IELTS Writing Examples: 50+ Practice Tests with Band 9 Answers & IELTS Writing Checker

Access 50+ IELTS writing examples with model band 9 answers and expert analysis. Our IELTS writing checker provides instant feedback on your IELTS writing practice tests. Learn proven strategies from IELTS online coaching that helped 10,000+ students improve their IELTS writing test scores by up to 1.0 band. Includes templates for all IELTS writing task 2 question types!

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Introduction

Preparing for IELTS writing task 2 can be one of the most challenging aspects of your IELTS writing test journey. This high-stakes component requires not just strong English skills, but also effective planning, critical thinking, and persuasive writing abilities. The good news? With systematic IELTS writing practice and targeted IELTS online coaching, you can significantly enhance both your confidence and score.

This comprehensive guide offers practical insights, authentic IELTS writing examples, and expert-analyzed model answers to help you excel in this crucial exam section. Whether you’re targeting band 6 or aspiring for band 8+, these IELTS writing practice strategies and resources will put you on the path to success.

ℹ️ Info

Did you know? IELTS writing task 2 contributes approximately 66% of your total IELTS writing band score, making it twice as important as Task 1. Mastering this component through regular IELTS writing practice and using our IELTS writing checker can dramatically improve your overall result!

Understanding IELTS Writing Task 2

Importance of IELTS Writing Task 2

IELTS writing task 2 carries significant weight in your overall writing assessment for good reason. This component of the IELTS writing test evaluates your ability to:

  • Present and justify an argument in your IELTS writing practice
  • Express and support opinions using IELTS writing examples
  • Analyze problems with proper collocations for IELTS
  • Propose solutions with structured approaches
  • Evaluate ideas and evidence in your IELTS writing practice

Your performance here directly impacts university applications, immigration processes, and professional accreditation. Understanding the IELTS writing task 2 format through IELTS online coaching is the essential first step in your preparation journey.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Requirements at a Glance:

  • Time allocation: 40 minutes of your IELTS writing test
  • Minimum word count: 250 words in your IELTS writing practice
  • Contribution to writing score: Approximately 66% of your IELTS writing band
  • Answer format: Formal academic essay with IELTS writing examples structure
  • Assessment criteria: Task Response, Coherence & Cohesion, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range & Accuracy

Types of IELTS Writing Examples

Each IELTS writing task 2 question falls into a specific essay type, each with distinct requirements and optimal structures. The IELTS writing checker helps you recognize these types instantly to formulate the most effective response strategy in your IELTS writing practice.

Essay Type Key Identifiers IELTS Writing Practice Approach IELTS Writing Examples Prompt
Opinion “Do you agree or disagree?” “To what extent do you agree?” Clear position + supporting arguments “Some people believe that children should learn to compete, while others believe they should be taught to cooperate. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this IELTS writing task 2 question?”
Discussion “Discuss both views” Balanced exploration + personal opinion “Some people think international tourism harms local cultures. Others believe it benefits communities. Discuss both views and give your opinion in this IELTS writing practice task.”
Problem-Solution “What problems?” “What solutions?” Problem analysis + viable solutions “Traffic congestion is becoming a major problem in many cities. Suggest some measures that could be taken to reduce traffic in urban areas in this IELTS writing test task.”
Advantage-Disadvantage “What are the advantages and disadvantages?” Balanced analysis of pros and cons “Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of living in a foreign country in your IELTS writing practice.”
Two-part Question Contains two distinct questions Equal attention to both questions “Why do many historical sites attract mainly tourists rather than locals? What could be done to attract more local visitors? Address both parts equally in your IELTS writing examples.”

Common IELTS Challenges

Identifying your potential obstacles is the first step to overcoming them. Here are the most common challenges faced by IELTS candidates:

  1. Time pressure - Completing a well-structured essay in just 40 minutes
  2. Idea generation - Coming up with relevant, developed points under exam conditions
  3. Task analysis - Correctly identifying what the question is really asking
  4. Structural organization - Creating a logical, coherent argument flow
  5. Language precision - Using appropriate vocabulary and grammar
  6. Example relevance - Providing specific, pertinent examples to support arguments

⚠️ Warning

Common Pitfall: Many candidates misinterpret the prompt and write off-topic essays. Always spend 3-5 minutes analyzing exactly what the question is asking before planning your response.

