What Task 2 Really Tests
Task 2 gives you a topic (usually two options) and asks you to take a position. You're responding to a "survey" — but really, you're writing a mini persuasive essay. The test scores:
- Did you clearly state your position? - Did you support it with reasons and examples? - Did you organize your argument logically? - Did you demonstrate vocabulary and grammar range?
You're not graded on WHETHER your opinion is "right." You're graded on HOW WELL you expressed and supported it. A well-argued wrong opinion scores higher than a poorly argued right one.
The 4-Paragraph Persuasion Formula
This structure works for every Task 2 prompt:
Paragraph 1 — Position statement (2–3 sentences): State the topic. State your choice. Give a preview of your reasons. "The survey asks whether [X or Y]. I firmly believe that [X] is the better option for two key reasons."
Paragraph 2 — Reason 1 with example (3–4 sentences): State your first reason. Support it with a specific example or explanation. Use a connector to link ideas. "Firstly, [X] would [benefit]. For instance, [specific example]. This demonstrates that..."
Paragraph 3 — Reason 2 with example (3–4 sentences): Same structure, different reason. Try to make this reason come from a different angle. "Furthermore, [X] would also [benefit]. A case in point is [example]. Consequently, ..."
Paragraph 4 — Conclusion (2 sentences): Restate your position. Summarize why. "Taking everything into account, [X] is clearly the superior option because [reason 1] and [reason 2]. I strongly recommend that [relevant stakeholder] implement this choice."
This formula gives you ~150–200 words — right in the target range. And it's guaranteed to hit all scoring criteria.
Making Arguments Convincing
Use specific examples, not vague claims: ✗ "It would help a lot of people." ✓ "It would benefit families with children, particularly those who rely on public transportation to get to school."
Use cause-and-effect chains: ✗ "A park would be good." ✓ "A park would encourage outdoor activity, which would improve residents' health and reduce healthcare costs for the community."
Acknowledge the other side (briefly): "While some might argue that [opposing view], the benefits of [your choice] far outweigh this concern because [reason]."
This last technique — concession + rebuttal — is a CLB 9+ signal. It shows sophisticated argumentation. Even one sentence like this makes your writing stand out.
Time Management for Task 2
You get 26 minutes for Task 2. Budget:
| Phase | Time | Action | |---|---|---| | Plan | 3 min | Read prompt, choose position, jot 2 reasons | | Write ¶1 | 3 min | Position statement | | Write ¶2 | 7 min | Reason 1 + example | | Write ¶3 | 7 min | Reason 2 + example | | Write ¶4 | 2 min | Conclusion | | Proofread | 2–3 min | 8-point checklist |
Don't spend more than 3 minutes planning. Your first instinct on position is usually fine — commit to it and start writing. The examiner can't tell if you actually believe it.