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How to Plan & Write IELTS Double Question Essays

IELTS double question essays are also known as ‘direct question’ or ‘two questions’ essays. They are distinguished by two characteristics:

• They have one statement with two different questions after it.
• The questions may or may not be linked.

Here are 3 examples:

1) Fossil fuels are essential for producing electricity, powering industry and fueling transportation. However, one day we will reach a point when all the world’s fossil fuels have been depleted.

How can we conserve these resources?

What are some alternatives to fossil fuels?

2) Some parents buy their children whatever they ask for, and allow their children to do whatever they want.

Is this a good way to raise children?

What consequences could this style of parenting have for children as they get older?

3) The arts, including art, music and theatre are considered to be important in society.

Do you think the arts still have a place amongst our modern lifestyles?

Should the arts be included in the school curriculum?

In this lesson, I’m going to demonstrate step-by-step how to plan and write IELTS double question essays.

Here’s what we’ll be covering:

• 3 Common mistakes
• Essay structure
• How to plan
• How to write an introduction
• How to write main body paragraphs
• How to write a conclusion

Want to watch and listen to this lesson?

Click on this video.

Click the links to see lessons on each of these Task 2 essay writing topics. 

Once you understand the process, practice on past questions. Take your time at first and gradually speed up until you can plan and write an essay of at least 250 words in the 40 minutes allowed in the exam.

3 Common Mistakes

These three errors are common in IELTS double question essays.

• Not answering both questions fully.
• Not outlining both answers in the introduction.
• Mistaking it for one of the other essay types.

Many students make the mistake of only answering one of the questions, or focusing more on one question than the other which leads to an unbalanced essay. Both these errors will seriously affect your score for task achievement.

You must outline everything you are going to write about in the introduction. This is your blueprint for the whole essay. I’ll show you how to do this and get your essay off to a great start.

It’s easy to mistake IELTS double question essays for one of the other four types of Task 2 essays, especially opinion or discussion essays. Each should be answered in a slightly different way.

Analysing the question properly is essential to avoiding this error. I’ll also show you how to do this and give you a simple 4 part structure for planning your essay.

Essay Structure

Let’s look at this essay structure straight away. You can use it to write any IELTS double question essay. It’s easy to learn and will enable you to quickly plan and write a high-level essay.

1)  Introduction  

•   Paraphrase the question 
•   Outline sentence – state your answer to both questions

2)  Main body paragraph 1 – Answer question 1

• Topic sentence – state your answer
• Explanation – develop the idea
• Example – give an example

3)  Main body paragraph 2 – Answer question 2

4)  Conclusion Summarise both questions and answers

This structure will give us a well-balanced essay with 4 paragraphs.

We now need some ideas to add to the structure and we’ll have everything we need for our essay.

How To Plan IELTS Double Question Essays

Here’s the question we’re going to be answering in our model essay followed by the 3 steps of the planning process.

Fossil fuels are essential for producing electricity, powering industry and fueling transportation. However, one day we will reach a point when all the world’s fossil fuels have been depleted.

• Analyse the question
• Generate ideas
• Identify vocabulary

# 1  Analyse the question

This is an essential step in the planning process and will ensure that you answer the question fully. It’s quick and easy to do. You just need to identify 3 different types of words:

• Topic words
• Other keywords
• Instruction words

Topics words  are the ones that identify the general subject of the question and will be found in the statement part of the question.

Fossil fuels  are essential for producing electricity, powering industry and fueling transportation. However, one day we will reach a point when all the world’s  fossil fuels  have been depleted.

So, this question is about ‘ fossil fuels ’.

Many people will do this first step of the process and then write about the topic in general. This is a serious mistake and leads to low marks for task achievement.

Now that we know what the general topic is, we need to understand exactly what aspect of fossil fuels we're being asked to write about.

The  other keywords  in the question tell you the specific things you must write about. For IELTS double question essays, these will often be in the instructions, that is, the actual questions.

How can we  conserve  these resources?

What are some  alternatives  to fossil fuels?

By highlighting these words, it’s easy to identify the topics. Your essay must only include ideas relevant to these ideas.

The  instruction words  are the questions themselves. These tell you exactly what type of information is required and each will become the topic for one of the two main body paragraphs.

The first body paragraph will answer the first question (How?) and the second body paragraph will answer the second question (What?).

# 2  Generate ideas

The next task is to generate some ideas to write about.

There are several different ways to think up ideas. I cover them fully on the  IELTS Essay Planning  page.

We’re going to use the ‘friends technique’. This is the method I prefer as it allows you to take a step back from the stress of the exam situation and think more calmly.

Here’s how it works. Imagine that you are in a casual conversation with a friend over a cup of coffee and they ask you this question. What are the first thoughts to come into your head? Plan your essay around these ideas.

Doing this will help you to come up with simple answers in everyday language rather than straining your brain to think of amazing ideas using high-level language, which isn’t necessary.

You might want to try this yourself before reading on for my ideas.

Here are my ideas as I thought of them:

How can we conserve these resources? 

• Become more energy conscious & more energy efficient
• Use more renewable energy sources – solar panels
• All new homes should be built with solar panels on
• Use car less – walk, cycle, public transport, only travel when really necessary
• Energy-efficient light bulbs
• Solar power
• Wave energy
• Tidal energy
• Biomass energy
• Geothermal energy

Don’t spend long on this as you only need one or two ideas.

There is so much to write about this topic that we have to be very careful we don’t try to include too many different ideas and just end up with a list for each question rather than a well-developed essay.

Choose one main idea for each part of the question. My advice on making your selection is to choose ideas that you can quickly think of examples for.

Here are my choices:

• Use car less – walk, cycle, public transport
• Natural forces – solar & wind power, wave & tidal energy

We’re almost ready to start writing our IELTS double question essay but first, we have one other small task to do.

# 3  Vocabulary

During the planning stage, quickly jot down some vocabulary that comes to mind as you decide which ideas you are going to write about, especially synonyms of key words. This will save you having to stop and think of the right language while you’re writing.

For the ideas I’ve chosen, useful words will include:

• sustainable  
• renewable energy
• energy-efficient

With that done, we can focus on the first paragraph of the essay – the introduction.

How To Write an Introduction

The best introductions to IELTS double question essays have a simple 2 part structure:

1)   Paraphrase the question

2)   Outline sentence – state your answer to both questions

• Have 2-3 sentences
• Be 40-60 words long
• Take 5 minutes to write

1)  Paraphrase the question

Start your introduction by paraphrasing the statement part of the question.

Question statement:

Paraphrased question:  

The world is currently reliant on oil, coal and natural gas for the majority of its energy requirements but there will come a time when these run out.

We are simply saying the same thing in a different way and using different vocabulary.

2)  Outline statement

Now we need to add an  outline statement  where we outline the two main points that we’ll cover in the rest of the essay, that is, the answers to the two questions.

We need to be very specific about what we are going to write about.

Here's a reminder of the ideas I’ve chosen to answer the two questions:

• Natural forces –solar & wind power, wave & tidal energy

Outl ine statement:  

This essay will discuss how we can help to prevent our non-renewable resources from becoming depleted by using our cars less frequently and it will name some natural forces that can be harnessed to generate power.

Note my use of synonyms to replace key words in the question. You don’t have to replace every key word but do so where possible whilst ensuring that your language sounds natural.

So, let’s bring the two elements of our introduction together.

     Introduction

This introduction achieves three important functions:

• It shows the examiner that you understand the question.
• It acts as a guide to the examiner as to what your essay is about.
• It also helps to keep you focused and on track as you write.

The two ideas in your introduction will become your two main body paragraphs.

Main body paragraph 1  –  Use car less – walk, cycle, public transport

Main body paragraph 2  –  Renewable energy / natural forces – solar & wind power, wave & tidal energy

How To Write Main Body Paragraphs

Main body paragraphs in IELTS double question essays should contain 3 things:

• Explanation –  develop the idea

Main Body Paragraph 1  – Answer question 1

The  topic sentence  summarises the main idea of the paragraph. That’s all it needs to do so it doesn’t have to be complicated.

It plays an important role in ensuring that your ideas flow logically from one to another. It does this by acting as a signpost for what is to come next, that is, what the paragraph will be about.

If you maintain a clear development of ideas throughout your essay, you will get high marks for task achievement and cohesion and coherence.

We’ll now take the idea for our first main body paragraph and create our topic sentence.

Main body paragraph 1  –  Use car less – walk, cycle, public transport, only travel when really necessary

Topic sentence:  

Conserving energy is a responsibility of every individual and an important way in which we can all do our bit is to use more energy-efficient means of transport. 

Next, we must write an  explanation sentence  that develops the idea.

Explanation sentence: 

The easiest way to do this is to leave the car at home and walk or cycle to our destination if it isn’t too far away, or take public transport for longer journeys. Another way to reduce our fuel consumption is to car share.

Finally, we add an  example  to support our main point. If you can’t think of a real example, it’s fine to make one up, as long as it’s believable. The examiner isn’t going to check your facts. Alternative, you could add another piece of information to support your idea but an example is better.

Example sentence:

Whenever my friends and I get together for coffee, we agree to meet up at a café that we can each get to without having to drive our cars there. We usually go on foot or ride our bikes. If everyone made small decisions like this, it would make a real difference.

That’s the 3 parts of our first main body paragraph complete. Here’s the finished paragraph.

We now follow the same process for our second main body paragraph.

Main Body Paragraph 2  – Answer question 2

Again, we’ll now take the idea I’ve chosen for this paragraph and create our topic sentence.

Main body paragraph 2  –  Renewable energy / natural forces –   solar & wind power, wave & tidal energy

Topic sentence:

The most sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels are the generation of power from natural forces such as the sun, wind and oceans.

Now for the  explanation  where we expand on this idea.

Explanation sentence:

S olar and wind power are already widely used across the world but it is wave power and tidal energy that have the greatest untapped potential to provide for our energy needs in the future.

Finally, an  example  to support our main point.

A report recently commissioned in the United Kingdom estimates that tidal energy could meet as much as  20% of the UK’s current electricity demands once the technology being developed is operational. Wave energy converters are expected to prove equally successful in the long-term.

That’s the 3 parts of our second main body paragraph complete. Here’s the finished paragraph.

