An opinion essay requires one clear position stated in the introduction and defended through every paragraph. Most Band 5-6 writers drift mid-essay or present both views equally, which costs Task Achievement marks regardless of grammar quality.
Examples
Weak
AvoidThere are many advantages and disadvantages to this idea. Some people agree but others do not. I think it depends on the situation.
Stronger
BetterGovernments should make public transport free, because the long-term reduction in road congestion and carbon emissions outweighs the short-term cost to taxpayers.
The strong version commits to a specific position in one sentence and gives the reason in the same breath. The examiner sees Task Achievement immediately.
How It Works
The four-paragraph frame
Introduction: paraphrase the question, state your position.
Body 1: main reason + specific example.
Body 2: second reason or concession + rebuttal.
Conclusion: restate position in new words only.
When to use this frame
- Question says "To what extent do you agree or disagree?"
- Question says "Do you think...?" or "Give your own opinion."
- Any prompt asking you to take a clear stance.
Key sentences
Quick rules
- State your view in sentence 1 of the introduction — not sentence 3.
- Never use "I think" and "In my opinion" in the same sentence.
- The conclusion must restate, not re-open, the debate.
Common Mistakes
Sitting on the fence
Avoid"Both sides have valid points and it is hard to say."
Better"While both sides have merit, the economic case for free transit is stronger."
Fix: Acknowledge the other side, then override it with your view.
New argument in conclusion
Avoid"In conclusion, the government should also invest in cycling infrastructure."
Better"In conclusion, free public transport remains the most cost-effective solution."
Fix: Conclusions restate — they do not introduce.
Practice Lab
Self-mark each task. Retry until every answer is correct.
Score: 0/3
1. Quick pick
Which introduction scores highest for Task Achievement?
2. Build it
Put the sentence in the correct order.
Tap a chunk to move it between the bank and answer area.
3. Sort it
Sort each item into the correct category.
I believe renewable energy should replace fossil fuels within a decade.
Both options have good and bad points depending on your point of view.
Stricter penalties are the most effective deterrent against speeding.
It is difficult to say which side is right in this complex debate.
Why It Matters
Task Achievement accounts for 25% of your IELTS Writing score. An unclear or absent opinion drops this criterion to Band 5 regardless of how accurate your grammar is. Stating a clear, consistent position is the single highest-leverage change most Band 5-6 writers can make.
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