How Many Paragraphs Should You Write? And What Should Go In Each? 

Introduction: Why Essay Structure Matters in IELTS Writing Task 2 

Scoring high in IELTS Writing Task 2 isn’t just about ideas—it’s also about structure. A well-organized essay makes it easier for the examiner to follow your arguments and award you higher scores in Coherence & Cohesion, one of the four key band descriptors. 

In this guide, you’ll learn: 

• ✅ How many paragraphs you should write 

• ✅ What each paragraph must contain 

• ✅ Common mistakes and how to avoid them 

• ✅ Sample structures for different essay types 

How Many Paragraphs Should an IELTS Essay Have? 

The ideal number of paragraphs in your IELTS Task 2 essay is 4 or 5. Here’s the common breakdown: 

Paragraph	Purpose
1️⃣ Introduction	Introduce the topic + thesis statement
2️⃣ Body Paragraph 1	First main idea + explanation + example
3️⃣ Body Paragraph 2	Second main idea + explanation + example
4️⃣ Conclusion	Summarize + restate your position

Optional Body Paragraph 3: For complex topics where a third idea or counterargument is needed. 

The Ideal IELTS Task 2 Essay Structure 

Let’s break it down in detail. 

1. Introduction (40–50 words) 

Purpose: Introduce the topic and outline your opinion or position. 

Structure: 

• Paraphrase the question 

• State your opinion or what the essay will cover 

Example: 

Many people believe that global warming is the most serious threat to humanity. This essay will argue that although economic issues are important, environmental problems must be addressed first. 

2. Body Paragraph 1 (80–100 words) 

Purpose: Present your first main argument with support. 

Structure: 

• Topic sentence (main idea) 

• Explanation or reasoning 

• Example or evidence 

Example: 

Firstly, climate change affects every aspect of life, from agriculture to health. Rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns can lead to food shortages and natural disasters. For example, many countries in Asia are experiencing record-breaking floods each year. 

3. Body Paragraph 2 (80–100 words) 

Purpose: Present your second main argument or a contrasting viewpoint. 

Structure: 

• Topic sentence 

• Explanation 

• Example 

Example: 

In addition, environmental damage often leads to economic costs. Countries must spend billions rebuilding after storms or droughts. Preventing such disasters through green policy is more cost-effective than recovery efforts. 

4. (Optional) Body Paragraph 3 (Only if needed) 

Use this if: 

• You’re discussing both sides of an argument (e.g., discuss both views) 

• You need to present a counter-argument or third main point 

5. Conclusion (40–50 words) 

Purpose: Summarize your argument and restate your opinion clearly. 

Structure: 

• Summarize main points 

• Clearly restate your position (if required) 

Example: 

In conclusion, while financial problems are significant, the environmental crisis poses a more immediate threat to humanity. Therefore, governments must prioritize action on climate change. 

Sample Essay Structures by Question Type 

Opinion Essay 

• Introduction 

• Body 1: Reason 1 

• Body 2: Reason 2 

• Conclusion 

Discuss Both Views + Opinion 

• Introduction 

• Body 1: View 1 

• Body 2: View 2 + your opinion 

• Conclusion 

Advantages & Disadvantages 

• Introduction 

• Body 1: Advantages 

• Body 2: Disadvantages 

• Conclusion 

Problem/Solution 

• Introduction 

• Body 1: Problems 

• Body 2: Solutions 

• Conclusion 

Common Mistakes to Avoid 

• Writing too many paragraphs (makes the essay disorganized) 
• No clear topic sentence in body paragraphs 
• Mixing too many ideas in one paragraph 
• Weak or missing thesis statement 
• No opinion given in “opinion” questions 

Examiner Tips for Band 7 and Above 

• Stick to 4–5 well-developed paragraphs 
• Make sure each paragraph has only one clear main idea 
• Use linking phrases (e.g., furthermore, in contrast, as a result) 
• Don’t memorize templates word-for-word—keep it natural 
• Support every point with examples or explanations 

Learn How to Write Band 9 Essays 

IELTS Band 9 Strategy Course on Udemy 

• Step-by-step writing tutorials 

• Video lessons with examples 

• Ideal for serious students aiming for Band 7–9 

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Final Thoughts 

The right essay structure is your secret weapon in IELTS Writing Task 2. Stick to a clear paragraph plan, focus on coherence, and make sure each idea is fully developed. 

Start practicing today, and you’ll build confidence and speed with every essay you write. 

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