IELTS Writing Task 2 Practice Questions 2026: Check Latest Essay Topics, Questions, and Sample Answers

| Updated On - Aug 10, 2026

The IELTS Writing Task is the same for both Academic and General Training. Applicants need to write a 250-word essay on the given topic. The topic can be opinion-based, agree or disagree, a discussion topic, or describe a problem and give a solution.

Applicants can find the latest IELTS Writing Task topics below in the article. Practicing these topics will help them to familarise with the writing pattern, time limit, and question. Applicants willing to score well in IELTS can practice these topics and check the sample answers given.

Table of Contents

Latest IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Questions
1.1 Opinion-Based Essay Topics 2026

1.2 Agree or Disagree Essay Topics 2026

1.3 Discussion Essay Topics 2026

1.4 Advantages or Disadvantages Essay Topics

1.5 Problem and Solution Essay Topics 2026

1.6 Two-Part Questions Essay Topics 2026
Time Management Strategy for IELTS Writing Task 2026
Common IELTS Writing Mistakes and Solutions 2026
FAQs

Latest IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Questions

IELTS Writing Task 2 is an essay writing task. Applicants need to write a 250-word essay in 40 minutes. The Task 2 questions are opinion-based, agree or disagree, discussion, advantage or disadvantage, problem & solution, and two-part questions. Unlike Task 1, Writing Task 2 is the same in both IELTS Academic and General Training.

Applicants planning to apply for the September intake must appear for the IELTS in August 2026. They should practice these questions to get their required scores on the first attempt itself. Follow the topics below to know the task more accurately.

Opinion-Based Essay Topics 2026

An opinion essay asks you to present your personal view on a particular issue or statement. You need to clearly state your position and support it with logical reasons and relevant examples. Your answer should focus on explaining why you hold that opinion.

IELTS Writing Question	Sample Answer PDF
Some people believe that university education should be free for everyone, while others think students should pay tuition fees. Discuss and give your opinion.	Check Sample Answer 1
Some people think that working from home improves employees' productivity, while others believe it reduces productivity. To what extent do you agree or disagree?	Check Sample Answer 2
Many people believe that social media has hurt communication between people. To what extent do you agree or disagree?	Check Sample Answer 3
Some people think that governments should spend more money on public transport than on building new roads. To what extent do you agree or disagree?	Check Sample Answer 4
Children should grow up in the countryside rather than in a large city. To what extent do you agree or disagree?	Check Sample Answer 5

An opinion essay asks you to take a clear position on an issue. Start by identifying exactly what the question is asking you to agree with or support, then decide your position before planning your ideas. Build your response around two or three strong reasons that directly support your opinion, and explain each reason with examples or consequences.

Pro tips for opinion-based essay topic:

Make your position clear in the introduction instead of making the examiner guess what you think.
Choose two strong arguments that directly support your opinion rather than including several weak points.
If you have a strong opinion, you do not need to give equal space to the opposing view unless the question specifically asks you to discuss it.
Use your body paragraphs to explain why your opinion is valid instead of simply repeating the statement in different words.
Make sure your conclusion reflects the same opinion that you presented in the introduction and body paragraphs.

Agree or Disagree Essay Topics 2026

An agree or disagree essay gives you a statement and asks whether you support or oppose it. You should clearly state your position and develop your arguments with explanations and examples. You can completely agree, completely disagree, or partly agree with the statement.

Topic	Sample Answer
Some people believe that schools should teach students practical skills such as managing money and cooking. To what extent do you agree or disagree?	Check Sample Answer 1
Some people think that advertisements encourage people to buy things they do not need. To what extent do you agree or disagree?	Check Sample Answer 2
People today spend too much time at work and not enough time with their families. To what extent do you agree or disagree?	Check Sample Answer 3
Some people believe that competitive sports are beneficial for children, while others think they have negative effects. To what extent do you agree or disagree?	Check Sample Answer 4
It is more important for governments to invest in preventing diseases than in treating them. To what extent do you agree or disagree?	Check Sample Answer 5
Some people believe that museums should be free for everyone, while others think visitors should pay an entrance fee. To what extent do you agree or disagree?	Check Sample Answer 6
Modern technology has made people less dependent on one another. To what extent do you agree or disagree?	Check Sample Answer 7
Some people think that famous people are paid too much money. To what extent do you agree or disagree?	Check Sample Answer 8

In an agree or disagree essay, you are given a statement and asked to decide whether you support it. First, determine whether you completely agree, completely disagree, or partly agree with the statement. Your body paragraphs should then provide clear reasons that justify your position rather than discussing the topic generally.

