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IELTS / Guides / Writing · Task 2: discussion essay
IELTS Writing · Guide

IELTS Writing Task 2 Discussion Essay: discuss both views and give your opinion

In a discussion essay you are given two views on an issue and asked to discuss both, usually adding your own opinion. It tests Task Response because every part of the question must be addressed: both views, and your opinion if requested. The danger is spending all your words on one view.

About Writing practice

Format

  • Task 2 of Writing: about 40 minutes, a minimum of 250 words, worth twice as much as Task 1.
  • The prompt gives two views ('Some people say... Others believe...') and asks 'Discuss both views and give your own opinion.' Some versions ask only to discuss both views.
  • Task Response is one of four equal criteria. An essay that omits one view or the requested opinion is limited, however good the language.
  • Typed on computer with a live word count. Fewer than 250 words is penalised; about 260 to 300 is realistic.
  • A standard essay: introduction, one body paragraph for each view, then your opinion in the introduction, the body or the conclusion.

Strategy

  1. Read the final instruction carefully. 'Give your own opinion' makes an opinion compulsory; if it is missing, discussing both views fairly is the task.
  2. Underline the exact wording of each view. Note what is being compared: a purpose against another purpose, a method against another method.
  3. Decide your own opinion before you plan, because it shapes the thesis. Write down two reasons for each view, and mark the side you find more convincing.
  4. Write an introduction paraphrasing both views and, if an opinion is requested, giving it: 'Although some argue that universities should prepare students for work, I believe they should also allow them to follow their interests.'
  5. Write the first body paragraph on one view, presenting it fairly with reasons and an example. Use reporting language: 'Supporters of this view argue that', 'It is often claimed that'.
  6. Write the second body paragraph on the other view in the same way. If you agree with it, say so with a reason: 'I find this argument more persuasive, because...'
  7. Make your opinion visible at the end in a conclusion that summarises both views and states which you favour. If your opinion is a combination, say so: 'On balance, the two aims are not in conflict.'
  8. Check that both views have roughly equal space, even if you agree with one. A view given one sentence has not been discussed.

Common traps

  • Writing only about the view you prefer, and giving the other a single sentence.
  • Leaving out your own opinion when the question asks for it, or writing 'both views have merits' as the only opinion.
  • Giving an opinion that changes between paragraphs, so the examiner cannot tell what you think.
  • Presenting the opposing view as a weak argument in a way that suggests you did not understand it.
  • Repeating the question in the introduction without paraphrase, with 'discuss both views' as the only content.

Practise it inside a real Writing section

Practice on PrepFreely is always a complete section, so you meet this question type in the same place and proportion as on test day. Random sections never repeat until you've done them all. Every answer is explained.

Practise Writing Take the Writing course

FAQ

Do I have to give my opinion?

Only if the question asks for it. If it says 'discuss both views and give your opinion', your opinion is part of the task. If it says only 'discuss both views', a fair discussion is enough.

Where should I put my opinion?

Make it clear in the introduction and confirm it in the conclusion. You can also explain it in the paragraph on the view you prefer.

Should the two body paragraphs be the same length?

Roughly, yes. Equal weight shows you have discussed both views.

Can I agree with both views?

Yes, if you explain it. A synthesis such as 'both aims can be achieved' is a legitimate opinion.

How is this different from an opinion essay?

An opinion essay defends one position. A discussion essay must give both views fair treatment, and your opinion is added to that.

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