IELTS WRITING

TASK 2 CHEAT SHEET

Lengthen your writing
There are several tips and structures that you can use to improve the length of your writing, without
affecting its content.
A/ Introduction:
1/ Setting a longer context:
-

... with the development of technology, ... has become a matter of controversies, which
provoked great interests in both supporters and opponents.
In our contemporary life, it may indeed be true that ... is an issue that no individual may
overlook, as it may have a great influence in peoples life.

2/ State the matter in more details:

-

While an army of people hold on to the belief that ..., others stand their ground saying that...
Despite the great benefits ... has brought to the society, there has been some ideas being put
forward that...
It can not be denied that the problem is caused by a combination of factors, instead of a
single one. In the same way, only by applying various solutions simultaneously can we hope
to effectively tackle the matter.

3/ State the purpose of the essay in more details:

-

This essay aims to look at both points of view with some facts being closely examined,
before offering the writers own opinion/ before offering some feasible solutions to the
problem.
In this essay, both sides of the matter will be thoroughly discussed, before a final conclusion
can be drawn.
In order to reach a final conclusion, it is vital that both sides of the debate be discussed and
analyzed, with facts being closely examined.

B/ Body
1/ Using relative clauses that are general in meaning:
-

... which is a threat to the society

... which can exert detrimental effects on human/humans life/health/the society
... which is an undeniable advantage it has brought to our life
Children, who are unable to distinguish right from wrong...
a large number of consumers who are not familiar with such content/style/products may find
it hard to make a wise decision.
Those who support the idea of ... often cite two main arguments, the most convincing of
which is that...

2/ Using transition and signal words (signposting)

-

First and foremost, furthermore, as a result, however...

Another aspect we need consider is that...
Looking at the matter from another aspect, we have to admit that...

3/ Other notes:
-

Vary the length of the sentences instead of using complex sentences all the time.
Pay attention to punctuation and capitalization.
Make sure the spelling is right.
It is best to have three ideas in each paragraph.
Try to apply this structure to make your writing clearer for each idea.
Idea ->
Explanation ->
Example
->
Conclusion.

C/ Closing
The same tips for the introduction can be applied to the closing as well.
-

In conclusion, ... has been and will still be a thorny question that needs an answer.
Only by a combination of effort from the government, schools and individuals can we hope
to achieve great results in the fight against...
Parents and school should shoulder responsibility in solving the problem.

PRACTICE TOPICS
1/ A growing number of people feel that animals should not be exploited by people and

that they should have the same rights as humans, while others argue that humans must
employ animals to satisfy their various needs, including uses for food and research.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
2/ Government investment in the arts, such as music and theatre, is a waste of money.
Governments must invest this money in public services instead.
To what extent do you agree with this statement?
3/ There are many types of music in the world today. Why do we need music? Is the
traditional music of a country more important and should it be preserved or is
international music that is heard everywhere nowadays more useful to a society?
4/ Some people think that children's free time must include educational activities
otherwise they will waste their time.
What is your opinion?
5/ Developed countries have created many environmental problems in the World,
particularly in their contribution to global warming.
What can be done to reduce the dangers of global warming?