Opinion Essay Template with Band 8+ Examples
An Opinion Essay (also called an agree/disagree essay) asks you to take a clear position on a statement. Typical question prompts include “What is your opinion?”, “Do you agree or disagree?”, or “To what extent do you agree or disagree?” In these essays, you must state your opinion clearly and support it with convincing arguments. For example, a question might be:

If you want to read IELTS Writing Task 2: Complete 2025 Guide, please click on it.

Example Question: “A big salary is much more important than job satisfaction. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples.”

A strong opinion essay will: paraphrase the question, state a clear stance (agree, disagree, or partially agree), and outline key reasons in the introduction. Each body paragraph then develops one main reason with explanations and examples, and the conclusion summarizes your opinion. Remember to address the question fully and maintain your stance consistently. Failing to state an opinion directly (e.g. by saying “In this essay, I will…” without giving a stance) will hurt your Task Response score.

 

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Essay Structure

A high-scoring opinion essay typically uses four paragraphs: Introduction, Body 1, Body 2, and Conclusion. Follow this template:

1. Introduction: Paraphrase the question, state your opinion, and briefly outline two supporting reasons.

2. Body Paragraph 1: Topic sentence with your first reason. Explain this reason in detail and give a specific example or evidence.

3. Body Paragraph 2: Topic sentence with your second reason. Explain it and provide an example.

4. Conclusion: Restate your opinion and summarize the key reasons (don’t introduce new ideas here).

For instance, Jacky recommends: “1) Introduction: paraphrase + opinion + two reasons. 2) Main body 1: reason 1 + explanation + example. 3) Main body 2: reason 2 + explanation + example. 4) Conclusion: summarize opinion and reasons.” This ensures a clear, logical flow. Use linking words (e.g. furthermore, however, as a result) to connect ideas smoothly and signal logical relations.

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Planning Strategies

Effective planning is crucial. Spend about 5–6 minutes brainstorming before writing. A useful planning process is: (1) Identify key words in the prompt (e.g. “big salary”, “job satisfaction”), (2) Decide your opinion, (3) Generate ideas for reasons and examples, (4) Identify high-level vocabulary and phrases for each idea. For example, from the question above you might note: “salary”, “satisfaction”, “more important”, and think of ideas like stress, career fulfillment, happiness, personal success. Pick the two strongest arguments. Once you have ideas, organize them. You can jot brief notes or bullet points. Good IELTS writers list their points, support, and linking words. Avoid getting bogged down on minor phrasing; focus on relevant ideas and structure. It’s normal to discard weak ideas (represented by the crumpled paper in the image above) and replace them with better ones. Key Tip: Answer exactly what is asked. If the prompt says “agree or disagree,” take one side fully or partially – do not discuss both sides equally. (That would be a discussion essay, a different task.) Your opinion must be clear from the introduction onward. For example, start with “I completely agree that…” or “I firmly believe that…” to make your stance explicit. Changing your mind partway (e.g. agreeing in one body and disagreeing in another) will confuse readers and lose Task Response marks.

Complete Writing Guide: IELTS Writing Task 2: Complete 2025 Guide

Task 2 Essay Types: IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Types – How to Identify and Approach Each One

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High-Level Vocabulary and Phrases

Band 8 essays use precise, varied vocabulary and idiomatic expressions. Include synonyms to avoid repetition. You might incorporate:

• Opinion phrases: “I strongly agree that…”, “It is evident that…”, “I am convinced that…”

• Reasoning connectors: “Furthermore”, “Moreover”, “In addition” (adding information); “However”, “On the other hand”, “Nevertheless” (contrasting ideas).

• Result phrases: “As a result”, “Therefore”, “Thus”, “Consequently”.

• Examples: “For instance”, “For example”, “To illustrate this”.

• General academic words: “significant”, “overwhelmingly”, “fundamentally”, “predominantly”, “considerably”.

• Topic-specific terms: Use any field-related vocabulary if applicable (e.g. cognitive dissonance, consumerism).

Aim to vary your language: use at least a few less-common words (Band 8 students often use some advanced terms). Also use a variety of grammatical structures: mix simple and complex sentences, include subordinate clauses (“although…, …”), participle phrases, relative clauses, etc. Check that the majority of your sentences are error-free, as Band 8 requires few or no significant grammar mistakes.

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Maximizing Your Band Score

IELTS uses four scoring criteria of equal weight: Task Response, Coherence & Cohesion, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range & Accuracy. For Band 8, you should target the following:

• Task Response: Fully address all parts of the task. Clearly present and maintain your position throughout the essay. Support each of your reasons with explanation or examples. Avoid vague generalizations or irrelevant details.

• Coherence & Cohesion: Use a clear paragraph structure (one main idea per paragraph). Use a range of cohesive devices (linking words, referencing words, etc.) to connect sentences and paragraphs. Examiners look for smooth flow: transitions like firstly, moreover, however, as well as referential pronouns (this, those, these issues). Don’t start every sentence mechanically with “Firstly, secondly…” – vary the position of connectors

• . Each paragraph should clearly follow the previous idea.

