Essay Writing Strategies and Common Mistakes

This video by Jackie from IELTSJackie.com explains the five main types of Task 2 essays: opinion, discussion, problem, advantages and disadvantages, and double question essays. Each type is described with sample questions and a recommended structure. Key tips for writing each essay type are provided, emphasizing clarity, structure, and argument development. The video aims to help viewers recognize different essay types and plan their essays effectively.

What are the five main types of Task 2 essays discussed in the video?

• Opinion, Discussion, Problem, Advantages and Disadvantages, Double Question

• Cause and Effect, Compare and Contrast, Process, Definition, Classification

• Narrative, Descriptive, Expository, Persuasive, Reflective

• Argumentative, Analytical, Critical, Reflective, Descriptive

Which type of essay requires you to state your opinion clearly in the introduction?

• Double Question Essay

• Problem Essay

• Opinion Essay

• Discussion Essay

In an opinion essay, what should you avoid doing?

• Changing your opinion midway

• Stating your opinion clearly

• Providing reasons for your view

• Choosing a side you can develop well

What is a key strategy for writing a discussion essay?

• Focus solely on your opinion

• Discuss both sides of the argument

• Only develop the side you agree with

• Ignore the opposing view

In a discussion essay, what is a common mistake students make?

• Discussing both sides equally

• Fully developing only one point of view

• Providing examples for both sides

• Concluding with a balanced view

What should you do in a problem essay?

• Ignore linking problems to solutions

• List as many problems and solutions as possible

• Focus on one or two problems and solutions

• Provide no examples

What is a common error in problem essays?

• Including examples

• Providing detailed explanations

• Listing unrelated problems and solutions

• Linking problems and solutions

In advantages and disadvantages essays, what might you be asked to do?

• Ignore your own opinion

• Only discuss the advantages

• Discuss both advantages and disadvantages

• Only discuss the disadvantages

What is a typical question format for advantages and disadvantages essays?

• What are the causes and solutions?

• What is your opinion?

• Discuss both views and give your opinion

• Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

What is a key tip for double question essays?

• Answer only one of the questions

• Confuse it with an opinion essay

• Answer both questions fully

• Focus on the first question only