Now we need a conclusion and our IELTS double question essay is done.

How To Write a Conclusion

The conclusion is a summary of the main points in your essay and can often be done in a single sentence. It should never introduce new ideas.

If you're below the minimum 250 words after you’ve written your conclusion, you can add a prediction or recommendation statement.

Our essay is already over the minimum word limit so we don’t need this extra sentence but you can learn more about how to write a prediction or recommendation statement for IELTS double question essays on the  Task 2 Conclusions  page.

The conclusion is the easiest sentence in the essay to write but one of the most important.

A good conclusion to an IELTS double question essay will:

• Neatly end the essay
• Link all your ideas together
• Sum up your argument or opinion
• Answer the question

If you achieve this, you’ll improve your score for both task achievement and cohesion and coherence which together make up 50% of the overall marks. Without a conclusion, you’ll score below band 6 for task achievement.

You can start almost any final paragraph of an IELTS double question essay with the words:

• In conclusion

        or

• To conclude

Now all you need to do is briefly summarise the main ideas into one or two sentences.

Here’s a top tip . Go back and read the introduction to the essay because this is also a summary of the essay. It outlines what you are going to write about.

To create a great conclusion, you simply have to paraphrase the introduction.

Introduction:

Here is the same information formed into a conclusion:

That’s it. We’ve completed our essay. Here it is with the 4 paragraphs put together.

Finished IELTS double question essay.

     (351 words)

Go through this lesson as many times as you need to in order to fully understand it and put in lots of practice writing IELTS double question essays from past exam questions. Practice is the only way to improve your skills.

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More help with ielts double question essays & other task 2 essays.

IELTS Writing Task 2  – T he format, the 5 question types, the 5 step essay writing strategy & sample questions. All the key information you need to know.

The 5 Types of Task 2 Essay   – How to recognise the 5 different types of Task 2 essays. 15 sample questions to study and a simple planning structure for each essay type.

Understanding Task 2 Questions  – How to quickly and easily analyse and understand IELTS Writing Task 2 questions.

How To Plan a Task 2 Essay  – Discover why essay planning is essential & learn a simple 4 step strategy, the 4 part essay structure & 4 methods of generating ideas.

How To Write a Task 2 Introduction  – Find out why a good introduction is essential. Learn how to write one using a simple 3 part strategy & discover 4 common mistakes to avoid.

How To Write Task 2 Main Body Paragraphs  – Learn the simple 3 part structure for writing great main body paragraphs and also, 3 common mistakes to avoid. 

How To Write Task 2 Conclusions  – Learn the easy way to write the perfect conclusion for a Task 2 essay. Also discover 4 common mistakes to avoid.

Task 2 Marking Criteria  – Find out how to meet the marking criteria in Task 2. See examples of good and poor answers & learn some common mistakes to avoid.

The 5 Task 2 Essay Types:

Step-by-step instructions on how to plan & write high-level essays. Model answers & common mistakes to avoid.

   Opinion Essays

   Discussion Essays

  Problem Solution Essays

  Advantages & Disadvantages Essays

  Double Question Essays

Other Related Pages

IELTS Writing Test  – Understand the format & marking criteria, know what skills are assessed & learn the difference between the Academic & General writing tests.

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• Essay Task 2

IELTS Writing Task 2: Double Question Essays Types

• Essay Types
• Double Question
• Advantage Disadvantage
• Problem Solution
• Essay Length

A double-question also known as a two-part IELTS essay has low occurrence as compared to other IELTS Task 2 Essay types. However, you must learn to identify this question type and how to deal with it accurately in the real IELTS exam.

We have created this guide to help you produce a high-level response to an IELTS writing task 2 double essay question. Read on for tips, useful language, and a sample double-question essay.

Table of Contents

1.1 understanding the question.

• 1.2 Example double question essay questions
• Essay Structure for Double Question Essays
• 3.1 Identify key words and phrases

3.2 Organise your ideas

3.3 identify vocabulary, 4.1 introduction, 4.2 main body paragraphs, 4.3 conclusion.

• 5.1 Complete the sample double question essay

5.2 Double Question Sample Essay

1. double question essay overview.

Double question essays, often referred to as two-part essay questions , are exactly what they say: instead of dealing with one IELTS question, you have to answer two .

Remember, there are five main types of writing task 2 questions:

• Advantage/disadvantage
• Double question
• Problem/solution

When answering a double question , you still have the same minimum word count ( 250 words ) and the usual time limit for IELTS writing task 2 ( 40 minutes ). You will just have to organise your essay in a slightly different way to other essay types.

It is essential that you address both questions in your introduction and conclusion and you should separate your main body paragraphs logically: focus on the first question in the first body paragraph and the second question in the second body paragraph.

One of the most common mistakes test takers make is that they only answer one question because they have not understood the question type. Make sure you take your time to identify the question type before writing your answer.

1.2 Example Double Question Essay Questions

Take a look at these example IELTS double question essay writing task 2 questions for a range of topics:

The internet is a good source of information and has opened up opportunities for people all over the world.

Is all the information reliable online?

What could be done to control information online?

Also, read the following IELTS Essay Writing Guides

• IELTS Discussion Type Questions
• Opinion-based Task 2 IELTS Guide
• IELTS Advantage Disadvantage Essay Type
• Problem Solution IELTS Writing Task Statement

Many people prefer to watch foreign films rather than locally produced films.

Why could this be?

Should governments give more financial support to local film industries?

Nowadays, many people have easy access to computers and a large number of children play computer games.

What are the negative impacts of playing computer games?

What can be done to minimise these effects?

In spite of the advances in medicine, many people around the world still die from preventable diseases.

Why is this the case?

What can be done about this problem?

2. Essay Structure for Double Question Essays

Here is a clear and simple structure you can follow for any double-question IELTS writing task 2:

3. Planning your Double Question Essay

Read on for some useful essay planning tips and techniques.

3.1 Identify keywords and phrases

By this point, you should have identified that you have been given a double question by looking at the instruction words in the question (the clue here is there are two sets of questions ).

The next step is to identify the topic words in the statement that will tell you the general topic of the essay and any other keywords that give you additional information.

Here is an example for our sample question where we have underlined the topic words and put other keywords in bold:

So the general topic here is the internet being a good source of information . Other keywords let us know we need to focus on the reliability of that information and whether controls need to be put in place.

Part of a good essay plan is writing down your ideas. You could do this as we have have done below using the essay structure:

Introduction – Opinion = Some information on the internet can be unreliable/ need some process of control (e.g. fact checking)

Main body paragraph 1 – Majority of information is reliable/ can be verified/ media outlets carry out fact checking

Main body paragraph 2 – Not all information is trustworthy/ misinformation can influence people/ elections can be swayed

Conclusion – Balanced view/ information can be trusted but organisations should be accountable/ government should intervene too much

Notice how we have not used full sentences to save time. You might also write down ideas that you do not use in your actual essay. Make sure to cross through any notes you make before the end of a paper based exam (so they will not be marked by the examiner).

While you are creating your plan, take a note of any useful vocabulary that comes to mind. Here is some that we thought of for the model double question answer:

• Misinformation
• Media outlets
• Accountability
• Fact checking

4. Writing your Double Question Essay

You should start your introduction to a double-question essay in the same way as all other IELTS task 2 essay types : Paraphrase the given IELTS statement .

Let’s look at the example from our sample essay:

Notice that we have mentioned both sides of the argument .

For a double-essay question, you should always include your opinion in the introduction. Here’s our opinion:

In my view, the majority of the information that can be found on the internet is reliable. However, some of this information may be unreliable and therefore, it is important to have some processes in place to carry out fact checking.

And lastly, you can give a brief outline statement that explains what your essay will do, for example:

This essay will explain my opinion in more detail.

Let’s remind ourselves of the suggested structure for your main body paragraphs:

One way of addressing each question, as well as increasing the grammatical range shown in your essay, is to use noun phrases . Using a noun phrase instead of a more standard verb phrase also makes your writing more academic and interesting. Compare the following sentence:

Verb phrase – One advancement in the internet is that t he amount of information available has increased .

Noun phrase – One advancement in recent years is the amount of information available .

You could also noun phrases to describe developments over time . Here is an example:

• In the last few years there has been (a rise/a fall/ an increase/ a decrease) in _____

Your supporting sentences should provide reasons for the opinions given in your topic sentences. You can also use noun phrases to do this.

Here are some sentence starters:

• As a consequence of…
• As a result of…
• Because of…

And here’s an example:

As a result of the wide availability of the internet, there has been an increase in the number of fake news stories.

You must always include a conclusion for any IELTS writing task 2 essay. For a double-question essay conclusion, you should do the following:

• Start with a linking phrase such as In conclusion,…,In summary,…or To sum up,…
• Mention both question from the IELTS statement/question
• Rephrase the opinion given in your introduction

Take a look at our example and try to identify each point:

In conclusion, my view is that although a lot of internet sources can be trusted, there should also be measures put in place to ensure organisations take accountability for spreading misinformation. However, I do not believe that governments should have complete autonomy and control over what adults read on the internet.

5. Example Double Question Essay and Exercise

Time to practise ! Here is the discussion essay that we have been using in this guide. We have removed some keywords so you can test your knowledge on discussion essays by selecting the correct missing word.

5.1 Complete the Sample Double Question Essay

As a result of the development of the internet, people can now access any information they need at the click of a button from anywhere in the world. In my view, the majority of the information that can be found on the internet is reliable. However, some of this information may be unreliable and therefore, it is important to have some processes in place to carry out fact checking. This essay will explain my opinion in more detail.

One reason why the majority of information on the internet can be deemed reliable is that it can be verified by various sources and people also have the opportunity to freely contest information they believe is fake news or untrue. To take one example, large media outlets not only fact check sources they find on the internet, but they also show this to the public and will issue a retraction if anything is found to be untrue.

On the other hand, not all information found online is trustworthy and, as a result, measures need to be put in place to control this misinformation. The biggest downside of  this misinformation is that it can be easier for groups to unfairly influence people in situations such as political elections. Therefore, I believe that there should be certain measures put in place to control internet sites. One way to do this is to implement fines to companies consistently spreading untrue information.

