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IELTS Writing Task 2: How to Write a Strong Introduction

Why This Matters

The introduction is your first chance to show the examiner that you understand the question and can respond clearly. A well-structured introduction improves your score across all four criteria: Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Starting with a clear paraphrase and a direct answer sets the tone for the rest of the essay — and avoids the common Band 6 trap of vague openings or memorised phrases.

What Is an IELTS Task 2 Introduction?

In IELTS Task 2, the introduction is not the place to be creative.

You are not writing a newspaper article. You are showing the examiner that you understand the question and can answer it clearly.

You must write an introduction that is short, focused, and clear.
This is not the time to include general background statements or hooks.
You are simply telling the examiner what you’re going to tell them.

Use This Fixed Formula Every Time

Your introduction will normally contain two sentences:

Sentence 1 – Paraphrase the question

  • Change the wording, but keep the original meaning

  • Do not include your opinion

  • Keep it simple and clear

Sentence 2 – Answer the question (Thesis statement)

  • This is the most important sentence in your essay

  • State your opinion or position clearly

  • Do not hedge or balance if the task asks for your view

In almost all cases, two sentences is all you need.
This structure gives the examiner a clear sense of your argument and sets up the rest of the essay.

When Can You Use Three Sentences?

In rare cases — such as when the question contains a long background statement followed by a double question — it may be more effective to write three short, tightly focused sentences.

This doesn’t change the structure. You are still doing the same job:

  1. Paraphrase the situation

  2. Highlight the issue

  3. Answer both questions clearly

Example Task:
Many young children have unsupervised access to the internet and are using the internet to socialise with others. This can lead to a number of dangerous situations which can be threatening to children.
What problems do children face when going online without parental supervision?
How can these problems be solved?

Three-Sentence Introduction:
In today’s digital age, an increasing number of young children are given unrestricted access to the internet, allowing them to participate in online social interactions.
However, this access, if unmonitored, comes with inherent risks that can jeopardise their safety.
As a result, they can be exposed to inappropriate content online, but this can be tackled by educating them about the dangers involved.

Only use three sentences when absolutely necessary.
Two sentences should remain your default.

Good Example – Opinion Essay

Task:
Thanks to budget airlines, many people are now able to travel abroad.
Is this a positive or negative development?

Correct Introduction:
Large numbers of people are now able to travel abroad due to the rise of budget airlines.
In my opinion, this is a negative development as it can damage local communities and increase health risks.

Bad Example – Opinion Essay

Incorrect Introduction:
In today’s world, more people are flying abroad than ever before. This trend has sparked much debate about whether it is good or bad. In this essay, I will discuss my opinion.

This is vague, off-topic, and includes memorised phrases. It does not answer the question.

Good Example – Problem / Solution Essay

Task:
Many people throw away food these days.
What problems can this cause, and what solutions can be proposed?

Correct Introduction:
In today’s world, food waste has become a growing concern in many households and restaurants.
This causes serious environmental problems but could be addressed through better education and regulation.

Bad Example – Problem / Solution Essay

Incorrect Introduction:
Nowadays, people waste too much food and this is a huge issue in the modern world. There are many reasons for this and various solutions that can be explored.

Overgeneralised, empty, and avoids giving a real answer.

Good Example – Double Question Essay

Task:
Many people today do not know their neighbours.
Why is this? What can be done about it?

Correct Introduction:
In many modern communities, people no longer build strong relationships with their neighbours.
This is mainly due to changing lifestyles, but the problem can be addressed through local initiatives and community involvement.

Want to Practise?

Try this question:

Some people think students should learn practical skills at school. Others believe academic subjects are more important.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Write only two sentences.
Do not generalise.
Paraphrase the prompt and clearly give your opinion.

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