📝 Day 1 – Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2 for Band 7+

Question: Some people believe that the government should fund public transportation systems more than road infrastructure. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

🟦 Introduction

Paraphrase + Opinion: In recent years, the debate over whether public funding should prioritize transportation systems or road construction has intensified. I strongly agree that governments should allocate more resources to public transport, as it offers sustainable and long-term solutions to urban challenges.

State your clear opinion in the introduction to show the reader what the overall essay will argue. Make it clear what you think and briefly mention your main 2 reasons. See what we did: 'OPINION: I strongly agree... REASONS: because it offers sustainable(REASON 1) and long-term solutions(REASON 2) to urban challenges.'

🟩 Body Paragraph 1

Reason (Topic Sentence): Firstly, investing in public transportation helps to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce carbon emissions.

Start each paragraph with a short, clear, and direct topic sentence. This helps the examiner quickly understand what the paragraph will be about and what to expect.

Explanation: When cities provide efficient and reliable alternatives such as subways, trams, and bus rapid transit systems, fewer people rely on private cars. This shift not only minimizes road traffic but also curbs air pollution, which is a growing concern in metropolitan areas worldwide.

Expand by explaining in more detail what you meant in the first sentence. This helps the reader fully understand your point before you give an example

Example: For instance, Singapore’s heavy investment in its metro system has significantly decreased the number of vehicles on the road and improved urban air quality.

Support your ideas with authoritative evidence and specific, but broadly relevant examples. Avoid narrow or overly personal examples like 'in my village we made... Instead, use wider, more convincing examples that reflect societal trends. For example, 'Singapore’s heavy investment in its metro system has significantly reduced traffic and improved air quality' is a strong, government-level example that shows impact on a national scale.

🟩 Body Paragraph 2

Reason (Topic Sentence): Moreover, public transport systems are more cost-effective and equitable for citizens.

Start each paragraph with a short, clear, and direct topic sentence. This helps the examiner quickly understand what the paragraph will be about and what to expect.

Explanation: Maintaining and expanding road networks often benefits only car owners, whereas public transportation serves the wider population, including students, low-income workers, and the elderly. By subsidizing fares or expanding routes, governments can ensure mobility for all, thus promoting social inclusivity.

Expand by explaining in more detail what you meant in the first sentence. This helps the reader fully understand your point before you give an example

Example: For example, cities like Vienna offer highly affordable monthly transit passes that make commuting accessible to everyone.

Support your ideas with authoritative evidence and specific, but broadly relevant examples. Avoid narrow or overly personal examples like 'in my village we made... Instead, use wider, more convincing examples that reflect societal trends. For example, cities like Vienna offer highly affordable monthly transit passes that make commuting accessible to everyone' is a strong, big-city-level example that shows a big impact

🟥 Conclusion

Summary + Reinforce Opinion: In conclusion, I firmly believe that increased government funding should be directed toward public transport rather than roads. Public transportation not only supports environmental sustainability but also fosters equitable access for the broader public. Strategic investment in such infrastructure is essential for creating livable, modern cities.

In your conclusion, restate your opinion clearly and briefly repeat your two main reasons. For example: 'I believe this because of X and because of Y.' If possible, try to use different words to avoid repeating the exact same phrases from the introduction.

💬 Discussion Essay: Language Learning Age

Question: Some people believe that learning a foreign language is best done in primary school, while others think it is better to start in secondary school. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

🟦 Introduction

Paraphrase + Outline Both Views + Thesis: The optimal age to begin learning a foreign language has long been debated. While some argue that early childhood education offers the best foundation, others believe that adolescents are better equipped to absorb new languages. This essay will explore both perspectives before stating why I believe the earlier the better.

Start by paraphrasing the question. Then clearly outline both views to show the examiner what your essay will discuss. End with your opinion (your thesis) to answer the question directly — this is key for high Task Response.

🟩 Body Paragraph 1 – View A (Early Age)

Reason (Topic Sentence): Proponents of introducing language learning in primary school point to children's cognitive flexibility.

Start the paragraph by clearly and shortly stating the first group’s view. Avoid vague phrasing — directly say who believes what.

Explanation: Young learners tend to acquire pronunciation, intonation, and grammatical structures more naturally, mimicking native speakers with ease. Furthermore, starting early allows for longer exposure, which enhances fluency by adulthood.

Explain why this group holds that opinion. Add depth by showing how/why early learning leads to better results.

Example: For example, countries like Sweden that incorporate foreign languages into primary curricula tend to produce adults with high multilingual proficiency.

Use a relevant, real-world example to support the argument. Avoid personal or local-only examples.