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IELTS Double Question Essay: Overview, Structure And Tips

1. ielts double question essay overview.

Also known as Direct Question or Two-Question or Two-part Question essay, IELTS Double Question Essay can be distinguished from other question types by its own characteristics:

• One statement only with two different questions 
• Two questions are sometimes not related to each other

An IELTS problem solution essay question includes typically 3 parts:

• 1st part: a statement (e.g. Many people decide on a career path early in their lives and keep to it. This, they argue, leads to a more satisfying working life.)
• 2nd part: two questions (e.g. To what extent do you agree with this view? What other things can people do in order to have a satisfying working life?)
• 3rd part: requirement for the time and word limit (e.g. You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.)

Below are some double question essay IELTS samples:

• Many people decide on a career path early in their lives and keep to it. This, they argue, leads to a more satisfying working life. To what extent do you agree with this view? What other things can people do in order to have a satisfying working life?
• Money is important in most people’s lives. Although some people think it is more important than others. What do you feel are the right uses of money? What other factors are important for a good life?
• In recent years, the family structure has changed, as well as family roles. What are the changes which have occurred? Do you think these changes are positive or negative?

>>> Read more: IELTS Writing Task 2

2. IELTS Double Question Essay Structure

Double question essay IELTS structure still follows three parts with four different paragraphs:

2.1. Introduction

– Paraphrase the question: 

(e.g. It is true that some people know from an early age what career they want to pursue, and they are happy to spend the rest of their lives in the same profession.)

– Thesis statement / Outline sentence: discuss both 2 questions and/or state your view (e.g. While I accept that this may suit many people, I believe that others enjoy changing careers or seeking job satisfaction in different ways.)

– Body paragraph 1: Answer the first question

• Topic sentence: state your answer to the first question (e.g. On the one hand, having a defined career path can certainly lead to a satisfying working life.)
• State and explain the first problem: elaborate on your answer to the first question (e.g. Many people decide as young children what they want to do as adults, and it gives them a great sense of satisfaction to work towards their goals and gradually achieve them.)
• Example: support your answer to the first question with an example (optional) (e.g. For example, many children dream of becoming doctors, but to realise this ambition they need to gain the relevant qualifications and undertake years of training. In my experience, very few people who have qualified as doctors choose to change career because they find their work so rewarding, and because they have invested so much time and effort to reach their goal.)

– Body paragraph 2: Answer the second question

• Topic sentence: state your answer to the second question (e.g. On the other hand, people find happiness in their working lives in different ways. )
• State and explain the second problem: elaborate on your answer to the second question (e.g. Firstly, not everyone dreams of doing a particular job, and it can be equally rewarding to try a variety of professions; starting out on a completely new career path can be a reinvigorating experience. Secondly, some people see their jobs as simply a means of earning money, and they are happy if their salary is high enough to allow them to enjoy life outside work. Finally, job satisfaction is often the result of working conditions, rather than the career itself. )
• Example: support your answer to the second question with an example (optional) (e.g. For example, a positive working atmosphere, enthusiastic colleagues, and an inspirational boss can make working life much more satisfying, regardless of the profession.)

2.3. Conclusion

– Summarize both questions and answers:

(e.g. In conclusion, it can certainly be satisfying to pursue a particular career for the whole of one’s life, but this is by no means the only route to fulfillment.).

– Give recommendations (optional).

If you are planning to take the IELTS, let’s start practicing with our free  IELTS online test  to get ready for your exam.

3. IELTS Double Question Essay Strategy

3.1.  analyse ielts problem solution essay questions.

This type of question may be confusing compared to others, especially IELTS problem solution essay or IELTS discussion essay. However, the two questions you will have to figure out are not linked to each other. As a result, before writing your IELTS double question essay, don’t forget to analyze the question carefully. Highlight or underline keywords based on the two following parts: 

• Main topic (e.g. Many people decide on a career path early in their lives and keep to it. This, they argue, leads to a more satisfying working life. To what extent do you agree with this view? What other things can people do in order to have a satisfying working life?)
• Instructions (e.g. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. 

Write at least 250 words.)

3.2. Make an outline

There will be two different questions to think about within an IELTS double question, hence, you need to make this step so quick that you can save time for the next step – writing an essay. Just choose the main ideas for each question and outline those in the form of a mindmap, a table, or bullet points. 

3.3. Write a complete IELTS problem solution essay

With the range of vocabulary related to the topics, grammar structures you have obtained, and the outline you’ve generated, it’s time for you to write an IELTS double question essay.

3.4. Double-check your IELTS problem solution essay

Don’t forget to leave at least 3 to 5 minutes to check your essay at least once before it is handed in. You should take grammar, spelling, and vocabulary mistakes into consideration when doing this step.

Practice now: IELTS Writing Practice Test

4. IELTS Double Question Essay Tips

• Pick up the main idea for each question that you can think of any reasonable explanation and/or example for it.
• Imagine the issue stated in the IELTS double question essay just like a situation happening in the reality and you may find it much easier to generate ideas.
• Try to jot down some vocabulary related to the topic given, especially synonyms for the keywords in the question and you can think of the correct language quickly while writing.
• Spend around 40 minutes with 250-290 words writing your essay.
• Remember to use properly linking words to make your writing both cohesively and coherently.

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IELTS Direct Question Essays – Structure, Questions, Samples & Tips

Updated On Nov 28, 2023

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The IELTS Writing Task 2, has an essay type known as the “Direct Question Essay,” which is a crucial component of the IELTS exam. It evaluates your ability to express your ideas, analyze a given topic, and provide a clear, well-structured response.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the structure of  IELTS Writing Task 2 : Direct Question Essays, delve into essential pointers, provide ten valuable tips to ace this task and furnish you with five sample questions and answers to boost your preparation.

Structure of a Direct Question Essay

A Direct Question Essay typically follows a specific format:

I agree that schools should place a greater emphasis on practical life skills. While traditional subjects are essential, practical skills like cooking, budgeting, and home repair equip students for real-life challenges. For instance, teaching basic culinary skills can promote healthier eating habits, reducing the prevalence of diet-related health issues.

Furthermore, budgeting knowledge empowers individuals to manage their finances effectively, reducing the risk of falling into debt. The ability to handle basic home repairs fosters independence and self-reliance, which are valuable qualities in adulthood.

By incorporating practical skills into the curriculum, schools prepare students for the responsibilities they will face in their daily lives. While academic knowledge is important, it is equally crucial to equip individuals with the tools they need to thrive in the real world. Thus, I firmly believe that schools should allocate more resources to teach practical life skills alongside traditional subjects, ensuring a holistic education that sets students on the path to success.

Banning smoking in public places offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it significantly improves public health by reducing exposure to harmful secondhand smoke. Non-smokers, including children and those with respiratory conditions, benefit from cleaner air, leading to a lower incidence of smoking-related health issues.

Secondly, such bans encourage individuals to quit smoking or reduce their consumption. When smoking is restricted in public spaces, smokers may be more inclined to quit as the inconvenience of finding a designated smoking area becomes apparent. This, in turn, decreases the overall demand for tobacco products and contributes to public health.

However, banning smoking in public places can lead to potential disadvantages. Businesses reliant on tobacco sales may experience a decline in revenue, potentially leading to layoffs or closures. Additionally, some smokers may resist the bans, leading to enforcement challenges and potential conflicts in public spaces.

In conclusion, the advantages of banning smoking in public places, such as improved public health and reduced smoking rates, outweigh the disadvantages. While businesses may face challenges, the long-term benefits to society as a whole are substantial.

Key Pointers for Direct Question Essays

• Understand the Question:  Read the question carefully to grasp its requirements and focus. Identify keywords that dictate the scope of your response.
• Plan Your Essay:  Spend a few minutes brainstorming and outlining your essay. Organize your thoughts and main ideas. A well-structured essay flows more naturally.
• Clarity and Coherence:  Use clear and concise language. Ensure that your essay is easy to follow and logically organized. Employ appropriate transitions between sentences and paragraphs.
• Stay on Topic:  Avoid straying from the main question. Irrelevant information can reduce the clarity of your essay and affect your score.
• Word Count:  Adhere to the word count requirement. Going over or under the limit can result in point deductions.
• Vocabulary and Grammar:  Showcase a wide vocabulary range and accurate grammar. Simple and complex sentences should be used appropriately to enhance the quality of your writing.
• Examples and Details:  Support your ideas with relevant examples, facts, and details. This strengthens your arguments and demonstrates a deep understanding of the topic.
• Counter Arguments:  Address counterarguments when relevant. This shows your ability to consider different perspectives and strengthens your position.
• Time Management:  Allocate time wisely. Ensure you have enough time to review and edit your essay before submission.
• Revision:  Always review and edit your essay. Look for errors in spelling, grammar, and clarity. A well-edited essay leaves a positive impression.

You can practice more Direct Question Essays  here .

Direct Question Essay: A Skill to Learn!

In conclusion, mastering the art of writing Direct Question Essays is achievable with practice, a clear understanding of the format, and attention to key pointers. By following the structure, incorporating the tips provided, and analyzing the sample questions and answers, you can significantly enhance your performance in the IELTS Writing Task 2. So, start practicing and make your writing shine on test day. Good luck!

Here are the 10 examples for the Direct question essay

Also, check :

• Tips to Improve IELTS Writing Skills
• IELTS Writing recent actual test
• IELTS Band 9 essays
• Advantage and Disadvantage Essays
• IELTS Writing Task 1 Connectors

Frequently Asked Questions

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Are IELTS Direct Question Essay and IELTS Double Question Essay the same?

Practice IELTS Writing Task 2 based on Essay types

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Thank you very much for sharing this useful post.I’m sure this educational programs & sectors will be helpful for those who want to improve their skills in learning better English. So I expect you going on this.

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• General Reading
• Academic Reading

IELTS Writing Task 2

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IELTS Double Question Essay

IELTS double question essays are also known as ‘direct question’ or ‘two questions’ essays. They are distinguished by two characteristics:

• They have one statement with two different questions after it.
• The questions may or may not be linked.

IELTS Preparation

Essay#78 | undervalued jobs, essay#40 | studying abroad.

Increasing numbers of students are choosing to study abroad. To what extent does this trend benefit the students themselves and the countries involved?

