A good IELTS Task 2 introduction is just two sentences: one that paraphrases the question and one that gives your position or tells the reader what the essay will do. It should take about 3 minutes to write. A long, memorised introduction wastes time and can lower your score.
Sentence 1: paraphrase the question
Rewrite the topic in your own words. Change some vocabulary and the sentence structure, but keep the meaning exactly the same.
Question: Some people think that the government should pay for university education.
Paraphrase: It is often argued that the cost of higher education should be covered by the state rather than by students.
- Change words: government → the state; university → higher education; pay for → cover the cost of.
- Change structure: "Some people think that…" → "It is often argued that…".
- Don't change the meaning. Writing "university should be cheaper" changes the meaning and hurts your Task Response.
Sentence 2: your position (or outline)
| Essay type | Sentence 2 |
|---|---|
| Opinion (agree/disagree) | I completely agree with this view because… / I partly agree, for two reasons. |
| Discuss both views + opinion | This essay will discuss both views, but I believe that… |
| Advantages and disadvantages | While this has some benefits, I believe the drawbacks are more significant. |
| Problem and solution | This essay will examine the main causes and suggest some practical solutions. |
| Two-part question | This is mainly because…, and I consider it a positive development. |
Not sure which type you have? See the 5 Task 2 essay types.
Three mistakes to avoid
- Copying the question. Words copied from the question don't count towards your word total and show limited vocabulary.
- Memorised openings such as "In this day and age, there is a hotly debated topic…". Examiners see them constantly.
- No clear position. If the question asks for your opinion, give it in the introduction and keep it the same to the end.
Full example
It is often argued that the cost of higher education should be covered by the state rather than by students. While there are good reasons for asking students to contribute, I believe that university should be largely free, because its benefits reach the whole of society.
See how this introduction leads into a full essay in our band 7 sample essay, then write your own and check it with the free BandIQ Band Check.
Frequently asked questions
How long should an IELTS Task 2 introduction be?
Two sentences, about 40 to 60 words: a paraphrase of the question and your position or outline.
Should I give my opinion in the introduction?
Yes, if the question asks for your opinion. Stating it early and keeping it the same throughout helps your Task Response score.
Can I copy words from the question?
Avoid copying whole phrases. Copied words don't count towards your word total, and paraphrasing shows your vocabulary.
How long should I spend on the introduction?
About 3 minutes. Spend most of your 40 minutes on the body paragraphs.