• Lexical Resource: Use an extensive vocabulary. Show synonyms for common concepts (e.g. huge → vast, important → paramount). Use precise words (e.g. “negotiated settlement” vs. “deal”). Collocations and advanced phrases boost your score. Only minor spelling or word choice slips are tolerated at Band 8.

• Grammatical Range & Accuracy: Demonstrate varied sentence structures (compound, complex). Band 8 requires most sentences to be error-free. Make only occasional slips, especially in complex sentences. Use correct punctuation (

• commas, full stops, apostrophes) and avoid fragments.

By planning carefully and revising key points, you can cover all criteria. For example, repeatedly linking back to your main argument in the conclusion (restating opinion and summarizing points) shows cohesion and confirms Task Response.

Problem/Solution Essay Template with Band 8+ Examples

Problem/Solution essays ask you to identify a problem (or problems) and propose solutions. Questions typically use phrasing like:

“What are the main causes of… and how can this problem be solved?”

For example:

Example Question:
“One problem faced by almost every large city is traffic congestion. What do you think the causes are? What solutions can you suggest?”

First, carefully analyze the question to see wheth

er it asks for problems and solutions or causes and solutions. Then follow a clear structure to ensure you address both parts fully.

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Essay Structure

A recommended structure for a Problem/Solution e

say is as follows:

• Introduction: Paraphrase the question and state the problem and an overview of possible solutions. For example: “Traffic congestion in cities is a growing problem.” (You may hint at your solution strategy here without detail.)

• Body Paragraph 1 (Problem/Cause): Topic sentence stating the problem or its causes. Explain the problem in detail and give one or two examples.

• Body Paragraph 2 (Solution): Topic sentence stating a solution (or two solutions). Explain how these solutions work, why they would be effective, and provide examples.

• Conclusion: Summarize the key problems and solutions (and restate that solving this issue is important).

Jacky’s guide suggests exactly this format:
“Introduction: paraphrase + 1 key problem and solution. Main body 1 – Problem/Cause (topic sentence, explain, example). Main body 2 – Solution (topic sentence, explain, example). Conclusion: summarise key points.”

This balanced approach (one problem paragraph and one solution paragraph) works well. You can add a second problem or solution paragraph if you have time and ideas, but often one well-developed problem and one solution are enough to reach 250+ words.

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Planning Guide

1. Analyze the Question: Identify keywords (topic) and question words (problem, causes, solution, measures). For example, in the sample above the topic is “traffic congestion”, and the question asks “causes” (problems) and “solutions”. Understanding this ensures your answer is on point.

2. Brainstorm Problems/Causes: Quickly list the reasons for the problem. E.g. for traffic: too many private cars, inadequate public transport, urban planning issues. Write down examples or stats (mental notes) if you know any.

3. Brainstorm Solutions: List possible solutions corresponding to the problems. E.g. improve buses, build bike lanes, congestion charges. Think of both practical and creative measures.

4. Select and Structure: Choose the most relevant 2–3 points from your lists (one or two of each problem/solution). Outline where they fit in your structure (which goes in body paragraph). This planning process (analyse, generate ideas, choose vocabulary) is exactly what experienced IELTS instructors recommend. It prevents you from writing irrelevant ideas and ensures a clear, focused essay. When planning, it’s okay if your initial ideas are imperfect (like the crumpled draft above). Discard weak points and replace them. The goal is a concise plan with strong points you can explain well. Use simple notes rather than full sentences to save time, then expand them when writing.

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Common Problems/Solutions in Topics

Problem/Solution essays cover many topics. Some examples include:

• Environment: e.g. problem: plastic pollution; solution: bans on single-use plastics, recycling programs.

• Health: problem: rising obesity; solution: public health campaigns, better school meals.

• Technology: problem: internet addiction; solution: education on digital wellness, screen time limits.

• Urban Issues: problem: traffic congestion, housing shortages; solution: better public transport, affordable housing schemes.

When reading a question, think of relevant examples. If you mention a specific example (a city or policy), it shows you can apply the idea. However, do not spend too much time on elaborate data – keep it believable and brief.

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Useful Vocabulary and Phrases

Problem/Solution essays benefit from formal linking and explanatory phrases:

• Introducing problems: “A significant issue is…”, “One major problem is…”, “The primary reason for this problem is…”

• Describing causes: “This is mainly due to…”, “A key factor contributing to this issue is…”

• Introducing solutions: “One effective solution would be to…”, “To address this issue, it is essential to…”, “A possible way to tackle this problem is…”

• Describing effects: “By implementing this, X would be reduced,” “This would lead to a considerable improvement in…”

• Concluding remarks: “In conclusion, this is a serious issue that requires urgent attention,” “Overall, a multi-faceted approach is needed…”

Also use linking words to show cause/effect and contrast: because, thus, therefore, however, consequently etc.

For example:
“Government subsidies can make cycling cheaper; as a result, more people may bike to work.”

Variety and precision in vocabulary (e.g. mitigate, alleviate, exacerbate, implement, regulate) will boost your Lexical Resource score.

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Band 8 Problem/Solution Examples

Sample Essay 1 – Traffic Congestion

Question:
“What are the causes of traffic congestion in cities? What solutions would you suggest?”