Essay#29 | Increasingly Dependent on Computers

We are becoming increasingly dependent on computers. They are used in businesses, hospitals, crime detection and even to fly planes. What things will they be used for in the future? Is this dependence on computers a good thing or should we he more auspicious of their benefits?

Essay#28 | Childhood Diseases

Should parents be obliged to immunise their children against childhood diseases? Or do individuals have the right to choose not to immunise their children?

Essay#20 | Success

When talking about success, we often think of people who are rich or famous. In your opinion, what are the qualities that characterize a successful person? Why do you think these should be the criteria?

Essay#6 | Computers

We are becoming increasingly dependent on computer-based technology. How do you think it will change in the future? Is it good for us to rely so much on computers?

IELTS Sample Charts (IELTS Academic Writing Task 1)

IELTS Writing Task 1 – Academic

The Writing Task 1  of the  IELTS Academic test  requires you to write a summary of at least 150 words in response to a particular graph (bar, line or pie graph), table, chart, or process (how something works, how something is done). This task tests your ability to select and report the main features, to describe and compare data, identify significance and trends in factual information, or describe a process.

IELTS Writing Task 2 (IELTS Sample essays)

IELTS Writing Task 2  requires you to write at least 250 words. You will be presented with a topic and will be tested on your ability to respond by giving and justifying an opinion, discussing the topic, summarizing details, outlining problems, identifying possible solutions and supporting what you write with reasons, arguments and relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

The assessment of Task 2 carries more weight in marking than Task 1. Writing scripts are marked by trained and certificated IELTS examiners, who all hold relevant teaching qualifications and are recruited as examiners by the test centres and approved by British Council or IDP: IELTS Australia.

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Double Question Sample IELTS Essay – Technology

Nowadays the way people interact with each other has changed because of technology. 

In what ways has technology affected the types of relationships people make? 

Has this become a positive or negative development?

Modern advancements have altered the way we communicate with one another. This essay will discuss how we can now form bonds with people all over the world, and then state that on the whole, this is a very welcome development.

For the first time in human history, people can communicate with someone they have never met before, in a country they have never been to, through the internet. These may not be the same kind of friendships we traditionally form face-to-face, but it is hard to dispute that they are not ‘relationships’. Social media, such as Facebook and Instagram, provide a platform that allows us to chat and comment on someone else’s life instantaneously. For example, there are now IELTS groups on Facebook where students can help and support each other by providing helpful resources and feedback on essays.

Overall, this new phenomenon has great benefits, principally encouraging tolerance of other cultures. Before computers we hardly ever came across someone from another culture, let alone people from a myriad of different places in one Facebook group. This has led to people understanding that we are all mostly the same and you should not judge someone because they were born in a different place. For example, thousands of Palestinians and Israelis have joined the same online groups that show support for peace and solidarity, something that would not have been possible 25 years ago.

In conclusion, the web has changed our interactions forever, making the world a global village where people can freely chat and form lasting connections and this essay only sees this as a good thing that will continue to bring citizens of the world together.

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I started IELTS Advantage as a simple blog to help 16 students in my class. Several years later, I am very humbled that my VIP Course has been able to help thousands of people around the world to score a Band 7+ in their IELTS tests.

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Two-Part Essay Questions in IELTS Writing Task 2

Learn how to answer Two-part essay questions in IELTS writing Task 2 with an overview, recommended approach and practice question.

Example question

Recommended approach, practice question.

Two-part essay questions are a common question type in IELTS writing Task 2. You’ll be presented with a statement about some kind of trend or phenomenon. There will be two direct questions, which could ask for reasons, effects, solutions, advantages and disadvantages, or your opinion.

Here are some key points about Two-part essay questions:

• You should spend no more than 40 minutes on the task.
• You should write at least 250 words – you’ll be penalised if your answer is too short.
• Task 2 is worth two thirds of your total writing mark; Task 1 is worth one third.
• You must write in full sentences, not bullet points or note form.

Here’s an example Two-part essay question.

Write about the following topic: In many countries, it has become difficult for young people to afford to buy their own home. Why is this the case? What can be done about this problem? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Here’s my recommended approach for answering Two-part essay questions. We’ll use the example question to go through the steps you need to take.

IMPORTANT: The overall approach is the same for all  Task 2  question types (i.e. discussion, opinion, advantages–disadvantages and two-part essay questions). This is important because, on test day, you could get a question that doesn’t fall neatly into any of these categories. However, if you learn and practise applying the overall approach, you should be able to respond flexibly to any question you’re presented with. Also, while I generally recommend writing 4-paragraph essays, there are other structures you can use to write an effective essay.

Step 1  >  Analyse the question

The first step is to analyse the question. This is crucial – if you don’t take the time to analyse the question properly, you may misunderstand what it’s asking you or fail to respond to key parts of the question. Here’s our question prompt again.

You can see that we’ve been presented with a straightforward statement (i.e. that it has become difficult for young people in many countries to afford their own home), and then there are two direct questions. The direct questions are asking us to:

• give the cause(s) of the problem;
• suggest one or more solutions.

Notice that the question doesn’t actually use the words cause(s) or solution(s) . Because there are no plural or singular forms used, you’re free to include as many causes and solutions in your essay as you like (even just one of each). However, if the question uses plural forms (e.g. causes , effects , solutions ), you’ll need to include more than one of each.

Step 2  >  Think of ideas

Once you fully understand the question and what you’re required to do, the next step is to spend a few minutes thinking of ideas for your essay. Don’t try to brainstorm as many ideas as you can – all you need is a few good ideas. If you’re having trouble coming up with ideas, try asking yourself these questions:

• What are the most obvious ideas?
• If you asked 100 people for their ideas, what do you think most of them would say?

For Two-part essay questions, you need to think of ideas for the first direct question as well as for the second direct question. Again, pay attention to the wording of the question – if plural forms are used (e.g. solutions ), you’ll need to think of more than one.

Step 3  >  Make a plan

Once you’ve thought of some ideas, it’s time to make a plan. I’d recommend that you spend about 5 minutes on your plan. It doesn’t need to be very detailed, but it’s important to think about what examples you’ll use and how you’ll explain your points. If you think of these things in advance, you’ll be able to connect your ideas more effectively when you’re writing your essay. Don’t try to write in full sentences – you can use symbols and abbreviations. The important thing is just to get your ideas down on paper. The plan for this essay might look something like this.

Step 4  >  Write the introduction

Now that you’ve thought of ideas for your essay and made a plan, it’s time to write the introduction. IELTS doesn’t specify what you need to include in your introduction, but for Two-part essay questions, I recommend that you include:

• a paraphrase of the statement given in the question;
• a statement to show that your essay will cover both aspects of the question.

Let’s look at each of these parts one by one.

1. A paraphrase of the statement given in the question

An easy and effective way to start your introduction is to paraphrase the statement given in the question. At this stage, don’t mention the specific focus of the question (i.e. the two direct questions) – we’ll do that in the second part of the introduction. Keep in mind that you mustn’t copy the exact wording used in the question. Instead, you need to use synonyms and other forms of paraphrasing. You won’t be able find synonyms for everything. In fact, some words shouldn’t be replaced because doing so would change the meaning. Our paraphrase could be something like this: In many parts of the world, it has become very challenging for younger generations to be able to purchase a home of their own.

2. A statement to show that your essay will cover both aspects of the question

In the second part of the introduction, you should add a statement to show that your essay will cover both aspects of the question. For our question, we could write something like this: There is a variety of reasons for this, but steps can certainly be taken to tackle the issue.

If we put the two parts of the introduction together, this is what we have.

In many parts of the world, it has become very challenging for younger generations to be able to purchase a home of their own. There is a variety of reasons for this, but steps can certainly be taken to tackle the issue.

Step 5  >  Write the body paragraphs

The next step is to write the body paragraphs. Your first body paragraph should answer the first direct question, and your second body paragraph should answer the second direct question. This particular Two-part essay question doesn’t explicitly ask for our opinion, so it’s best to avoid phrases such as I think and In my opinion . However, other Two-part essay questions may ask for your opinion, in which case it’s appropriate to use such phrases. Here are some possible body paragraphs for our example.

Several factors are to blame for the financial difficulty young people face when trying to buy a home. Firstly, population growth in many countries has led to greater competition among buyers, which drives up prices. In parallel, there is often too little construction taking place, which makes the situation worse as supply cannot keep up with demand. In many countries, interest rates are also much lower than their long-term averages, which encourages people to borrow more and more money to outbid other buyers. As prices have increased, it has become increasingly difficult for younger buyers to save for a deposit, which effectively locks them out of the housing market. There are ways that this issue could be addressed. One solution is for governments to offer young people grants to help them afford their first home. Governments could place conditions on any such grant. For example, they could require that the property be a newly constructed one or that the money only be used to purchase a property in a regional area. Another way to deal with this issue is for governments to release more land for residential construction and offer builders financial incentives. This would help with the supply side of the equation. If there were more properties available, prices would inevitably come down.

Step 6  >  Write the conclusion

The next step is to write the conclusion. Here you need to summarise your answers to the two direct questions. Don’t just copy the words you used in other parts of the essay – use synonyms and paraphrasing as much as you can. Start your conclusion with In conclusion or To conclude . Here’s a possible conclusion for our example.

In conclusion, young people find it difficult to afford their own home primarily due to supply and demand factors. Unless governments take action by offering grants to young buyers or by releasing more land for new homes, the problem is unlikely to go away.

Step 7  >  Check your work

The final step is to check your work. At this stage, you won’t have time to make any major changes, but it’s still an important step. Things to check for:

• whether you’ve used an adequate range of grammar and vocabulary;
• your word count.

Now it’s your turn to practise. Try the Two-part essay question below using the approach outlined above.

Write about the following topic: In many countries, people from rural areas have been relocating to cities. Why is this the case? Do you think this is a positive or a negative development? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

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Click below for a sample answer.

Cities around the world have been growing as rural residents move to them in ever-increasing numbers, and there are several explanations for this. Overall, I see the trend towards urbanisation as a negative development.

