IELTS Writing — Task 2
IELTS Writing Task 2: Double Question Essay (Two-Part Question)
The IELTS double question essay has two separate questions that must both be answered. Here is the structure, common mistakes, and Band 7+ strategies.
What is a Double Question Essay?
Double question essays contain two separate questions, both of which must be answered fully. The prompt might say "Why has this happened? What effects does it have?" or "What are the reasons for this? Is this a positive or negative development?". Missing either question is penalised heavily on Task Response.
Recommended Structure
Introduction
50–65 wordsIntroduce the topic and indicate that you will answer both questions. Keep this concise — do not try to answer the questions here.
Body Paragraph 1 — Question 1
90–110 wordsAnswer the first question fully. Use a topic sentence that directly addresses Question 1, then develop it with reasons and examples.
Body Paragraph 2 — Question 2
90–110 wordsAnswer the second question fully. Even if Question 2 seems simpler (like "is this positive or negative?"), develop your answer with specific reasoning.
Conclusion
50–60 wordsSummarise your answers to both questions briefly. Use the same order as in the body paragraphs.
Example Question & Thesis
Sample Prompt
In many countries, the number of people living alone has increased significantly in recent years. Why is this happening? Is this a positive or negative development?
Band 7+ Thesis Statement
The rise in single-person households reflects broader social trends including delayed marriage and increased economic independence. While this shift has some positive aspects, I believe the potential social and environmental costs make it, on balance, a concerning development.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✗Answering only one of the two questions — this is the most common error and causes the Task Response score to drop to Band 5 or below.
- ✗Mixing the answers to both questions within the same body paragraph — this creates confusion and reduces coherence.
- ✗A weak conclusion that addresses only one question.
- ✗Spending 80% of the essay on Question 1 because it feels easier — both questions deserve roughly equal coverage.
Band 7+ Tips
- ✓Plan before you write: underline both questions in the prompt and assign one body paragraph to each.
- ✓Start each body paragraph with a clear topic sentence that signals which question you are answering: "The growth in solo living can be explained by several social and economic factors..."
- ✓If Question 2 is "positive or negative", give a clear verdict — not "it has both positive and negative aspects" (which avoids the question).
- ✓In the conclusion, mirror your body paragraph order: summarise Q1 answer first, then Q2 answer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if both questions seem related to the same idea?▼
They often are — but keep your answers in separate paragraphs. For example, "Why is this happening?" and "What can be done?" might both involve the same factors, but the body paragraphs should focus on causes (Q1) and solutions (Q2) separately.
Can I write three body paragraphs for a double question essay?▼
Only if you can keep both questions clearly addressed. For example: Paragraph 1 → Question 1, Paragraph 2 → First part of Question 2, Paragraph 3 → Second part of Question 2. Make sure neither question is neglected.
How do I know if it is a double question essay?▼
Look for two question marks in the prompt, or two different directive questions (Why... and What... / Do you think... and What can be done...). If you see two separate questions, you must answer both.
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