Writing Resources
IELTS Essay Templates
Clear structures for every IELTS Writing task type. Use these as a framework — not a script. Adapt the language to your own style.
Opinion / Agree or Disagree
Use this when the question asks 'To what extent do you agree or disagree?' or 'Do you agree or disagree?'
Introduction
Paraphrase the statement. State your position clearly — agree, disagree, or partially agree. Example: "While some argue that X, I firmly believe that Y because…"
Body 1 — Main reason
Topic sentence → Explain the reason → Give a specific example or evidence → Link back to the question.
Body 2 — Second reason (or counter-argument)
Topic sentence → Explain → Example → Concede the other side if you chose 'partial agreement': 'Admittedly, …, however…'
Conclusion
Restate your opinion using different words. Summarise the two main reasons. Do NOT introduce new ideas.
Examiner tip: Stick to ONE clear position throughout. Examiners penalise essays that contradict themselves.
Discussion — Two Views
Use this when the question says 'Discuss both views and give your own opinion'.
Introduction
Paraphrase the topic. State that you will discuss both sides and give your own view. Example: "This essay will examine both perspectives before concluding that…"
Body 1 — First view
Topic sentence presenting view 1 → Reasons + examples supporting this view.
Body 2 — Second view + your opinion
Topic sentence presenting view 2 → Reasons + examples → State your own opinion clearly in the final 2 sentences of this paragraph.
Conclusion
Summarise both views briefly. Restate your personal opinion.
Examiner tip: Your opinion can appear in Body 2 and the conclusion — but it must be consistent throughout.
Problem & Solution
Use this when the question asks 'What problems does this cause? What solutions can you suggest?'
Introduction
Paraphrase the issue. State that you will outline the main problems and propose solutions.
Body 1 — Problems
Introduce 2 main problems. For each: state the problem → explain why it is harmful → give a real-world example if possible.
Body 2 — Solutions
Propose a solution for each problem. Use hedging language: 'One way to address this would be…', 'Governments could…', 'Individuals should consider…'
Conclusion
Briefly restate the problems and solutions. End with an optimistic but realistic statement.
Examiner tip: Match solutions to problems — don't introduce a solution that has no corresponding problem in Body 1.
Advantages & Disadvantages
Use this for 'What are the advantages and disadvantages of…?' questions.
Introduction
Paraphrase the topic. State that you will examine both sides.
Body 1 — Advantages
Topic sentence → 2 advantages, each explained with reasons and examples. Use: 'One clear benefit is…', 'Furthermore, …'
Body 2 — Disadvantages
Topic sentence → 2 disadvantages with reasons and examples. Use: 'On the other hand…', 'A significant drawback is…'
Conclusion
Weigh up both sides. State whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages (or vice versa) with a reason.
Examiner tip: If asked 'Do advantages outweigh disadvantages?', your conclusion must give a clear verdict.
Describing a Graph or Chart
For bar charts, line graphs, pie charts, and tables.
Introduction
Paraphrase the title of the graph. Do NOT copy it word for word. Example: 'The line graph illustrates changes in [topic] between [years].'
Overview (2 sentences)
Identify the 2–3 most significant trends WITHOUT using data figures here. This is the most important paragraph for Task Achievement. Example: 'Overall, [X] increased significantly over the period, while [Y] remained relatively stable.'
Body 1 — Key trend / group 1
Describe the main feature in detail. Use specific figures. Start from the beginning and describe change over time OR compare across categories.
Body 2 — Key trend / group 2
Describe the second main feature or contrast. Include specific data. Compare where relevant.
Examiner tip: Always write an Overview paragraph. Examiners say this is the single biggest differentiator between Band 5 and Band 7.
Letter Writing
For formal, semi-formal, and informal letters.
Opening
Formal: 'Dear Sir or Madam,' / 'Dear Mr Smith,' Semi-formal: 'Dear Mr Johnson,' Informal: 'Dear Sarah,' or 'Hi Tom,'
Opening sentence — state your purpose
Formal: 'I am writing to enquire about…' / 'I am writing with regard to…' Informal: 'I'm writing because I wanted to let you know…'
Body — address all 3 bullet points
Dedicate at least one paragraph to each bullet point in the question. Do not skip any of them — this directly affects your Task Achievement score.
Closing
Formal: 'I look forward to hearing from you. Yours faithfully,' (unknown name) / 'Yours sincerely,' (known name) Informal: 'Hope to hear from you soon. Best wishes,' / 'Take care, [Name]'
Examiner tip: Match your register to the scenario. Mixing formal and informal language in one letter is one of the most common band-limiting mistakes.