🟩 Body Paragraph 2 – View B (Teenagers)

Reason (Topic Sentence): On the other hand, some argue that secondary school students are more capable of understanding abstract grammar rules and have better-developed study habits.

Start with a clear and short sentence introducing the second perspective. Use transitions like “On the other hand” to show contrast.

Explanation: They are generally more motivated by academic goals and can grasp complex linguistic concepts more easily. Additionally, introducing language learning later avoids overwhelming younger children with too many subjects early in their education.

Give logical reasons to support the second group’s belief. Expand with real education-based concerns or benefits.

Example: (You may include one here, e.g.,) "For example, in Japan, language education often begins at the secondary level, with students showing strong results on standardized language tests due to their advanced cognitive development."

Optional: Add a contrasting example. If your opinion aligns with one side, gently introduce it at the end of this paragraph to start forming your stance.

🟥 Conclusion

Summary + Restate Opinion: While both approaches have merit, I believe starting in primary school is more beneficial. The natural learning abilities of young children, combined with longer-term exposure, create a strong foundation for mastery. Therefore, early immersion in foreign languages should be encouraged by educational systems worldwide.

Restate both views briefly but clearly support your side. Use slightly different wording to avoid repetition. Keep it concise and persuasive.

📊 Advantages and Disadvantages Essay: Remote Work

Question: More and more people are choosing to work from home. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?

🟦 Introduction

Paraphrase + Mention Both Sides: With advances in technology and shifts in work culture, remote work has become increasingly common. While working from home presents several advantages such as flexibility and reduced commuting, it also introduces potential drawbacks. This essay will explore both aspects of this growing trend.

Start by paraphrasing the question clearly. Then briefly mention both sides to show balance. Avoid stating your opinion — this type of essay doesn’t require it.

🟩 Body Paragraph 1 – Advantages

Advantage 1: One of the primary benefits of working from home is increased flexibility.

Start with a clear advantage. Keep the sentence focused and easy to follow.

Dont Forget! Start each paragraph with a short, clear, and direct topic sentence. This helps the examiner quickly understand what the paragraph will be about and what to expect.

Explain more..

Advantage 2 + Example: Additionally, removing the need to commute saves time and reduces stress. A study by Stanford University, for example, showed that remote workers were 13% more productive and reported higher job satisfaction.

Use a relevant statistic or authority to support your claim. This strengthens your argument and makes it more believable.

Additional Benefit: Furthermore, companies can cut overhead costs by reducing the need for physical office spaces.

You can include a third mini-advantage if relevant. Keep it short and directly linked to the topic.

🟩 Body Paragraph 2 – Disadvantages

Disadvantage 1: Despite these benefits, working remotely can lead to isolation and decreased team cohesion.

Start with a clear disadvantage. Keep the sentence focused and easy to follow.

Don't Forget! Start each paragraph with a short, clear, and direct topic sentence. This helps the examiner quickly understand what the paragraph will be about and what to expect.

Explain more..

Disadvantage 2: Moreover, home environments may lack the structure and discipline of an office setting, leading to distractions and reduced focus.

Another disadvantage. Keep the sentence focused and easy to follow.

In some cases, blurred boundaries between personal and professional life can also result in burnout.

Explain more...

🟥 Conclusion

Summary: In conclusion, while working from home offers notable advantages such as flexibility and reduced costs, it also presents challenges like isolation and potential productivity issues.

Do not introduce new ideas. Simply summarize both advantages and disadvantages. Keep the conclusion short and balanced to match the essay type.

✍️ Advantages and Disadvantages Essay TYPE II: Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

Structure:

• Introduction: Paraphrase the topic + State clear opinion (which side is stronger) + Briefly mention main reasons
• Body Paragraph 1 – Advantages: 2 main ideas + explanations + examples + Emphasize why advantages outweigh disadvantages
• Body Paragraph 2 – Disadvantages: Acknowledge drawbacks + Explain 1–2 with examples + Show they are less significant or can be mitigated
• Conclusion: Restate your opinion clearly + Summarise why advantages are stronger

✍️ 4. Problem and Solution Essay

Example Question:
Traffic congestion is becoming a serious issue in many cities.
What are the problems associated with this, and what solutions can you suggest?

Structure:

• Introduction: Paraphrase + Mention the issue
• Body Paragraph 1: Problems (Causes + examples)
• Body Paragraph 2: Solutions (Realistic actions + examples)
• Conclusion: Summary + Suggested action

Question:
Traffic congestion is becoming a serious issue in many cities.
What are the problems associated with this, and what solutions can you suggest?

🟦 Introduction

Paraphrase + State the issue: Air pollution has become a major concern in urban areas globally. This issue stems from multiple sources and poses serious threats to both human health and the environment. However, there are several effective solutions that governments and individuals can implement to address this growing challenge.

