowledgment of other side], the evidence clearly supports [your stance]. [Optional: Future implication or recommendation]."

Mastering Different Essay Types

One of the most important IELTS essay writing tips is understanding that different question types require different approaches. Here's how to handle each type:

1. Opinion Essays (Agree/Disagree)

Question format: "Some people believe that [statement]. To what extent do you agree or disagree?"

Strategy:

• Choose a clear position (strongly agree, partly agree, disagree)
• Both body paragraphs support your position
• Don't sit on the fence; examiners want a clear stance
• You can acknowledge the other side briefly but maintain your position

Structure:

• Introduction: Paraphrase + your position
• Body 1: First reason supporting your view
• Body 2: Second reason supporting your view
• Conclusion: Restate position

2. Discussion Essays (Discuss Both Views)

Question format: "Some people think [view A]. Others believe [view B]. Discuss both views and give your own opinion."

Strategy:

• You must discuss BOTH views (not just your preferred one)
• Give balanced treatment to each view
• Your opinion should be clear in the conclusion (or you can have a third body paragraph)

Structure:

• Introduction: Paraphrase both views + indicate you'll discuss both
• Body 1: Discuss View A with reasons and examples
• Body 2: Discuss View B with reasons and examples
• Conclusion: Your opinion + summary

3. Problem-Solution Essays

Question format: "[Topic] is becoming a serious problem. What are the causes? What solutions can you suggest?"

Strategy:

• Identify 2-3 main causes or problems
• Propose realistic, specific solutions
• Match solutions to causes where possible
• Be specific, not vague

Structure:

• Introduction: Acknowledge the problem + state you'll discuss causes and solutions
• Body 1: Causes/problems with examples
• Body 2: Solutions with explanations
• Conclusion: Summary + call to action or prediction

4. Advantages-Disadvantages Essays

Question format: "What are the advantages and disadvantages of [topic]?"

Strategy:

• Present at least two advantages and two disadvantages
• Give equal weight to both sides (unless asked to choose)
• Use specific examples for each point
• If asked "Do advantages outweigh disadvantages?" give a clear answer

Structure:

• Introduction: Paraphrase + state you'll examine both
• Body 1: Advantages with examples
• Body 2: Disadvantages with examples
• Conclusion: Summary + your assessment (if required)

5. Two-Part Questions

Question format: "Why is [topic] happening? Is this a positive or negative development?"

Strategy:

• Address BOTH parts of the question
• Dedicate one body paragraph to each part
• Ensure balanced coverage

Structure:

• Introduction: Acknowledge both questions
• Body 1: Answer question 1 with reasons/examples
• Body 2: Answer question 2 with reasons/examples
• Conclusion: Summarize both answers

Time Management Strategy (40 Minutes)

Proper time management is one of the most critical IELTS writing task 2 tips. Here's how to allocate your 40 minutes:

Planning Phase (5-7 minutes)

Never skip planning. Students who plan their essays consistently outperform those who start writing immediately.

What to do:

• Minute 1: Read the question carefully. Underline key words. Identify the essay type.
• Minutes 2-3: Brainstorm ideas. Write down everything that comes to mind related to the topic.
• Minutes 4-5: Select your best 2-3 ideas. Think of specific examples for each.
• Minutes 6-7: Create a brief outline. Note your thesis and main points for each paragraph.

Writing Phase (28-30 minutes)

What to do:

• Introduction (5 minutes): Write your paraphrase and thesis. Keep it concise.
• Body Paragraph 1 (10 minutes): Develop your first main idea with the PEEL structure (Point, Explanation, Example, Link).
• Body Paragraph 2 (10 minutes): Develop your second main idea using the same structure.
• Conclusion (3-5 minutes): Summarize and restate your position.

Review Phase (3-5 minutes)

Always leave time to check your work.

What to check:

• Did you answer all parts of the question?
• Subject-verb agreement errors
• Article mistakes (a/an/the)
• Spelling errors (especially common words)
• Incomplete sentences
• Word count (aim for 270-290 words)

Time Management Tips

• Practice with a timer until the 40-minute format becomes natural
• If you're running out of time, shorten your conclusion rather than body paragraphs
• Don't spend more than 5 minutes on your introduction
• Write legibly if handwriting; illegible text can affect your score

Common Topics and How to Approach Them

Certain topics appear frequently in IELTS Writing Task 2. Familiarizing yourself with these will help you develop ideas more quickly during the exam.