Pro tips for agree or disagree essay topics:

Use a clear position such as completely agree, completely disagree, or partly agree and maintain it throughout the essay.
If you partly agree, clearly explain which aspect of the statement you support and which aspect you do not.
Avoid writing one paragraph supporting the statement and another opposing it unless you have clearly stated that you partly agree.
Make sure every body paragraph answers the question of why you agree or disagree rather than simply describing the topic.
In the conclusion, restate your position clearly instead of introducing a new argument.

Discussion Essay Topics 2026

This essay type presents two different opinions about a particular topic. You need to explain both views fairly before giving your own opinion. Each viewpoint should be supported with clear explanations and relevant examples.

Topic	Sample Answer
Some people believe that children should begin learning a foreign language at primary school, while others think it should start at secondary school. Discuss both views and give your opinion.	Check Sample Answer 1
Some people think that employers should focus more on employees' personal qualities than their academic qualifications when hiring. Discuss both views and give your opinion.	Check Sample Answer 2
Some people believe that technology makes people's lives easier, while others think it makes life more complicated. Discuss both views and give your opinion.	Check Sample Answer 3
Some people think that young people should be encouraged to work or travel for a year before starting university. Others believe they should begin university immediately after school. Discuss both views and give your opinion.	Check Sample Answer 4
Some people believe that governments should provide financial support to artists, while others think that artists should earn money from their own work. Discuss both views and give your opinion.	Check Sample Answer 5
Some people believe that children should be taught at home by their parents, while others think they should attend school. Discuss both views and give your opinion.	Check Sample Answer 6
Some people think that students should study whatever subjects they are interested in, while others believe they should focus on subjects that are useful for future employment. Discuss both views and give your opinion.	Check Sample Answer 7
Some people believe that governments should prioritise economic growth, while others think environmental protection should come first. Discuss both views and give your opinion.	Check Sample Answer 8
Some people prefer to live in large cities, while others prefer to live in small towns or villages. Discuss both views and give your opinion.	Check Sample Answer 9
Some people think that public libraries are no longer necessary because people can access information online. Others believe libraries are still important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.	Check Sample Answer 10

This question requires you to deal with two different opinions before presenting your own position. Start by identifying what each side believes and why they hold that view. Give both perspectives proper explanation, then clearly state which view you support or whether you have a balanced position.

Pro tips for discussion essay topics:

Do not discuss only the view you personally support because the question specifically requires both views.
Give each viewpoint its own clear explanation so that the examiner can see that you have addressed both sides.
Your opinion can be stated in the introduction and reinforced in the conclusion rather than being left until the final paragraph.
Do not simply write that one group agrees and another disagrees; explain the reasons behind each position.
If you support one view more strongly, make this clear while still acknowledging why the other side may have some merit.

Advantages or Disadvantages Essay Topics

An advantages and disadvantages essay asks you to examine both the positive and negative aspects of a particular development or situation. You should explain the main advantages and disadvantages clearly. Relevant examples can be used to support each point.

Topic	Sample Answer
More people are choosing to study online rather than attend traditional universities. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this development?	Check Sample Answer 1
An increasing number of people are choosing to live alone. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?	Check Sample Answer 2
Many companies now allow employees to work remotely. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?	Check Sample Answer 3
International tourism has become increasingly popular in recent years. What are the advantages and disadvantages of international tourism?	Check Sample Answer 4
More people are choosing to buy products online instead of shopping in physical stores. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?	Check Sample Answer 5
An increasing number of companies are using artificial intelligence to perform tasks previously done by humans. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this development?	Check Sample Answer 6
Many people now use digital payment methods instead of cash. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?	Check Sample Answer 7

For this essay type, identify the main benefits and drawbacks of the development mentioned in the question. Choose the most significant points rather than trying to list every possible advantage and disadvantage. Each point should be explained in terms of how and why it affects people, society, businesses or the environment.