People choose to relocate to cities for a variety of reasons. Economic opportunity plays a significant role as cities usually offer a wider array of jobs and industries. The limited opportunity in rural areas often means that people have no choice but to move to a city if they wish to improve their career prospects and earning potential. In addition, the range of services and amenities in cities can be strong incentives. For example, cities generally have better healthcare facilities, so those with health issues may decide to relocate to a city in order to have access to such facilities. Most urban centres also have a vibrant cultural and social scene, with diverse entertainment options including restaurants and nightclubs, which tends to attract younger people from rural areas.

I mostly see the phenomenon of people relocating to cities as a negative development. Rapid growth can place significant strain on a city’s infrastructure. For example, as more and more people move to a city, the number of vehicles on the road tends to rise significantly. This can lead to traffic congestion, longer commute times and deteriorating road conditions. Environmental degradation is another major issue associated with urbanisation as it contributes to air and water pollution and encroaches on natural habitats, which can lead to the extinction of animal species.

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IELTS Hybrid Essay questions: How to solve Double Question essay in IELTS Writing Task 2?

There are five main types of essay questions in IELTS Writing Task 2. However, an IELTS Hybrid Essay question will combine any two of the five types and create a Double Question essay.

An IELTS Hybrid Essay should be solved by combining the formats for other types of essay . First, we have to figure out whether the question has two or three parts. Then, we cover all the parts of the Double Question essay in four or five paragraphs .

Examples of IELTS Hybrid Essay questions

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend around 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Format for Hybrid Essay IELTS

The basic structure of an IELTS Double Question essay is similar to the format for other essays in Writing Task 2. How many paragraphs to write depends whether the question has two parts or three parts.

For a two-part Double Question essay, we need four paragraphs. Alternatively, we have to write five paragraphs for a three part IELTS Hybrid Essay.

The following is an example of a two-part IELTS Hybrid Essay question:

For such essays, we need four paragraphs. The first and the last paragraphs are Introduction and Conclusion respectively. In the body, we need one paragraph for “ Why is this? ” and one more paragraph for “ positive or negative “.

On the other hand, here is a sample three-part IELTS Hybrid Essay question:

Here, we need five paragraphs. One of the three body paragraphs should focus on “ Why might this be the case? “. Similarly, there should be one paragraph dedicated to “ advantages ” and the other to “ disadvantages “.

Introduction for IELTS Two Question essay

Like any other essay, the first paragraph is the Introduction paragraph where we need to set the background of the essay and present our central thesis.

• Paraphrase the statements from the question
• Outline your main arguments in short

We can present the background of the question by simply rewriting the topic of the essay from the question. Then, we have to answer the three parts of the essay in short; they will be elaborated in the body paragraphs.

IELTS Hybrid Essay: The Body paragraphs

Whether we write two or three body paragraphs for an IELTS Two Question essay, each of these paragraphs follow the same structure.

The paragraph should begin with an original idea followed by explanation or clarification of it with the help of reasons and examples . These ideas should be the same ideas touched upon in the Introduction paragraph.

It is best to make the body paragraphs equal in length so that our response to the essay is viewed as balanced.

IELTS Double Question Essay: The conclusion

The last paragraph or the Conclusion of an IELTS Hybrid Essay question should comprise of the outline of the essay. This is to say that we have to conclude by mentioning the same points which were discussed in detail in the body paragraphs .

IELTS Hybrid Essay Example

You may also like:

IELTS Writing Evaluation Explained

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IELTS Discussion Essays [Discuss Both Views/Sides]

Posted by David S. Wills | Jun 14, 2021 | IELTS Tips , Writing | 3

In this lesson, I’m going to explain what an IELTS discussion essay is and how you can write a good one. I will talk about structure and content, as well as looking briefly at discussion essay thesis statements, which many people find tricky. I’ve also written a sample essay, which you can find at the bottom of this page.

What is a Discussion Essay?

As the name suggests, a discussion essay is an essay that discusses things! More specifically, it is a type of IELTS writing task 2 essay that requires you to look at two different points of view . You can easily recognise these essays by the following phrase:

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Sometimes it is phrased a little differently. It might say:

Discuss both sides and give your opinion

Discuss both points view and give your opinion

The important thing is that these all mean the same. When you see any of these, you know that you need to write a discussion essay. Importantly, this instruction tells you that you need to do two things:

• Discuss both views (there will have been 2 views mentioned in the previous sentence(s))
• Give your opinion (i.e. state which view you agree with)

If you failed to do either of these things, you would not have satisfied the basic criteria for Task Achievement .

Example Discussion Essay Questions

Here is a list of 5 discussion essay questions either from the IELTS exam, reportedly from the IELTS exam, or from reputable publications that have copied the IELTS question style. (Not that you absolutely should avoid fake IELTS questions when practising.)

Some people say that parents should encourage their children to take part in organised group activities in their free time. Others say that is important for children to learn how to occupy themselves on their own. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Some people prefer to spend their lives doing the same things and avoiding change. Others, however, think that change is always a good thing. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Some people feel that manufacturers and supermarkets have the responsibility to reduce the amount of packaging of goods. Others argue that customers should avoid buying goods with a lot of packaging. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Some people believe that higher education should be funded by the government. Others, however, argue that it is the responsibility of individuals to fund their higher education. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Some people believe that it is important for children to attend extra classes outside school, while others believe that they should be allowed to play after school. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

You can see in these questions that there is a similar pattern. In each case, the question phrase (“Discuss both views and give your own opinion”) is the same and in the previous sentence or sentences, there are two opposing views. This, then, makes “discuss both views” questions a sort of opinion essay .

How to Answer IELTS Discussion Questions

First of all, it is important when answering any IELTS task 2 question that you read the question carefully so that you understand it, then provide an answer that directly responds to the question, following its instructions carefully.

As discussed above, you are required to do two things: 1) Discuss both views, and 2) Give your own opinion. You absolutely must do both of those. It doesn’t really matter what your opinion is or whether you give equal weighting to both sides of the argument. Instead, you must cover both sides and also give some sort of opinion. (It is important, though, according to the marking rubric , that you are consistent in your opinion.)

Your answer of course should be structured carefully so as to present your ideas in a thoroughly logical way that is easy for your reader to interpret. I almost always use a four-paragraph structure in my essays, but some people prefer to use five paragraphs in this sort of essay. The difference would look like this:

You might be wondering why I have given my opinion in the body of the five-paragraph essay but not in the four-paragraph essay. Well, actually I would give my opinion in the body of both. However, my opinion would be more subtly woven into the text of the four-paragraph essay. I personally find this to be a better method, but it is equally possible that you could write an amazing five-paragraph essay. That issue is discussed further in this video:

Discussion Essay Thesis Statement

In academic writing, a thesis statement (sometimes called an essay outline ) is the part of the essay where you insert your opinion. It typically comes at the end of the introduction and guides the reader by explaining your opinion on the issues that have been introduced.

But do you really need to provide one in such a short essay? Well, a 2018 study into successful IELTS essays concluded that thesis statements were “obligatory” – i.e. you absolutely do need one. In fact, that study found that thesis statements appeared in 100% of successful IELTS discussion essays! Therefore, we can conclude they are very important.

Because a discussion essay will tell you to “Discuss both views and give your opinion,” you must introduce the two views and then give your opinion in the introduction. Here is an example:

Introductory paragraph:

In some parts of the world, children are forced to go to cram schools and other facilities of extracurricular learning, but many people believe that this is unfair and that they should be allowed to enjoy their free time instead. This essay will look at both perspectives and then conclude that it is indeed unfair.

My first sentence clearly introduces two different ideas:

• Children should do extra classes
• Children should not do extra classes

Note how I have successfully used synonyms to avoid repeating anything from the question. I have also framed the issue in a new way so that I am not just paraphrasing. (You can learn why paraphrasing is not always helpful here .)

My second sentence is the thesis statement. In this sentence, I outline what the essay will do (“look at both perspectives”) and then give my opinion (“it is unfair”). This is a simple but effective thesis statement.

Thesis Statement Advice

Your IELTS discussion essay thesis statement should do two things:

• Tell the reader what the essay will do
• Present your opinion

Because this is a formal essay, it is best not to be too personal. Instead of saying “I will…” or “I think…” it is better to say “This essay will…” Here are some simple templates that you can follow most of the time:

• This essay will look at both sides and then argue that…
• This essay will discuss both views but ultimately side with…

Just make sure to avoid being overly vague. You are required to give your opinion consistently throughout the essay, so don’t say “This essay will look at both sides and then give my opinion .” It is not really the best approach because the examiner wants to see that you can be consistent in presenting an opinion. That is clearly stated in the marking rubric. For band 7, it says:

• presents a clear position throughout the response

It could be concluded, then, that your opinion is not clear from the start and so you have not done enough to warrant a band 7 for Task Achievement.

Body Paragraphs

As I mentioned above, there are really two main approaches you could take to the body paragraphs:

• Discuss one view per paragraph and incorporate your opinion into each.
• Discuss one view per paragraph and then have another for your opinion.

I suppose there is also a third option:

• Compare and contrast the two viewpoints in each paragraph.

This last one may be a little harder to do successfully without jeopardising your score for Task Achievement or Coherence and Cohesion , but advanced candidates may find it useful.

Remember that there is no single perfect formula for an IELTS essay. That’s not how languages work and that’s not how IELTS works. Different people could come up with different ways to present a successful essay. The most common essay structures are mere guidelines for particularly useful methods of approaching an essay.

Does a Discussion Essay Have to be Balanced?

Because the question says “Discuss both views,” it is quite logical to think that you must provide some degree of balance, but you certainly don’t need to give equal weighting to both sides. Remember that you are also going to give your opinion, so if you come down strongly on one side of the issue, it might be odd to give equal attention to both.

If you do feel very strongly about one side, you might want to present your discussion of the other side as quite negative. However, IELTS is a thinking exam as well as an English exam and an intelligent person can always look at both sides of an issue and explain – at the very least – why someone might believe a thing that is different to his own view. This seems quite important, but there is nothing explicitly mentioned in the marking rubric.

I would suggest that if you think a two-sided issue is basically one-sided (i.e. you strongly disagree with the other view), you should still write one or two sentences about why people believe that and then devote the rest of your essay to disputing their view.