Education

Common themes: Online vs. traditional learning, university education importance, teaching methods, student-teacher relationships

Approach: Consider multiple stakeholders (students, parents, teachers, employers). Think about both immediate and long-term effects.

Useful vocabulary: academic achievement, practical skills, theoretical knowledge, curriculum, lifelong learning, critical thinking

Technology

Common themes: Social media impact, automation and jobs, digital communication, artificial intelligence

Approach: Balance innovation benefits with potential drawbacks. Consider generational differences. Think about developed vs. developing nations.

Useful vocabulary: technological advancement, digital divide, automation, screen time, connectivity, digital literacy

Environment

Common themes: Climate change responsibility, individual vs. government action, sustainable development, pollution

Approach: Consider economic and environmental trade-offs. Think about individual, corporate, and government responsibilities.

Useful vocabulary: carbon footprint, renewable energy, sustainable practices, environmental degradation, ecological balance

Health

Common themes: Healthcare responsibility, lifestyle diseases, mental health, fitness and diet

Approach: Consider prevention vs. treatment. Think about personal responsibility vs. systemic issues.

Useful vocabulary: sedentary lifestyle, wellbeing, healthcare system, preventive measures, public health

Work and Career

Common themes: Job satisfaction vs. salary, work-life balance, remote work, career changes

Approach: Consider different perspectives (employers, employees, society). Think about short-term vs. long-term implications.

Useful vocabulary: job security, professional development, workplace flexibility, career progression, employee satisfaction

Sample Essay Outline and Partial Example

Let's work through a complete example to illustrate these IELTS essay writing tips in action.

Sample Question

"Some people believe that technology has made our lives too complex, and the solution is to live a simpler life without technology. To what extent do you agree or disagree?"

Planning Phase (What Your Notes Might Look Like)

Question type: Opinion (Agree/Disagree)

My position: Partially disagree - technology has benefits that outweigh complexity

Main ideas:

• Technology simplifies many aspects (communication, information access)
• Complexity can be managed through mindful use
• Complete rejection is impractical in modern society

Examples:

• Online banking vs. visiting bank branches
• Digital detox practices
• Healthcare and emergency services depend on technology

Essay Structure Outline

Introduction:

• Paraphrase: rapid technological advancement and its perceived complications
• Position: disagree that abandoning technology is the solution

Body 1: Technology actually simplifies life

• Point: Many daily tasks are now easier
• Example: Online banking, digital communication
• Link: These conveniences improve quality of life

Body 2: Managing complexity is possible

• Point: The issue is how we use technology, not technology itself
• Example: Digital detox, setting boundaries
• Link: Conscious choices allow us to benefit without overwhelm

Conclusion: Technology is essential; mindful use is the answer

Partial Essay Example (Introduction and First Body Paragraph)

Introduction:

The rapid advancement of digital technology has undeniably transformed how we live, work, and communicate. While some argue that this has introduced unnecessary complexity into our lives and advocate for a technology-free existence, I disagree with this perspective. In my view, technology offers far more benefits than drawbacks, and the key lies in managing our relationship with it rather than abandoning it entirely.

Body Paragraph 1:

Firstly, technology has actually simplified numerous aspects of daily life that were previously time-consuming and cumbersome. Consider financial transactions, for example. Before digital banking, individuals had to physically visit bank branches during limited operating hours, wait in queues, and complete paperwork for basic tasks like transferring money or paying bills. Today, these same transactions can be completed within seconds using a smartphone application. Similarly, communication with family members across the globe, which once required expensive international phone calls or letters that took weeks to arrive, is now instantaneous and virtually free through video calling applications. These examples demonstrate that technology, rather than complicating our lives, has eliminated many previous inconveniences.

Key Features to Note

• Clear position stated in the introduction
• Topic sentence clearly states the paragraph's main idea
• Specific, concrete examples (not vague generalizations)
• Comparison technique (before vs. after) adds depth
• Linking sentence connects back to the thesis
• Varied sentence structures and vocabulary

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding these common errors is just as important as following best practices. Here are the mistakes that consistently cost candidates marks:

Task Response Mistakes

• Not addressing all parts of the question: If the question has two parts, you must answer both. Missing even one part significantly lowers your score.
• Being too general: Vague statements like "There are many advantages" without specific examples won't score well.
• Changing your position: If you agree in the introduction, don't suddenly disagree in the conclusion.
• Memorized essays: Examiners can identify pre-memorized content, which results in a significant score reduction.

