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IELTS Writing Task 2 topics 2026: recent essay questions and practice topics

IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics 2026: Recent Essay Questions and Practice Topics

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Last updated: October 19, 2026

Preparing for IELTS Writing Task 2 in 2026? Practising recent essay questions is a great way to become familiar with the topics and question types you might encounter on test day.

IELTS Writing Task 2 covers a wide range of subjects, including education, technology, health, employment, environmental issues, and society. Although you cannot predict the exact question you will receive, reviewing recently reported topics can help you learn how to develop ideas and respond to different types of essay questions.

In this guide, we'll explore IELTS Writing Task 2 topics reported during 2026, provide practice questions based on those reports, and explain how to prepare for a Band 7 or higher.

About these questions: The topics below are based on third-party collections of questions reported by IELTS candidates in 2026. We have rewritten the questions as IELTS-style practice prompts. They are not official IELTS questions or verified word-for-word examination transcripts.

If you’re looking for a free IELTS Writing Task 2 practice question, then click the button below to write an essay and see a model answer.

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Table Of Contents

  1. Recent IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics in 2026
  2. June 2026 IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions
  3. July 2026 IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions
  4. August 2026 IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions
  5. September 2026 IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions
  6. Additional IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics for October 2026
  7. IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types You Need to Know
  8. How to Write a Band 7+ IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay
  9. What Our Learners’ Task 2 Essays Show
  10. How to Prepare for IELTS Writing Task 2 with BestMyTest
  11. All IELTS Writing Task 2 Practice Questions
  12. Frequently Asked Questions About IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics 2026

Recent IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics in 2026

Recent question collections suggest that IELTS continues to cover both familiar social issues and modern developments such as technology, employment, and globalization.

Here are 12 useful topics, organized by the month in which related questions were reported.

June 2026 IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions

1. Health: Self-Treatment Instead of Visiting Doctors

Practice Question

More people are choosing to treat health problems themselves instead of seeking professional medical advice.

Do you think this is a positive or negative development?

Write this essay and compare it with a model answer

Question type: Positive or Negative Development

Ideas for your essay:

  • Treating minor illnesses at home may save time and reduce unnecessary medical appointments.
  • Self-diagnosis can be dangerous when people fail to recognize serious conditions.
  • Reliable health information and professional guidance are important for making safe decisions.

Writing tip: You can acknowledge both benefits and risks, but make your overall position clear.

2. Education: Studying Ancient Cultures

Practice Question

Some people believe that learning about ancient civilizations is no longer useful in modern education.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Write this essay and compare it with a model answer

Question type: Agree or Disagree

Ideas for your essay:

  • Studying ancient civilizations helps us understand the development of modern societies.
  • Historical knowledge can strengthen cultural awareness and critical thinking.
  • Modern subjects such as technology and science also deserve sufficient attention.

Writing tip: Explain why historical knowledge remains valuable rather than simply listing historical events.

3. Transportation: Breaking Traffic Laws

Practice Question

Despite strict traffic regulations, many drivers continue to break road safety rules.

What causes this behavior, and what measures could reduce it?

Write this essay and compare it with a model answer

Question type: Causes and Solutions

Ideas for your essay:

  • Some drivers disregard the rules because they believe they are unlikely to be caught.
  • Traffic congestion and pressure to arrive on time can encourage dangerous driving.
  • Stronger enforcement, road safety education, and better road design could reduce violations.

Writing tip: Connect each suggested solution to a specific cause.

July 2026 IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions

4. Government Spending: Supporting Artists

Practice Question

Some people think governments should provide financial support to artists, while others believe public money should be reserved for essential services such as healthcare and education.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Write this essay and compare it with a model answer

Question type: Discuss Both Views

Ideas for your essay:

  • Government funding can preserve cultural traditions and support creative industries.
  • Public healthcare and education provide essential benefits to society.
  • Governments could prioritize essential services while maintaining limited support for important cultural projects.

Writing tip: Give both views sufficient attention before explaining your own position.

5. Technology: Old and New Inventions

Practice Question

Some people believe earlier technological inventions improved people's lives more than modern technological developments.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Write this essay and compare it with a model answer

Question type: Agree or Disagree

Ideas for your essay:

  • Earlier inventions such as electricity and modern transportation transformed everyday life.
  • Recent developments in communication, healthcare, and artificial intelligence have created new opportunities.
  • The value of an invention depends on how widely it improves people's lives.

Writing tip: Compare specific examples from different periods rather than discussing technology in general.

6. Parenting: Giving Children Everything They Want

Practice Question

Some parents allow their children to do whatever they want and regularly give them everything they ask for.

What consequences could this have for children as they grow older?

Write this essay and compare it with a model answer

Question type: Effects

Ideas for your essay:

  • Children may have difficulty accepting rules and limitations.
  • They may develop unrealistic expectations about money and possessions.
  • A lack of responsibility during childhood may make adulthood more challenging.

