IELTS Writing Task 2 Outline Template
Use this IELTS Writing Task 2 essay template to turn a prompt into a working structure before drafting. It gives you a copyable outline, a filled example, and the planning checks that keep the page useful for a real assignment rather than a generic blank form.
Copyable template
Outline structure
Copy the sections first, then replace bracketed text with details from your prompt, sources, or experience.
Introduction
- Hook: Open with a sentence that makes the prompt type and your position feel specific.
- Context: Give the reader the background needed to understand the IELTS Writing Task 2 essay.
- Task response position: [Answer the question directly and preview the main ideas.]
Main idea one with explanation
- Topic sentence: State the main idea one with explanation point for this IELTS Writing Task 2 essay.
- Evidence or detail: Add the source, moment, data point, scene, or experience that proves the point.
- Analysis: Explain why this evidence matters instead of letting the example sit on its own.
- Link back: Tie the paragraph to the main claim and prepare the next move.
Main idea two with example
- Topic sentence: State the main idea two with example point for this IELTS Writing Task 2 essay.
- Evidence or detail: Add the source, moment, data point, scene, or experience that proves the point.
- Analysis: Explain why this evidence matters instead of letting the example sit on its own.
- Link back: Tie the paragraph to the main claim and prepare the next move.
Balanced view, solution, or consequence
- Topic sentence: State the balanced view, solution, or consequence point for this IELTS Writing Task 2 essay.
- Evidence or detail: Add the source, moment, data point, scene, or experience that proves the point.
- Analysis: Explain why this evidence matters instead of letting the example sit on its own.
- Link back: Tie the paragraph to the main claim and prepare the next move.
Conclusion
- Return to the task response position: restate the main point in new language.
- Synthesize: Show how the body sections work together, with emphasis on clear task response and cohesion.
- Final sentence: Leave the reader with a precise implication, reflection, or next question.
Filled example
Public Transport Investment
Prompt: Some people think governments should invest more in public transport than roads. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Working claim: Governments should prioritize public transport in dense cities, while road investment remains necessary in rural areas where transit is less practical.
Introduction
- Hook: Introduce the stakes behind "Public Transport Investment".
- Context: Narrow the topic so the reader knows the exact angle.
- Task response position: Governments should prioritize public transport in dense cities, while road investment remains necessary in rural areas where transit is less practical.
Urban congestion and public transport benefits
- Point: Urban congestion and public transport benefits.
- Evidence: Add the most specific source, event, quotation, or detail available.
- Commentary: Explain the consequence, meaning, or lesson the reader should take from it.
Rural access and road needs
- Point: Rural access and road needs.
- Evidence: Add the most specific source, event, quotation, or detail available.
- Commentary: Explain the consequence, meaning, or lesson the reader should take from it.
Balanced policy by population density
- Point: Balanced policy by population density.
- Evidence: Add the most specific source, event, quotation, or detail available.
- Commentary: Explain the consequence, meaning, or lesson the reader should take from it.
Conclusion
- Restated idea: Return to the main claim without copying the same sentence.
- Synthesis: Connect the sections around clear task response and cohesion.
- Final thought: End with the larger lesson, implication, or academic takeaway.
How to use it
Adapt the structure
- 1Read the prompt and mark the task words before filling in this IELTS Writing Task 2 essay template.
- 2Draft the task response position first so every body section has a clear job.
- 3Add evidence placeholders before writing paragraphs; replace weak examples before drafting.
- 4Check that each body section does a different kind of work.
- 5Copy the outline into the editor and expand each bullet into complete paragraphs.
Common mistakes
Check before drafting
- Memorizing sentences that do not answer the exact prompt.
- Writing under 250 words or using disconnected paragraphs.
- Writing full paragraphs inside the outline before the logic is settled.
- Repeating the same evidence in multiple sections instead of assigning each detail a distinct job.
FAQ
Questions about this template
What should I put in a IELTS Writing Task 2 essay template?
Start with the prompt, a working task response position, body sections with evidence placeholders, and a conclusion plan. The goal is to make the logic visible before you draft.
Can I change this IELTS Writing Task 2 essay outline?
Yes. Treat the template as a structure, not a script. Add or remove body sections based on the assignment length, rubric, and available evidence.
Should an outline use complete sentences?
Use complete sentences for the thesis or controlling idea. Bullets can be shorter, but they should be specific enough that you know what evidence and analysis each paragraph needs.
Write from the outline
Start with structure, then draft with sources and citations.
Copy the template into EssayGenius and turn each bullet into a paragraph with source search, revision help, and citation support nearby.