For strategies to overcome these challenges, check our guide on Common Mistakes to Avoid in IELTS Writing Task 2.

Effective Strategies for IELTS Writing Practice

Planning Your IELTS Writing Test Response

Effective planning is the foundation of high-scoring IELTS writing examples. Though it might seem tempting to dive straight into writing, dedicating 5-7 minutes to planning during your IELTS writing practice drastically improves essay quality and saves time overall, as endorsed by IELTS online coaching experts.

5-Step IELTS Writing Practice Planning Process

  1. Analyze the question (2 mins)

    • Identify topic and instruction words in the IELTS writing task 2 prompt
    • Determine essay type for your IELTS writing practice
    • Understand exactly what’s being asked by the IELTS writing test

  2. Brainstorm relevant ideas (1-2 mins)

    • Generate 2-3 main points for your IELTS writing practice
    • Consider both sides if required in this IELTS writing task 2
    • Think of specific examples for your IELTS writing examples

  3. Select your strongest points (30 secs)

    • Choose ideas you can develop fully in your IELTS writing practice
    • Ensure ideas directly address the IELTS writing task 2 question
    • Select points you can support with examples in your IELTS writing test

  4. Organize logical structure (1 min)

    • Decide paragraph order for your IELTS writing practice
    • Note topic sentences for each paragraph of your IELTS writing examples
    • Plan how paragraphs will connect in your IELTS writing task 2 response

  5. Draft thesis statement (30 secs)

    • Create clear position for your IELTS writing practice
    • Preview main points if appropriate for your IELTS writing task 2

The investment in planning pays dividends in the quality of your final essay. For comprehensive planning techniques, see our guide on Effective Essay Planning Techniques.

Structuring Your IELTS Essay

A well-structured essay guides your reader smoothly through your argument. While the specific structure may vary slightly based on essay type, this fundamental framework works for most Task 2 responses:

Introduction (3-4 sentences)

  • Background/context statement on the topic
  • Paraphrased version of the question
  • Clear thesis statement (your position or approach)

Body Paragraph 1 (4-6 sentences)

  • Topic sentence stating first main argument
  • Explanation/elaboration of your point
  • Specific example or evidence
  • Analysis showing how this supports your thesis

Body Paragraph 2 (4-6 sentences)

  • Topic sentence stating second main argument
  • Explanation/elaboration of your point
  • Specific example or evidence
  • Analysis showing how this supports your thesis

(Optional) Body Paragraph 3

  • Used for discussion essays or to present counterarguments
  • Follows same internal structure as other body paragraphs

Conclusion (2-3 sentences)

  • Summary of key points (not simply repeated)
  • Restatement of thesis/position
  • Final thought or recommendation (optional)

Basic structure example (Opinion essay): “In my opinion, technology in classrooms is beneficial.”

Advanced structure example (Opinion essay): “Introduction: The integration of technology in educational settings has sparked considerable debate in recent years, with opinions divided on its overall impact on learning outcomes. While some educators express concerns about potential distractions and over-reliance on digital tools, others highlight the unprecedented opportunities for personalized learning and global connectivity. This essay will argue that, when implemented thoughtfully with proper guidance, technological tools in classrooms offer substantial benefits that outweigh the potential drawbacks.

Body Paragraph 1: The primary advantage of educational technology lies in its ability to personalize learning experiences according to individual student needs and preferences…”

For guidance on creating coherent and well-organized essays, explore our resource on Writing Coherent and Cohesive Essays.