Writing tip: Focus on long-term consequences and explain how parenting behavior could lead to each outcome.

August 2026 IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions

7. Education: Studying Alone or in Groups

Practice Question

Some people believe studying with other students is more effective, while others prefer studying independently.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Write this essay and compare it with a model answer

Question type: Discuss Both Views

Ideas for your essay:

  • Group study allows students to exchange ideas and explain difficult concepts.
  • Independent study provides greater flexibility and fewer distractions.
  • The most effective method may depend on the subject and learning task.

Writing tip: Use examples to show when each learning method works best.

8. International Business: Transportation or Technology

Practice Question

Some people think efficient transportation is the most important factor in international business, while others believe modern communication technology is more valuable.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Write this essay and compare it with a model answer

Question type: Discuss Both Views

Ideas for your essay:

  • Reliable transportation allows companies to move goods quickly and reduce costs.
  • Communication technology helps businesses manage international teams and customers.
  • Physical transportation and digital communication support different aspects of global trade.

Writing tip: Use concrete business examples to explain the importance of each factor.

9. Education: Adult Literacy or Higher Education

Practice Question

Some people believe governments should spend more money teaching adults to read and write rather than expanding university education.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Write this essay and compare it with a model answer

Question type: Agree or Disagree

Ideas for your essay:

  • Adult literacy improves employment opportunities and independence.
  • Higher education develops specialized skills needed in modern economies.
  • Funding priorities should reflect the educational needs of each country.

Writing tip: Support your position by explaining which investment could provide the greatest social benefit.

September 2026 IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions

10. Employment: Long Working Hours

Practice Question

In many countries, employees work excessively long hours.

What are the main reasons for this situation, and how does it affect workers and society?

Write this essay and compare it with a model answer

Question type: Causes and Effects

Ideas for your essay:

  • High living costs may force people to work additional hours.
  • Workplace competition can encourage employees to work beyond their contracted hours.
  • Excessive working hours may contribute to stress, poor health, and reduced family time.

Writing tip: Organize one body paragraph around causes and the other around effects.

11. Crime: Punishment or Social Reform

Practice Question

Some people believe harsher punishments are the most effective way to reduce crime, while others think improving social and economic conditions is more important.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Write this essay and compare it with a model answer

Question type: Discuss Both Views

Ideas for your essay:

  • Strict punishment may discourage certain types of crime.
  • Better education and employment opportunities can address some causes of criminal behavior.
  • Combining effective law enforcement with prevention programs may produce better long-term results.

Writing tip: Consider both immediate crime prevention and long-term solutions.

12. Environment: Globalization and Multinational Companies

Practice Question

The growth of international trade and multinational businesses has caused significant environmental problems.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Write this essay and compare it with a model answer

Question type: Agree or Disagree

Ideas for your essay:

  • International transportation and large-scale production can increase emissions.
  • Multinational companies may contribute to pollution and resource consumption.
  • International cooperation can also encourage cleaner technology and stronger environmental standards.

Writing tip: Explain the relationship between globalization and environmental damage using specific examples.

Additional IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics for October 2026

September and early October topic roundups also identify several important themes worth practising. The following are additional original practice questions based on those themes, not confirmed questions from October examinations.

13. Artificial Intelligence and Employment

Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used to perform tasks previously completed by human employees.

Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

Write this essay and compare it with a model answer

14. Online Learning and Teachers

Some people believe that students no longer need traditional teachers because educational information is widely available online.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Write this essay and compare it with a model answer

15. Public Transportation and Private Cars

Some cities are considering restricting private vehicles in busy urban areas to reduce traffic congestion and pollution.

Do you think the benefits of this policy outweigh the disadvantages?

Write this essay and compare it with a model answer

16. Healthy Eating and Government Responsibility

Some people believe governments should take greater responsibility for improving public health, while others think individuals should make their own lifestyle choices.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Write this essay and compare it with a model answer

Pick one of these questions, set a 40-minute timer, and write a full essay. Each question links to its own practice with a model answer, and you can find more questions in our IELTS Writing Task 2 practice.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types You Need to Know

Recognizing the question type is one of the first things you should do before writing your essay.

Question type

What you need to do

Agree or Disagree

Explain how far you agree with a statement and support your position.

Discuss Both Views

Discuss two opposing opinions and give your own view when requested.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Explain the benefits and drawbacks of a situation.

Causes and Solutions

Identify why a problem occurs and explain possible solutions.

Causes and Effects

Explain the reasons behind a situation and its consequences.

Positive or Negative Development

Evaluate whether a particular change is beneficial or harmful overall.

Some essay questions combine these demands, so always read the instructions carefully. For a model essay and an essay structure for each type, see our guide to IELTS Writing Task 2 question types.

