Before you write the IELTS essay, you are given a question or statement. You must use this to create your essay. This lesson shows you how to understand the question and use it in your essay. These strategies will help you save time reading and help you create sentences in the essay too. Let’s begin.
Here is a sample question to start with:
Sample question from ielts.org: https://www.ielts.org/PDF/120430_academic_writing_task_2A.pdf
The example above is only one type of question you may see. In this example, you are asked if you agree or disagree. This is common for the IELTS essay question. Here are some of the most common question patterns:
Agree or Disagree
You are given a statement and asked if you agree or disagree.
- The Internet has changed the way people communicate with each other. Many people believe it has made communication better. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Problem and Solution
You are given a problem, and you must provide a solution.
- Several countries have problems with gun violence. What do you think are the causes? Do you see any solutions?
Choices
Very often you must choose between two options.
- Some people believe the automobile has improved society, while others think it has not. Which do you believe, and why?
Process
Follow this process to understand and us the question effectively.
- Read the question completely.
- Find the specific question it asks you. (e.g. Do you agree or disagree?)
- Find and understand the topic the question is asking you about (e.g. Do I agree or disagree that university students should have part-time jobs?)
- Decide.
Question Strategies
Use the language in the question in your thesis.
You don’t need to use completely new language when you write your introduction. Include the key words you find in the question your introduction and thesis.
Focus on the actual question.
Often, the questions have an introductory statement. Take a look at this example:
- Education is very important around the world. Should it be mandatory for all children?
The first sentence is the introduction.
It does not contain the question. The question is in the second sentence. You must be able to recognize very quickly what the question is asking and what your task is.
Sample Questions
Take a look at these sample questions taken directly from the IELTS: