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IELTS Double Question Essays

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What is a Double Question Essay?

In IELTS Writing Task 2, a Double Question Essay asks you to answer two separate questions on the same topic.

What Do These Questions Look Like?

Typically, these questions might ask:

  • Why is this happening?

  • Is this a positive or negative development?

Your job is to answer both questions clearly and directly.
Don’t blend your answers.
Don’t sit on the fence.
Treat each question separately and stick to a clear, organised structure.

Use This Fixed Structure Every Time

To perform well, it’s important to follow a fixed structure.
Don’t change the order.
Don’t rewrite the sentence stems.
The goal here is to stay in control — not to “get creative.”

Introduction

Paraphrase the topic and give direct answers to both questions.

Sentence guide:
It is increasingly common for [rephrased topic]. This is happening because [clear cause], and in my view, it is a [positive/negative] development.

Body Paragraph 1 — The Cause

Answer the first question: Why is this happening?

  • Start with a clear reason.

  • Explain how this has led to the situation.

  • Give a general real-world example.

Structure:
One major cause is [reason].
This has led to [effect].
For example, [general cause + realistic situation].

Body Paragraph 2 — Positive or Negative?

Answer the second question: Is this a positive or negative development?

  • State your opinion clearly.

  • Explain the consequences or benefits.

  • Support with a general example.

Conclusion

Summarise the main points briefly.

Sentence guide:
In conclusion, this trend is happening due to [repeat cause], but it should be seen as a [positive/negative] development because of its wider effects.

Band 9 Essay Sample

Question:
Large numbers of people are now able to travel overseas thanks to the growth of budget airlines.
Why is this happening? Is this a positive or negative development?

Model Essay

Large numbers of people are now able to travel overseas due to the rise of low-cost airlines. This is a negative development as it harms the environment and disrupts local communities.

So why is this happening?
One major reason is that airfares have become more affordable due to increased competition between budget airlines. Flights that were once out of reach for most people are now financially accessible, which allows many individuals to travel internationally multiple times per year. This has made tourism a regular part of life for a much larger section of the population.For example, it is now common for people in Europe to take short overseas trips several times a year using low-cost carriers, something that was previously only available to the wealthy.

The main issue is that mass international travel places a serious burden on both the environment and on the communities receiving large numbers of tourists. The increase in flights contributes significantly to carbon emissions, and many destinations experience overcrowding, rising housing costs, and the erosion of local culture.Cities such as Venice and Amsterdam, for instance,  have struggled to cope with the number of visitors arriving each day, which has led to protests from local residents and a decline in quality of life.

In conclusion, the growth of international travel is happening because airfares have become more affordable, but this should be viewed as a negative development due to its environmental and social consequences.

Ready to Practise?

Try answering this question:

Question:
More and more people are choosing to work from home rather than commute to an office.
Why is this happening? Is this a positive or negative development?

Stick to the fixed structure.
Answer each question in a separate paragraph.
Stay clear and decisive.