How to Write a Band 7+ IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay

IELTS Writing Task 2 requires at least 250 words, and you should spend approximately 40 minutes on it.

For many questions, a four-paragraph essay is an effective way to organize your response.

Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paraphrase the topic and provide a clear thesis statement that addresses the question.

Paragraph 2: First Main Idea
Introduce your first argument, explain your reasoning, and provide an appropriate example.

Paragraph 3: Second Main Idea
Develop another relevant argument with supporting explanations and examples.

Paragraph 4: Conclusion
Summarize the main ideas and restate your position without introducing a completely new argument.

Remember that using a four-paragraph structure does not automatically produce a Band 7 essay. You also need relevant ideas, logical organization, accurate vocabulary, and varied grammar.

To connect your paragraphs and ideas clearly, see our list of linking words for IELTS Writing.

What Our Learners’ Task 2 Essays Show

In 3.778 IELTS Writing Task 2 essays reviewed by our AI, grammatical range and accuracy was the lowest of the four criteria most often, in 91% of essays. A typical essay was 287 words long, and 14% of essays were under the 250-word minimum. Whatever the topic, those are the two things to check first: answer every part of the question, and reach 250 words.

Bar chart of the average band our AI review gave BestMyTest learners for task response, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, and grammatical range and accuracy in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays

How to Prepare for IELTS Writing Task 2 with BestMyTest

Reading recent essay questions helps you understand the topics you may encounter, but writing complete essays and reviewing your mistakes is what helps you improve.

Our IELTS preparation course combines Writing practice, AI-powered feedback, and targeted skill exercises to help you work on the areas that affect your score.

Step 1: Complete an IELTS Writing Task 2 Question

Choose a practice topic and write a complete essay. Try to finish within 40 minutes and write at least 250 words. Start with our free IELTS Writing Task 2 practice question.

Step 2: Review Your Writing Feedback

After completing your essay, review your AI Writing feedback. Pay attention to how clearly you answered the question, organized your ideas, used vocabulary, and constructed sentences. See how it works in our IELTS writing review guide.

IELTS Writing AI review with band scores and grammar corrections
Your AI writing review: a band for each criterion, with every grammar and word choice correction marked in your essay.

Step 3: Improve Your Weaknesses with Our AI Tutor

Use our AI Tutor exercises to practise the skills you need to improve, including developing supporting details, using more varied sentence structures, and correcting grammar mistakes.

AI Tutor Writing Task 2 exercise for developing a body paragraph
The AI Tutor builds a Task 2 essay with you step by step, suggesting supporting ideas for each body paragraph.

Try one now. This AI Tutor exercise walks you through a real Task 2 essay question from our bank, step by step:

AI Tutor Exercise: IELTS Writing Task 2

Task Achievement — Task 2

Learn how to answer this question in a step-by-step interactive exercise

Then try another Writing question and apply what you've learned.

By repeating this process, you can build your ability to respond to unfamiliar topics without relying on memorized essays.

All IELTS Writing Task 2 Practice Questions

Every IELTS Writing Task 2 question in our practice bank is listed below. Open any question to write your essay, get an instant AI score, and compare it with the model answer.