Paraphrase the question using your own words. Clearly state the problem and indicate that solutions exist — this gives the essay clear direction.

🟩 Body Paragraph 1 – Problems

Problem 1: One significant problem caused by air pollution is its impact on public health.

Directly mention the problem

Dont Forget! Start each paragraph with a short, clear, and direct topic sentence. This helps the examiner quickly understand what the paragraph will be about and what to expect.

Prolonged exposure to polluted air can lead to respiratory illnesses such as asthma, bronchitis, and even cardiovascular diseases.

Explain more..

Example: In heavily polluted cities like Delhi or Beijing, hospital admissions related to breathing difficulties have risen dramatically.

Example.

Problem 2: Additionally, air pollution contributes to environmental degradation, including the acidification of soil and water bodies and the destruction of ecosystems. It also plays a central role in climate change through the emission of greenhouse gases.

Clearly explain 1–2 major problems caused by the issue. Use relevant and convincing examples to support each point. Focus on the broader societal impact.

🟩 Body Paragraph 2 – Solutions

Solution 1: To combat these issues, governments must invest in cleaner public transport systems and enforce stricter emissions regulations for industries and vehicles.

Notice how we signal that the paragraph will focus on solutions — this helps guide the reader and keeps your writing focused.

Example: Transitioning to electric buses and offering incentives for using bicycles or carpooling can significantly reduce urban emissions.

Solution 2: Moreover, individuals can also play a role by adopting eco-friendly practices, such as using public transport, reducing energy consumption, and planting trees. Education campaigns about the importance of air quality can also raise awareness and promote behavioral change at the community level.

Offer specific, practical solutions that target the problems you mentioned. Combine policy-level and individual-level ideas to show a balanced approach. Use examples where possible.

🟥 Conclusion

Summary + Final suggestion: In summary, air pollution presents serious health and environmental problems. However, by implementing both policy-driven solutions and encouraging public involvement, cities can reduce pollution levels and create healthier living conditions for all residents.

Briefly summarize the problems and solutions. End with a positive, action-oriented statement that encourages future action or cooperation.

✍️ 5. Double Question Essay (Direct Questions / Two-Part Questions)

Example Question:
Many people read online news while others prefer traditional newspapers.
Why do some people prefer printed media? What is your opinion on this trend?

Structure:

• Introduction: Paraphrase + Mention both questions
• Body Paragraph 1: Answer Question 1 (reason + example)
• Body Paragraph 2: Answer Question 2 (your opinion + justification)
• Conclusion: Recap both answers

Question: Many people today have unhealthy lifestyles. Why do you think this is? What can be done to solve this problem?

🟦 Introduction

Paraphrase + Mention Both Questions: In today’s fast-paced world, more individuals are adopting habits that negatively affect their health. This essay will examine the primary reasons behind these unhealthy lifestyles and suggest viable solutions to reverse the trend.

Paraphrase the topic clearly. Then signal that you will answer both parts of the question. Avoid giving personal opinion in the introduction — just introduce the focus.

🟩 Body Paragraph 1 – Why Is This Happening?

Reason 1: One major cause of unhealthy living is the modern work culture, which encourages long hours of sedentary desk jobs and limited time for physical activity.

Reason 2: The increasing reliance on digital entertainment, such as streaming platforms and gaming, has further reduced physical movement, especially among younger generations.

Reason 3: In addition, fast food has become a staple in many diets due to its convenience and affordability, despite its low nutritional value.

Summary of Impact: This combination of inactivity and poor diet is a key contributor to rising rates of obesity and related illnesses.

Answer the first question with clear causes. Group them logically and explain them briefly. Use examples or real-world scenarios to show why these are realistic concerns.

🟩 Body Paragraph 2 – What Can Be Done?

Solution 1: To tackle this issue, both governments and individuals must take proactive steps. Governments can implement public awareness campaigns about healthy living, as well as introduce regulations on advertising junk food, particularly to children.

Solution 2: Workplaces can encourage fitness by offering wellness programs or gym subsidies.

Solution 3: On an individual level, people should be educated about time management to make space for regular exercise and healthier meals.

Solution 4: Schools also play a critical role by integrating health education and physical activities into daily routines from an early age.

Clearly answer the second question with practical, realistic solutions. Organize by who should act (government, individuals, schools) and back up your points with logic or examples.

🟥 Conclusion

Recap Both Answers: In conclusion, the rise in unhealthy lifestyles is largely due to sedentary work habits and the popularity of convenience-based food and entertainment. However, with concerted effort from policymakers, employers, educators, and individuals, this pattern can be reversed to ensure a healthier future for society.

