TL;DR
- This blog is designed for IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training candidates, including students, professionals, and migrants preparing for the writing section and aiming to improve their IELTS Writing Task 2 score.
- It explains the IELTS Writing Task 2 format, timing, and requirements, including the 250-word minimum, 40-minute time limit, and the fact that Task 2 contributes 66% of the total writing score.
- The guide covers all major IELTS Writing Task 2 essay types,opinion, discussion, problem–solution, advantages–disadvantages, and double question,along with a Band 7+ four-paragraph essay structure.
- It clearly explains the four IELTS band descriptors (Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy) and provides a step-by-step strategy to help candidates write high-scoring essays.
- The blog includes Band 8 sample answers, essay templates, common mistakes, time management tips, and practice questions, helping candidates understand how high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 essays are developed.
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The IELTS Writing Task 2 is one of the most important parts of the IELTS exam because it contributes two-thirds of the total writing score. In this task, candidates must write a structured essay responding to a question or statement, presenting clear arguments, explanations, and relevant examples within a limited time.
In Writing Task 2 IELTS, test takers are required to write at least 250 words in about 40 minutes. The question may ask you to express your opinion, discuss two viewpoints, analyze a problem, or evaluate advantages and disadvantages of a particular topic. Because the essay assesses your ability to organize ideas logically and communicate effectively in written English, strong planning and clear structure are essential for achieving a high band score.
Topics in IELTS Writing Task 2 usually focus on common global issues such as education, technology, environment, society, health, or government policies. The examiner evaluates your response based on four key criteria: task response, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, and grammatical range and accuracy.
This complete guide to writing task 2 IELTS explains everything you need to know to perform well in the exam. It covers the format of the task, different essay types, a proven essay structure, scoring criteria, useful writing strategies, and IELTS Writing sample answers that demonstrate how high-band responses are written.
By understanding how IELTS Writing Task 2 works and learning effective techniques for organizing and presenting ideas, candidates can significantly improve their writing performance and increase their chances of achieving their target band score.
What is IELTS Writing Task 2?
IELTS Writing Task 2 is the second part of the writing section in the IELTS exam and requires candidates to write a formal essay in response to a question or statement. In this task, test takers must present clear ideas, develop arguments, and support their points with explanations and examples. The essay typically focuses on general topics related to society, education, technology, environment, health, or global issues.
In writing task 2 IELTS, candidates are required to write a minimum of 250 words within 40 minutes. This task evaluates the ability to organize ideas logically, use appropriate vocabulary, and demonstrate a range of grammatical structures while maintaining clarity and coherence throughout the essay.
The IELTS task 2 writing section is particularly important because it contributes two-thirds of the total writing score. Due to its higher weight in the writing module, performing well in this task can significantly improve the overall IELTS band score. Examiners assess essays based on four main criteria: task response, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, and grammatical range and accuracy.
Topics in IELTS Writing Task 2 often require candidates to express an opinion, discuss multiple viewpoints, analyze causes and solutions to problems, or evaluate advantages and disadvantages. A well-structured response with clear paragraphs and relevant examples is essential to achieve a higher band score.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Format and Timing
Understanding the IELTS task 2 writing format is essential for managing time effectively and producing a well-structured essay during the exam. In this task, candidates must write a formal essay that clearly presents ideas, arguments, and supporting examples. The essay evaluates your ability to organize thoughts logically and communicate effectively in written English.
Below is a quick overview of the writing IELTS task 2 format and timing requirements.
| Feature | Details |
| Task | Essay |
| Word count | 250+ words |
| Time | 40 minutes |
| Contribution | 66% of writing score |
Essay Length
In IELTS task 2 writing, candidates must write at least 250 words. Writing fewer than the required word count can lead to a lower score in the task response criterion. While there is no strict upper limit, most high-scoring essays typically range between 260 and 290 words, which allows enough space to develop ideas clearly without wasting time.
Recommended Time Management
Because writing IELTS task 2 should be completed within 40 minutes, proper time management is important. A common strategy used by successful candidates is:
- 5 minutes – Analyze the question and plan ideas
- 30 minutes – Write the essay
- 5 minutes – Review and correct grammar, spelling, or structure
Planning before writing helps ensure that your essay stays focused, organized, and relevant to the question.
