⚛️The IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 requires you to write a well-structured essay on a given topic within 40 minutes.     

For many, this can feel like a race against time, but with a clear strategy, you can confidently deliver a strong, organised response.

This post outlines a step-by-step approach to tackling Task 2 while addressing key areas like task achievement and coherence and cohesion—essential elements for success. The strategy is part of the Atomic IELTS Writing Course, which also helps refine your grammar and vocabulary, ensuring you’re prepared to meet all aspects of the IELTS marking criteria.

⚛️ Step 1: Analyse the Question 

The first step to a high-quality response is fully understanding the task. Spend 2-3 minutes carefully reading the question to identify:

• The topic: What is the question about?

• The type of question: Is it asking for an opinion, a discussion of both views, a solution to a problem, or other?

• The instruction words: These guide how you should respond (e.g., “To what extent do you agree or disagree?”).

💡 Tip: Underline keywords in the question to keep your response focused and on-topic.

⚛️ Step 2:  Plan Your Answer  

Taking a few minutes to plan saves time and improves your essay structure. Your plan should include:

• A clear position: Decide your stance or main argument.

• Key points: Jot down two to three main ideas to develop in your body paragraphs.

• Examples: Think of examples or evidence to support your points.

Organising your ideas in advance makes your writing more logical and enhances coherence and cohesion.

⚛️ Step 3: Write the Introduction 

Your introduction sets the tone for your essay. It should:

1. Paraphrase the question to demonstrate your language skills.

2. State your position or outline the points you’ll discuss.

Keep it concise—2-3 sentences are enough.

⚛️ Step 4: Write Your Body Paragraphs    

Each body paragraph should focus on one main idea, supported by:

• An explanation of the point.

• Examples, evidence, or reasoning to reinforce it.

Use linking phrases to connect your ideas and make your essay easier to follow, such as:

• "On the one hand,..."

• "Furthermore,..."

• "For instance,..."

💡 Tip: Ensure each paragraph logically flows from the previous one to strengthen your overall argument.

⚛️ Step 5: Write Your Conclusion   

The conclusion summarises your main points and restates your position clearly. Avoid introducing new ideas here. Instead, focus on reinforcing your argument in a concise and confident manner.

⚛️ Step 6: Check & Proofread

Reserve the final 2-3 minutes to check your essay for:

• Grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.

• Repetition of words—use a variety of expressions to demonstrate your vocabulary.

• Clarity and logical flow of ideas.

💡 Tip: Proofreading not only helps eliminate mistakes but also ensures your essay meets the examiner’s expectations for coherence and cohesion.

⚛️ Practise with the Atomic IELTS Writing Course 

Mastering this strategy requires regular practice and expert guidance. That’s why the Atomic IELTS Writing Course is designed to help you:

• Apply this step-by-step strategy across a range of essay types.

• Improve your lexical resource and grammar skills to express your ideas effectively.

• Receive personalised feedback to refine your writing.

💡 Why Choose the Atomic IELTS Writing Course?

• Comprehensive: Covers both Task 1 and Task 2 writing skills.

• Flexible: Suitable for all essay types, including opinion, discussion, and problem-solution essays.

• Focused: Provides practical techniques to maximise your score in task achievement, coherence and cohesion, and language use.

⚛️ Ready to Succeed in IELTS Writing Task 2? 

Don’t leave your performance to chance. The Atomic IELTS Writing Course equips you with the tools to tackle any essay with confidence, while improving your vocabulary and grammar along the way.

Unsure whether the course is for you?   Register for our latest free masterclass, where we take you through the first steps of tackling even the most daunting Task 2 questions!