Essay Writing Strategies and Common Mistakes

This video by Jackie from IELTSJackie.com explains the five main types of IELTS Task 2 essays: opinion, discussion, problem, advantages and disadvantages, and double question essays. Each type is described with sample questions and recommended structures. Key tips for writing each essay type are provided, helping students to plan and write effectively. The video emphasizes the importance of understanding the question type and maintaining a clear structure throughout the essay.

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

• Narrative, Descriptive, Expository, Persuasive, Reflective

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

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

• Argumentative, Analytical, Critical, Reflective, Descriptive

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

• Problem Essay

• Opinion Essay

• Discussion Essay

• Double Question Essay

In an opinion essay, what should you avoid doing?

• Stating your opinion clearly

• Choosing a side you can develop well

• Providing reasons for your view

• Changing your opinion midway

What is a key strategy for writing a discussion essay?

• Focus solely on your opinion

• Ignore the opposing view

• Only develop the side you agree with

• Discuss both sides of the argument

In a discussion essay, why is it recommended to discuss the view you disagree with first?

• To present a balanced argument

• To create an unbalanced essay

• To confuse the reader

• To avoid discussing your own view

What should you focus on in a problem essay?

• Discussing only the solutions

• Listing as many causes as possible

• Ignoring the causes

• Linking problems with their solutions

In a problem essay, what is a common mistake to avoid?

• Providing detailed examples

• Listing unrelated problems and solutions

• Linking problems and solutions

• Discussing only one cause

What is the first part of an advantages and disadvantages essay question?

• A conclusion

• An argument

• A question

• A statement

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

• Choose only the advantages

• Discuss only the disadvantages

• Ignore the disadvantages

• Discuss both advantages and disadvantages

What is a key tip for answering double question essays?

• Answer both questions fully

• Ignore the second question

• Confuse it with an opinion essay

• Answer only one question