Pro tips for advantage or disadvantge questions:

Select two or three meaningful advantages and disadvantages instead of creating a long list of undeveloped points.
Explain the result of each advantage or disadvantage so the paragraph contains analysis rather than simple statements.
Use examples that directly demonstrate the benefit or drawback you have discussed.
Keep the essay balanced when the question only asks you to discuss advantages and disadvantages.
Do not automatically say that the advantages are greater than the disadvantages unless the question specifically asks whether they outweigh each other.

Problem and Solution Essay Topics 2026

A problem and solution essay focuses on an issue affecting individuals, society, or the environment. You need to identify the main problems associated with the topic and suggest practical solutions. Each solution should be explained clearly rather than simply listed.

Topic	Sample Answer
In many cities, traffic congestion is becoming a serious problem. What are the main causes of this problem, and what measures can governments take to solve it?	Check Sample Answer 1
Many young people spend a large amount of time using smartphones and social media. What problems can this cause, and what solutions can you suggest?	Check Sample Answer 2
In many countries, the number of people who are overweight is increasing. What are the reasons for this, and what can governments and individuals do to address the problem?	Check Sample Answer 3
Many cities around the world are experiencing a shortage of affordable housing. What are the causes of this problem, and what solutions can governments provide?	Check Sample Answer 4
Plastic waste is increasing in many countries. What problems does this cause, and what measures can individuals and governments take to reduce it?	Check Sample Answer 5

A problem and solution essay requires you to explain the problems associated with an issue and suggest ways to address them. First, identify the most important problems and explain their causes or consequences. Then propose realistic solutions and show how each solution could reduce or solve the problem.

Pro tips for Problem or solution essay:

Make sure every solution is connected to a specific problem discussed earlier in the essay.
Do not simply write that governments should take action; explain what action they should take and how it would help.
Prioritise practical solutions that could realistically be implemented by governments, organisations or individuals.
If the question concerns a social problem, consider solutions at both individual and institutional levels where appropriate.
Avoid giving solutions that are too broad, such as “people should be more responsible”, without explaining what they should actually do.

Two-Part Questions Essay Topics 2026

A two-part question essay contains two questions related to the same topic. You must answer both questions fully and give equal attention to each part. Clear explanations, supporting ideas, and relevant examples should be used to develop your answers.

Topic	Sample Answer
More people are choosing to change careers several times during their working lives. Why is this happening? Is this a positive or negative development?	Check Sample Answer 1
Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used in education. What benefits can AI provide to students and teachers? What problems might it create?	Check Sample Answer 2
Many young people prefer to spend their money on experiences such as travel and entertainment rather than on material possessions. Why is this happening? Is this a positive or negative development?	Check Sample Answer 3
People are becoming increasingly interested in learning about the history of their own families. Why is this happening? How can people research their family history?	Check Sample Answer 4
Many people now prefer to watch films and television programmes at home rather than go to cinemas. Why is this happening? What effect could this trend have on the film industry?	Check Sample Answer 5

A two-part question contains two separate questions related to the same topic, and both must be answered fully. Before writing, underline or identify the two questions and plan at least one or two clear ideas for each. Your response should give sufficient explanation to both parts rather than focusing heavily on only one.

Pro tips for Two-part questions:

Identify both questions before planning because answering only one part can significantly weaken your response.
Give approximately equal attention to both questions unless one clearly requires more explanation.
Use separate body paragraphs for each question when this makes your ideas easier to organise.
Make sure your answer directly responds to the wording of each question rather than discussing the broader topic.
Before submitting your essay, check that you can identify a clear answer to both questions in your response.

Time Management Strategy for IELTS Writing Task 2026

The IELTS Writing test is 60 minutes long and includes two tasks. Candidates should spend around 20 minutes on Task 1 and 40 minutes on Task 2. Since Task 2 carries twice the weight of Task 1, effective time allocation is essential for maximising the Writing score.

IELTS Writing 2026: 60 Minute Game Plan

Stage	Time	What to Do
Task 1 Planning	3 minutes	Understand the question and identify key features
Task 1 Writing	14 minutes	Write the response with clear organisation
Task 1 Checking	3 minutes	Check grammar, spelling and figures
Task 2 Planning	5 minutes	Identify the essay type, position and main ideas
Task 2 Writing	30 minutes	Develop the introduction and body paragraphs
Task 2 Checking	5 minutes	Check grammar, vocabulary and task response

Common IELTS Writing Mistakes and Solutions 2026

IELTS Writing mistakes can affect your score across Task Achievement or Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Identifying these errors during practice can help you improve your writing more effectively.

