How many paragraphs should an IELTS Task 2 essay have?

Four or five paragraphs: an introduction, two or three body paragraphs and a conclusion. Four is the safest choice for 40 minutes.

Is 250 words enough for IELTS Writing Task 2?

250 is the minimum. Aim for 260 to 290 words so you are safely over the limit without wasting time.

Does the same structure work for discussion and problem-solution essays?

Yes. Only the content of the body paragraphs changes: two views, advantages and disadvantages, or problems and solutions.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Structure: A Simple 4-Paragraph Plan for Band 7

The 4-paragraph IELTS Writing Task 2 structure that works for every essay type, with what to write in each paragraph and a worked example.

By IELTSora teaching team · Updated 4 November 2026 · 2 min read

Why structure matters

Coherence and Cohesion is a quarter of your Task 2 score. A clear structure makes your argument easy to follow and stops you running out of time. You need about 250 to 290 words in four paragraphs.

Paragraph 1: introduction (2 sentences)

Sentence one paraphrases the question. Sentence two gives your position or says what the essay will discuss. Do not add background stories or quotes; the examiner wants your answer quickly.

Paragraphs 2 and 3: body (4 to 5 sentences each)

Each body paragraph develops one main idea:

Topic sentence: the main idea in one clear sentence.
Explanation: why or how this is true.
Example: a specific, realistic example (a country, a group of people, a situation).
Result or link back: what this means for the question.

Paragraph 4: conclusion (1 to 2 sentences)

Restate your position in new words and summarise the two main ideas. Never introduce a new idea in the conclusion.

Worked example

Some people think university education should be free. To what extent do you agree?

Intro: Many argue that higher education should cost students nothing. I largely agree, because it widens opportunity and benefits the whole economy.

Body 1: Free tuition gives talented students from poor families a fair chance (example: rural students who cannot afford private universities).

Body 2: A more educated workforce raises productivity and tax income, so the cost is partly repaid.

Conclusion: Overall, free university education is a worthwhile investment because it is fairer and economically beneficial.

Frequently asked questions

How many paragraphs should an IELTS Task 2 essay have?: Four or five paragraphs: an introduction, two or three body paragraphs and a conclusion. Four is the safest choice for 40 minutes.
Is 250 words enough for IELTS Writing Task 2?: 250 is the minimum. Aim for 260 to 290 words so you are safely over the limit without wasting time.
Does the same structure work for discussion and problem-solution essays?: Yes. Only the content of the body paragraphs changes: two views, advantages and disadvantages, or problems and solutions.

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