Briefly summarize your answers to both questions. Rephrase using different language. Keep it short and forward-looking to leave a strong impression.

🧠 How to Quickly Identify the Essay Type

Just check the last line of the prompt:

• “To what extent…” → Opinion
• “Discuss both views…” → Discussion
• “What are the advantages/disadvantages?” → Adv/Disadv
• “Do advantages/disadvantages outweight?” → Adv/Disadv but with Your Opinion
• “What problems/solutions…?” → Problem/Solution
• Two separate questions → Double Question

Up next, we’ll write a full Band 9 example for each essay type to show how these structures look in practice. Let’s move on to Part 3!

📘 Question:

Some people believe that the government should fund public transportation systems more than road infrastructure. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

✍️ Strong Sample Essay:

Introduction:
In recent years, the debate over whether public funding should prioritize transportation systems or road construction has intensified. I strongly agree that governments should allocate more resources to public transport, as it offers sustainable and long-term solutions to urban challenges.

Body Paragraph 1:
Firstly, investing in public transportation helps to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce carbon emissions. When cities provide efficient and reliable alternatives such as subways, trams, and bus rapid transit systems, fewer people rely on private cars. This shift not only minimizes road traffic but also curbs air pollution, which is a growing concern in metropolitan areas worldwide. For instance, Singapore’s heavy investment in its metro system has significantly decreased the number of vehicles on the road and improved urban air quality.

Body Paragraph 2:
Moreover, public transport systems are more cost-effective and equitable for citizens. Maintaining and expanding road networks often benefits only car owners, whereas public transportation serves the wider population, including students, low-income workers, and the elderly. By subsidizing fares or expanding routes, governments can ensure mobility for all, thus promoting social inclusivity. For example, cities like Vienna offer highly affordable monthly transit passes that make commuting accessible to everyone.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, I firmly believe that increased government funding should be directed toward public transport rather than roads. Public transportation not only supports environmental sustainability but also fosters equitable access for the broader public. Strategic investment in such infrastructure is essential for creating livable, modern cities.

✅ Why This Scores High Band

• Task Response: Fully addresses the question with a clear, strong opinion maintained throughout.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Each paragraph has a single focus with clear transitions and logical progression of ideas.
• Lexical Resource: High-level vocabulary and collocations: “alleviate congestion,” “curbs air pollution,” “social inclusivity,” “mobility for all.”
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Wide range of complex structures used with full control (e.g., conditional clauses, relative clauses, passive voice).

🧠 Vocabulary & Collocations Used:

• Collocations: traffic congestion, carbon emissions, heavy investment, affordable transit passes, public infrastructure, cost-effective solutions
• Academic phrases: “I firmly believe…”, “for instance…”, “strategic investment…”, “equitable access…”
• Paraphrasing: “fund” → “allocate resources”, “road infrastructure” → “road networks”, “public transportation” → “transit systems”

🔗 Linking Devices:

• Firstly, moreover, for instance, for example, in conclusion, thus, whereas

🧪 Practice Activity:

Your Turn: Write a full response to this similar opinion question:

Some people think governments should ban cars from city centers and encourage people to walk or cycle instead.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Tip: Plan your essay first: choose your side, brainstorm two key points, and structure clearly before writing.

We highly recommend taking this type of exam on our Exam Simulation and Feedback page. See IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training It will help you experience the real exam environment, improve your focus, and practice more effectively. But please visit the How to use Our Practice Exams and Simulation before taking any exam. Also first learn the strategies we teach!

📘 Question:

Some people believe that learning a foreign language is best done in primary school, while others think it is better to start in secondary school. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

✍️ Strong Sample Essay:

Introduction:
The optimal age to begin learning a foreign language has long been debated. While some argue that early childhood education offers the best foundation, others believe that adolescents are better equipped to absorb new languages. This essay will explore both perspectives before stating why I believe the earlier the better.

Body Paragraph 1:
Proponents of introducing language learning in primary school point to children's cognitive flexibility. Young learners tend to acquire pronunciation, intonation, and grammatical structures more naturally, mimicking native speakers with ease. Furthermore, starting early allows for longer exposure, which enhances fluency by adulthood. For example, countries like Sweden that incorporate foreign languages into primary curricula tend to produce adults with high multilingual proficiency.

Body Paragraph 2:
On the other hand, some argue that secondary school students are more capable of understanding abstract grammar rules and have better-developed study habits. They are generally more motivated by academic goals and can grasp complex linguistic concepts more easily. Additionally, introducing language learning later avoids overwhelming younger children with too many subjects early in their education.

Conclusion:
While both approaches have merit, I believe starting in primary school is more beneficial. The natural learning abilities of young children, combined with longer-term exposure, create a strong foundation for mastery. Therefore, early immersion in foreign languages should be encouraged by educational systems worldwide.

