How to Write a High-Scoring IELTS Task 2 Introduction – Structure and Templates

In IELTS Writing Task 2, a good beginning sets the tone for the whole essay. Even if your body is strong, a weak or unclear opening can throw the reader off or make your essay feel disorganised.

You’ll learn the following from this guide:

• Why the beginning is important
• What comes with a Band 8+ introduction
• Structured in steps
• Every type of writing has its own template
• Avoid making these mistakes
• Example of a Band 9 opening for a real question

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Why the Beginning Is Important
The reviewer can see in your introduction:

• That you understand the question
• How you feel about the topic (if asked)
• What your paper will talk about

A good introduction:

• Helps you perform better on the task
• Makes your writing more coherent and cohesive
• Helps you stay on task while you write

Tip for time: Spend five minutes on your introduction.

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Ideal Structure for the Introduction to IELTS Task 2
A good introduction is only two or three lines long:

Sentence	Reason
Sentence 1	Rephrase the question (use different words and change the structure)
Sentence 2	State your thesis (make your point of view clear) or give an outline of the article
Sentence 3 (optional)	List the important points or explain how you’ll build on the ideas

Example Breakdown:

Prompt: Some people believe that fast food should be banned by the government to make people healthier. How much do you agree or disagree?

Band 8+ Beginning:
Sentence 1 (Rewritten): In recent years, public health officials have become very worried about the rising number of people who eat unhealthy fast food.
Sentence 2 (Thesis statement): I agree that eating too much fast food is bad for you, but I don’t think that banning it is a good solution.

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IELTS Essay Templates for Every Type

1. Opinion Essay (Agree or Disagree)
Template: [Restate the problem in your own words]. Some people [give an opinion], but I [agree/disagree] for [short reason].

Example: A lot of people have different ideas about how digital technology affects children’s development. Some people say that screen time should be tightly limited, but I think it can be helpful if used in moderation.

2. Discussion Essay (Talk about both points of view and give your own)
Template: Some people say that [view A], but others say that [view B]. Based on what I think, [your view].

Example: People often argue about what role higher education should play. Some people say it should help students get jobs, while others say it should help them grow as individuals. Personally, I believe that both goals are very important.

3. Problem-Solution Essay
Template: [Rewrite the problem]. This essay will look at the main reasons for [problem] and suggest ways to fix it.

Example: Air pollution is becoming a bigger problem in many cities. This essay will look at what causes this issue and suggest effective ways to reduce its impact.

4. Advantages and Disadvantages Essay
Template: [Rewrite the topic]. There are some benefits to this trend, but there are also some major drawbacks, which will be discussed below.

Example: Because of advances in technology, working from home is becoming increasingly common. This trend has advantages, but it also presents some challenges that must be addressed.

5. Double-Question Essay
Template: [Rewrite the background statement]. This essay will explore [question 1] and [question 2] and attempt to answer them.

Example: Fewer people, especially younger ones, choose to read books today. This essay will explore the reasons behind this trend and offer solutions to encourage more reading.

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What to Say About the Question (Without Copying)

Original Word	Alternative
The public, individuals, members of society	People, citizens, members of the community
Think	Believe, argue, claim, suggest
Important	Crucial, necessary, significant
Problem	Issue, challenge, concern
Should	Ought to, need to, are encouraged to

Tip: Don’t try to change every word. Focus on changing sentence structure and key vocabulary.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid in the Beginning

Mistake	Why It’s a Problem	Fix
Too long (four to six lines)	Wastes time and reduces clarity	Keep it to two to three short lines
Copying the question	Penalised under Task Response	Always paraphrase the question
No main idea or argument	Reader doesn’t understand your position	Make your view clear
Too broad	Vague phrases like “Technology is important these days”	Be specific about the topic

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Task for Practice
Prompt: Some people think that the internet is taking the place of books. How much do you agree or disagree?

Paraphrased sentence: The internet is becoming more popular as a source of information, leading some to believe that it may replace books altogether.
Thesis statement: I do not agree with this view because I believe that physical books still hold great value.

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Compare the Beginnings of Band 6 and Band 8

Band 6:
The internet is very popular these days. Some people don’t think we need books. Both sides will be discussed in this essay.

Problems:

• Informal tone
• Question repeated
• No clear opinion

Band 8:
Many people say that traditional books are becoming obsolete due to the rise of digital media. However, I believe printed materials still offer unique benefits that digital formats cannot fully replace.

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Examples of Beginnings for Different Subjects

Education Question:
Some people think that academics should come before the arts. Should I agree or not?

There is a lot of debate about whether schools should prioritise academic subjects like mathematics and science over artistic disciplines. I believe both are essential for holistic student development.

Environment Question:
Many people think that governments should make stricter laws to protect the environment. Should I agree or not?

Environmental degradation is becoming a serious concern, prompting debate about the role of government regulations. While some support stricter laws, I believe collaboration between individuals and businesses is more effective.

Technology Question:
Some people believe that using computers too much can make people’s lives worse. How much do you agree or disagree?

Digital devices have become central to daily life, but there are growing concerns about their excessive use. I agree that over-reliance on technology can harm mental well-being and social interaction.

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Last Words on How to Do Well on IELTS Task 2 Introductions

• Practise rewriting past questions daily
• Memorise flexible templates by essay type
• Keep introductions short but clear (2–3 lines)
• Always include a thesis sentence, even in discussion and double-question essays
• Check grammar and spelling—first impressions matter

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Your Turn: A Practice Task
Prompt: A lot of people think that zoos should be shut down because they are cruel. Others say they are important for education and conservation. Discuss both points of view and give your opinion.

Try writing two sentences:

• Paraphrase the topic
• Clearly state your opinion

Leave your version in the comments, and we’ll give you expert feedback.

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Thoughts for Now
The beginning of your IELTS Writing Task 2 should:

• Be short and direct
• Clearly introduce the topic
• Show the examiner where your essay is headed
• Prepare you for strong, logical development

You can consistently write Band 7, 8, or 9 introductions by using a clear format, practising regularly, and avoiding common errors.

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Call to Action
Do you find it difficult to write introductions for opinion, discussion, or double-question essays? Leave a comment below, and I’ll send you personalised templates to help you improve.