Scoring Importance
The IELTS task 2 writing section carries approximately 66% of the total writing score, which makes it more important than Writing Task 1. Examiners evaluate the essay based on four criteria: task response, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, and grammatical range and accuracy. Because of its higher weight, performing well in writing IELTS task 2 can significantly improve the overall IELTS writing band score.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Question Types
In IELTS Writing Task 2, candidates are asked to write an essay responding to a specific type of question. Understanding the different essay types is important because each one requires a slightly different approach to structure, argument development, and idea organization. In writing task 2 IELTS, most questions fall into a few common categories that regularly appear in the exam.
Recognizing the essay type in IELTS Writing Task 2 helps candidates plan their response more effectively and ensure that all parts of the question are answered clearly.
Opinion Essay (Agree or Disagree)
In an opinion essay, candidates must clearly state whether they agree or disagree with a given statement. The essay should present a strong position and support it with logical explanations and relevant examples. Maintaining a clear opinion throughout the essay is essential in writing task 2 IELTS.
Example Question
Some people believe that online education is better than traditional classroom learning. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Discussion Essay
A discussion essay asks candidates to discuss two different viewpoints on a particular issue. In most cases, the question also asks for the writer’s opinion. In IELTS Writing Task 2, it is important to explain both perspectives clearly before presenting your own view.
Example Question
Some people think governments should spend more money on public transportation, while others believe roads and highways should be improved instead. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Problem Solution Essay
In this essay type, candidates must identify a problem and propose possible solutions. Strong responses in IELTS Writing Task 2 clearly explain the causes of the problem and suggest practical ways to address it.
Example Question
Traffic congestion is becoming a major problem in many cities around the world. What are the main causes of this problem, and what solutions can be implemented to reduce traffic congestion?
Advantages and Disadvantages Essay
This type of essay requires candidates to analyze the benefits and drawbacks of a particular situation or development. In writing task 2 IELTS, candidates may also be asked whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.
Example Question
Many people now work remotely from home using technology. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?
Double Question Essay
A double question essay contains two separate questions related to the same topic. In IELTS Writing Task 2, both questions must be answered clearly, usually in separate body paragraphs, to achieve a higher band score.
Example Question
Many young people today prefer to work for themselves rather than for a company. Why do you think this is happening? Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Structure (Band 7+ Strategy)
A clear and well-organized structure is essential for achieving a Band 7 or higher in writing task 2 IELTS. Examiners expect essays to present ideas logically, with each paragraph focusing on a specific point that supports the overall argument. One of the most effective ways to organize your response in writing IELTS task 2 is by using a simple four-paragraph structure. This structure helps maintain clarity, improves coherence, and ensures that the essay answers the question completely.
A typical Band 7+ essay structure includes an introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each section has a specific purpose and contributes to the overall clarity and strength of the argument.
The introduction sets the context for the essay and briefly explains the main idea. In writing task 2 IELTS, a strong introduction should begin by paraphrasing the question using different vocabulary and sentence structure. This shows the examiner that you understand the topic and can express ideas in your own words.
After paraphrasing the topic, the introduction should present your opinion or main position, especially if the question asks for your viewpoint. The introduction should be concise, usually consisting of two sentences that clearly introduce the discussion.
Body Paragraph 1
The first body paragraph should present the main idea or first argument supporting your opinion or addressing the essay question. Start the paragraph with a clear topic sentence that introduces the key point.
After stating the idea, provide a detailed explanation that develops the argument logically. This explanation should clarify why the point is important and how it relates to the question. To strengthen the argument in writing IELTS task 2, it is also helpful to include a relevant example, such as a real-world situation, statistic, or practical scenario.
Body Paragraph 2
The second body paragraph should introduce a second argument or supporting idea that further develops the discussion. Similar to the first body paragraph, begin with a clear topic sentence that outlines the main point.
This idea should then be expanded with a clear explanation, showing how it supports the essay’s argument. Including a specific example helps illustrate the point and demonstrates the ability to apply ideas to real-life contexts. Maintaining logical progression between paragraphs is important for strong coherence in writing task 2 IELTS.