✅ Why This Scores High Band

• Task Response: Fully addresses both views with balanced discussion and a clear opinion.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Clear paragraphing and logical flow between ideas. Excellent use of cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource: Uses precise vocabulary like “cognitive flexibility,” “grammatical structures,” “abstract grammar rules,” and “natural learning abilities.”
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Excellent variety, including complex and compound sentences, conditionals, and modal verbs.

🧠 Vocabulary & Collocations Used:

• Collocations: cognitive flexibility, grammatical structures, language proficiency, educational systems
• Academic phrases: “This essay will explore…”, “while both approaches have merit…”, “it is widely believed that…”
• Paraphrasing: “learning a foreign language” → “language acquisition”, “primary school” → “early childhood education”

🔗 Linking Devices:

• While some argue that…, on the other hand, for example, furthermore, therefore, in conclusion

🧪 Practice Activity:

Your Turn: Write a full response to this similar discussion question:

Some believe that it is better for children to grow up in the countryside, while others think cities provide more advantages.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Tip: Present both perspectives fairly. Stay neutral in body paragraphs even if you state your opinion in the intro and conclusion.

We highly recommend taking this type of exam on our Exam Simulation and Feedback page. See IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training It will help you experience the real exam environment, improve your focus, and practice more effectively. But please visit the How to use Our Practice Exams and Simulation before taking any exam. Also first learn the strategies we teach!

📘 Question:

More and more people are choosing to work from home. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?

✍️ Strong Sample Essay:

Introduction:
With advances in technology and shifts in work culture, remote work has become increasingly common. While working from home presents several advantages such as flexibility and reduced commuting, it also introduces potential drawbacks. This essay will explore both aspects of this growing trend.

Body Paragraph 1 – Advantages:
One of the primary benefits of working from home is increased flexibility. Employees can tailor their schedules to suit their productivity peaks, allowing for a better work-life balance. Additionally, removing the need to commute saves time and reduces stress. A study by Stanford University, for example, showed that remote workers were 13% more productive and reported higher job satisfaction. Furthermore, companies can cut overhead costs by reducing the need for physical office spaces.

Body Paragraph 2 – Disadvantages:
Despite these benefits, working remotely can lead to isolation and decreased team cohesion. Without regular in-person interaction, employees may feel disconnected from their colleagues, which can negatively affect collaboration and morale. Moreover, home environments may lack the structure and discipline of an office setting, leading to distractions and reduced focus. In some cases, blurred boundaries between personal and professional life can also result in burnout.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, while working from home offers notable advantages such as flexibility and reduced costs, it also presents challenges like isolation and potential productivity issues. For remote work to be effective, individuals and organizations must implement strategies to maintain communication, focus, and well-being.

✅ Why This Scores High Band

• Task Response: Fully develops both advantages and disadvantages, balanced perspective.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Clear transitions (“Despite these benefits,” “Furthermore,” “In conclusion”) and logical flow.
• Lexical Resource: Uses precise academic vocabulary: “team cohesion,” “productivity peaks,” “overhead costs,” “blurred boundaries.”
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Strong use of complex sentence structures and conditionals, with accurate punctuation and grammar.

🧠 Vocabulary & Collocations Used:

• Collocations: work-life balance, team cohesion, job satisfaction, personal and professional life, overhead costs
• Academic phrases: “One of the primary benefits…”, “despite these benefits…”, “in some cases…”
• Paraphrasing: “working from home” → “remote work,” “pros and cons” → “advantages and disadvantages”

🔗 Linking Devices:

• Firstly, furthermore, for example, despite these benefits, in some cases, in conclusion

🧪 Practice Activity:

Your Turn: Write a full response to this similar advantages/disadvantages question:

Many young people choose to travel for a year before entering university.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of this practice?

Tip: Try to balance both sides without overly favoring one. Stay neutral unless asked for an opinion.

We highly recommend taking this type of exam on our Exam Simulation and Feedback page. See IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training It will help you experience the real exam environment, improve your focus, and practice more effectively. But please visit the How to use Our Practice Exams and Simulation before taking any exam. Also first learn the strategies we teach!

Question:
In many countries, people now work from home instead of going to the office every day. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

Introduction

The shift toward remote work has become increasingly common across the globe, particularly in the wake of technological advancements and changing workplace norms. While working from home does present some challenges, I strongly believe that the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. This is primarily because of the increased flexibility it offers and the potential for enhanced productivity.

