Why This Matters
Your body paragraphs are where the examiner decides your score for Task Response and Coherence and Cohesion. This is where you show that you can develop one clear idea, explain it logically, and support it with a realistic example. Without structure and development, even strong grammar won’t save your score. Mastering this skill is the key to reaching Band 7 or above.
What Is a Body Paragraph?
In IELTS Writing Task 2, your body paragraphs are where the marks are won. This is where you show your ideas, develop them clearly, and give realistic examples.
A good paragraph follows one fixed structure and develops a single, focused idea.
If your paragraphs are too vague or try to do too much, your score will suffer — even with strong grammar or vocabulary.
One Paragraph = One Fully Developed Point
Each paragraph must focus on one idea.
You must include a realistic, generic example that supports the point you’re making.
Do not try to include two or three mini-points.
Do not waffle.
Stick to the structure. Stick to one idea. Include an example every time.
Use These Two Structures ONLY
Body Paragraph 1 – QPEE
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Q – Ask the question the paragraph will answer
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P – Give your main point
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E – Explain the point clearly
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E – Give a realistic, general example
Body Paragraph 2 – PEE
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P – State your second main point
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E – Extend the point with logic or analysis
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E – Support it with a realistic example
If you want to make this easy, learn these structures and stick to them.
Good Example – QPEE Paragraph (110 words)
Task: Thanks to budget airlines, many people are now able to travel abroad.
Is this a positive or negative development?
Body Paragraph 1:
So, why do I hold this stance? Many communities that open their doors to tourism do so in the hope of gaining economic benefits, but often this does not occur. In many well-known tourist destinations, this has led to the collapse of once-stable communities. Areas that were previously populated year-round have become dependent on seasonal visitors, and local people are often priced out of the housing market. As a result, schools and essential services are forced to close due to declining local populations, and neighbourhoods lose their long-term residents.
Good Example – PEE Paragraph (110 words)
Another reason I believe the spread of tourism through low-cost international flights is a harmful development is because of the ease with which diseases can now be transmitted. Travellers can unknowingly carry illnesses across borders, affecting both their destinations and home countries. The COVID-19 pandemic showed how quickly a virus can spread through international travel. In places with weaker healthcare systems, this can overwhelm hospitals and lead to devastating consequences for residents who had no part in the tourism industry to begin with.
Common Mistakes
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Including more than one idea per paragraph
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Forgetting to give an example
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Using invented research or personal anecdotes
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Mixing paragraph structures or switching mid-way
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Writing vague or undeveloped points without clear logic
Want to Practise?
Task:
Some people believe the government should pay for university education. Others think students should pay their own fees.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Write one QPEE paragraph and one PEE paragraph.
Each should focus on one clear idea.
Each must include a realistic example.