One of the biggest mistakes IELTS candidates make in Writing Task 2 is starting to write immediately without a clear plan. The result? Essays that lose focus, repeat ideas, or run out of time. The good news is that spending just 5 minutes on planning can make the difference between Band 6 and Band 7. Let’s explore a simple method to plan your essay quickly and effectively.
1. Understand the Question
Before you write, make sure you know exactly what the question is asking. IELTS writing Task 2 questions usually fall into four main types:
- Opinion (agree/disagree)
- Discussion (both views)
- Problem–solution
- Advantages–disadvantages
👉 Example: Some people think public transport should be free. Do you agree or disagree?
Here, the task is an opinion essay, so your plan must focus on giving clear reasons for your position.
2. Write Down 2–3 Main Ideas Only
Many candidates try to write about too many points, which makes essays confusing. Instead, focus on two or three strong ideas, each in its own body paragraph. This makes your essay easier to follow and allows you to explain ideas fully.
👉 Example plan:
- Paragraph 1: Free transport reduces traffic congestion.
- Paragraph 2: It helps lower pollution and benefits the environment.
3. Plan Your Vocabulary in Advance
High-level vocabulary can boost your Lexical Resource score, but only if used naturally. Before writing, list 3–5 key words or collocations you want to include.
👉 Example:
- “sustainable development”
- “reduce carbon emissions”
- “economic incentive”
When you start writing, try to use these words in your body paragraphs.
4. Structure Your Essay Clearly
Your plan should include not only ideas but also structure. A typical Band 7+ essay has:
- Introduction (paraphrase the question + thesis statement)
- Body 1 (main idea + explanation + example)
- Body 2 (main idea + explanation + example)
- Conclusion (summarize and restate position)
👉 Planning this in advance ensures your essay has balance and logical flow.
Mini Practice
Take the question: Some people believe secondary school students should learn how to manage money. Do you agree or disagree?
Spend 5 minutes planning:
- Identify question type → opinion.
- Write 2 strong reasons → prepares students for real life; prevents debt.
- List 3 key words → “financial literacy,” “budgeting skills,” “economic responsibility.”
Now try writing a short essay following your plan.
Conclusion
Planning is not wasted time — it’s the key to writing a clear, structured essay that examiners can follow easily. By understanding the question, limiting your ideas, planning vocabulary, and following a clear structure, you’ll be well on your way to Band 7 or higher.
👉 Want more writing strategies? Join our IELTS Course and learn how to plan and write essays with expert feedback.