Developing IELTS Arguments

Strong arguments form the backbone of impressive IELTS essays. Develop clear, convincing arguments by:

  1. Making specific claims - Avoid vague generalizations in favor of precise statements
  2. Providing robust support - Include examples, statistics, research, or logical reasoning
  3. Explaining significance - Show why your point matters in relation to the question
  4. Considering counterarguments - Acknowledge opposing views to demonstrate critical thinking

For maximum impact, deploy the “PEEL” paragraph structure:

  • Point: Clear topic sentence stating your argument
  • Evidence: Specific example or support
  • Explanation: Analysis of how the evidence proves your point
  • Link: Connection back to the overall thesis or question

Point (20%)
20%
Evidence (30%)
30%
Explanation (40%)
40%
Link (10%)
10%

For advanced argumentation techniques, see our detailed guide on Developing Ideas and Supporting Arguments.

IELTS Writing Practice Questions and Answers

Sample IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions

Regular IELTS writing practice with a variety of authentic IELTS writing task 2 questions is essential for exam success. Use our IELTS writing checker to evaluate your responses to these IELTS writing examples:

Opinion Essay Question for IELTS Writing Practice: “Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school education. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this IELTS writing task 2 topic?”

Discussion Essay Question for IELTS Writing Practice: “Some people think that governments should focus on reducing environmental pollution and housing problems to help people prevent illness. Others believe that the cure of illness should be the main focus of governments. Discuss both views and give your opinion in this IELTS writing task 2 question.”

Advantage/Disadvantage Essay for IELTS Writing Test: “In some countries, the number of people who are obese is increasing. Explain what you think are the causes of this problem and suggest solutions in your IELTS writing practice response.”

Two-part Question for IELTS Writing Examples: “More people are choosing to live in cities than in rural areas. Why is this happening? Is this a positive or negative development? Address both parts in your IELTS writing practice essay.”

When practicing, simulate exam conditions as advised by our IELTS online coaching experts:

  • Setting a timer for 40 minutes for your IELTS writing test practice
  • Writing without external help to build independence
  • Aiming for 260-290 words in your IELTS writing examples
  • Using our IELTS writing checker to review against official band descriptors

For a comprehensive collection of practice materials, check our extensive guide on Practice Task 2 Questions and Answers.

Model IELTS Writing Examples

Studying high-scoring IELTS writing examples provides invaluable insights into what examiners reward. Our IELTS writing checker can assess how your essays compare to these band 9 IELTS writing examples:

IELTS Writing Task 2 Question: “The only reason for people working hard is to earn money. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this IELTS writing test prompt?”

IELTS Writing Example Model Answer:

In contemporary society, it is often argued that the primary motivation for people to work hard is to earn money. While financial incentives undeniably play a significant role, I believe that there are other compelling reasons that drive individuals to put in substantial effort in their professional lives.

Firstly, personal fulfillment and job satisfaction are crucial factors in many people’s work ethic. Many professionals derive a sense of accomplishment and pride from their work. For instance, doctors, teachers, and artists often pursue their careers out of passion and a desire to make a meaningful impact. The intrinsic rewards of helping others, creating something unique, or achieving personal goals can be powerful motivators that go beyond mere financial gain, as demonstrated in many IELTS writing examples.

Secondly, career advancement and professional growth are important considerations that our IELTS writing checker recognizes as strong arguments. Ambitious individuals often work hard to climb the corporate ladder, gain recognition, and achieve higher status within their fields. The pursuit of promotions, awards, and professional development opportunities can drive people to excel in their roles, even if the immediate financial benefits are not substantial - a point well-made in high-scoring IELTS writing practice essays.

Moreover, social and familial responsibilities can also influence work ethic, as emphasized in IELTS online coaching. Many individuals strive to set a positive example for their children, support their families, or contribute to their communities. The desire to be a role model or to provide a better future for loved ones can inspire people to work diligently - a theme commonly explored in IELTS writing task 2 responses.

In conclusion, while earning money is undoubtedly a significant motivator for hard work, it is not the sole reason. Personal fulfillment, career advancement, and social responsibilities also play vital roles in driving individuals to excel in their professional endeavors. Therefore, it is essential to recognize the multifaceted nature of motivation in the workplace when addressing this type of IELTS writing test question.