Coherence and Cohesion Mistakes

• Overusing linking words: "Firstly, secondly, thirdly, furthermore, moreover, additionally" all in one essay feels mechanical.
• No paragraphing: Each main idea needs its own paragraph. Walls of text are difficult to follow.
• Weak topic sentences: Each body paragraph should begin with a clear topic sentence that tells the reader what that paragraph is about.
• Irrelevant information: Stay focused. Don't include interesting points that don't directly answer the question.

Vocabulary Mistakes

• Repeating the same words: If you write "important" five times, try "significant," "crucial," "essential," or "vital."
• Using words you don't fully understand: Incorrect usage of advanced vocabulary is worse than using simple words correctly.
• Copying question words: Paraphrase the question rather than copying it directly. "Children should be taught to cook" can become "Young people should receive culinary education."
• Informal language: Avoid contractions (don't, can't), slang, and overly casual expressions.

Grammar Mistakes

• Run-on sentences: Extremely long sentences without proper punctuation confuse readers and often contain errors.
• Subject-verb agreement: "The government need to" should be "The government needs to."
• Article errors: Missing or incorrect use of "a," "an," and "the" is extremely common.
• Tense confusion: Pick appropriate tenses and use them consistently. Don't randomly switch between past and present.

Other Critical Mistakes

• Writing under the word limit: Essays under 250 words are penalized. Aim for 270-290 words.
• Poor handwriting: If the examiner can't read your writing, they can't give you marks for it.
• Spending too much time on Task 1: Task 2 is worth double, so allocate your time accordingly (20 minutes for Task 1, 40 for Task 2).
• Not checking your work: Simple errors that you would catch on review can cost you valuable marks.

Final Tips for Band 7+

Develop Your Ideas Bank

Before your exam, prepare ideas and examples for common topics. You don't need to memorize essays, but having thought about issues like education, technology, environment, and health beforehand means you won't waste time brainstorming during the test.

Learn Topic-Specific Vocabulary

Build vocabulary lists for each major topic area. For each new word, learn:

• Its meaning and usage
• Common collocations (words it naturally pairs with)
• Example sentences

Practice the Complete Process

When practicing, always:

• Use a timer (40 minutes strict)
• Plan before writing
• Write by hand if taking paper-based IELTS
• Review your work
• Get feedback from a qualified teacher or use professional assessment

Read Model Essays Critically

Study band 8 and band 9 essays to understand what excellent writing looks like. Pay attention to:

• How ideas are developed and supported
• Paragraph structure and transitions
• Vocabulary choices
• Sentence variety

Work on Your Weakest Criterion

Identify which of the four criteria is holding you back and focus your practice there. If your ideas are good but grammar is weak, dedicate extra time to grammar exercises. If vocabulary is limited, make vocabulary building your priority.

Connecting Speaking and Writing

The topics and skills for Writing Task 2 overlap significantly with IELTS Speaking Part 3. If you're preparing for both modules, you can practice discussing Task 2 topics verbally before writing about them. Check out our IELTS speaking tips for band 7 for complementary strategies.

Getting Expert IELTS Writing Coaching

While self-study is valuable, Writing is the module where professional feedback makes the biggest difference. Unlike Reading and Listening, where you can check your own answers, evaluating your own writing objectively is extremely difficult.

At Pounds and Dollars in KPHB, Hyderabad, our experienced IELTS trainers provide:

• Detailed essay marking with specific feedback on all four criteria
• Personalized improvement plans based on your specific weaknesses
• Extensive practice with real IELTS topics
• Vocabulary building workshops for common topics
• Timed writing practice under exam conditions

Many students who plateau at band 6-6.5 with self-study achieve band 7+ within weeks of targeted coaching. If you're serious about your IELTS goals, expert guidance can help you reach them faster.

Visit our IELTS preparation page to learn more about our comprehensive coaching programs, or contact us for a free demo class and writing assessment.