Rules, comparisons and data

Does your opinion affect your IELTS Writing or Speaking score?

No. IDP says there are no right or wrong opinions in the Writing and Speaking tests: the examiner assesses how well you use English to report information and express ideas. What the Task 2 descriptors do reward is a clear position that answers the question and is developed with support. Disagreeing with the examiner in Speaking does not cost marks either.
  • Guide updated · 30 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS
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Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026

What IDP says

IDP's Writing FAQ: 'In your Writing and Speaking tests, there are no right or wrong opinions. The examiner is assessing how well you can use your English to report information and express ideas' (IDP). The same answer appears in IDP's Speaking FAQ.

IDP's Speaking myths article adds that you do not need to agree with the examiner; you are not evaluated on whether your ideas match theirs (IDP).

Where a position does matter

Opinion is not marked, but a clear position is part of Task Response in Task 2 (band descriptors).

Task 2 bandPosition wording
9A clear and fully developed position is presented which directly answers the question/s
7A clear and developed position is presented
6A position is presented that is directly relevant to the prompt, although the conclusions drawn may be unclear, unjustified or repetitive
4A position is discernible, but the reader has to read carefully to find it
2No position can be identified

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Task 1 is different

Academic Task 1 is an information-transfer task about the factual content of the visual, 'not to speculative explanations that lie outside the given data' (key assessment criteria). IDP India advises not to include your opinion or personal experience in Academic Task 1 (IDP India). In a General Training letter, expressing views or complaints can be part of the task, per ielts.org.

Frequently asked questions

Should I write what I think the examiner wants to hear?+

No need. IDP says there are no right or wrong opinions; write the position you can support best in good English.

Do I have to give both sides in an agree or disagree essay?+

IDP says if the question asks whether you agree, you do not have to give an opposing view. If it asks you to discuss both views, give both fair weight.

Can I disagree with the examiner in Speaking?+

Yes. IDP says you are not evaluated on whether your ideas match the examiner's.

Can I give my opinion in Academic Task 1?+

IDP India advises against it. Task 1 reports the data shown, not explanations outside it.

Keep reading

Related

Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.

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