Our IELTS online coaching includes analysis of what makes model answers effective, with IELTS writing checker feedback on each aspect.

Self-Assessment Tips for IELTS Writing Test

Evaluating your own IELTS writing practice is a crucial skill for continuous improvement through IELTS online coaching. Use these comprehensive criteria from our IELTS writing checker to assess your IELTS writing task 2 practice essays with proper collocations for IELTS:

  1. Task Response (25%) for IELTS Writing Test

    • Have I fully addressed all parts of the question in my IELTS writing practice?
    • Is my position clear and consistent throughout my IELTS writing examples?
    • Are my ideas relevant to the specific IELTS writing task 2 question with proper collocations for IELTS?
    • Have I developed my main points sufficiently for higher IELTS writing band scores?

  2. Coherence & Cohesion (25%) with IELTS Writing Checker

    • Does my essay have a clear overall structure for IELTS writing test success?
    • Do paragraphs focus on single main ideas throughout my IELTS writing practice?
    • Are ideas logically sequenced and connected in my IELTS writing examples?
    • Have I used a variety of linking words appropriately for higher IELTS writing band scores through IELTS online coaching?

  3. Lexical Resource (25%) for IELTS Writing Task 2

    • Have I used varied vocabulary without repetition in my IELTS writing test essay?
    • Are word choices precise and appropriate through IELTS writing checker guidance?
    • Have I demonstrated awareness of collocations for IELTS in my IELTS writing practice?
    • Are there any spelling errors affecting my IELTS writing band score?

  4. Grammatical Range & Accuracy (25%) for IELTS Writing Examples

    • Have I used a variety of sentence structures in my IELTS writing test response?
    • Are there any grammatical errors identified by IELTS writing checker tools?
    • Have I demonstrated control of complex structures for higher IELTS writing band scores?
    • Is my punctuation accurate throughout my IELTS writing practice with IELTS online coaching guidance?

💡 Tip

Self-Assessment Strategy for IELTS Writing Test: Read your essay backward, one sentence at a time, to focus on grammar and vocabulary errors without being distracted by content flow. This technique recommended by IELTS online coaching experts helps identify inconsistencies in your IELTS writing practice that might be missed when reading normally, especially errors in collocations for IELTS and technical aspects that affect your IELTS writing band score through comprehensive IELTS writing checker analysis.

Using Assessment Rubrics for IELTS Writing Practice

Beyond basic self-checking, using official assessment rubrics can dramatically improve your IELTS writing test preparation. Our IELTS online coaching experts recommend the following approach for using rubrics in your IELTS writing practice:

  1. Print official band descriptors for quick reference during your IELTS writing task 2 review
  2. Highlight specific criteria at your target IELTS writing band score and one band above
  3. Create a personalized checklist based on these descriptors through IELTS writing checker guidance
  4. Score yourself honestly across all four criteria in your IELTS writing practice
  5. Track progress over time to identify patterns in your IELTS writing examples with proper collocations for IELTS

Sample Self-Assessment Checklist for IELTS Writing Test

Task Response for IELTS Writing Practice:

  • ☐ Fully addresses all parts of the question with IELTS writing checker guidance
  • ☐ Presents a clear position throughout the IELTS writing task 2 response
  • ☐ Develops main ideas fully with detailed support for IELTS writing band 7+
  • ☐ Maintains relevance to the question with proper collocations for IELTS

Coherence & Cohesion in IELTS Writing Test:

  • ☐ Uses paragraphing effectively for IELTS writing practice essays
  • ☐ Employs a range of cohesive devices appropriately through IELTS online coaching
  • ☐ Manages all aspects of organization effectively for IELTS writing examples
  • ☐ Creates a clear progression throughout the IELTS writing task 2 essay

Lexical Resource for IELTS Writing Band 7+:

  • ☐ Uses vocabulary precisely in most cases with IELTS writing checker support
  • ☐ Demonstrates awareness of style and collocations for IELTS
  • ☐ Makes occasional errors in word choice through IELTS writing practice
  • ☐ Spells and forms words correctly with minor errors for IELTS writing test