Sample Essay:
Urban traffic congestion has become a common problem in many cities worldwide. The main causes are excessive private car ownership and inadequate public transport. Firstly, in many urban areas, people rely heavily on cars because public transit is scarce or unreliable. For instance, if buses are infrequent, individuals have no choice but to drive, leading to overcrowded roads. Rising incomes in some countries also mean more families own cars, worsening the traffic load. Secondly, poor city planning often contributes to jams. Narrow roads, lack of bypasses, and insufficient parking force cars onto main streets. As a result, even minor incidents (like a broken-down vehicle) can block large portions of the road network.

Possible solutions involve improving public transport and urban planning. One effective solution would be to invest in efficient bus and metro systems, making public transit convenient and affordable. For example, cities that introduce rapid buses or subway extensions often see a drop in car usage. Additionally, governments can implement traffic-management measures: creating car-free zones, adjusting traffic light timing, and encouraging carpooling. Finally, educating citizens on congestion charges or remote work policies can also help reduce peak-hour traffic. In many cities where driving fees were introduced, people shifted to alternative transport or travelled outside rush hours, alleviating jams.

In conclusion, tackling traffic congestion requires both better infrastructure and policies. By expanding public transportation and regulating car use, cities can significantly reduce congestion and improve quality of life.

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Commentary:

• Paragraph 1 (Problems): The essay starts with a clear statement of causes. The topic sentences (“Firstly… Secondly…”) organize ideas. Vocabulary like “excessive car ownership,” “inadequate public transport,” “infrequent,” and “narrow roads” is precise. The example about unreliable buses shows understanding of real situations. The writer explains how each cause leads to congestion, fully addressing “causes”.

• Paragraph 2 (Solutions): Solutions are clearly stated in topic sentences. Phrases like “One effective solution would be to…” echo the recommended style. Specific suggestions (bus and metro systems, congestion charges) are realistic. The example of cities with congestion fees adds strength. The paragraph uses cohesive linkers (For example, Additionally, Finally). The writer includes a short “Finally” solution about remote work – showing sophistication.

• Conclusion: Restates that infrastructure and policies are needed. The phrase “In conclusion” and summary language ensures all key points are tied together. This ties back to both the problems and solutions discussed.

Overall, this essay is well-developed, stays on topic, and uses a variety of sentence structures. Complex sentences (“As a result, even minor incidents…”) are mostly error-free. Cohesion is good (transitions and referencing like “these” or “the road network” to avoid repetition). It meets Band 8 criteria by fully addressing the task and exhibiting strong coherence and vocabulary.

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Sample Essay 2 – Obesity

Question:
“Obesity is a growing problem for many countries. What are the causes of obesity and how can this problem be solved?”

Sample Essay:
The rise in obesity rates has become a serious health concern globally. The primary causes include unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles. First, people today often consume processed foods high in calories, sugar, and fat because they are cheap and convenient. For example, many fast-food meals contain more calories than a person should eat in a day. Second, modern lifestyles involve less physical activity. With more jobs that require sitting and greater use of cars or public transport, people exercise far less than earlier generations. These factors combined have resulted in weight gain for a large portion of the population.

To solve this issue, both individual and government actions are needed. Individuals can adopt healthier habits (such as cooking at home and exercising regularly). At the same time, governments should implement policies that encourage healthy living. For example, imposing taxes on sugary drinks and subsidizing gym memberships can incentivize better choices. Schools and workplaces could also promote active habits by providing facilities (like sports programs or bike racks). Ultimately, raising public awareness about nutrition and ensuring access to fresh foods will help people make better decisions.

In conclusion, to reduce obesity, unhealthy food consumption must be reduced and activity levels must increase. By combining personal commitment with supportive policies, this problem can be mitigated in the long run.

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Commentary:

• Paragraph 1 (Causes): Clearly identifies “unhealthy diets” and “sedentary lifestyles” as the main causes. The explanation includes reasons (fast food is cheap/convenient, more sitting at work). The example of calorie-rich meals illustrates the first point. Linkers like “First”, “Second” and “For example” structure the paragraph logically and cohesively. Appropriate terms like “processed foods”, “sedentary”, and “subsidizing” demonstrate strong lexical resource.

• Paragraph 2 (Solutions): The paragraph begins with topic sentence stating solutions at individual and government levels (showing awareness that multi-pronged action is needed). Concrete suggestions (sugar taxes, gym subsidies, sports programs) are given. The use of “For example” introduces a specific policy idea, and “Ultimately” signals a summary point. The ideas are realistic and directly answer the question’s “solve this problem” part, ensuring Task Response.

• Conclusion: Restates the two main points succinctly (“unhealthy food… reduced and activity… increase”) and emphasizes a combined approach. Using phrases like “In conclusion” and “in the long run” helps with cohesion. The summary does not introduce new details, which is correct.

The essay flows well and uses a good mix of vocabulary (“imposing taxes,” “subsidizing,” “public awareness,” “mitigated”). Grammar is mostly accurate. Complex structures (passives, conditionals) are present and correct. This sample meets Band 8 requirements, thoroughly addressing causes and solutions with clear organization.