In the IELTS Writing Task 2 test, candidates will be asked to write a social argumentative essay on a question or issue raised in the topic. Depending on the requirements of each test, this part is divided into many types, typically Opinion, Two-part question, Problem and Solution, Discussion or Advantages and Disadvantages.
In this article, IDP will guide you on how to write a Two-part question in the most detailed way through analyzing the topic type, outlining, noting common mistakes when doing the test, and providing sample essays to help you get familiar with the test structure.
1. Overview: What Is a Two‑Part Question in IELTS Writing Task 2?
A Two‑Part Question (also known as Direct Question or Double Question) features two related questions within a single prompt. This task type falls under IELTS Writing Task 2, which carries 60% of your total Writing score, so thorough preparation is essential.
Example 1:
Nowadays, the way many people interact with each other has changed because of technology. In what ways has technology affected the types of relationships people make? Has this become a positive or negative development?
You must address both:
How technology has influenced human relationships.
Whether that influence is positive or negative.
Example 2:
Consumers face increasing numbers of advertisements. To what extent are consumers influenced by advertisements? What measures can be taken to protect them?
Topics to cover:
The degree of influence of advertising on consumers.
Possible measures to safeguard consumers.
2. How to Write a Two‑Part Question Essay
Regardless of the prompt type, successful Writing Task 2 responses follow this process: Analyze the prompt → Plan your argument → Write each paragraph with supporting examples → Review and edit
Sample prompt:
Some parents buy their children whatever they ask for and allow them to do whatever they want. Is this a good way to bring up children? What consequences could this parenting style have as children grow older?
Step 1: Analyze the Prompt and Decide Your Position
Spend ~3 minutes reading and interpreting the background plus both questions.
Question 1: Is indulgent parenting a good approach?
Question 2: What are its potential negative consequences?
Your stance should be clear in both the Introduction and Conclusion.
Step 2: Outline and Develop Key Ideas
Take ~10 minutes to structure your essay:
Section | Content |
|---|---|
Introduction | Paraphrase the topic; clearly state your position |
Body 1 | Why indulgent parenting is not advisable |
Body 2 | Possible consequences as children grow up |
Conclusion | Summarize key points; restate your position |
Step 3: Proofread and Edit
At the end, review your response to:
Fix grammar or spelling mistakes
Ensure you fully addressed both questions
Check word count meets the task requirement
3. High‑Scoring Vocabulary & Grammar for Writing Task 2
Using advanced and accurate vocabulary enhances your lexical resource. Useful phrases for various essay parts:
Introduction phrases:
Some people say/ claim/ believe that …
There is no denying that …
In today’s world …
It is universally accepted that …
... is one of the most important issues
Thesis statements:
In my opinion, …
I strongly believe that …
From my point of view, …
As far as I am concerned, …
My own view is that …
This essay will examine both sides before concluding
Body paragraph starters:
First / Firstly, …
It is true that …
Many support the view that …
On the one hand … / On the other hand …
Furthermore / Moreover / What’s more …
Consequently …
Examples and supporting statements:
As an example / illustration / instance, …
To give an example …
… is a prime example of …
Conclusion connectors:
In conclusion / To sum up, …
Overall, …
All things considered, …
Taking everything into account …
Weighing up both sides …
4. Model Two‑Part Question Essays
Prompt:
In some countries, people spend long hours at work. Why does this happen? Is it a positive or negative development?
Sample answer (abridged): Employees worldwide often work overtime due to two main factors: rising living costs and heavy workloads. While overtime may boost income, it has many negative effects such as health issues and poor work‑life balance. In conclusion, despite some financial benefits, working excessively long hours brings more harm than good.
Key vocabulary used:
Brings more harm than good
A large financial burden
Breadwinner
Climb the career ladder
Prompt:
In some regions, people research their own family history. Why? Is that positive or negative?
Sample answer (abridged): People often explore ancestral lineage to reconnect with distant relatives or learn inherited health risks. Researching family roots helps preserve cultural traditions and also inspires personal resilience by learning from ancestors' struggles. Thus, this trend is overwhelmingly positive.
Key vocabulary used:
Ancestral lineage research
Track down long‑lost relatives
Genetically inheritable medical conditions
Preserve familial culture
5. Final Tips: Achieve Two‑Part Task Success
With the structure, vocabulary, and essay model above, you're well‑equipped to nail Two‑Part Questions in IELTS Writing Task 2. For more proven strategies, explore IDP’s IELTS resource library, which includes articles, expert videos, live mock tests, and training tailored to each candidate.
When you’re ready, sign up for IELTS with IDP today and take your preparation to the next level!