What Is a Discuss Essay in IELTS Writing Task 2
In IELTS Writing Task 2, many students find essay types confusing. One common type is the discuss essay ielts (https://western-overseas.com/test-prep-materials/ielts-writing-task-2), where you are asked to discuss two different views on a topic. You must explain both sides clearly and give your own opinion if asked. Understanding this essay type is important because writing in the wrong format can reduce your score, even if your ideas are good.
This article explains what a discuss essay is, how it is structured, and how to write it clearly using simple language.
Understanding the Discuss Essay Question
A discuss essay question usually looks like this:
“Some people believe that ___, while others think that ___. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
The key instruction here is “discuss both views.” This means:
- You must explain the first opinion
- You must explain the second opinion
- You should not focus on only one side
If the question also says “give your opinion,” then you need to add your own view clearly, usually in the introduction and conclusion.
Why IELTS Uses Discuss Essays
This essay type checks your ability to:
- Understand different opinions
- Explain ideas logically
- Compare viewpoints clearly
- Use balanced language
It also tests your grammar, vocabulary, and coherence. This is similar to how language skills are checked in tasks like ielts gt task 1, where clarity and structure matter more than complex words.
Basic Structure of a Discuss Essay
A clear structure makes your essay easy to read and understand.
- Introduction
- Paraphrase the question
- Mention both views briefly
- Add your opinion only if asked
- Body Paragraph 1: First View
- Explain the first opinion
- Give one or two reasons
- Add a simple example
- Body Paragraph 2: Second View
- Explain the second opinion
- Give reasons
- Add a short example
- Conclusion
- Summarize both views
- Restate your opinion if required
Language Style to Use
Use clear and neutral language. Avoid strong or emotional words. A discuss essay should sound balanced, not biased.
Helpful phrases include:
- Some people believe that
- Others argue that
- On the one hand / On the other hand
In my opinion
Good word choice is part of lexical skills, which are also important in reading topics like the concept of childhood reading answers, where meaning and clarity are tested rather than difficult vocabulary.
Common Mistakes Students Make
- Many students lose marks because of simple errors:
- Writing only one side of the argument
- Giving personal opinion when not asked
- Writing informal language
- Poor paragraphing
These mistakes are similar to errors students make in formal letter ielts, where tone and structure must be correct.
How Long Should the Essay Be
The recommended length is:
- At least 250 words
- Usually 260–290 words is enough
Do not write too short, or your ideas will feel incomplete. Do not write too long, or you may make more grammar mistakes.
- Importance of Clear Examples
Examples help explain ideas better. They do not need to be real facts. Simple examples are enough.
For example:
- Education
- Technology
- Family life
- Reading habits
These topics often appear across writing and reading tasks in IELTS.
Linking Ideas Clearly
Your essay should flow smoothly. Use basic linking words like:
- However
- Therefore
For example
- As a result
Avoid repeating the same words again and again. This shows control over language and improves your overall writing score.
Final Thoughts
A discuss essay in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not difficult if you understand the question and follow a clear structure. Focus on explaining both views equally, use simple English, and avoid extreme opinions. Practice regularly and review your mistakes.
To improve vocabulary and clarity, many learners also study lexical resources for ielts writing pdf https://western-overseas.com/test-prep-materials/ielts-writing-task-2, which helps them understand how to use words naturally without sounding forced or unnatural.
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