IELTS Writing Task 2 carries the most weight in the Writing test. You are asked to write an essay of at least 250 words in response to a question. Below we break down the Band 7+ essay structure, a real sample essay, and the tips that matter most.
Essay structure (4 paragraphs)
- Introduction — paraphrase the question in your own words and state a clear position (thesis statement).
- First body paragraph — one main idea + development + an example.
- Second body paragraph — one more idea + an example.
- Conclusion — briefly summarise your ideas and restate your position.
Tip: Dedicate each body paragraph to a single clear idea. The "one paragraph — one idea" rule directly lifts your Coherence & Cohesion score.
Sample question
Some people think that universities should only offer places to the best students, while others believe everyone should have the chance to study. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Sample essay (Band 7)
Whether universities should admit only top students or open their doors to everyone is a topic of ongoing debate. While selective admission can raise academic standards, I believe wider access ultimately benefits society more.
On the one hand, admitting only the strongest candidates allows universities to maintain high standards. Talented students push each other to achieve more, and limited resources can be focused on those most likely to succeed. For example, leading research universities often produce groundbreaking work precisely because they concentrate exceptional minds in one place.
On the other hand, restricting access deprives many capable people of opportunity. A student's school grades do not always reflect their true potential, especially for those from poorer backgrounds. By giving everyone a chance, society gains a more educated workforce and reduces inequality. Scholarships and support programmes can help less-prepared students catch up rather than excluding them from the start.
In conclusion, although selective admission has clear academic advantages, I believe universities should remain open to a wide range of students, supporting those who need help so that ability — not background — decides success.
Why is this essay Band 7?
- Task Response: both views are discussed and there is a clear personal position.
- Coherence & Cohesion: linkers such as "On the one hand / On the other hand / In conclusion" create a logical structure.
- Lexical Resource: precise word choices like deprives, capable, inequality, groundbreaking.
- Grammar: complex sentences and accurate punctuation.
The 5 most important tips
- Read the question in full — if it asks you to "discuss both views", write about both sides.
- Plan for 5 minutes — decide in advance which ideas you will use.
- Give examples — support every main idea with a concrete example.
- Manage your time — allow around 40 minutes for Task 2.
- Proofread — spend the final 3 minutes hunting for grammar mistakes.
Once your essay is written, run it through the free IELTS Writing band checker — you get an instant band score and detailed AI feedback on all four criteria, with explanations available in Uzbek and Russian.