Body Paragraph 1 – Advantages

One significant advantage of working from home is the flexibility it grants individuals in managing their work-life balance. Employees can tailor their schedules to align with their personal routines, which leads to reduced stress and greater job satisfaction. For example, a 2022 report by McKinsey found that 87% of remote workers reported improved mental health due to flexible hours. Furthermore, remote work can boost productivity. Without daily commutes and workplace distractions, employees often accomplish more in less time. Major firms like Microsoft and Salesforce have recorded noticeable increases in output since implementing hybrid or fully remote models.

Body Paragraph 2 – Disadvantages

On the other hand, working remotely can lead to feelings of isolation and communication breakdowns within teams. Employees may miss out on the social interaction and spontaneous collaboration that often occurs in office settings. However, with the rise of video conferencing platforms like Zoom and Slack, many companies have successfully maintained team cohesion despite physical distances. Additionally, while some workers struggle to separate home and work life, these issues are often temporary and manageable with proper guidance and routine setting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, although remote work poses certain challenges related to communication and work-life boundaries, the overall advantages—namely greater flexibility and higher productivity—clearly outweigh the disadvantages. As technology continues to evolve, these benefits are likely to grow, making remote work a highly sustainable and effective option for the future.

📘 Question:

Many cities around the world are facing increasing levels of air pollution. What are the main problems associated with this, and what solutions can you suggest?

✍️ Strong Sample Essay:

Introduction:
Air pollution has become a major concern in urban areas globally. This issue stems from multiple sources and poses serious threats to both human health and the environment. However, there are several effective solutions that governments and individuals can implement to address this growing challenge.

Body Paragraph 1 – Problems:
One significant problem caused by air pollution is its impact on public health. Prolonged exposure to polluted air can lead to respiratory illnesses such as asthma, bronchitis, and even cardiovascular diseases. In heavily polluted cities like Delhi or Beijing, hospital admissions related to breathing difficulties have risen dramatically. Additionally, air pollution contributes to environmental degradation, including the acidification of soil and water bodies and the destruction of ecosystems. It also plays a central role in climate change through the emission of greenhouse gases.

Body Paragraph 2 – Solutions:
To combat these issues, governments must invest in cleaner public transport systems and enforce stricter emissions regulations for industries and vehicles. Transitioning to electric buses and offering incentives for using bicycles or carpooling can significantly reduce urban emissions. Moreover, individuals can also play a role by adopting eco-friendly practices, such as using public transport, reducing energy consumption, and planting trees. Education campaigns about the importance of air quality can also raise awareness and promote behavioral change at the community level.

Conclusion:
In summary, air pollution presents serious health and environmental problems. However, by implementing both policy-driven solutions and encouraging public involvement, cities can reduce pollution levels and create healthier living conditions for all residents.

✅ Why This Scores High Band

• Task Response: Both the problem and the solution are fully developed with relevant examples and clear explanation.
• Coherence and Cohesion: The structure is logical, and transitions between ideas are smooth and natural.
• Lexical Resource: Uses precise, topic-specific language such as “respiratory illnesses,” “greenhouse gases,” “acidification,” and “eco-friendly practices.”
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Includes a variety of structures—conditionals, modals, passive voice—used accurately throughout.

🧠 Vocabulary & Collocations Used:

• Collocations: public health, respiratory illnesses, environmental degradation, emissions regulations, eco-friendly practices
• Academic phrases: “This issue stems from…”, “plays a central role…”, “implement effective solutions…”
• Paraphrasing: “air pollution” → “polluted air”, “health problems” → “breathing difficulties”, “solutions” → “policy-driven responses”

🔗 Linking Devices:

• Firstly, additionally, moreover, to combat these issues, in summary, however

🧪 Practice Activity:

Your Turn: Respond to this problem-solution question:

In many cities, people are living in overcrowded housing conditions.
What are the problems associated with this, and what can be done to solve them?

Tip: Always make sure your solutions are realistic and directly address the problems mentioned in your essay.

We highly recommend taking this type of exam on our Exam Simulation and Feedback page. See IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training It will help you experience the real exam environment, improve your focus, and practice more effectively. But please visit the How to use Our Practice Exams and Simulation before taking any exam. Also first learn the strategies we teach!

📘 Question:

Many people today have unhealthy lifestyles. Why do you think this is? What can be done to solve this problem?

✍️ Strong Sample Essay:

Introduction:
In today’s fast-paced world, more individuals are adopting habits that negatively affect their health. This essay will examine the primary reasons behind these unhealthy lifestyles and suggest viable solutions to reverse the trend.

Body Paragraph 1 – Why Is This Happening?
One major cause of unhealthy living is the modern work culture, which encourages long hours of sedentary desk jobs and limited time for physical activity. The increasing reliance on digital entertainment, such as streaming platforms and gaming, has further reduced physical movement, especially among younger generations. In addition, fast food has become a staple in many diets due to its convenience and affordability, despite its low nutritional value. This combination of inactivity and poor diet is a key contributor to rising rates of obesity and related illnesses.

