How to identify the essay in IELTS Writing Task 2?

Posted by Hema Kumar N on March 11th, 2021

In the writing task of IELTS, you may come across many different types of questions. In this test, some of the questions require opinion while some do not. Many times students fail to understand the questions and they take time to analyze the essay type. The essay written should be based on opinion or without opinion.

Analyze the question

The common mistake everyone does while writing the essay is without reading the question they start writing the essay. If this process is done there is a chance that there will be a reduction in the score of the writing test. Maybe the objective of the question may differ when the essay is written differently. To understand the question, thus, you must read the questions at least 2-3 times. To study in-depth of these concepts get into IELTS Coaching in Chennai and know more.

Underline and analyze the task

First, read the questions given in the IELTS writing task, underline the main keywords while reading. It helps in focusing the key points on the topic while writing the essay. How can one identify the task given in the IELTS writing test? Let us see with an example

What is the greenhouse effect?

What are the reasons that cause greenhouse effects?

What are the possible solutions to solve this?

In this given question, notice the bold keywords, the question is about the Greenhouse effect. The question is followed by two more questions, the reason, and solution for the greenhouse effect. Have to check all these signs while writing the essay about what they have given in the questions. The first para should contain the reason for the greenhouse effect and the second part should contain the solutions to solve them. Join  IELTS Coaching in Chennai Anna Nagar the best place to learn new interesting facts about IELTS.

How to analyze the question based on an opinion?

To identify it, read the question and find out that if they have given "you".

Mean Do you agree with the statement? The word you indicates that it is an opinion-based question. You can write starting as I agree with this question and you can give a solution to this issue. The answer should be in a passive tone. That is very important. 

For example

If the question is like this

To what extent do you agree with this statement?

Atmosphere accumulation of gases like methane, Carbon dioxide is the main reason for the greenhouse effect.

In Passive tone

Though there are many causes of the greenhouse effect, it is considered to be the accumulation of gases that emits into the atmosphere.

In Personal tone

Though there are many causes of the greenhouse effect, I believe that it is caused by the accumulation of gases that is present in the atmosphere.


To learn about IELTS in detail and to know the difference in writing the essays, get into IELTS Coaching in Velachery and enhance your skills. 

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Hema Kumar N

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Hema Kumar N
Joined: February 13th, 2021
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