The table below highlights the most common mistakes and practical ways to avoid them in the IELTS Writing test:

Common Mistakes	Solutions
Not answering the question	Identify the exact instruction words before writing and make sure every part is answered.
Unclear opinion	Decide your position during planning and state it clearly in the introduction and conclusion.
No overview in Task 1	Add a clear overview highlighting the most significant changes, comparisons or patterns.
Describing every number	Select key figures and group similar information instead of reporting every number.
Poor paragraph organisation	Give each body paragraph one main idea and develop it with explanation and supporting details.
Memorising essays	Learn essay structures and planning techniques instead of memorising complete answers.
Incorrect advanced vocabulary	Use precise vocabulary and accurate collocations that you are confident using.
Repeating words and ideas	Use natural synonyms where appropriate and develop different aspects of your argument.
Grammar errors in complex sentences	Use a mixture of sentence structures and only use complex forms you can control accurately.
Undeveloped ideas	Develop each main point using the structure: main idea followed by explanation, example, and result.
Poor time management	Follow the 20 minute Task 1 and 40 minute Task 2 allocation and reserve time for checking.
No proofreading	Reserve around 5 minutes at the end to check recurring errors and incomplete sentences.

IELTS Writing Task 2 requires a 250 word essay completed within 40 minutes, with questions covering six main essay types. Candidates should use a structured time plan, answer every part of the question, and develop relevant ideas with clear explanations. Regular practice with sample questions and focused error checking can improve Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, vocabulary, and grammatical accuracy.

FAQs

Ques. Is IELTS Writing Task 2 the same for Academic and General Training?

Ans. Task 2 has the same minimum word requirement of 250 words and approximately 40 minute time limit in both IELTS Academic and General Training. The Academic test expects an academic style, while General Training Task 2 uses a semi formal or neutral style.

Ques. How many words are required for IELTS Writing Task 2?

Ans. Candidates must write a minimum of 250 words for IELTS Writing Task 2. Writing fewer than 250 words can result in a penalty. There is no fixed maximum, but writing excessively long answers can reduce the time available for checking and may lead to irrelevant ideas.

Ques. How much time is given for IELTS Writing Task 2?

Ans. Candidates should spend about 40 minutes on Writing Task 2. The complete IELTS Writing test lasts 60 minutes, with approximately 20 minutes recommended for Task 1 and 40 minutes for Task 2.

Ques. What are the different types of IELTS Writing Task 2 questions?

Ans. Task 2 questions can require candidates to present or justify an opinion, discuss different views, compare advantages and disadvantages, suggest solutions to problems, or evaluate ideas and arguments. The exact wording of the question determines what the candidate needs to address.

Ques. What are the different types of IELTS Writing Task 2 questions?

Ques. How can I practise IELTS Writing Task 2?

Ans. Practise different types of Task 2 questions under the 40 minute time limit. After completing an essay, check whether you have answered all parts of the question, developed your ideas clearly and used appropriate vocabulary and grammar. Official IELTS also provides sample test questions and Writing preparation resources.

Ques. Can I use personal examples in IELTS Writing Task 2?

Ans. Yes. Relevant examples can be based on your own experience when appropriate. However, the example should directly support the argument or idea being discussed rather than becoming unrelated personal information.

Ques. Do I need to write exactly 250 words in IELTS Writing Task 2?

Ans. No. 250 words is the minimum requirement, not an exact target. Candidates can write more than 250 words, but an unnecessarily long response may leave less time for checking and may include ideas that are not relevant to the question.

Ques. How can I improve my IELTS Writing Task 2 score?

Ans. Focus on fully addressing the question, developing relevant ideas, organising your response logically, and improving the accuracy and range of your vocabulary and grammar. Regularly practise under the 40 minute limit and review your recurring errors against the four IELTS Writing assessment criteria.

Ques. What should I check after completing an IELTS Writing Task 2 essay?

Ans. Check whether you have answered every part of the question, developed your main ideas with relevant support, maintained logical organisation, and used vocabulary and grammar accurately. You should also check that the response is at least 250 words and remains relevant to the topic.