If you’ve ever wondered “What structure should I use for this IELTS essay?”, this post will remove every shred of confusion.
Each IELTS Writing Task 2 question type requires a specific essay structure, and understanding these differences can boost your band score dramatically.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- The specific structure for each essay type
- How to form a strong thesis statement
- How to build logical body paragraphs
- What makes a Band 6, Band 7, Band 8, or Band 9 essay
- Complete sample essays and explanations showing how each sentence supports the main idea
🎯 Before We Begin: What Examiners Look For
The examiner assesses your essay using four equal criteria:
- Task Response (25%) – Did you answer all parts of the question fully?
- Coherence & Cohesion (25%) – Are your ideas logically organized and well linked?
- Lexical Resource (25%) – Are your words varied and appropriate?
- Grammatical Range & Accuracy (25%) – Are your sentences accurate and diverse?
Your structure directly impacts the first two — that’s half your score!
🧩 Essay Type 1: Opinion (Agree or Disagree)
📜 Sample Question
Some people believe that online learning is better than traditional classroom learning.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
🧱 Structure Template
Introduction
- Paraphrase the question
- Present a clear thesis (agree/disagree/partly agree)
- Outline your main points briefly
Body Paragraph 1
- Topic sentence (first reason supporting your opinion)
- Explanation
- Example
- Link back to thesis
Body Paragraph 2
- Topic sentence (second reason)
- Explanation
- Example
- Link back
Conclusion
- Summarize your opinion
- Restate thesis in different words
💬 Band-Level Explanation
| Band | What it looks like |
|---|---|
| 6.0 | Simple structure, limited linking, unclear stance |
| 7.0 | Clear opinion and logical development |
| 8.0 | Well-balanced, uses cohesive devices naturally |
| 9.0 | Fully developed, every sentence supports thesis elegantly |
✍️ Model Band 9 Sample
Introduction:
In recent years, online education has revolutionized how students learn. While some argue that virtual learning lacks real-world interaction, I completely agree that it offers greater flexibility and accessibility, which outweigh traditional methods.
👉 Explanation: The thesis clearly states a strong opinion (agree) and introduces two key reasons (flexibility and accessibility).
Body Paragraph 1:
One of the main benefits of online education is its flexibility. Students can access lectures anytime and anywhere, allowing them to balance work and studies. For example, many working professionals now complete degrees from home through platforms like Coursera or edX, which was impossible a decade ago. This freedom enhances learning motivation and convenience.
👉 Every sentence supports the main idea: flexibility → convenience → example → link to thesis.
Body Paragraph 2:
Furthermore, online learning broadens accessibility. Students from remote areas can now join world-class institutions without relocating. This democratization of education creates equal opportunities for everyone. Hence, online learning is not only practical but also socially empowering.
👉 Smooth development: accessibility → equality → societal benefit → supports thesis.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, despite minor drawbacks, the advantages of flexibility and accessibility make online education a superior option. Therefore, I strongly believe the digital classroom is the future of learning.
💬 Essay Type 2: Discussion (Both Views + Opinion)
📜 Sample Question
Some people think parents should teach children how to be good citizens, while others believe it is the school’s responsibility. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
🧱 Structure Template
Introduction
- Paraphrase the question
- Mention both views
- State your opinion clearly
Body Paragraph 1
- Explain the first view
- Provide reasoning + example
Body Paragraph 2
- Explain the second view
- Give your own opinion + example
Conclusion
- Summarize both sides
- Restate your final opinion
✍️ Model Band 9 Example
Introduction:
People have different views about who should be responsible for teaching children moral values. While some argue that parents play the most vital role, I believe that schools are equally crucial in shaping a child’s social character.
Body 1:
Those who support parental teaching argue that values begin at home. Parents spend the most time with children, and their actions directly influence behavior. For example, when parents demonstrate honesty or kindness, children naturally imitate them, forming the foundation of good citizenship.
Body 2:
On the other hand, schools expose children to diverse social situations. Teachers can guide students through teamwork, community projects, and civic lessons, which build a broader understanding of social responsibility. In my opinion, this structured education complements what children learn at home.
