Every idea in your Task 2 essay must be supported with details and examples.
A common error is providing multiple ideas with very little support.
Today you’ll find out how to give supporting details in Task 2.
Today’s question
Today we’re answering a question about brainstorming.
This is a vital step to map out what will be in your essay.
You need ideas for each paragraph as well as supporting details and examples.
Can you give some tips on brainstorming? -Kalpesh
Keep it real
You want to think of real people, real places, and real times.
IELTS encourages you to draw from your own experience.
Think of experiences you have had related to the topic.
If you have no experience, think of someone you know who does.
You can also use examples from what you have read or heard.
Answer the W’s
Answer all of the W questions in your Task 2 essay.
- Who
- What
- When
- Where
- What
- How
Thinking about answers to these questions will give you a lot to write about.
This will help you think of details for your ideas.
Task 2 topic
Aubrey and Jessica provide a sample brainstorm to the following topic:
There is an increasing trend around the world of married couples deciding not to have children. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for couples who decide to do this.
Brainstorm this essay before listening to their ideas.
For every topic, you must be able to come up with reasons and details.
Advantage #1
Jessica and Lindsay brainstorm advantages for couples who don’t have children.
The first advantage is more discretionary income.
Couples who have dual income with no kids have less expenses.
- Example: As an illustration, as a mother of four children, my expenditures on groceries and extracurricular activities prohibit me from a life of luxury and fine dining.
Advantage #2
The second advantage they would include in this essay is ease of travel.
It is much more difficult and more expensive to travel with children.
Many couples avoid traveling due to the expense and inconvenience.
- Example: Take, for example, my friends Ted and Stephanie. Due to their lack of children, they are globetrotters, visiting any country they choose.
IELTS scoring system
How is your score affected if you don’t include details?
Your Task Response score is affected by a lack of support.
You cannot score 7+ on this score without strong supporting details and examples.
If you have multiple ideas with no support, you cannot score 6.
In order to score 7+, it is vital that you brainstorm.
Then, when writing your essay, be sure to stick to the ideas and details you brainstormed.
Takeaway
Supporting details and examples are vital to score 7+ on IELTS Writing Task 2.
This is especially vital for your Task Response score.
Practice brainstorming so you are ready on test day.
Once you have brainstormed ideas, support and examples, stick to these when writing!
For all the strategies you need on IELTS, sign up for 3 Keys IELTS.
What questions do you have from today’s episode?
Please leave a comment below.
