Task 2 carries twice the weight of Task 1 in IELTS Academic and General Training Writing. Many students lose a full band because of predictable errors that are easy to fix with structure and practice.
1. Not answering every part of the question
Discussion essays often ask you to discuss both views and give your own opinion. If you only argue one side, your Task Response score is capped. Underline every instruction word in the prompt before you plan.
2. Weak or missing thesis statement
Your introduction should paraphrase the topic and state your position clearly in one sentence. Examiners should know your view after the first paragraph.
A clear position in the introduction helps coherence across the whole essay.
3. One long body paragraph instead of two developed ones
Band 7+ essays usually have two body paragraphs (sometimes three), each with a topic sentence, explanation, example, and mini-conclusion. A single 250-word block is hard to follow.
4. Informal language and memorised phrases
Avoid slang, contractions in academic essays (don't → do not), and overused templates like "In this day and age". Use precise verbs: increase, decline, contribute, exacerbate.
5. No time left to proofread
Reserve 3–5 minutes to check articles, subject–verb agreement, and punctuation. Small grammar errors add up under Grammatical Range and Accuracy.
Quick self-check before you submit
- Did I address all parts of the question?
- Is my opinion clear in the introduction?
- Does each body paragraph have one main idea?
- Did I use linking words naturally (however, therefore, for instance)?
- Is the essay at least 250 words?