Conclusion
The conclusion provides a final summary of the essay and reinforces the overall argument. In writing IELTS task 2, the conclusion should briefly summarize the key points discussed in the body paragraphs without introducing any new ideas.
Finally, the essay should restate the writer’s opinion or main position in a clear and confident manner. A well-written conclusion leaves the examiner with a clear understanding of the argument and strengthens the overall effectiveness of the essay.
Step-by-Step Strategy for Writing Task 2 IELTS
A clear strategy can significantly improve performance in writing task 2 IELTS. Many candidates lose marks not because of poor English, but because they fail to organize their ideas properly or misunderstand the question. Following a simple step-by-step approach helps ensure that your essay remains focused, well-structured, and relevant to the task.
The following strategy can help candidates manage time effectively and produce a strong response in IELTS task 2 writing.
Step 1 – Analyze the Question
The first step in writing task 2 IELTS is carefully reading and analyzing the question. Identify the topic, the task type, and what the question is asking you to do. Determine whether the question requires you to give an opinion, discuss both views, analyze a problem and solution, or evaluate advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the task correctly ensures that your essay answers every part of the question.
Step 2 – Plan Your Ideas
Before starting to write, spend a few minutes planning your essay. In IELTS task 2 writing, planning helps organize ideas logically and prevents confusion while writing. Decide your main arguments, choose supporting examples, and outline how each paragraph will be structured. A short plan allows your essay to remain clear and focused.
Step 3 – Write the Introduction
After planning, begin with a concise introduction. In writing task 2 IELTS, the introduction should paraphrase the question and briefly present your main opinion or position. Avoid copying the exact wording from the prompt and instead use different vocabulary and sentence structures to demonstrate language flexibility.
Step 4 – Develop Body Paragraphs
The body paragraphs are the main part of the essay where ideas are explained in detail. Each paragraph should focus on a single argument or key point. In IELTS task 2 writing, a strong body paragraph usually includes a topic sentence, a clear explanation, and a relevant example that supports the argument. This structure helps maintain logical flow and improves coherence.
Step 5 – Write a Clear Conclusion
Once the main arguments are explained, finish the essay with a clear conclusion. In writing task 2 IELTS, the conclusion should briefly summarize the main points discussed and restate your opinion or final position. Avoid introducing new ideas in this section and keep the conclusion concise and focused.
Step 6 – Proofread Your Essay
The final step in IELTS task 2 writing is proofreading your essay. Spend a few minutes checking for grammar mistakes, spelling errors, punctuation problems, and unclear sentences. Correcting small mistakes can improve accuracy and help achieve a higher score in grammatical range and coherence.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Band Descriptors Explained
In IELTS Writing Task 2, examiners evaluate essays using four official scoring criteria known as band descriptors. Each criterion contributes 25% of the total writing task score, meaning that strong performance in all areas is necessary to achieve a higher band. Understanding how these criteria work helps candidates focus on the key aspects that examiners look for when assessing an essay.
The four criteria used to evaluate IELTS Writing Task 2 are task response, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, and grammatical range and accuracy.
Task Response
Task response measures how well the essay answers the question and addresses all parts of the task. In IELTS Writing Task 2, candidates must present a clear position throughout the essay and support their ideas with relevant explanations and examples.
To achieve a higher score in task response, the essay should directly address the question, develop ideas clearly, and maintain a consistent argument from the introduction to the conclusion. Essays that provide limited ideas or fail to fully answer the question usually receive lower scores in this criterion.
Coherence and Cohesion
Coherence and cohesion refer to how well the essay is organized and how clearly ideas are connected. In IELTS Writing Task 2, coherence means that ideas progress logically from one paragraph to another, while cohesion involves the use of linking words and phrases that connect sentences smoothly.
A well-structured essay should include clear paragraphs, logical progression of ideas, and appropriate linking devices such as “however,” “therefore,” and “in addition.” Overusing linking words or using them incorrectly can reduce the overall effectiveness of the essay.
