How to Generate Ideas for IELTS Task Writing 2: Everything You Need to Know
Writing Task two is the most complex part of the IELTS exam as it requires candidates to write essays on given statements within a fixed time of 40 minutes. Your ideas are critical in determining whether you get a high band or not, the manner in which the ideas lie Within the Task Response band, which is 25% of your total score. We will help you understand how you are evaluated in IELTS Writing Task 2 and how to prepare for it.
Are Ideas evaluated in IELTS Writing Task 2
Yes, ideas are evaluated as one part of the Task Response criterion.
Relevance: Your ideas must be pertinent to the essay question and avoid digressing from the topic.
Development: Your ideas must be elaborated by providing explanations, examples, details, and further support.
Clarity: There must be logic and order in the argument presented
Support: Provide more information or examples that will make the arguments stronger.
Band Score Breakdown for Ideas in Task Response
The quality of your ideas significantly impacts your band score:Band 8Ideas are relevant, well-developed, and thoroughly supported.Band 7Ideas are extended and supported but may lack focus or clarity in some parts.Band 6Ideas are relevant but insufficiently developed or unclear.Band 5Ideas are limited, poorly developed, or contain irrelevant details.
To achieve a high score, you need to ensure your ideas are detailed, focused, and fully explained.
How to Prepare for IELTS Writing Task 2
Step 1: Know the Common Topics
IELTS Writing Task 2 questions cover:
Read articles, watch videos or explore sample essays to get familiar with these topics. If there are topics you are less confident about (e.g. factory farming or food preservatives), research them beforehand. A good resource is our 100 IELTS Essay Questions page which has sample questions across various topics.
Step 2: Keep Pre-Planed Ideas for Common Topics in IELTS Essays
Having pre-planned ideas for common topics can save you time during the exam and allow you to focus more on structuring your essay rather than generating new ideas on the spot. Knowing the common IELTS Writing Task 2 topics such as education, health and technology helps you to come to the exam prepared with relevant arguments and examples.
For education topics: You can discuss the advantages and disadvantages of online learning vs. traditional classrooms. Prepare arguments on how online learning offers flexibility and accessibility while traditional learning encourages face-to-face interaction and social skills.
For environmental topics: Develop ideas on renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power and their role in combating climate change. Explain how transitioning to these energy sources reduces carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
By practicing and memorizing these ideas youâll feel more confident during the test as youâll have examples ready to use.
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Step 3: Practice Brainstorming
Practicing the skill of brainstorming is key to generating ideas quickly during the exam. Start by reading different IELTS essay questions and breaking them down to develop clear arguments and points.
âSome people think that children should be taught financial management at school. Do you agree or disagree?â
When brainstorming ideas consider different perspectives:
Agree: You could argue that teaching financial management prepares children for real-life responsibilities such as budgeting, saving and investing. These skills will help them avoid financial problems in adulthood.
Disagree: You might suggest that schools should prioritize core subjects and financial management skills are better learned through practical experience or taught by parents at home.
For each point write down supporting detailsâexamples, statistics or explanations that can make your argument stronger. For example under âagreeâ you could mention that in countries like Japan financial literacy programs are already part of the school curriculum and have led to better financial habits among young adults.
The key to effective brainstorming is to make sure your ideas are relevant, clear and backed by evidence. Practice this with different prompts so when the test comes you can generate structured and well supported ideas for any topic.
Step 4: Plan Before You Write
Spend 5â10 minutes planning your essay before writing. Follow these steps:
â Identify the main idea for each paragraph (e.g., advantages/disadvantages).
â Decide on supporting points (examples, statistics, or illustrations).
â Think about how to link your ideas logically.
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Step 5: Develop Your Ideas Thoroughly
To score high in Task Response, you must explain your ideas fully:
â Add examples: âFor instance, renewable energy sources like solar power reduce carbon emissions.â
â Provide illustrations: âCountries like Sweden have successfully implemented recycling programs.â
â Include further details: âThis approach not only benefits the environment but also creates jobs in green industries.â
Avoid vague statements; always expand on your points with specific details.
Step 6: Review Model Essays
Reading model essays is an excellent way to learn how to structure and develop ideas effectively. Pay attention to:
â How writers introduce their arguments.
â The use of examples and evidence.
â Linking words that connect ideas smoothly.
You can find free model essays online or invest in an IELTS writing e-book for comprehensive guidance.
Do You Get Higher Scores for Interesting Ideas?
No, you donât need âinterestingâ or âuniqueâ ideas to score high in IELTS Writing Task 2. Examiners focus on how relevant and well-developed your ideas are, not whether they are creative or groundbreaking. Simple but well-explained arguments can earn you a Band 8 or higher if they address the task effectively.
Familiarize yourself with common topics and questions.
Practice brainstorming and outlining essays regularly.
Focus on developing clear, relevant, and well-supported ideas.
Use examples and evidence to strengthen your arguments.
Plan before writing to ensure coherence and logical flow.
By preparing thoroughly and practicing consistently, youâll be able to present strong ideas in your IELTS Writing Task 2 essayâand achieve the band score youâre aiming for!
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