Task 2 Practice 1Cause & Effect The percentage of overweight children in western society has increased by almost 20% in the last ten years. Discuss the causes and effects of this disturbing trend. Task 2 Practice 2Cause & Effect Many criminals commit further crimes as soon as they are released from prison. What do you think are the causes of this? What effect will this have on society? Task 2 Practice 3Problem & Solution More and more people are migrating to cities in search of a better life, but city life can be extremely difficult. Explain some of the difficulties of living in a city. How can governments make urban life better for e… Task 2 Practice 4Cause & Effect Many offenders commit more crimes after serving the first punishment. Why is this happening, and what measures can be taken to tackle this problem? Task 2 Practice 5Cause & Effect One of the most pressing problems facing the world today is overpopulation. What policies do you think governments should adopt to address the causes and effects of this problem? Task 2 Practice 6Cause & Effect In many parts of the world today there is a profitable market for products which lighten or whiten people’s skin. Outline the reasons for using such products and discuss what effect they have in terms of health on soc… Task 2 Practice 7Cause & Effect It is observed that in many countries not enough students are choosing to study science at university. What are the causes? And what will be the effects on society? Task 2 Practice 8Cause & Effect Global warming is one of the most serious issues that the world is facing today. What are the causes of global warming and what measures can governments and individuals take to tackle the issue? Task 2 Practice 9Cause & Effect Stress is now a major problem in many countries around the world. What are some of the factors in modern society that cause stress, and how can we reduce it? Task 2 Practice 10Cause & Effect Levels of youth crime are increasing rapidly in most cities around the world. What are the reasons for this, and suggest some solutions? Task 2 Practice 11Problem & Solution An increasing number of professionals, such as doctors and teachers, are leaving their own poorer countries to work in developed countries. What problems does this cause? What can be done to deal with this situation? Task 2 Practice 12Problem & Solution In many countries schools have severe problems with student behavior. What do you think are the causes of this? What solutions can you suggest? Task 2 Practice 13Problem & Solution Overpopulation in many major urban centers around the world is a major problem. What are the causes of this? How can this problem be solved? Task 2 Practice 14Problem & Solution In many parts of the world, water sources are becoming more polluted. What are the consequences of this problem? What can be done to combat it? Task 2 Practice 15Problem & Solution Many people say that human society has developed into a “throw-away” society, which is filled with plastic bags and rubbish. What are the causes and solutions? Task 2 Practice 16Problem & Solution Nowadays we are producing more and more rubbish. Why do you think this is happening? What can governments do to help reduce the amount of rubbish produced? Task 2 Practice 17Problem & Solution Many small local shops are closing as they are unable to compete with large supermarkets in the area. How does this effect local communities? How could this situation be improved? Task 2 Practice 18Problem & Solution More and more wild animals are on the verge of extinction and others are on the endangered list. What are the reasons for this? What can be done to solve this problem? Task 2 Practice 19Advantage & Disadvantage Some people advocate the death penalty for those who committed violent crimes. Others say that capital punishment is unacceptable in contemporary society.Describe the advantages and disadvantages of the death penalty… Task 2 Practice 20Advantage & Disadvantage It is becoming increasingly popular to have a year off between finishing school and going to university. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this? Task 2 Practice 21Advantage & Disadvantage With the rise of e-books come the decline in paper books. Some people see this as a good step forward while others do not. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend? Task 2 Practice 22Advantage & Disadvantage There seems to be an increasing trend towards assessing students through exams rather than continual assessment. What are the advantages and disadvantages as a form of assessment? Task 2 Practice 23Advantage & Disadvantage Many elderly people are no longer looked after by their families, but are put in care homes or nursing homes. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend? Task 2 Practice 24Advantage & Disadvantage It is often considered that change is more beneficial to people than trying to avoid it and have everything remain the same. Do you think the advantages of change outweigh the disadvantages? Task 2 Practice 25Advantage & Disadvantage People now have the freedom to work and live anywhere in the world due to the development of communication technology and transportation. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages? Task 2 Practice 26Advantage & Disadvantage Nowadays governments are investing more in public transport such as buses and trains rather than in building new roads. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? Task 2 Practice 27Advantage & Disadvantage One of the consequences of improved technology is that many jobs that used to be done by people can now be completed by robots or computers. Do you think the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages? Task 2 Practice 28Advantage & Disadvantage Some parents believe that extra private lessons outside school hours, where students work alone with a teacher, can help them do better at school. Others disagree.What are the advantages and disadvantages of private t… Task 2 Practice 29Advantage & Disadvantage A lot of places in the world rely on tourism as a main source of income. Unfortunately, tourism can also be a source of problems if it is not managed correctly.Describe the advantages and disadvantages of tourism in t… Task 2 Practice 30Advantage & Disadvantage Some experts believe that it is better for children to begin learning a foreign language at primary schools rather than secondary school. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages? Task 2 Practice 31Advantage & Disadvantage Computers are becoming an essential part of education. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages and give your own opinion. Task 2 Practice 32Advantage & Disadvantage Many people in society believe that having fixed punishments for all crimes is a more efficient way of dealing with criminals in the justice system. What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a fixed punishment? Task 2 Practice 33Advantage & Disadvantage In some countries, governments are encouraging industries and businesses to move to regional areas outside the big cities. Do the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages? Task 2 Practice 34Discussion Some people think that a sense of competition in children should be encouraged. Others believe that children who are taught to co-operate rather than compete become more useful adults.Discuss both these views and give… Task 2 Practice 35Discussion In some countries, a few people earn extremely high salaries. Some people think that this is good for a country, while others believe that the government should control salaries and limit the amount that people can ea… Task 2 Practice 36Discussion Some people think that when recruiting, companies should aim to take on people who are innovative and able to work independently, while others consider that they should recruit people who are able to work in a team an… Task 2 Practice 37Discussion Completing university education is thought by some to be the best way to get a good job. On the other hand, other people think that getting experience and developing soft skills is more important.Discuss both sides an… Task 2 Practice 38Discussion Some people think that parents should teach children how to be good members of society. Others, however, believe that school is the place to learn this.Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. Task 2 Practice 39Discussion Some people think that a sense of competition in children should be encouraged. Others, however, say that cooperation and team working skills are more important.Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. Task 2 Practice 40Discussion Computers are being used more and more in education. Some people say that this is a positive trend, while others argue that it is leading to negative consequences.Discuss both sides of this argument and then give your… Task 2 Practice 41Discussion Some people think that environmental problems should be solved on a global scale, while others believe it is better to deal with them nationally. Discuss both sides and give your opinion. Task 2 Practice 42Discussion All parents want the best opportunities for their children. There are some people who think that schools should teach children skills, whereas others think having a range of subjects is better for a child’s future.Dis… Task 2 Practice 43Discussion Some people think that the government should decide which subjects that students should study at university, while others think that students should be allowed to apply for the subject they prefer. Discuss the two vie… Task 2 Practice 44Discussion Almost everyone agrees that we should be training children to recycle waste to save the Earth’s natural resources. Some believe that it is the parents who should teach their children to recycle waste. Others argue tha… Task 2 Practice 45Discussion There seems to be an increasing amount of serious crimes committed each year. While some think the best way is to use the death penalty as a deterrent, many people believe that other measures will be needed.Discuss bo… Task 2 Practice 46Discussion Advertisements are becoming more and more common in everyday life. Is this a positive or a negative development? Discuss both sides. Task 2 Practice 47Discussion Many employers are now offering their employees the option to work from home. As a result, employees will have much more flexible working hours in the future.Is this a positive or negative development? Discuss both si… Task 2 Practice 48Discussion Some universities now offer their courses on the Internet so that people can study online. Is this a positive or negative development? Discuss both sides Task 2 Practice 49Discussion Nowadays, more people are choosing to socialize online rather than face to face. Is this a positive or negative development? Discuss both sides. Task 2 Practice 50Discussion It is thought by some that it is better to live in the city, while others believe that life is better in the countryside. Discuss both sides and give your opinion. Task 2 Practice 51Discussion Some people think that exercise is the key to health, while others feel that having a balanced diet is more important. Discuss both sides and give your opinion. Task 2 Practice 52Discussion Genetic engineering is a key issue in modern society. Some people think that it will improve people’s lives in many ways. Others feel that it may be a threat to life on earth.Discuss both views and give your opinion. Task 2 Practice 53Discussion Some people argue that the public should be allowed to have guns. Others do not agree. Discuss both points of view and give your opinion. Task 2 Practice 54Discussion Is this a positive or negative development that governments spend a huge amount of money building public transport? Discuss both sides. Task 2 Practice 55Discussion Countries are becoming more and more similar because people are able to buy the same products anywhere in the world. Do you think this is a positive or negative development? Discuss both sides. Task 2 Practice 56Discussion Nowadays, some buildings such as offices and schools have open-space design instead of separate rooms. Why is it so? Do you think this is a positive or negative development? Discuss both sides. Task 2 Practice 57Two-Part Question Many people prefer to watch foreign films rather than locally produced films. Why could this be?Should governments give more financial support to local film industries? Task 2 Practice 58Two-Part Question Success is often measured in wealth and material belongings. Does wealth measure success? What makes a successful person? Task 2 Practice 59Two-Part Question The internet is a good source of information and opened up opportunities for people all over the world. Is all information reliable online?What could be done to control information online? Task 2 Practice 60Two-Part Question Happiness is considered very important in life. Why is it difficult to define? What factors are important in achieving happiness? Task 2 Practice 61Two-Part Question News editors decide what to broadcast on television and what to print in newspapers. What factors do you think influence these decisions? Do you think that there is too much emphasis on bad news these days? Task 2 Practice 62Opinion Women and men are commonly seen as having different strengths and weaknesses. Is it right to exclude males or females from certain professions because of their gender? Task 2 Practice 63Opinion New technologies and ways of buying and selling are transforming the lives of consumers. To what extent do you agree with this opinion? Task 2 Practice 64Opinion Convenience foods will become increasingly prevalent and eventually replace traditional food and traditional ways of food preparation. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? Task 2 Practice 65Opinion Convenience foods will become increasingly prevalent and eventually replace traditional food and traditional ways of food preparation. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? Task 2 Practice 66Opinion The money spent by governments on space programmes would be better spent on vital public services such as schools and hospitals. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 67Opinion The money spent by governments on space programmes would be better spent on vital public services such as schools and hospitals. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 68Opinion Many people believe that social networking sites (such as Facebook) have had a huge negative impact on society. To what extent do you agree? Task 2 Practice 69Opinion The growing number of overweight people is putting a strain on health care systems in an effort to deal with the health care issues involved. Some people think that the best way to deal with this problem is to introdu… Task 2 Practice 70Opinion With the increased global demand in oil and gas, undiscovered areas of the world should be opened up to access more resources. To what extent do you agree? Task 2 Practice 71Opinion Scientists and technology experts seem to be more valued by modern society than musicians and artists. To what extent do you agree? Task 2 Practice 72Opinion Zoos should be banned because it is cruel to keep wild animals in captivityTo what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Task 2 Practice 73Opinion The government is spending a lot of money to discover life on alien planets. Some people think that the government is wasting money and should spend money addressing the problems of the public. To what extent do you a… Task 2 Practice 74Opinion More and more people are suffering from health problems caused by a modern life style which cannot be treated with modern medicines. Some people feel that a return to traditional medicine should be encouraged.To what… Task 2 Practice 75Opinion Doctors should be responsible for educating their patients about how to improve their health. To what extent do you agree with this? Task 2 Practice 76Opinion For centuries, important parts of education have remained such as reading, writing and maths. With the advent of computers, some people think that computer skills should be added as a fourth skill to the list.To what… Task 2 Practice 77Opinion The government should allocate more funding to teaching sciences rather than other subjects in order for a country to progress. To what extent do you agree? Task 2 Practice 78Opinion The role of education is to prepare children for the modern world. Schools should cut art and music out of the curriculum so that children can focus on useful subjects such as information technology.To what extent do… Task 2 Practice 79Opinion Education should be accessible to people of all economic backgrounds. All levels of education, from primary school to tertiary education, should be free.To what extent do you agree with this opinion? Task 2 Practice 80Opinion The best way to help underachieving pupils is to have compulsory after school activities which they must attend. This way they will become more involved in school and their grades will improve.To what extent do you ag… Task 2 Practice 81Opinion As computers translate quickly and accurately, learning foreign languages is a waste of time?To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 82Opinion The use of mobile phones in public places is as antisocial as smoking. Smoking is banned in certain places, so mobile phones should be banned in the same way. To what extent to you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 83Opinion Some people think women should be allowed to join the army, the navy and the air force just like men. To what extent do you agree? Task 2 Practice 84Opinion Children can learn effectively by watching television. Therefore they should be encouraged to watch television regularly at home and at school.To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 85Opinion Artists need a certain amount of freedom to develop their creativity. Some people think that artists should have total freedom to express any thoughts and ideas.What is your opinion? Task 2 Practice 86Opinion First impressions are important. Some people think that doing well in interviews is the key to securing a good job.To what extent do you agree? Task 2 Practice 87Opinion Doctors, nurses and teachers make a great contribution to society and should be paid more than entertainment and sports celebrities. Do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 88Opinion Having a good university degree guarantees people a good job. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 89Opinion Paying all workers the same salary in a company promotes harmony and respect amongst colleagues. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 90Opinion Bringing in foreign workers to fill positions that domestic workers are unwilling to do can cause problems in the local community and should therefore be stopped. To what extent do you agree with this? Task 2 Practice 91Opinion Some people are concerned that children spend too much time on computers – playing games, chatting and watching videos. But all this time is actually good preparation for children, who will have to spend many hours wo… Task 2 Practice 92Opinion Many people believe that social networking sites (such as Facebook) have a huge negative impact on both individuals and society. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 93Opinion Learning to manage money is one of the key aspects of adult life. How in your view can individuals best learn to manage their money? Task 2 Practice 94Opinion The importance of biodiversity is being more widely recognized as increasing numbers of species come under threat. What can be done to maintain biodiversity? Task 2 Practice 95Opinion Longer life spans and improvements in the health of older people suggest that people over the age of sixty-five can continue to live full and active lives. In what ways can society benefit from the contribution that o… Task 2 Practice 96Opinion There is a good deal of evidence that increasing car use is contributing to global warming, and having other undesirable effects on people’s health and well-being. What can be done to discourage people from using thei… Task 2 Practice 97Positive or Negative Development More people are choosing to treat health problems themselves instead of seeking professional medical advice. Do you think this is a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 98Opinion Some people believe that learning about ancient civilizations is no longer useful in modern education. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 99Cause & Effect Despite strict traffic regulations, many drivers continue to break road safety rules. What causes this behavior, and what measures could reduce it? Task 2 Practice 100Discussion Some people think governments should provide financial support to artists, while others believe public money should be reserved for essential services such as healthcare and education. Discuss both views and give your… Task 2 Practice 101Opinion Some people believe earlier technological inventions improved people's lives more than modern technological developments. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 102Cause & Effect Some parents allow their children to do whatever they want and regularly give them everything they ask for. What consequences could this have for children as they grow older? Task 2 Practice 103Discussion Some people believe studying with other students is more effective, while others prefer studying independently. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. Task 2 Practice 104Discussion Some people think efficient transportation is the most important factor in international business, while others believe modern communication technology is more valuable. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. Task 2 Practice 105Opinion Some people believe governments should spend more money teaching adults to read and write rather than expanding university education. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 106Cause & Effect In many countries, employees work excessively long hours. What are the main reasons for this situation, and how does it affect workers and society? Task 2 Practice 107Discussion Some people believe harsher punishments are the most effective way to reduce crime, while others think improving social and economic conditions is more important. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. Task 2 Practice 108Opinion The growth of international trade and multinational businesses has caused significant environmental problems. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 109Opinion Some people believe that students no longer need traditional teachers because educational information is widely available online. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 110Advantage & Disadvantage Some cities are considering restricting private vehicles in busy urban areas to reduce traffic congestion and pollution. Do you think the benefits of this policy outweigh the disadvantages? Task 2 Practice 111Discussion Some people believe governments should take greater responsibility for improving public health, while others think individuals should make their own lifestyle choices. Discuss both views and give your opinion. Task 2 Practice 112Positive or Negative Development An increasing number of people are purchasing products online, causing many traditional shops to close. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 113Positive or Negative Development Many countries are moving towards a cashless society, with people increasingly using digital payments instead of physical money. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 114Positive or Negative Development In many countries, an increasing number of adults are choosing to live alone rather than with family members or partners. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 115Positive or Negative Development International travel has become more affordable, allowing more people to visit countries and experience cultures different from their own. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 116Positive or Negative Development More universities are offering online degree programmes, allowing students to complete their education without attending classes on campus. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 117Positive or Negative Development Children are beginning to use smartphones, tablets and other digital devices at increasingly younger ages. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 118Positive or Negative Development Advances in healthcare have increased life expectancy, meaning that many countries now have a growing proportion of elderly people. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 119Positive or Negative Development Self-driving vehicles are becoming more advanced, and some experts predict that they will eventually replace human drivers. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 120Positive or Negative Development People around the world are increasingly watching the same films, television programmes and online entertainment instead of locally produced content. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 121Positive or Negative Development In many societies, traditional extended families are becoming less common, while smaller households are increasing in number. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 122Positive or Negative Development An increasing number of young people are choosing careers as social media influencers rather than pursuing traditional professions. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 123Positive or Negative Development More people are moving from rural areas to large cities in search of employment and better living conditions. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 124Positive or Negative Development An increasing number of patients are receiving medical consultations through online platforms rather than visiting doctors in person. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 125Positive or Negative Development Many young professionals now change jobs frequently instead of remaining with the same employer for most of their working lives. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 126Positive or Negative Development Many businesses are replacing human customer service representatives with automated chatbots and artificial intelligence systems. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 127Positive or Negative Development An increasing number of university students are choosing to complete part or all of their higher education in another country. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 128Positive or Negative Development Some companies are introducing a four-day working week while allowing employees to receive the same salary as before. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 129Positive or Negative Development An increasing number of students are using artificial intelligence tools to explain difficult concepts, complete assignments and prepare for examinations. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 130Advantage & Disadvantage Some schools and universities are introducing artificial intelligence systems that can provide personalised lessons and feedback without direct involvement from human teachers. Do the advantages of this development ou… Task 2 Practice 131Discussion Some people believe that artificial intelligence helps students learn more effectively, while others argue that relying on these technologies reduces their ability to think independently. Discuss both views and give y… Task 2 Practice 132Problem & Solution Many students now use artificial intelligence to write essays, solve mathematical problems and complete homework assignments. What problems can this cause, and what measures can schools take to address them? Task 2 Practice 133Advantage & Disadvantage Artificial intelligence can analyse students' strengths and weaknesses and create personalised learning programmes based on their individual needs. Do the advantages of using AI for personalised education outweigh the… Task 2 Practice 134Opinion Some people believe that artificial intelligence will eventually become more effective than human teachers in delivering academic lessons. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 135Positive or Negative Development An increasing number of educational institutions are using artificial intelligence to grade assignments and provide feedback on students' performance. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 136Opinion Artificial intelligence has the potential to make high-quality education available to students in remote and economically disadvantaged communities. To what extent do you agree or disagree that AI will reduce educatio… Task 2 Practice 137Discussion Some educators believe that artificial intelligence makes learning more engaging and encourages students to study independently. Others argue that it makes students less motivated to learn without technological assist… Task 2 Practice 138Positive or Negative Development More people are using artificial intelligence applications to practise speaking, improve their writing and learn foreign languages instead of attending traditional language classes. Is this a positive or negative deve… Task 2 Practice 139Cause & Effect The growing availability of artificial intelligence tools has made it easier for students to submit assignments that they have not completed themselves. What are the main causes of this problem, and how can educationa… Task 2 Practice 140Opinion Some people believe that schools and universities should invest heavily in artificial intelligence technologies to reduce teaching costs. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 141Discussion Some people believe that artificial intelligence encourages students to explore new ideas and become more creative, while others think it discourages original thinking. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. Task 2 Practice 142Advantage & Disadvantage Some schools are introducing artificial intelligence learning tools to children at primary-school age. Do you think the advantages of introducing AI at an early age outweigh the disadvantages? Task 2 Practice 143Positive or Negative Development Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used to prepare lessons, create teaching materials and assess students' work. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 144Advantage & Disadvantage Many AI-powered educational platforms collect information about students' learning habits, academic performance and personal interests. Do the benefits of collecting this information outweigh the potential risks? Task 2 Practice 145Opinion Some people believe that schools should spend less time teaching traditional academic knowledge and more time teaching students how to use artificial intelligence effectively. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 146Positive or Negative Development An increasing number of parents are using artificial intelligence tutors to support their children's education outside school hours. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 147Positive or Negative Development Some universities are considering replacing traditional written examinations with practical assessments in which students are allowed to use artificial intelligence tools. Do you think this is a positive or negative d… Task 2 Practice 148Opinion As artificial intelligence becomes more capable of providing immediate answers and detailed explanations, some people argue that memorising information is becoming less important in education. To what extent do you ag… Task 2 Practice 149Discussion Some people believe that individuals should change their lifestyles to reduce climate change, while others think governments and large companies should take the main responsibility. Discuss both views and give your ow… Task 2 Practice 150Positive or Negative Development Many countries are investing heavily in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, while reducing their dependence on fossil fuels. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 151Discussion Some people believe that governments should prioritise economic growth, even if this causes environmental damage. Others argue that protecting the environment should always come first. Discuss both views and give your… Task 2 Practice 152Advantage & Disadvantage Governments in many countries are encouraging people to replace petrol and diesel vehicles with electric cars to reduce environmental damage. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages? Task 2 Practice 153Opinion Some people believe that climate change and environmental protection should be compulsory subjects in all schools. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 154Opinion The increasing popularity of international air travel contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental damage. Should governments introduce higher taxes on air travel to reduce its environmental impact? Task 2 Practice 155Problem & Solution Many regions are experiencing more frequent extreme weather events, including floods, heatwaves and droughts. What problems can these events cause, and what measures should governments take to protect communities? Task 2 Practice 156Problem & Solution Climate change is affecting agricultural production in many parts of the world, making it increasingly difficult for some countries to produce enough food. What problems can this cause, and what solutions can be intro… Task 2 Practice 157Opinion Some people believe that governments should impose higher taxes on companies that produce large amounts of greenhouse gas emissions. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 158Advantage & Disadvantage Some people argue that governments should make public transport free to encourage people to use fewer private vehicles and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Do the advantages of this policy outweigh the disadvantages? Task 2 Practice 159Cause & Effect The growing demand for inexpensive clothing has encouraged people to buy and discard clothes more frequently, increasing the environmental impact of the fashion industry. What are the causes of this trend, and how can… Task 2 Practice 160Opinion Some people believe that wealthy countries should provide financial assistance to developing nations to help them deal with the effects of climate change. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 161Cause & Effect Large areas of forest are being cleared for agriculture, housing and industrial development, contributing to environmental damage and climate change. What are the main causes of deforestation, and what measures can be… Task 2 Practice 162Opinion Some people believe that reducing meat consumption is an effective way to reduce the environmental impact of food production. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 163Positive or Negative Development Many cities are introducing more green spaces, bicycle lanes and pedestrian-only areas to reduce pollution and improve environmental conditions. Is this a positive or negative development? Task 2 Practice 164Opinion Some people believe that governments should spend more money addressing long-term environmental problems rather than focusing mainly on immediate economic and social needs. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Task 2 Practice 165Discussion Some people believe that banning single-use plastic products is one of the most effective ways to protect the environment, while others think changing industrial production methods is more important. Discuss both view… Task 2 Practice 166Problem & Solution Climate change is making some regions increasingly difficult to live in, forcing people to relocate to other cities or countries. What problems can climate-related migration create, and how can governments address them? Task 2 Practice 167Discussion Some people believe that new technologies will provide the most effective solutions to climate change, while others argue that changes in human behaviour are more important. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Frequently Asked Questions About IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics 2026