Grammatical Range for IELTS Writing Examples:

  • ☐ Uses a variety of complex structures in IELTS writing task 2 essays
  • ☐ Produces frequent error-free sentences with IELTS online coaching
  • ☐ Makes only occasional errors in grammar and punctuation
  • ☐ Shows good control of grammar and punctuation for higher IELTS writing band scores

Common Self-Assessment Errors in IELTS Writing Practice

Many candidates make these common mistakes when self-assessing their IELTS writing test essays, as identified by our IELTS writing checker technology:

  1. Overestimating task response - Thinking you’ve addressed the question fully in your IELTS writing practice when you’ve only partially covered it
  2. Focusing too much on grammar - Paying excessive attention to grammar while ignoring coherence in your IELTS writing examples
  3. Overlooking word choice precision - Not recognizing when vocabulary is imprecise in IELTS writing task 2 essays
  4. Missing cohesion problems - Failing to identify disjointed sections in your IELTS writing test response
  5. Being too harsh or lenient - Not objectively assessing your work against IELTS writing band descriptors

⚠️ Warning

Self-Assessment Pitfall: Candidates often overestimate their IELTS writing band score by 0.5-1.0 bands when self-assessing. To counter this, our IELTS online coaching recommends deliberately being slightly more critical of your IELTS writing practice than you might naturally be, particularly regarding task response and coherence in your IELTS writing task 2 essays, and proper use of collocations for IELTS.

Recording Patterns for Improvement in IELTS Writing Test

To maximize the benefits of self-assessment, track recurring issues in your IELTS writing practice using this system recommended by IELTS online coaching experts:

  1. Create an error log categorized by assessment criteria for IELTS writing test preparation
  2. Record specific examples of mistakes from your IELTS writing examples
  3. Note corrections provided by the IELTS writing checker for each error
  4. Track frequency of each error type across multiple IELTS writing task 2 essays
  5. Prioritize practice activities based on your most common errors with proper collocations for IELTS
Error Category for IELTS Writing Practice Specific Error Example Correction with IELTS Writing Checker Frequency in IELTS Writing Task 2
Task Response Partially addressing opinion question Clearly state position in intro and conclusion ★★★★☆
Coherence Overusing “moreover” as transition Vary linking phrases (additionally, furthermore, what’s more) ★★★☆☆
Vocabulary Misusing “increase” as noun Use “increase” as verb or “increase in” as noun phrase ★★☆☆☆
Grammar Subject-verb agreement with collective nouns “The government is” (singular) not “are” ★★★★★
Collocations “do mistakes” “make mistakes” with proper collocations for IELTS ★★★☆☆

This systematic tracking helps you focus your IELTS writing practice efforts where they’ll have the greatest impact on your IELTS writing band score through effective IELTS online coaching and IELTS writing checker support.

For deeper understanding of assessment criteria, see our guide on Understanding Band Descriptors and Scoring with comprehensive IELTS writing band insights and IELTS writing practice strategies with proper collocations for IELTS.

Tips for Enhancing Writing Skills

IELTS Vocabulary and Grammar

A diverse vocabulary and masterful grammar significantly impact your writing score. These focused strategies can help expand your linguistic resources:

Vocabulary Enhancement Strategies:

  1. Topic-specific word banks

    • Create vocabulary lists organized by common IELTS topics
    • Focus on academic and formal language appropriate for each subject
    • Learn words in context through example sentences

  2. Collocation mastery

    • Study natural word partnerships (make a decision, conduct research)
    • Replace basic verbs with more precise alternatives (increase vs. soar/plummet)
    • Practice using academic collocations in your writing

  3. Synonym variation

    • Develop clusters of synonyms for common concepts
    • Learn subtle differences between similar words
    • Practice replacing repeated words with appropriate alternatives
Basic Word Sophisticated Alternatives
Important Crucial, essential, vital, significant
Problem Issue, challenge, concern, dilemma
Good Beneficial, advantageous, favorable
Bad Detrimental, harmful, adverse
Big Substantial, considerable, significant

