Writing Guide
4 min read
Both
Intermediate

How do I write advantages/disadvantages vs problem-solution vs to what extent?

ielts-advantages-problem-solution-to-what-extent
task-2-types

These are different jobs. Advantages and disadvantages: give both sides, one job per body. If the prompt asks whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, say that weight in the introduction — do not hide it in sentence 250. Problem-solution (or causes and solutions): one body is the problem or cause; the other is the solution. Do not put three problems and one half-line fix in the same paragraph. To what extent do you agree is still an opinion task: say how far — fully, partly, or not at all — in the introduction, then stay there. It is not a discussion essay unless the prompt also asks you to discuss both views. Name the type, then write. A memorised template that ignores the instruction word misses Task Response. No band is guaranteed.

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