IELTS Writing Task 2
Sample Answers: Band 8

In this section I will discuss the common question types for task 2: The requirements and structure for each task, along with sample answers. You can also download a PDF sample answer for each question type.

Click on the question types

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Agree or Disagree

The questions “Do you agree or disagree?” and “To what extent do you agree?” are exactly the same and can be answered in the same way. Downloadable PDF sample answer.

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Advantages and Disadvantages

This popular question requires you to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a statement. You are NOT asked for your opinion or position and you should never give it in your answer. Downloadable PDF sample answer.

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Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

The task requires you to give your opinion (level of agreement) about a statement. The key word here is “outweigh”. This means you are expected to take a position (give your opinion). Downloadable PDF sample answer.

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Discuss both points of view and give your opinion

This essay combines discussion with opinion. You are required to discuss both views and state your own opinion all with supporting details. Downloadable PDF sample answer.

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Causes and Solutions

This question type requires you to identify causes or reasons of an issue and offer solutions. The topics are usually social and nothing controversial. The wording of the questions can vary. Downloadable PDF sample answer.

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Causes and Effects

This question type is very similar to causes and solutions and requires you to identify causes or reasons of an issue or problem and discuss the effects it has. Downloadable PDF sample answer.

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Multiple Questions

The task requires you to answer questions about a statement. There are usually 2 questions and the topics are usually social. You might be required to answer 3 questions but this is very rare. Downloadable PDF sample answer.

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Positive or Negative Development

The task requires you to give your opinion in response to a statement. There are 2 possible positions to take which you should state clearly in your introduction and expand in your body paragraphs. Downloadable PDF sample answer.

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Mixed Questions

Mixed questions are tasks that combine the instructions from the main types above. They are very common in task 2 but candidates often get confused because they don’t conform to the main question types. Downloadable PDF sample answer.