How to Write an IELTS Discussion Essay? Structure and Examples

How to Write an IELTS Discussion Essay: The Discussion Essay is an important part of IELTS Writing Part 2 . The essay includes different topics based on social, environmental, educational, technological, and economic issues. Candidates are required to discuss both sides of an issue and provide their opinion. A standard IELTS Discussion Essay includes four main sections: Introduction, Body Paragraph 1, Body Paragraph 2, and Conclusion. Here, we have included a detailed description of how to structure a discussion essay. Learn important tips to write an IELTS Discussion Essay along with a sample answer. 

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How to Write an IELTS Discussion Essay?

Writing an IELTS Discussion Essay includes: Analyzing the question, Planning the essay, Main structure of the essay, and Review. Here’s a complete guide to writing a Discussion Essay for the IELTS test 2025:  

Understanding the Task

Understanding the task is the first and important step of the writing process. Read the given prompt carefully to understand the actual need for the content. These prompts often include phrases such as: 

• Discuss both views and give your opinion.

• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages.

• Consider both perspectives and state your own view.

Planning Your IELTS Discussion Essay

Spend 5–10 minutes planning your response before writing. Here’s a useful approach:

Analyze the Question

Break down the question to identify:

• The main topic

• The two views you need to discuss

• Whether you are asked to give your own opinion

Generate Ideas

Jot down key points for each side. Don't aim for too many—two strong points per side are enough. Think about causes, examples, effects, and real-life relevance.

Organize Your Structure

Use a clear 4-paragraph structure: Introduction, Body Paragraph 1, Body Paragraph 2, and Conclusion. For better organization and clarity, here’s a sample plan based on the essay question:

Writing the Introduction

A good introduction sets the tone for the entire essay. Aim for three elements:

1. Paraphrase the question in your own words.

2. State the purpose of the essay—what will be discussed.

3. Mention your opinion if the task asks for it.

Structuring the Body Paragraphs

Each body paragraph should focus on one view and follow a consistent structure:

• Topic Sentence: Clearly state the viewpoint.

• Explanation: Explain why people might hold this view.

• Example: Provide a real or hypothetical example.

• Linking Sentence: Connect the paragraph back to the essay's focus.

Writing a Balanced Conclusion

Write a conclusion that summarizes the two views given in the prompt. Avoid introducing new ideas.

Review Your Essay

After completing the writing assignment. Take 2-3 minutes to review your essay. 

IELTS Discussion Essay Types

There are two main types of discussion essays in IELTS Writing Task 2: 

1. Discussion with Opinion

2. Pure Discussion

IELTS Discussion Essay Topics

Below are some common topics for IELTS Discussion Essays for IELTS exam aspirants:

1. Education

2. Environment

3. Technology

4. Society

5. Work and Employment

IELTS Discussion Essay Model Question

Some people believe that schools should focus more on academic subjects like mathematics and science , while others argue that students should be encouraged to engage in creative arts and physical education . Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

IELTS Discussion Essay Model Answer

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Tips for a Band 7+ IELTS Discussion Essay

Here are some important tips that can help you achieve a Band 7+ IELTS Discussion Essay: 

1. Stay Neutral in Body Paragraphs: Save your personal opinion for the conclusion unless otherwise asked.

2. Use Formal Language: Avoid contractions (e.g., “don’t”), slang, or overly casual expressions.

3. Link Ideas Clearly: Use linking phrases like On the one hand, In contrast, Furthermore, As a result, For example, Therefore.

4. Avoid Repetition: Use synonyms and rephrase ideas to show a broad vocabulary.

5. Stay Within Word Count: Aim for 260–280 words. Writing far over the limit won’t improve your score and can lead to irrelevant content.

Also Read: IELTS Writing Tips, Strategy And Practice

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid the following mistakes to improve your IELTS band score:

• Not answering all parts of the question: Make sure you discuss both views and state your opinion clearly.

• Poor paragraphing: Avoid one-sentence paragraphs or mixing multiple ideas in one paragraph.

• Weak introductions and conclusions: These sections frame your argument. Keep them concise but impactful.

• Grammar and spelling errors: Always check for subject-verb agreement, article usage, and punctuation.

Guidance of PW IELTS

Physics Wallah offers multiple online IELTS courses for all students. Follow the IELTS pages to better prepare for the exam.