Why Extension Matters
Every IELTS Task 2 body paragraph must do more than just make a point — it has to develop it. That development, or “extension,” is what separates a Band 6 essay from a Band 8 one.
When examiners see ideas that are underdeveloped, vague, or repeated, your Task Response score drops. So does your Coherence and Cohesion score. Even if your grammar and vocab are solid, you will never get a high mark if you don’t properly extend your ideas.
What Does “Extend” Actually Mean?
“Extend” means to go beyond the basic idea.
You’re not just stating something — you’re showing why it matters, how it works, or what result it leads to. You’re adding a second layer of thought.
It is not:
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Repeating the same point using different words
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Throwing in a memorised phrase
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Adding an unrelated idea
Example: Not Extended vs Extended
Point Only (Weak):
Tourism creates jobs for local people.
Extended (Strong):
Tourism creates jobs for local people. When tourists spend money in hotels, restaurants, and shops, it increases demand for services. As a result, more local residents can find employment, especially in areas where job opportunities were previously limited.
That’s a full extension.
You’ve gone from what → to how → to why it matters.
How to Extend Your Ideas (Without Waffling)
Once you make your point, ask yourself:
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What happens as a result?
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Who is affected, and how?
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Why is this a problem or benefit?
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Can I explain this with a realistic example?
Don’t pad with empty phrases like “this is very important” or “this affects many people.” That’s not development — that’s filler.
Use plain, clear language to explain cause and effect.
Sentence Starters to Help Extend
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This means that…
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As a result…
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This leads to…
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One effect of this is…
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Because of this…
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This can result in…
Use them naturally — not to tick a box, but to link ideas clearly.
The Role of Examples
If you’re following the QPEE / PEE structure (which you should be), then your extension always comes after the example.
QPEE:
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Question
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Point
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Example
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Extend → explain what the example shows, why it proves your point, and what the wider impact is.
PEE:
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Point
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Example
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Extend → same deal. If there’s no extension, the paragraph ends flat.
Common Mistakes
Listing
Tourism creates jobs, improves roads, and helps education.
→ These are three separate points. None are extended. Choose one and develop it fully.
Waffling
Tourism is important. It’s very important. And it can help people.
→ No clarity, no development, no score.
Changing topic mid-paragraph
Tourism creates jobs. These jobs are not always permanent. Also, many tourists litter.
→ New topic = new paragraph.
Final Thought
One clear idea, extended fully, is always better than three shallow ones.
The examiner isn’t counting how many ideas you write. They’re checking how well you’ve developed them.
Clarity + logic + full development = higher band score.