What are the latest IELTS Writing Task 2 topics in 2026?

Recently reported 2026 topics include education, healthcare, technology, long working hours, crime, globalization, environmental protection, and government spending.

Will these exact IELTS Writing Task 2 questions appear on my test?

There is no guarantee. IELTS does not publish an official list of upcoming essay questions. Use reported topics to guide your practice rather than trying to predict your exact question.

Are IELTS Academic and General Training Writing Task 2 topics the same?

Both tests require an essay of at least 250 words, and they use the same broad assessment criteria. However, individual questions can differ.

How many words should I write in IELTS Writing Task 2?

You must write at least 250 words. Focus on developing a complete response with relevant examples rather than writing unnecessarily long paragraphs.

Should I memorize IELTS Writing Task 2 sample essays?

No. Instead, study how effective essays introduce arguments, develop supporting details, and connect ideas. Then practise using those techniques with different topics.

How can I improve my IELTS Writing Task 2 band score?

The most effective approach is to write regularly, review your mistakes, identify weaknesses, and practise improving those specific skills. Our IELTS Writing practice questions, AI feedback, and AI Tutor can help you follow this process.

The figures on this page come from the BestMyTest IELTS learner performance data, our records of IELTS practice on BestMyTest up to October 2026. That page explains how we measure each figure. Last updated 15 October 2026.

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