Lexical Resource
Lexical resource evaluates the range and accuracy of vocabulary used in the essay. In IELTS Writing Task 2, candidates should demonstrate the ability to use a variety of vocabulary related to the topic while maintaining precision and clarity.
High-scoring essays typically use a wide range of vocabulary, avoid repetition, and include appropriate academic expressions. However, vocabulary should be used naturally and correctly, as incorrect word choice or spelling mistakes may lower the score.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy
Grammatical range and accuracy assess how effectively candidates use different sentence structures and how accurately they apply grammar rules. In IELTS Writing Task 2, a higher score requires the use of a mix of simple and complex sentences, such as compound and complex sentence structures.
In addition to variety, grammatical accuracy is also important. Essays should demonstrate correct use of verb tenses, articles, prepositions, punctuation, and sentence structure. Frequent grammatical errors or overly simple sentence patterns can limit the overall band score.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer (Band 8+)
Reviewing a strong IELTS writing task 2 sample answer can help candidates understand how high-scoring essays are structured and developed. In IELTS Writing Task 2, examiners expect clear arguments, well-organized paragraphs, and relevant examples that support the main ideas. A well-written essay also demonstrates strong vocabulary, logical flow, and grammatical accuracy.
Below is an example IELTS writing task 2 sample that illustrates how a Band 8 level response can be written.
Question
Some people believe that governments should invest more money in public transportation, while others think that building more roads is a better solution to traffic congestion. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Band 8 Sample Answer
Traffic congestion has become a major problem in many cities around the world. While some people argue that governments should expand road networks to address this issue, others believe that investing in public transportation is a more effective solution. In my opinion, improving public transport systems is the best way to reduce traffic congestion in the long term.
Supporters of building more roads argue that increasing road capacity can help reduce traffic by allowing more vehicles to travel at the same time. In rapidly growing cities, new highways and wider roads may temporarily ease congestion and improve transportation efficiency. For example, several urban areas have experienced short-term improvements in traffic flow after constructing additional road infrastructure.
However, expanding road networks often encourages more people to use private vehicles, which can eventually lead to even heavier traffic. In contrast, investing in efficient public transportation systems such as buses, metro networks, and trains can significantly reduce the number of cars on the road. When public transport is affordable, reliable, and convenient, many commuters are more likely to choose it over driving their own vehicles. Cities such as Tokyo and Singapore demonstrate how strong public transport systems can effectively manage large populations while minimizing traffic congestion.
In conclusion, although building more roads may provide temporary relief, investing in high-quality public transportation is a more sustainable and effective solution for reducing traffic congestion in modern cities.
Why This Essay Scores High
Vocabulary
This IELTS writing task 2 sample answer demonstrates a good range of vocabulary such as “traffic congestion,” “expand road networks,” “transportation efficiency,” and “sustainable solution.” The vocabulary is varied and used accurately without unnecessary repetition.
Structure
The essay follows a clear structure with an introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph focuses on a specific idea, which helps the examiner easily understand the argument.
Coherence
The ideas progress logically from discussing both viewpoints to presenting a clear opinion. Linking phrases such as “however,” “in contrast,” and “for example” help connect ideas smoothly and improve the overall coherence of the essay.
IELTS General Writing Task 2 vs Academic Task 2
Many test takers are confused about the difference between IELTS General Writing Task 2 and Academic Writing Task 2. Although both tasks require candidates to write an essay of at least 250 words in about 40 minutes, there are some important differences in the type of topics and the overall context of the questions.
In both versions of the exam, the essay format is similar and candidates must present clear arguments, organize ideas logically, and support their points with explanations and examples. However, IELTS General Writing Task 2 often focuses on everyday social issues, while Academic Task 2 may include broader or slightly more analytical topics.
The following table highlights the key differences between the two versions.
| Feature | Academic | General |
| Essay Type | Argumentative or analytical essay | Opinion-based essay |
| Topics | Education, technology, environment, global issues | Social issues, daily life, community topics |
| Purpose | Designed for university or professional study | Designed for migration, work, or training purposes |
| Writing Style | Formal academic tone | Formal but slightly more general in context |
| Word Requirement | Minimum 250 words | Minimum 250 words |
In practice, the structure of the essay remains the same for both versions. Candidates are expected to write a clear introduction, develop ideas in body paragraphs, and finish with a strong conclusion. The same scoring criteria are also used, including task response, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, and grammatical range and accuracy.
