Do I have to give my opinion in a discussion essay?

Yes, if the question says 'give your own opinion'. State it in the introduction and conclusion.

Can I agree with both views?

Yes. A partly-agree position is fine if you explain which parts of each view you accept.

How many words should a discussion essay be?

At least 250 words. Around 270 to 300 is a comfortable target.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Discussion Essay: Discuss Both Views and Give Your Opinion

How to plan and write an IELTS 'discuss both views' essay: a clear structure, a band 7+ sample and the mistakes that cost Task Response marks.

By IELTSora teaching team · Updated 7 November 2026 · 2 min read

Recognising a discussion question

Discussion questions present two opposing opinions and usually end with 'Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.' Candidates around the world lose marks here for one reason: they discuss only one side, or they forget to give their own view. Both views must be explained fairly, and your opinion must be stated clearly.

Notice whether the instruction asks for your opinion. If it only says 'Discuss both views', you may still state a view, but the main job is balanced discussion. If it says 'and give your own opinion', a missing opinion limits Task Response to around band 5.

A reliable four-paragraph structure

This structure fits in 40 minutes and keeps the examiner's job easy:

Introduction: paraphrase both views and state which one you support (or that you partly agree with each).
Body 1: explain the view you disagree with, giving its strongest reason and an example.
Body 2: explain the view you support, with a stronger reason and a developed example.
Conclusion: summarise both views in one sentence and restate your opinion.

Sample question and model paragraphs

Question: Some people think children should start school at a very early age, while others believe they should begin at seven or later. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Model introduction and body paragraph

Opinions differ on the best age for children to begin formal education. While some argue that an early start gives children an academic advantage, I believe that starting school at around six or seven is more beneficial for most children.

Supporters of early schooling claim that young children absorb information quickly, so classroom learning from the age of four can build strong literacy and numeracy. In addition, early school places allow both parents to work, which matters in countries with high living costs. However, the academic gains reported in many studies tend to disappear by the age of eleven, which suggests the advantage is temporary.

Language that keeps your essay balanced

Use neutral reporting language for the view you disagree with and stronger language for your own position:

Reporting views: 'Proponents of this view argue that...', 'It is often claimed that...'.
Conceding: 'Admittedly...', 'There is some truth in this...'.
Your position: 'Nevertheless, I am convinced that...', 'On balance, I would argue that...'.
Avoid 'In my opinion' in every paragraph; state it once clearly and keep it consistent.

Practise it on IELTSora

Write one discussion essay on IELTSora's Writing practice page and read the AI feedback for Task Response and Coherence. Then compare your structure with the opinion essay guide to see how the two question types differ.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to give my opinion in a discussion essay?: Yes, if the question says 'give your own opinion'. State it in the introduction and conclusion.
Can I agree with both views?: Yes. A partly-agree position is fine if you explain which parts of each view you accept.
How many words should a discussion essay be?: At least 250 words. Around 270 to 300 is a comfortable target.

Put this tip into practice

Start a free IELTS mock test