Task 2 Writing Guide
The two versions of the test share the exact same Task 2 section, but they feature completely different Task 1 requirements. Task 2 is a discursive essay responding to a point of view, argument, or problem — and it carries twice the weight of Task 1.
Task 2: Both versions (discursive essay)
GoalWrite an academic-style essay responding to a specific point of view, argument, or problem.
FormatDiscursive essay layout (Introduction, 2–3 Body Paragraphs, Conclusion).
LengthMinimum 250 words.
TimeRecommended 40 minutes.
WeightWorth 2/3 of your total writing score.
The 5 essay types
Every Task 2 prompt is one of these five shapes. Recognizing the type in the first ten seconds tells you exactly how to structure your paragraphs.
How the sections are scored
Examiners grade both sections equally across four distinct criteria:
Task Achievement / ResponseDid you fully answer all parts of the prompt?
Coherence & CohesionIs your writing organized logically with clear paragraphing?
Lexical ResourceDid you use a wide, accurate range of vocabulary?
Grammatical Range & AccuracyDid you use complex sentence structures without making errors?
Practice essay questions
214 original practice prompts across 21 topics, grouped by topic.