Understanding the difference between Academic and IELTS General Writing Task 2 helps candidates prepare more effectively. While the writing techniques are similar, practicing with topics that match the exam version can improve familiarity with the types of questions likely to appear in the test.
Common Mistakes in IELTS Writing Task 2
Many candidates lose valuable marks in writing task 2 IELTS because of avoidable mistakes. Even students with strong English skills sometimes struggle to achieve a higher band score due to issues related to task understanding, organization, or language use. Being aware of the most common errors can help candidates improve their writing strategy and perform better in the exam.
Below are some of the most frequent mistakes made in writing task 2 IELTS and how they can affect the final score.
Writing Fewer Than 250 Words
One of the most common mistakes is writing fewer than the required 250 words. Essays that do not meet the minimum word count are usually penalized in the task response criterion because the ideas are not developed sufficiently. To avoid this issue, candidates should aim for approximately 260 to 280 words, which provides enough space to explain arguments clearly.
Not Answering All Parts of the Question
Some questions in writing task 2 IELTS include multiple instructions, such as discussing two views and giving an opinion, or explaining causes and suggesting solutions. If any part of the question is ignored, the essay may receive a lower score for task response. Carefully analyzing the prompt before writing helps ensure that every part of the question is addressed.
Weak Paragraph Structure
Poor organization can make an essay difficult to follow. In writing task 2 IELTS, each paragraph should focus on a single idea and follow a logical structure. Essays without clear introductions, body paragraphs, and conclusions often lack coherence and cohesion, which affects the overall band score.
Repeating Vocabulary
Using the same words repeatedly can make the essay appear limited in vocabulary. In writing task 2 IELTS, candidates should demonstrate a range of vocabulary related to the topic. Using synonyms, paraphrasing ideas, and varying expressions can improve lexical resource and make the essay more engaging.
Writing Informal Language
Another common mistake is using informal expressions or conversational language. Since writing task 2 IELTS requires a formal essay, contractions, slang, and overly casual phrases should be avoided. Instead, candidates should use clear and appropriate academic language to maintain a professional tone throughout the essay.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Templates
Using structured templates can make writing IELTS task 2 much easier, especially for candidates who struggle to organize their ideas quickly during the exam. Templates provide a clear framework for building a well-structured essay while ensuring that all important elements such as the introduction, arguments, explanations, and conclusion are included.
While templates should not be memorized word-for-word, they can help candidates understand how to organize their response logically. A good template also helps maintain clarity and coherence, which are important scoring factors in the IELTS writing assessment.
Below is a simple template structure that can be used for many writing IELTS task 2 essays, particularly opinion-based questions.
Opinion Essay Template
Introduction
The introduction should briefly introduce the topic and clearly present the writer’s position.
Example template:
This essay discusses whether ___ . While some people believe that ___, others argue that ___. In my opinion, ___ is the better approach because ___.
Another alternative introduction structure:
In recent years, the issue of ___ has become widely debated. Some individuals believe that ___, whereas others think that ___. This essay will discuss both perspectives before presenting my own view.
Body Paragraph Template
Each body paragraph should focus on one main idea and include explanation and an example.
Example template:
One important reason is that ___ . This means that ___ . As a result, ___ .
For example, ___ .
Another structure:
Another significant factor is ___ . This can be explained by the fact that ___ . Consequently, ___ .
Conclusion Template
The conclusion should summarize the main argument and restate the writer’s opinion.
Example template:
In conclusion, although some people believe that ___, I believe that ___ because ___ .
Another option:
To summarize, both viewpoints present valid arguments; however, I strongly believe that ___ is the more effective approach.
Using templates like these in writing IELTS task 2 can help candidates write essays more confidently and maintain a logical structure within the limited exam time. However, it is important to adapt the template naturally and include original ideas and relevant examples rather than relying only on memorized sentences.