Body Paragraph 2 – What Can Be Done?
To tackle this issue, both governments and individuals must take proactive steps. Governments can implement public awareness campaigns about healthy living, as well as introduce regulations on advertising junk food, particularly to children. Workplaces can encourage fitness by offering wellness programs or gym subsidies. On an individual level, people should be educated about time management to make space for regular exercise and healthier meals. Schools also play a critical role by integrating health education and physical activities into daily routines from an early age.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the rise in unhealthy lifestyles is largely due to sedentary work habits and the popularity of convenience-based food and entertainment. However, with concerted effort from policymakers, employers, educators, and individuals, this pattern can be reversed to ensure a healthier future for society.

✅ Why This Scores High Band

• Task Response: Answers both parts of the question clearly and fully with relevant and developed ideas.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Clear paragraph structure and smooth transitions between ideas.
• Lexical Resource: Uses topic-specific vocabulary such as “sedentary desk jobs,” “digital entertainment,” “wellness programs,” and “nutritional value.”
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Excellent mix of passive voice, modals, and complex clauses used accurately.

🧠 Vocabulary & Collocations Used:

• Collocations: sedentary lifestyle, fast food, physical activity, health education, public awareness campaign
• Academic phrases: “a key contributor to…”, “to tackle this issue…”, “a critical role…”
• Paraphrasing: “unhealthy lifestyle” → “poor living habits,” “solve this problem” → “reverse the trend”

🔗 Linking Devices:

• One major cause…, in addition, despite this, to tackle this issue, on an individual level, in conclusion

🧪 Practice Activity:

Your Turn: Answer this double question:

Many people prefer to shop online these days.
Why is this the case? Do you think it is a positive or negative development?

Tip: Clearly separate each part of the question into its own paragraph and address both thoroughly.

We highly recommend taking this type of exam on our Exam Simulation and Feedback page. See IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training It will help you experience the real exam environment, improve your focus, and practice more effectively. But please visit the How to use Our Practice Exams and Simulation before taking any exam. Also first learn the strategies we teach!

🎯 Goal:

In this section, you'll learn how to boost your lexical resource score in Writing Task 2 by using strong vocabulary, avoiding repetition, and linking your ideas effectively. Vocabulary must be precise, context-appropriate, and academic in tone to reach Band 7 or higher.

🔑 1. Opinion & Argumentation Vocabulary

• I strongly believe that... – Shows a firm opinion
• There is growing evidence that... – Introduces support
• It is widely acknowledged that... – Adds formality
• From my perspective... – Personal view, softer than “I think”

🧠 Sample Usage:

It is widely acknowledged that climate change is driven largely by human activities.

🔗 2. Linking Devices for Coherence

• To begin with, / Firstly,
• In contrast, / On the other hand,
• Therefore, / As a result,
• Moreover, / In addition,
• In conclusion, / To summarize,

💡 Tip:

Linking devices should appear naturally. Don’t force them in every sentence or use too many at once. Quality > quantity.

🎓 3. Academic Verbs and Expressions

• Mitigate (e.g., “mitigate climate change”)
• Contribute to (e.g., “Poor diet contributes to heart disease.”)
• Undermine (e.g., “Lack of discipline undermines performance.”)
• Facilitate (e.g., “Technology facilitates communication.”)
• Exacerbate (e.g., “Social media can exacerbate anxiety.”)

📦 4. Collocations (Band 7+ Boosters)

• take proactive steps
• experience rapid growth
• face serious consequences
• equitable access to education
• adverse effects on health

⚠️ Avoid:

Basic phrases like “very good,” “a lot of people,” “bad effect,” “I think” — replace them with more formal alternatives.

📋 5. Vocabulary by Essay Type

🗳️ Opinion Essays:

• It is clear that... / It is evident that...
• In my view, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

🤝 Discussion Essays:

• Supporters of this view argue that...
• Critics claim that...
• This essay will examine both perspectives before concluding.

📊 Advantage/Disadvantage Essays:

• One potential benefit is...
• On the downside, this could lead to...

⚠️ Problem/Solution Essays:

• The root cause of this issue is...
• Effective measures should be taken to...

💬 Double Question Essays:

• This phenomenon can be attributed to several reasons.
• In my opinion, the outcome depends on...

🧪 Practice Exercise:

Instruction: Replace the simple words below with more academic ones from this section.

1. A lot of people think cities are better than villages.
2. Pollution has bad effects on health.
3. We should take action to solve this problem.

