Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
General Training and Academic Task 2 side by side
From the ielts.org format pages for General Training Writing and Academic Writing.
| General Training Task 2 | Academic Task 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Style | Semi-formal/neutral discursive essay | Academic or semi-formal/neutral style |
| Length and time | At least 250 words, about 40 minutes | At least 250 words, about 40 minutes |
| Topics | General interest, e.g. whether children's leisure activities should be educational, how environmental problems can be solved, whether smoking should be banned in public places | A topic you must answer on the specific aspect asked |
| Weight | Twice Task 1 | Twice Task 1 |
What the essay must do
ielts.org says General Training Task 2 tests whether you can write a clear, relevant, well-organised argument with evidence or examples, which can come from your own experience, and that you need to discuss more abstract and complex ideas (ielts.org). The key assessment criteria say Task 2 in both tests asks you to formulate and develop a position on a prompt.
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Not a letter
Task 1 tone depends on the reader; Task 2 has no reader to greet. Write it as connected text, not notes or bullet points (ielts.org). For marking detail, see the Task 2 band descriptors.
Frequently asked questions
Is General Training Task 2 easier than Academic Task 2?+
ielts.org does not call it easier. It says General Training Task 2 asks you to discuss more abstract and complex ideas, and both are marked on the same criteria.
Can I write Task 2 informally?+
ielts.org asks for a semi-formal/neutral essay, so an informal letter-style tone does not fit.
Can I use personal examples?+
Yes. ielts.org says examples can be from your own experience, if relevant.
Does Task 2 count more than the letter?+
Yes. ielts.org says Task 2 contributes twice as much as Task 1 to the Writing score.
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