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Task 2 Paragraphs

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How to Write a Good Body Paragraph for IELTS Writing Task 2

 

In IELTS Writing Task 2, strong body paragraphs are essential for achieving a Band 9. Each paragraph must develop a clear idea, support your opinion directly, and show the examiner that you can build logical and coherent arguments. If your body paragraphs are weak, even a good introduction and conclusion cannot save your essay.

The Best Structure for an IELTS Body Paragraph: QPEE and PEE

To write a good body paragraph in IELTS essays, you must follow a logical structure. Every paragraph should start with a QPEE sentence and then build further ideas using the PEE format.

  • Q (Question): Start with a rhetorical question related to the essay topic.
    Example: “Why has online learning become so popular?”

  • P (Point): Immediately answer the rhetorical question with a clear point.
    Example: “The main reason is that online courses offer flexibility and convenience.”

  • E (Explain): Expand on your point by explaining why it is important or how it relates to the essay question.
    Example: “This flexibility allows students to balance their studies with work or family commitments without needing to attend classes in person.”

  • E (Example): Provide a believable, real-world example. Avoid using academic studies or personal experiences.
    Example: “For instance, a parent with young children might study in the evenings after their children have gone to bed, without the stress of commuting to a university.”

After the first QPEE block, you can add extra ideas using PEE (Point – Explain – Example) if you want to develop the paragraph further. Always ensure that each sentence links clearly to your main point and does not introduce new arguments.

Tips for Writing a High-Scoring IELTS Body Paragraph

Stay Focused on the Main Point

In IELTS Writing Task 2, coherence is key. Do not introduce new ideas that do not directly relate to the paragraph’s main idea. Each paragraph should deal with only one clear point.

Use Natural Examples

Good examples make your ideas believable. Avoid quoting academic research, surveys, or statistics. Instead, create realistic examples that sound natural and could happen in everyday life. This style keeps your essay logical and personal but still formal.

Keep Your Explanations Simple

A Band 9 essay in IELTS is not about using complicated language or concepts. It is about explaining ideas clearly and logically. Your explanation should make your point stronger, not confuse the reader.

Avoid Common Mistakes

  • Adding too many ideas into one paragraph.

  • Using personal examples (e.g., “my friend did this”) — instead, keep examples general.

  • Including fake facts or academic studies to try to sound impressive.

  • Using long, complicated sentences without clear meaning.

Good vs Bad Body Paragraphs in IELTS Writing Task 2

Seeing the difference between a weak and strong body paragraph is one of the fastest ways to improve your IELTS essay writing.

Bad Example

Many people like online education. It is convenient and cheap. Also, it helps people study while they work. Studying online is easier than going to classes. In modern life, people are busy so online education is useful.

Why This Is Weak:

  • No rhetorical question to introduce the paragraph.

  • The ideas are repetitive and not explained clearly.

  • Sentences are short and disconnected.

  • No believable real-world example is provided.

  • Vocabulary is basic and repetitive.

Good Example (Around 110 Words)

Why has online learning become increasingly popular in recent years? The main reason is that it provides greater flexibility for learners. This flexibility means that individuals can adapt their studies around work or family commitments without needing to attend classes in person. For instance, a parent with young children might study in the evenings after their children have gone to bed, without the stress of commuting to a university. As a result, many people who would otherwise find traditional education inaccessible are now able to pursue further qualifications while managing other responsibilities.

Why This Is Strong:

  • Starts with a rhetorical question that directly introduces the paragraph’s topic.

  • Provides one clear main point (flexibility).

  • Fully explains the significance of that one point.

  • Gives one realistic, natural example.

  • No new points, no topic drift, fully coherent.

  • The paragraph is around 110 words, suitable for IELTS conditions.

Final Advice on Writing Body Paragraphs for IELTS Essays

Remember: the examiner is looking for clear, developed arguments with strong examples. If you structure each body paragraph using QPEE and PEE, focus on one main idea, and support it naturally, you will produce the type of logical and coherent paragraphs that score highly in IELTS Writing Task 2.