Grammar Improvement Techniques:

  1. Master sentence variety

    • Simple sentences (one independent clause)
    • Compound sentences (two+ independent clauses)
    • Complex sentences (independent + dependent clauses)
    • Compound-complex sentences (combinations of the above)

  2. Practice sophisticated structures

    • Conditionals (zero, first, second, third, mixed)
    • Relative clauses (defining and non-defining)
    • Passive constructions
    • Participle phrases
    • Inversion for emphasis

Time Management in IELTS

Effective time management is crucial for Writing Task 2 success. The 40-minute constraint requires strategic allocation of your available time:

Optimal Time Management Strategy:

  • Question analysis & planning: 5-7 minutes

    • Read question carefully (1 min)
    • Analyze requirements (1-2 mins)
    • Brainstorm ideas (1-2 mins)
    • Create outline (2 mins)

  • Writing the essay: 28-30 minutes

    • Introduction (3-4 mins)
    • Body paragraph 1 (8-9 mins)
    • Body paragraph 2 (8-9 mins)
    • Body paragraph 3 (if needed) (5-6 mins)
    • Conclusion (3-4 mins)

  • Reviewing: 3-5 minutes

    • Check task response (1 min)
    • Review grammar errors (1 min)
    • Check spelling and punctuation (1 min)
    • Verify word count (30 secs)

Practice these timing strategies regularly to build efficiency and confidence. For additional timing techniques, check our guide on Time Management Tips for Writing Task 2.

Feedback and Improvement

Constructive feedback is the catalyst for rapid improvement in your IELTS writing. Develop a systematic approach to gathering and implementing feedback:

Sources of Quality Feedback:

  1. IELTS teachers or tutors

    • Provides expert assessment based on examiner knowledge
    • Offers targeted advice for improvement
    • Helps identify patterns in your writing

  2. Peer review

    • Provides fresh perspectives on your writing
    • Helps identify clarity issues
    • Creates opportunities for collaborative learning

  3. Online writing evaluation services

    • Offers convenient assessment options
    • Provides consistent scoring frameworks
    • May include automated language analysis

  4. Self-assessment with rubrics

    • Develops critical evaluation skills
    • Enables regular practice review
    • Creates awareness of assessment criteria

ℹ️ Info

Feedback Implementation Strategy: After receiving feedback, immediately write a new essay applying the suggestions. This reinforces learning and helps integrate improvements into your writing process.

Conclusion

Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2 is an achievable goal with systematic preparation, regular practice, and strategic improvement. The path to success begins with thoroughly understanding the task requirements and assessment criteria, continues through developing effective planning and writing strategies, and culminates in regular practice with focused feedback.

Remember that progress in writing is rarely linear—some days will feel more productive than others. What matters most is consistent effort and a willingness to learn from mistakes. Each practice essay brings you closer to your target band score, especially when paired with thoughtful reflection and targeted improvement.

By implementing the strategies outlined in this guide and regularly engaging with practice questions and model answers, you’ll develop the skills and confidence needed to excel in IELTS Writing Task 2. Your investment in preparation now will pay dividends not just in your IELTS score, but in your overall academic and professional writing abilities.

"I was stuck at Band 6.5 for months, constantly falling short in Task Response and Coherence. After adopting a structured planning approach and practicing with model answers, I finally achieved Band 7.5 on my third attempt. The systematic preparation made all the difference!" — Rajiv, IELTS Success Story from India

Resources & Next Steps

Take advantage of these additional resources to continue your IELTS Writing preparation journey:

Accelerate Your IELTS Writing Success

AI-Powered Flashcards

Master academic vocabulary with personalized spaced repetition system

Boost Your Vocabulary

100+ Model Essays

Study band 8-9 annotated essays with AI-powered explanations

Study Perfect Essays

Franklin Writing Method

Imitate high-scoring sentence patterns and paragraph structures

Master Writing Patterns

AI Essay Evaluation

Get instant band scores and detailed improvement feedback

Check Your Essays

Main Guide

This article is part of our comprehensive guide: Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Strategies for Success

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