✅ Suggested Answers:

1. Many individuals believe cities offer more advantages than rural areas.
2. Pollution has adverse effects on health.
3. We should implement measures to address this issue.

🎯 Goal:

In this section, you’ll learn how to use your 40 minutes wisely to craft a high-scoring Writing Task 2 response. Time mismanagement is one of the most common reasons test-takers fail to reach Band 7+, so mastering this is critical.

⏳ Recommended Time Allocation

• Planning: 10 minutes
• Writing: 27 minutes
• Reviewing: 3 minutes

💡 Tip:

Many students rush into writing without a clear plan. This leads to disorganized essays and poor coherence. Investing time in planning saves time overall.

🧠 Step-by-Step Breakdown

🟢 Step 1 – Analyze the Question (2 minutes)

• Identify the question type (Opinion, Discussion, etc.)
• Underline key instructions (e.g., “Do you agree or disagree?”, “Discuss both views…”)
• Decide your position (if needed) before planning arguments

📝 Step 2 – Plan Your Ideas (8 minutes)

• Brainstorm: List 2–3 main ideas relevant to the task
• Organize: Choose your strongest 2 ideas to develop fully
• Structure: Outline intro, 2 body paragraphs, and conclusion

Example Outline:
Intro: Paraphrase + Thesis
Body 1: First argument + example
Body 2: Second argument + example
Conclusion: Summary + opinion (if required)

✍️ Step 3 – Write (27 minutes)

• Write calmly and clearly, using paragraph structure
• Focus on coherence (flow), cohesion (connectors), and grammar
• Use precise vocabulary and avoid repetition

🔍 Step 4 – Review (3 minutes)

• Check for grammar mistakes and missing articles/prepositions
• Replace weak words with stronger alternatives
• Ensure that all parts of the question are answered

🧪 Practice Timer Simulation

1. Set a timer for 40 minutes
2. Choose a Task 2 question from any of the five types
3. Follow the steps: Plan (10), Write (25), Review (5)
4. Evaluate your response: Did you finish on time? Did you stay focused?

🛠️ Self-Evaluation Checklist:

• ✅ I addressed all parts of the question
• ✅ My opinion is clear (if needed)
• ✅ I used a variety of vocabulary and grammar structures
• ✅ My ideas are logically organized
• ✅ I used linking devices naturally

🚀 Bonus Tip:

Practice under timed conditions regularly. If you only write without a timer, you won’t be prepared for the real stress of the exam day.

📝 Practice Task 1 – Guided (With Prompts)

Question: Some people believe that universities should only accept students with the highest grades. Others think that all students should be allowed to apply, regardless of their academic results.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Step-by-step planning prompts:

• 👉 What are the main arguments for accepting only top-performing students?
• 👉 What are the benefits of allowing broader access to university?
• 👉 What is your personal opinion?
• 👉 What examples can you use?

Use the 10/27/3 minute strategy to complete this task.

✍️ Practice Task 2 – Independent (Free Response)

Question: In many countries, people now wear casual clothes to work.
Do you think this is a positive or negative development?

No prompts are given — treat this like a real IELTS exam.

💡 Idea Bank – Common Difficult Topics

• Technology: AI, remote work, automation, online education
• Health: mental health, public healthcare, unhealthy diets
• Environment: global warming, pollution, conservation
• Education: homeschooling, tuition fees, curriculum reforms
• Society: gender roles, crime, youth behavior, urban living

💬 Tip: Prepare 1–2 examples or personal opinions for each of these themes. They appear often in Task 2.

🧩 Brainstorming Templates

📗 Template A – Opinion Essay

• My Opinion: (Agree/Disagree?)
• Reason 1: + example
• Reason 2: + example

📘 Template B – Discussion Essay

• View A: (Why do some people believe this?)
• View B: (Why do others disagree?)
• My View:

📕 Template C – Problem & Solution

• Problem 1: + consequence
• Problem 2: + consequence
• Solution 1:
• Solution 2:

📙 Template D – Advantages & Disadvantages

• Advantage 1: + explanation
• Advantage 2: + explanation
• Disadvantage 1: + explanation
• Disadvantage 2: + explanation

✅ Self-Checklist (Before Writing)

Ask yourself the following before you begin writing:

• 🔹 Do I fully understand the question?
• 🔹 Have I chosen a clear position or structure?
• 🔹 Do I have 2 main ideas that I can explain clearly?
• 🔹 Do I have relevant examples or real-world context?
• 🔹 Have I planned my paragraphs logically?

⏱️ Now move to the next day. Stick to your plan !

DAY 2 of - 7 Day IELTS Academic Band 7+ Challenge or

DAY 2 of - 7 Day IELTS General Band 7+ Challenge

IELTS Band Score