Another approach is to write BP1 as a very short paragraph that explains why people might think one thing, but then have BP2 as a very long paragraph that debunks the opposing view and then explains why the other is correct.

(You can read more about IELTS essays and balance here .)

Sample Answer

Here is my full sample answer to the above question about whether or not children should be made to do extracurricular activities:

In some parts of the world, children are forced to go to cram schools and other facilities of extracurricular learning, but many people believe that this is unfair and that they should be allowed to enjoy their free time instead. This essay will look at both perspectives and then conclude that it is indeed unfair. In countries like South Korea, most children are made to go to an array of cram schools outside of regular school hours. Their parents do this in order to give their child a better future because it helps the child to learn more and thus gives them the academic advantages needed to apply to the best universities or jobs in future. These schools often provide children with an advantage over their peers because they improve their foreign language or math skills more quickly, and thus the children who do not attend these schools might have comparatively poor grades. However, whilst this attitude may result in better academic performance, it is certainly not good for the mental health of these children. It is no coincidence that places like South Korea have the highest rates of suicide among their young populations. The fact is that children are not equipped to spend fourteen or sixteen hours per day in classrooms, memorising facts and figures. In a sense, it is a form of child abuse. Children should be allowed to go home and spend time with friends and family to build social skills. They should be allowed to occupy themselves in order to become more creative and learn how to understand their own mind instead of being trained to repeat what they are told. In conclusion, it is understandable that some parents want their children to go to extra classes, but this is damaging to children and they should be given the freedom to play and socialise outside of regular school hours.

In BP1, I have looked at the topic of cram schools (ie the side of the argument in favour of extra lessons). I explored why parents might want their kids to do this and show the supposed benefits. Note that I never embraced any of these benefits. I was careful to use language that distanced these ideas from my own opinion, which was the opposite, so I said “Their parents do this in order to…”

In BP2, I looked at the opposite side. I was careful to make sure that my first sentence linked to the previous paragraph, highlighting that the benefits are quite minor compared to the drawbacks. All of my sentences here justify my position, which is that it is cruel to force these extra lessons on children.

My conclusion ties all of this together. The first clause references BP1 and the second summarises the main argument in BP2.

You can find two more sample essays here:

• A discussion essay about sports facilities
• A discussion essay about sports abilities

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

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It is sometimes debatable whether asking children to get extra education after school or letting them play that is actually beneficial for them. Even though both viewpoints have benefits and drawbacks but I believe ,in the childhood age, children have to take rough and discipline education after school to be succeed in the future.

To begin with, many educational experts believe that playing is one of the essential aspects that have to be gotten by children to grow and happy. By using the playing approach, children can have a good mental and psychic health. Besides, letting children play after school can also support them to increase their emotional stimuli and get a positive social interaction. With this way, experts believe children can grow as a better adult in the future and have a freedom to get a better life in the upcoming times.

However, I completely contra with the first idea because I believe childhood is a better time to train children about academic or other skills that benefits them in the future. Based on scientific journal that I read, the ability of children in learning new things are more spectacular compared to adults. A lot of artists, scientist, and even football player who currently becoming a superstar in this era is a string of process that is began since their in the childhood. For instance, nowadays, I am working in the field of election supervision, it because since in my childhood my father love to force me learning about social and political issues by getting additional class. Thus, making children to get extra class after school is an appropriate preference if parents desire to see their son getting a good future.

To conclude, based on experts children have to get a freedom to play after schools but in my viewpoint it will be more advantages if they utilize the playing time with joining additional class after school.

VERY GOOD MR DIRWAN But actually you mixed both of the ideas , you need to take one side for this sort of essay writting, as it is mentioned in the above instruction. By the way WELL DONE . love from Pakistan to my sweet brother.

I have not checked in here for some time because I thought it was getting boring, but the last few posts are really great quality so I guess I’ll add you back to my everyday bloglist. You deserve it my friend. ??

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Direct Question Essay in IELTS: Everything You Need to Know

• Updated on  
• Dec 30, 2023

The IELTS Writing Task 2 demands test takers to write cohesive, nuanced, and insightful essays. Within this section, a diverse spectrum of essay types arises, such as opinion pieces, problem-solution analyses, and advantage/disadvantage examinations. Notably, amongst these stands the Direct Question Essay, characterized by its explicit and directive nature, demanding a clear and concise response within a 250-word limit. To know more about IELTS direct question essays, read the entire blog. 

This Blog Includes:

Top 5+ tips for direct question essay ielts, structure of an ielts direct question essay, scoring criteria for direct essay questions, most common ielts direct essay sample questions, ielts direct question essay samples .

Here are the top tips for direct question essays in IELTS writing task 2. Refer to them to bolster your chances of scoring better in IELTS writing. 

• Take a good look at the test questions before diving in. It’ll save you time and frustration in the long run, and make sure you’re answering what the examiners want to know.
• You should keep a formal tone while writing direct-question essays in IELTS writing task 2. 
• Individuals must stick to the given word limit. Exceeding the word limit can cause you to lose marks and time. Write your essay with a word count of at least 250-270 words. 
• Set a time restriction during your preparation to enhance your overall speed and accuracy. During your actual exam, you will get around 40 minutes to write a direct-question essay. Therefore, practising under time constraints can help you get accustomed to the actual time crunch you’ll face during the test. 
• A proper content structure must be followed, i.e., begin with an introduction paragraph, a two-body paragraph and end the essay with a concise conclusion.  
• Make your intro concise and to the point. In other words, keep them tight, clear, and accurate to the topic. 
• The main body paragraphs of your essay should answer the questions asked in the question.
• Refined writing with proper grammar and vocabulary makes a big impression and showcases your language proficiency. 

Sticking to the expected structure in IELTS direct question essays is crucial to avoid losing points and improve your chances of scoring better. Refer to the data given below to get a better understanding of the structure of IELTS Direct Question Essays. 

Introduction Paragraph

Always start your essay with a concise, articulated and punchy introduction. Intros that pack a punch can rope in a lot of eyeballs and encourage them to read further. Begin with a succinct yet insightful phrasing of the assigned prompt, then offer a taste of the key arguments you’ll elaborate upon in the subsequent paragraphs. 

Body Paragraph 1

Directly address the first question in the opening paragraph with a clear and comprehensive response. 

Body Paragraph 2

In this paragraph, feel free to explore your second or third questions, bolstering your arguments with illustrative examples for greater clarity and impact.

Conclusion Paragraph

Sum up your entire essay in this paragraph. Ensure that you have included all the major points in this part of the essay. 

The IELTS Direct Essay Questions are evaluated on the following factors: 

Task Achievement 

Your essay should answer all the questions asked on the topic. You should use linkers and examples to make your essay more cohesive, comprehensible and impactful. 

Lexical Resource

Diversify your lexical choices to enhance the persuasiveness and sophistication of your written arguments.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy

Evaluate your essay for grammatical inconsistencies that might detract from its persuasiveness and accuracy.

Maintain Coherence

Your IELTS Direct Question Essay should be coherent and comprehensible to the readers. It must be segregated into concise and articulated paragraphs that are easy to read and comprehend.

Here are the most common IELTS Direct Essay Sample Questions. 

Refer to the following samples to get a solid idea about IELTS direct question essays and how to answer them. 

Q: Online shopping is significantly increasing. What impact does this have on people, what are the disadvantages, and what are the job opportunities?

Ans: The internet’s discovery has transformed numerous facets of people’s lives, giving rise to online shopping and sparking significant societal changes. While it delivers numerous benefits, it also introduces disadvantages that warrant discussion.

One of the main disadvantages of online shopping is that it lacks a tangible experience as consumers can not touch, feel, or try the items they are purchasing beforehand. It not only causes dissatisfaction but has also increased return rates. In addition to this, the impersonal nature of online shopping has led to poor customer service. Apart from this, another significant concern of people is the risk of fraud and identity theft that it carries. With the growing prevalence of online transactions, consumers face a heightened risk of compromising their personal and financial information.

Despite these challenges, the rise of online shopping has created numerous job opportunities. The e-commerce industry is booming and requires a wide range of skills such as web development, digital marketing, logistics, and customer service. Due to this, new jobs have been created, allowing individuals to start their businesses. Furthermore, the need for improved cybersecurity has led to an increase in demand for this field. In today’s fast-paced world, businesses are emphasizing safeguarding their customers’ data and ensuring a secure online shopping experience, making cybersecurity an essential and integral part of the e-commerce industry.

In conclusion, although online shopping comes with a share of drawbacks, it also brings opportunities for various employment prospects. It is crucial for both consumers and businesses to effectively tackle these challenges while capitalizing on the opportunities provided by this expanding industry.

Q: Fast food is a part of life in many places. Some people think this has bad effects on lifestyle and diets. How is the consumption of fast food bad for people? Why should one avoid fast food? 

Ans : The omnipresence of fast food in today’s society is undeniable, as it has become an integral part of every individual’s life worldwide. However, fast food’s detrimental effects on our lifestyle and diet are unmistakable, and I wholeheartedly agree with this viewpoint for several reasons.

Fast food is often high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and calories while providing very few nutrients. If someone consumes it regularly, there is a high probability that it can lead to obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and other health-related problems. It is concerning as in the present scenario many countries are facing high rates of childhood obesity cases. In addition to this, the convenience of fast food has encouraged a sedentary lifestyle. Daily consumers tend to invest less time in preparing home-cooked meals and participating in physical fitness activities, contributing to social isolation. This lifestyle shift can have adverse effects on people’s overall well-being.

Moreover, fast food promotes overconsumption through clever marketing strategies. For instance, the ubiquitous practice of offering “value meals” with larger portions at only a slightly higher cost may entice customers to opt for larger servings than they need. Coupled with the addictive appeal of certain fast food ingredients, such as the high levels of salt, sugar, and fat, this marketing approach can significantly contribute to overeating and, consequently, weight gain.

In conclusion, while fast food may be an enticing option for many individuals, it comes with adverse impacts on health and overall lifestyle. Therefore, people need to make conscious decisions regarding their food consumption, and governments should actively play a pivotal role in promoting healthy eating habits. This may involve enacting regulations on fast food advertising, providing education, and encouraging physical activity.

With that, we conclude our foray into IELTS Direct Question Essays. 

