- Explain both views fairly in separate paragraphs, then give your own opinion.
- Use a simple four-paragraph plan so you never run out of time.
- State your opinion in the introduction and repeat it in the conclusion.
“Discuss both views and give your own opinion” is one of the most common IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, in both General Training and Academic. Many test-takers lose marks because they only discuss one side, or forget to say what they think. Here is a clear way to handle it every time.
What the question is asking
The question gives you two opposing opinions, for example: Some people think children should start school at age four. Others believe they should start at seven. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. You must do three things: explain the first view, explain the second view, and say which one you agree with (or how far you agree with each). Missing any of the three will limit your Task Response score.
A four-paragraph plan that works
- Introduction (2–3 sentences): paraphrase the question and give your opinion in one clear sentence.
- Body 1: the view you agree with less. Give one or two reasons and a short example.
- Body 2: the view you agree with more. Give reasons and an example, and show why it is stronger.
- Conclusion (2 sentences): summarize both sides and repeat your opinion in different words.
Putting your preferred view second makes your essay flow naturally toward your conclusion.
Useful phrases
- On the one hand, supporters of … argue that …
- Those who hold the opposite view believe that …
- While both arguments have merit, I believe …
- In my view, the second argument is more convincing because …
Use these to guide the examiner, but don’t overload your essay with memorized phrases. Clear ideas matter more.
Managing your time
The Writing test is 60 minutes in total. The official advice is to spend about 40 minutes on Task 2 and write at least 250 words, because Task 2 counts for more of your Writing score than Task 1. A good split is:
- 5 minutes planning your ideas and examples
- 30 minutes writing
- 5 minutes checking grammar, spelling and word count
Practise this timing at home with a timer. After a few essays, the plan will feel automatic.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Giving your opinion only in the conclusion.
- Writing one long paragraph that mixes both views.
- Using examples that don’t connect to the point you are making.
- Going far over the word count and running out of checking time.
Practise with Band 9 model answers
Our Writing eBooks give a Band 9 model answer with an explanation for every question, so you can see exactly how top essays are built.