Time Management Strategy for IELTS Task 2 Writing
Effective time management is essential for performing well in IELTS Task 2 writing. Candidates are given 40 minutes to complete an essay of at least 250 words, which means it is important to divide time carefully between planning, writing, and reviewing the response. Without proper time allocation, many test takers either rush their ideas or fail to check for mistakes before submitting the essay.
A simple and practical strategy is to divide the 40 minutes into three stages as shown below.
| Stage | Time |
| Planning | 5 minutes |
| Writing | 30 minutes |
| Checking | 5 minutes |
Planning – 5 Minutes
The first few minutes should be used to analyze the question and plan the essay structure. During this stage, identify the essay type, decide your main arguments, and quickly outline the key points for each paragraph. A short plan helps ensure that the essay remains organized and focused on answering the question.
Writing – 30 Minutes
The majority of the time should be spent developing the essay. During this stage, write a clear introduction, two well-developed body paragraphs, and a concise conclusion. Each body paragraph should include a main idea, explanation, and a relevant example to support the argument. Maintaining logical flow and clear paragraph structure is important for achieving a higher score.
Checking – 5 Minutes
The final stage should be used to review the essay carefully. Candidates should check for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, punctuation issues, and unclear sentences. This step also allows time to ensure that the essay meets the 250-word requirement and fully answers the question. Even small corrections during this stage can improve clarity and accuracy in the final response.
Practice Questions for IELTS Writing Task 2
Practicing with different essay prompts is one of the most effective ways to improve performance in IELTS Writing Task 2. Regular practice helps candidates become familiar with common question types, develop stronger arguments, and improve time management during the exam. The following practice questions cover a variety of topics and essay formats that frequently appear in the test.
- Some people believe technology makes life easier, while others think it creates more problems. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
- Many governments invest heavily in space exploration. Some people think this money should instead be spent on solving problems on Earth. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
- In many countries, the number of people living alone is increasing. What are the reasons for this trend, and is it a positive or negative development?
- Some people believe that university education should be free for everyone. Others think students should pay for their own education. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
- Many cities are experiencing serious traffic congestion. What are the main causes of this problem, and what solutions can be implemented to reduce it?
- Some people believe that children should start learning a foreign language at primary school, while others think it should begin at secondary school. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
- In the modern world, people are increasingly dependent on the internet. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this development?
- Some people believe that governments should focus more on improving public transportation rather than building new roads. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
- Many companies allow employees to work remotely from home. What are the advantages and disadvantages of remote working?
- Some people think that strict punishments are the best way to reduce crime, while others believe that education and social programs are more effective. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Practicing essays based on questions like these can help candidates develop stronger arguments, improve vocabulary, and gain confidence in IELTS Writing Task 2 before the actual exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is IELTS Writing Task 2?
IELTS Writing Task 2 is the second part of the writing section in the IELTS exam. In this task, candidates must write a formal essay in response to a question or statement. The essay usually asks test takers to present an opinion, discuss different viewpoints, analyze a problem and propose solutions, or evaluate advantages and disadvantages of a particular topic.
How many words should IELTS Writing Task 2 be?
The essay in IELTS Writing Task 2 must contain at least 250 words. Writing fewer than the required word count can reduce the task response score because the ideas may not be developed sufficiently. Most high-scoring essays are typically between 260 and 290 words.
How is IELTS Writing Task 2 scored?
IELTS Writing Task 2 is evaluated based on four official criteria: task response, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, and grammatical range and accuracy. Each of these criteria contributes 25% of the total score, and the final band score is calculated based on overall performance across these areas.
Can I write more than 250 words in IELTS Task 2?
Yes, candidates can write more than 250 words in IELTS Task 2. There is no upper word limit, but it is generally recommended to keep the essay within 260–300 words. Writing excessively long essays may increase the risk of grammatical errors and reduce the time available for proofreading.
Is IELTS General Writing Task 2 different from Academic?
The structure of the essay is very similar in both versions of the exam. However, IELTS General Writing Task 2 usually focuses on everyday social topics, while the Academic version may include broader or slightly more analytical subjects. Both versions require a formal essay of at least 250 words written within 40 minutes.