Ans. The IELTS direct-question essay is divided into an introduction, two body paragraphs and a conclusion. 

Ans. Test takers can use a range of linkers, adverbial phrases, references, and punctuations to bolster their overall scores in IELTS writing. 

Ans. The IELTS Writing Task 2 requires individuals to complete the task within 40 minutes. 

Related Reads:

Visit the Leverage Live page of Leverage edu or contact our study abroad experts at 1800-57-2000 to strengthen your scores and application to secure your spot in your dream college. 

Shubham Das

Shubham Das has been working as an educational content writer for the past two years and has a background in filmmaking & screenplay/ teleplay writing. He is fascinated by the human psyche, literature and cinema.

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IELTS Preparation with Liz: Free IELTS Tips and Lessons, 2024

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100 IELTS Essay Questions

Below are practice IELTS essay questions and topics for writing task 2. The 100 essay questions have been used many times over the years. The questions are organised under common topics and essay types. IELTS often use the similar topics for their essays but change the wording of the essay question.

In order to prepare well for writing task 2, you should prepare ideas for common topics and then practise applying them to the tasks given (to the essay questions). Also see model essays and tips  for writing task 2.

Below you will find:

• Essay Questions By Topic
• Essay Questions by Essay Type

Please also note that my new Grammar E-book is now available in my store along with my Ideas for Essay Topics E-book and Advanced Writing Lessons. To visit store, click here: Liz’s Store

1) Common IELTS Essay Questions

IELTS practice essay questions divided by topic. These topics have been reported by IELTS students in their tests. Essay questions have been recreated as accurately as possible.

• Art   (5 essay questions)
• Business & Money   (17 essay questions)
• Communication & Personality   (20 essay questions)
• Crime & Punishment   (12 essay questions)
• Education   (17 essay questions)
• Environment   (12 essay questions)
• Family & Children   (8 essay questions)
• Food & Diet (13 essay questions)
• Government (6 essay questions)
• Health   (9 essay questions)
• Housing, Buildings & Urban Planning (8 essay questions)
• Language (6 essay questions)
• Leisure (1 essay question)
• Media & Advertising   (12 essay questions)
• Reading  (5 essay questions)
• Society   (10 essay questions)
• Space Exploration (3 questions)
• Sport & Exercise   (6 essay questions)
• Technology  (6 essay questions)
• Tourism and Travel   (11 essay questions)
• Transport  (7 essay questions)
• Work (17 essay questions)

2) IELTS Essay Questions by Essay Type 

There are 5 main types of essay questions in IELTS writing task 2 (opinion essays, discussion essay, advantage/disadvantage essays, solution essay and direct question essays). Click on the links below to see some sample essay questions for each type.

• Opinion Essay Questions
• Discussion Essay Questions
• Solution Essay Questions
• Direct Questions Essay Titles 
• Advantage / Disadvantage Essay Questions

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IELTS writing: model answer on accommodation.

Ielts two-part question essay on renting or owning a home..

Updated : November 9th 2022

A two-part question essay is pretty straightforward. Simply answer the first question in main body one, explain and give an example and then answer the second question in main body two. In the thesis statement briefly answer both questions. See the structure and the model answer below. The task is from Cambridge IELTS 15.

It is very important to spend a couple of minutes analysing the task question to understand the general topic as well as the specifics of what you need to write about. Set aside 10 minutes to plan and get ideas for an IELTS essay. Leave a few minutes at the end to check the essay for mistakes such as spelling etc.

IELTS two-part question essay structure.

Model Answer

In some countries, owning a home rather than renting one is very important for people. Why might this be the case? Do you think this is a positive or negative situation?

It is argued that in some nations owning a property is much more important than renting. This is mainly because owning a home gives a feeling of security, stability, and the freedom to renovate it. In my view, this is a positive development as homeowners can make money if they sell their house in the future.

To begin with, if people own their own home they do not have to worry about paying monthly rent and are less anxious about restrictions on decorating the interior. In other words, they tend to feel more stable and comfortable than if they were renting. This enables them to renovate and decorate their abode according to their desires, without the worry of a landlord complaining. For instance, recent research has shown that in the UK the vast majority of new homeowners feel that owning a home is an investment, so they spend most of their income on DIY projects, interior goods, and decorating.

I believe that there is a huge advantage to owning a home because it is an investment where the value of the house increases every year. That is to say, when someone buys a house and installs a new kitchen, or bathroom, and redesigns the interior, the value of the property rises considerably. For example, in England people who rent their homes will never get that money back, whereas those who buy a property can sell it for a considerable profit after just a few years, even in a tough economic situation.

In conclusion, owning a house or flat gives one a sense of security and the choice to redecorate. In my opinion, this is a great benefit because people who invest in their home can sell it later on at a profit.

In IELTS the examiner is not marking your essay on your ideas, rather they mark you on your ability to state an idea, explain and develop the essay, paragraphing, grammar, and vocabulary.

For example, in main body two at the end, I wrote: ‘those who buy a property can sell it for a considerable profit after just a few years, even in a tough economic situation’ . .T his is debatable because with the current economic situation people could lose their investment. However, the examiner is not marking you on this.

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50 Recent IELTS Essay Questions

Hey! It is so important that when you sit down to practice IELTS writing, you only use questions that are “genuine”. This means using either questions that come from the IELTS Cambridge 1 – 15   series or those that have been created by an exam writer like those in my 100 IELTS essay question blog post.  However, many students like to practice recent IELTS essay questions i.e. topics that have been reported by recent test-takers.

I understand why students want to do this – knowing what the recent IELTS essays questions are and checking that you can answer them is reassuring. However, unfortunately, test-takers rarely (if ever) manage to accurately remember the wording of the question that they had in their test.

Can they remember the general topic? Sure.

Can they remember the exact wording? Definitely not!

Sadly, changing even one word in a test can change the focus of a question and, therefore, make it impossible to answer! So, every month, I collect 50 recent IELTS essay questions from students in  My IELTS Classroom  , and edit them so that they are as close to perfect as possible.

Plus, I divide the questions into Academic and General Training (so you can be sure you are tackling the right type of questions) and have highlighted the main topic of each question for you.

This page is updated monthly and is now showing questions from 2021. If you want to see exam questions that reportedly appeared earlier in 2021, then you can look at our 2021 archive .

As always, these questions are provided so that you can check that you have ideas for the nw topics. If you are preparing with a teacher or want high-quality feedback on your  writing  then you should always use a question from the original IELTS Cambridge Series .

Academic IELTS Essay Questions (February 2021 – September 2021)

1. Some people think that criminal behaviour has genetic causes . Others believe that it is circumstances that lead people to commit a crime. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

2. Some people think that new houses should be built in the same style as older houses in an area. Others believe that local councils should allow people to choose different designs for their houses. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

3. Some people say that the best way to teach children to behave well is to punish them. Others argue that rewarding and praising children is a better way to teach them the difference between right and wrong. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

4.  Some people believe that women should be able to join their country’s army and police forces . Others think that only men should be allowed to work in these areas. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

5.  In some countries, there are not enough medical or educational facilities in rural areas. Therefore, some people believe newly graduated teachers and doctors should be sent to work in rural areas for some time. Others think that people should be free to choose where they work after graduation. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

6. A lot of research has shown that overeating can have a number of negative effects on the body. Some people therefore believe that the advertising of certain foods should be banned in the same way that some countries have banned advertising cigarettes. Do you agree or disagree?

7 Some people think that parents should teach their children about the importance of recycling . Others believe recycling should be taught in schools. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

8. The media has the right to publish information about the personal life of celebrities . To what extent do you agree or disagree?

9. Some people say that instead of preventing climate change, we need to find a way to live with it. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?

10. Young people today mostly learn by reading books or watching movies and TV shows , rather than personal experience. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

11. Big companies should provide sports and social facilities for the local communities where they operate. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

12. Some people argue that thanks to the widespread accessibility of the internet, libraries are no longer necessary. Do you agree or disagree?

13. If asked to choose between a life without work and a life that involves working most of the time, people will always choose not to work. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

14. Eighteen is the appropriate age for children to finish school. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

15. Schools should stop using books to teach and use films, TV and computers in the classroom instead. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Writing a good IELTS essay doesn’t have to be difficult. Follow our step-by-step guide to every type of essay to find out what the examiner expects and exactly what you can do to satisfy the band descriptors in our Task Two course. The first three lessons are free!

16. Nowadays foreign visitors show more interest in the museums of a country than its local residents do. Why is this? What can be done to attract more local residents to visit museums in their country?

17 Many companies sponsor sports teams and events to advertise their products or service . What advantages and disadvantages does this bring for the teams and individuals that these companies sponsor?

18. Most information today is available online whereas in the past it was stored in books or on paper. Do you think the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

19. The difference between countries is becoming less and less evident as people all over the world wear the same fashions, watch the same TV channels, use the same brands, and have similar eating habits. Do you think that the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?

20. Nowadays many people get the news online instead of reading it in newspapers or watching it on TV. Is this a positive or negative development?

21. In many countries today the proportion of older people in the population is higher than the proportion of younger people . Do you think this is a positive or a negative development?

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22. More and more tasks in the home and at work are being performed by robots . Why do you think this is the case? Is this a negative or positive development?

23. Nowadays tourists and scientists are allowed to travel to remote natural environments . Do you think the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

24. Due to population growth many people these days live in apartments with limited space and no outdoor areas. Do the advantages of this trend outweigh its disadvantages?

25. Every country in the world has its own road rules , but many drivers don’t obey them. What do you think are the reasons for this? What can be done to solve this problem?

BONUS In many countries, shopping is now one of the most popular types of leisure activity . Why do you so many young people like shopping? Is this a positive or a negative development?

What are the current Aacdemic writing trends?

My observation of the most recent IELTS essay questions from 2021 is that there have been A LOT of Discuss Both Sides and To What Extent questions. In fact, this is more or less all that I have seen in the first month of the new year, so be sure that you are ready to answer these.

