IELTS Writing Task 2: Discussion and Problem-Solution Essays 2

Question 1

A Task 2 prompt states: 'Traffic congestion is a serious problem in many cities. What are the causes of this problem and what measures could be taken to solve it?' This is a:

Accepted Answer

Problem-solution essay requiring causes and solutions

Answer

'What are the causes' and 'what measures could be taken to solve it' are the two explicit questions, defining this as a problem-solution (causes and solutions) essay.

Question 2

Which sentence is the most effective topic sentence for a paragraph about solutions to traffic congestion?

Accepted Answer

Several measures could be adopted by governments to alleviate traffic congestion in urban areas.

Answer

An effective topic sentence for a solutions paragraph signals what the paragraph will cover (solutions/measures) and by whom (governments), setting up the supporting points.

Question 3

In a 'discuss both views and give your opinion' essay, where should the writer's opinion typically appear?

Accepted Answer

In the introduction as part of the thesis and reiterated in the conclusion

Answer

Stating your opinion in the thesis and reaffirming it in the conclusion ensures Task Achievement and gives the essay clear direction.

Question 4

Which word or phrase most effectively shows cause and effect in a problem-solution essay?

Accepted Answer

As a consequence of the increase in private car use, congestion has worsened significantly.

Answer

'As a consequence of' is a formal, precise cause-and-effect linker, more appropriate than 'so' or 'for example' for academic writing.

Question 5

A candidate writes: 'In my personal opinion, I personally believe that...' What band-lowering mistake does this contain?

Accepted Answer

Redundancy — 'personal opinion' and 'personally believe' express the same idea twice

Answer

Redundant phrasing ('personal opinion' + 'personally believe') wastes words and signals weak vocabulary control, reducing the Lexical Resource score.

IELTS Practice Test

IELTS Practice Test

IELTS Writing Task 2: Discussion and Problem-Solution Essays 2