Conclusion:
In summary, both parents and schools contribute to developing responsible citizens, but I believe education becomes more effective when both cooperate together.
⚖️ Essay Type 3: Advantages & Disadvantages
📜 Sample Question
The number of people working from home has increased in recent years.
Do the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?
🧱 Structure Template
- Introduction: Paraphrase + thesis (state which side outweighs)
- Body 1: Advantages + explanation + example
- Body 2: Disadvantages + explanation + example
- Conclusion: Clear final judgment
✍️ Model Band 9 Example
Introduction:
Working from home has become increasingly common with the rise of technology. Although this offers employees flexibility and reduced travel time, I believe the disadvantages, such as isolation and lack of teamwork, outweigh the benefits.
Body 1 (Advantage):
Remote work allows individuals to design flexible schedules. This helps them manage family commitments effectively. For example, parents can care for their children while maintaining productivity, leading to better work-life balance.
Body 2 (Disadvantage):
However, remote working can cause social isolation. Without daily face-to-face communication, employees often feel disconnected from colleagues, which affects creativity and teamwork. Over time, this can lower motivation and overall performance.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, despite the convenience of working from home, the loss of collaboration and human interaction makes it a less favorable long-term option.
🩹 Essay Type 4: Problem & Solution
📜 Sample Question
Many cities face serious traffic congestion. What are the main problems and what solutions can be suggested?
🧱 Structure Template
- Introduction: Paraphrase + outline
- Body 1: Describe problems (1–2)
- Body 2: Suggest solutions (linked to each problem)
- Conclusion: Summarize with a positive tone
✍️ Model Band 9 Example
Introduction:
Traffic congestion has become a growing issue in urban areas. This essay will discuss the main problems, including pollution and time wastage, and propose measures such as improving public transport and promoting carpooling.
Body 1:
One major problem is environmental pollution. More vehicles mean more emissions, worsening air quality. Another issue is time wastage; commuters often spend hours stuck in traffic, reducing productivity and increasing stress.
Body 2:
To tackle these problems, governments can invest in efficient public transportation systems, encouraging people to use buses or trains. Additionally, companies can promote carpooling or remote work options to reduce the number of vehicles on the road.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, though traffic congestion poses serious challenges, better infrastructure and public awareness can help minimize its effects effectively.
💡 Essay Type 5: Two-Part (Direct Question)
📜 Sample Question
Some people move abroad for better job opportunities. Why do people do this, and what problems can result from this?
🧱 Structure Template
- Introduction: Paraphrase + briefly mention both answers
- Body 1: Answer first question (reasons)
- Body 2: Answer second question (problems)
- Conclusion: Summarize both points
✍️ Model Band 9 Example
Introduction:
Many professionals relocate to other countries in search of improved career prospects. This essay will explain why people seek overseas employment and outline the challenges they may face abroad.
Body 1 (Why):
The main reason is the desire for higher income and better living standards. For instance, skilled workers from developing nations often move to developed countries where their expertise is better rewarded. Additionally, global experience enhances career growth and opens future opportunities.
Body 2 (Problems):
However, living abroad can bring difficulties. Cultural differences and language barriers often make integration challenging. Moreover, homesickness and separation from family can lead to emotional stress.
Conclusion:
In summary, although moving abroad offers financial and professional benefits, it can also cause cultural and emotional difficulties that must be managed carefully.
🎓 Band-Level Summary Chart
| Band | Thesis | Paragraphing | Linking | Ideas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | Basic, unclear | Weak topic sentences | Forced connectors | Some relevance |
| 7 | Clear opinion | Logical flow | Natural linking | Some extension |
| 8 | Strong thesis | Well-developed ideas | Seamless transitions | Relevant examples |
| 9 | Sophisticated stance | Perfect cohesion | Elegant lexical variety | Insightful analysis |
🧭 Final Tips
✅ Always write a clear thesis that directly answers the question.
✅ Each paragraph must support one main idea.
✅ Every example must illustrate your argument.
✅ Maintain logical flow from thesis → ideas → examples → conclusion.