GT IELTS Essay Questions (February 2021 – September 2021

1. Some people believe that individuals who earn a lot of money are the most successful in life . Others say that the individuals who contribute to the society (such as scientists or teachers) are more successful. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

2. It is universally accepted that eating too much  sugar has a negative effects on people’s health . Therefore, some believe that the government should control the amount of sugar people consume. Others think that it is the responsibility of an individual to monitor their sugar intake. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

3. Some people say that the development of technology means that people no longer need to learn the skill of handwriting . Others believe that it is still necessary for people to learn how to write by hand. Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

4. Some people believe that individuals over 65 should not be allowed to continue working . Others think that people should be allowed to work for as long as they choose. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

5. Some people think that it is a good idea for parents to help their children with their homework. Others believe that children should do their homework on their own. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

6. Some people think that the government should spend money on cultural activities such as music or art. Others think this is a waste of taxpayers’ money. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

7. Some people think that children should be taught how to become good parents at school . Do you agree or disagree?

8. Many mothers stay at home to take care of their family and don’t go out to work . Some people believe these mothers should be paid by the government. Do you agree or disagree?

9. In many countries, it is common for people to consume fast food. However, some people believe that fast food has too much influence on our lifestyle and diet. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

10. Some people say that playing sports helps to prepare children for their future jobs . Do you agree or disagree?

11. Some people say that the Olympic Games no longer play a role in the 21st century . Do you agree or disagree?

12.   People’s behaviour (for example, their table manners and they way they dress) varies from country to country. When traveling to a different country, people should copy the behaviour and habits of the inhabitants of the country they  visit. Do you agree or disagree?

13.  The best way to increase road safety is to make car drivers retake their driving test every year. Do you agree or disagree?

14.  Some people believe that family is more important than friends . What do you think?

15.  The Internet is the best place to find information . Do you agree or disagree?

16.  In many countries traditional customs are being lost.  Why do you think this is? What can parents and schools do to keep traditional customs alive? 

17.  People who are learning a foreign language can face a number of difficulties. What are some of these problems? In your opinion, what are the best ways to overcome these difficulties?

18. Young people today are often less polite and show less respect than previous generations . Why do you think this is? What can be done to solve this problem? 

19. Developments in technology mean that more and more machines are being used in the workplace instead of human employees. Does this development have more advantages or more disadvantages?

20. In some countries, young people choose to move from their parents’ home to their own house at an early age. In other countries, young people stay with parents for a longer time. Do you think young people who leave their parent’s home at a younger age have more advantages or disadvantages than those who stay?

21. In many parts of the world, more and more large supermarkets are opening and smaller local shops are closing down. Does this development have more advantages or more disadvantages for local people?

22. In some countries it is illegal to stop people applying for a job because of their age . Is this a positive or a negative development?

 23.  In many countries, people are earning more money today than in the past, so they are able to buy more things. Is this a positive or a negative development?

24. Nowadays, people prefer to shop at large shopping centres rather than in local shops or markets. Why is this? Is this a positive or negative development?

25. Nowadays in many countries traditional customs are becoming less popular than in the past . Do you agree or disagree? What can parents and teachers do about this?

BONUS –  Playing team sports at school can teach students a number of lessons that are useful outside of sport. What values can students learn from playing team sports? How can they apply these values in the future? 

What are the current GT writing trends?

So far this year, I have noticed two main trends for the recent IELTS essay questions for General Training students. First, there continue to be more 2-part questions than in the Academic test, and the topics seem to be more and more diverse.

Also, the test writers seem to making small changes to the wording of questions, which don’t actually change what you are expected to do, but may confuse some students. For example, in the past, you were always asked “Is this a positive or negative trend?” but recently the same question has been phrased as:

• Is this a good thing or a bad thing?
• Do you think this is right or wrong?
• Do you think this this a good or bad use of public money?

If you enter the exam room and feel confused by the question, my advice is always to simply answer the question that you have been given.

Yes, there are question types that repeat, but if you are given a direct essay question or a type of question that is unfamiliar, simply focusing on answering the question/s you have been given clearly is always the best approach!

Looking for an IELTS school run by native speakers who have a proven track record of helping students achieve their potential in IELTS? Then come join the students at  My IELTS Classroom  who are using our unique video courses, live lessons and marking service to maximise their scores. 

OK – those are the 50 most recent IELTS essay questions. I will try to do this every month so that you can be sure you have ideas for every possible IELTS question in your exam. Well, maybe not to every question, but at least by practicing with these, you will have sharpened your idea-generation skills . Plus, you can help me by adding any questions that you can remember from a recent IELTS exam in the comments below 🚀

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IELTS Two-part Question Essay Sample (Corrected)

Millions of people every year move to english speaking countries such as australia, britain or america, in order to study at school, college or university..

Why do so many people want to study English?

Why is English such an important international language?

English speaking countries like Australia, the USA and Britain are becoming a more popular destination destinations for students to study English. In this essay, I will discuss why English is such a n important language and why so many people want to study this language it .

English is a door - opener to well - paid jobs and the most used language among travellers, that's which is why so many students desire to study English as a second language. Many international companies require English skills as a minimum requirement for a job. A lot of people are studying English just to have a better change chance to get a well - paid job. Travelling is another reason why many people study English ; to travel without English skills can be very challenging, especially with customs on in airports. English is quite handy in a globalised world where English is the standard.

But However , English is not just important for individuals . it It is also a very important language for since and worldwide operating companies . For example, scientific research is done in English, so that the research can be published easier more easily to a global audience. Without a global audience, only a fraction of scientists would be able to finance themself themselves .

To sum up, without English the world would be running less smoothly from applying for a n international job to travelling : everything would be much harder. Scientific progress and international companies would be almost not possible impossible . I think English is irreplaceable for our society irreplaceable .

(233 words)

Band Score Estimate (prior to corrections)

Brief comments:

• You must write at least 250 words.
• The task asks two questions and wants reasons. Not just one reason.

"I have 7+ years of IELTS teaching experience . I will correct your grammar and give suggestions for more appropriate word use. I will give you tips on how to answer the question in the way the IELTS examiners expect." — Claudia, IELTS teacher from the UK

MORE ESSAY SAMPLES

IELTS Discussion Essay Sample

IELTS Agree / Disagree Essay Sample

IELTS Advantage / Disadvantage Essay Sample

IELTS Problem / Solution Essay Sample

IELTS Two-part Question Essay Sample

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IELTS Sample Essays

Here you will find IELTS Sample Essays for a variety of common topics that appear in the writing exam.

The model answers all have tips and strategies for how you may approach the question and comments on the sample answer.

You can also view sample essays with band scores on this page. 

Looking at IELTS essay topics with answers is a great way to help you to prepare for the test. 

These IELTS sample essays have been categorised in a way that makes it easy for you to see how certain essay question types require you to provide certain responses to ensure the question is fully answered. 

Specifically these are:

• Agree / Disagree
• Discuss Two Opinions
• Problems and Solutions
• Advantages and Disadvantages
• Other Types

Agree / Disagree Type Questions

In these types of question you are given one opinion and you then have to state the extent to which you agree or disagree with that opinion:

• Advertising
• Alternative Medicine
• Spending on the Arts
• Human Cloning
• Social Interaction & the Internet
• Airline Tax
• Free University Education
• Scientific Research
• Banning Smoking
• Employing Older People
• Vegetarianism
• Paying Taxes  
• Examinations or Formal Assessment 
• Multinational Organisations and Culture
• Internet vs Newspapers
• Technology Development  
• Dying of Languages
• Animal Extinction
• Truth in Relationships
• Role of Schools
• Return of Historical Artefacts

Discuss Two Opinions Type Questions

In this essay question type you are given two opinions, and you have to discuss both of these and then give your own view:

• University Education
• Reducing Crime
• Animal Rights
• Child Development
• Diet & Health
• Donating Money to Charity
• Closing Zoos   
• Becoming Independent  
• Formal and Informal Education  
• Influence of Scientists and Politicians
• Sources for Stories
• Searching for Extraterrestrial Life

Cause Type Questions

There are a variety of 'cause type' essay questions. In these you first have to give the reasons why something has happened, in other words the causes, but then discuss a different aspect of it, such as the effects, solutions or the extent to whether it is a positive or negative development:

Causes & Effects:

• Child Obesity
• Skin Whitening Creams
• Family Size
• Having Children Later in Life
• Time Away from Family

Causes and Solutions:

• Youth Crime
• Global Warming
• Paying Attention in Class
• International Travel & Prejudice 
• Museums & Historical Places
• Disappearance of Traditions
• Communication Between Generations

Causes, Pros & Cons:

• Family Closeness
• Living Alone
• Rural to Urban Migration

Problems & Solutions Type Questions

In these type of questions, instead of discussing the causes of a problem, you need to discuss the problems related to a particular issue in society, and then suggest what can be to solve these problems:

• Overpopulation
• Competing for Jobs  
• Professionals Immigrating

Advantage & Disadvantages Type Questions

In these type of questions you are asked to discuss the positive and negative sides of a particular topic. You will usually be asked this in the context of giving an opinion ( e.g. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? Is it a positive or negative development? ): 

• Traffic Problems
• Food Additives
• Computer Games
• Age Discrimination at Work  
• Children using Tablets and Computers  
• Cell Phones, Internet, & Communication  
• Working from Home 
• Eating Locally grown  Produce  
• Oil and Gas Essay  
• Peer Pressure on Young People
• Online Fraud
• Decreasing House Sizes

'Hybrid' Types of Essay Question

There are sometimes questions that don't fit easily into a particular category as above. I've called these 'hybrid', as they are of mixed character, are composed of different elements from other types of essay, or are perhaps just worded differently. 

• Protecting Old Buildings
• Animal Testing
• Fear of Crime
• Communication Technology
• Influence of Children's Friends  

Sample Essays with Band Scores

You can also view some sample essays that have been written by candidates practising for the test and have band scores and comments by an experienced ex-IELTS Examiner based on the IELTS marking criteria. 

• IELTS Band 8 Essay Samples
• IELTS Band 7 Essay Samples
• IELTS Band 6 Essay Samples
• IELTS Band 5 Essay Samples
• IELTS Band 4 Essay Samples

Student Sample Essays

For more IELTS essay topics with answers you can also view essays that have been written by students. Some have feedback from other students or IELTS teachers:

• Student Model Essays  (with comments by other students)
• Student Model Essays (with comments by IELTS buddy)

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