How to Structure a Band 7+ Task 2 Essay

You have 40 minutes to write a 250-word essay. That's not much time. You need a structure you can use for any question type without thinking too hard about it.

The Four-Paragraph Structure

This structure works for all Task 2 question types: opinion, discussion, problem-solution, and two-part questions.

Paragraph 1: Introduction (2-3 sentences)

Your introduction does two things: paraphrase the question and state your position.

Bad example: "Nowadays, many people think that technology is important. This essay will discuss both sides and give my opinion."

Good example: "Digital devices now dominate children's free time. While screens offer educational benefits, I believe the negative effects on physical health and social development outweigh these advantages."

Notice the good example restates the topic in different words and clearly states a position. No announcements like "this essay will discuss."

Paragraph 2: First Main Point (5-6 sentences)

Start with a topic sentence that states your first main idea. Then support it with explanation and examples.

Use this pattern:

Topic sentence (what is your point?)
Explanation (why is this true?)
Example (what's a specific instance?)
Result or implication (so what?)

Don't just list ideas. Develop each one fully before moving to the next.

Paragraph 3: Second Main Point (5-6 sentences)

Follow the same pattern as paragraph 2. If you're discussing both sides, this is where you present the opposing view. If you're giving solutions, this is your second solution.

Connect this paragraph to the previous one with a transition: "However," "In addition," or "Another concern is."

Paragraph 4: Conclusion (2 sentences)

Summarize your main points and restate your position. Don't introduce new ideas.

Bad conclusion: "In conclusion, as I have shown, there are many factors to consider."

Good conclusion: "While technology offers learning opportunities, the damage to children's health and social skills is too severe to ignore. Parents must limit screen time to protect their children's development."

Time Management

Here's how to use your 40 minutes:

5 minutes: Plan your ideas and structure
30 minutes: Write
5 minutes: Check for errors

Don't skip the planning. Five minutes spent planning prevents rambling and saves time later.

Word Count Strategy

Aim for 270-290 words. This gives you a small buffer above the 250-word minimum. If you follow the structure above, you'll naturally hit this target.

Don't waste words on filler phrases. Every sentence should advance your argument.

Common Mistakes

Mistake 1: No Clear Position

The examiner needs to know exactly what you think. "Both sides have merit" is not a position.

Mistake 2: Examples That Don't Support the Point

Your examples must directly prove your claim. "For instance, many people use smartphones" doesn't prove anything specific.

Mistake 3: Announcing What You'll Do

Skip phrases like "In this essay, I will discuss..." Just state your position and begin.

Practice Tip

Take any Task 2 question. Set a timer for 5 minutes. Write down: your position, two main points, and one example for each point. Do this until planning becomes automatic.