Common Essay Topics for IELTS Writing Task 2: Popular Topics List

The IELTS writing task 2 is the most crucial aspect of the IELTS writing module as it holds the maximum band weightage, and often students are seen searching different essay topics, however, IELTS writing preparation should lay special emphasis on the common essay topics that are asked and the students should be ready with the vocabulary associated with these essay topics. All students preparing for the IELTS writing task 2 are expected to showcase a clear way of presenting and articulating ideas, presenting arguments, and supporting their ideas with proper explanation and evidence. Some simple essay writing topics also sound complicated as the students are sometimes unaware of the topic.

IELTS: Vocabulary Guide | Reading Practice Tests | Listening Practice Tests | Speaking Practice Tests | Writing Practice Tests

IELTS: Sample papers | Preparation tips | Guide

Unlock 20% OFF on PTE Academic. Use Code: 'C360SPL20'

This Story also Contains

1. IELTS latest common essay topics with subtopics for 2024
2. Types of IELTS essay
3. IELTS Vocabulary
4. IELTS dictation words
5. IELTS grammar
6. IELTS practice books
7. IELTS practice tests 2024

IELTS latest common essay topics with subtopics for 2024

In this article, we will highlight some IELTS writing task 2 common essay topics and the IELTS writing task 2 questions associated with the IELTS essay topics. We will also highlight some of the useful IELTS vocabulary words that may be used under each topic, we highly recommend that to retain the words and use them in your IELTS essay, you should maintain your book, and write the words in the book on each IELTS essay topic along with their meaning, synonym, antonym and also frame sentences. All the important paragraph writing topics associated with IELTS writing task 2 are also given. These exam topics can be very beneficial to the candidates. A collection of twelve current essay topics with the most essential IELTS vocabulary are compiled in this article.

1:- Types of IELTS essay topic - education

Education is one of the most frequently asked IELTS common essay topics due to the fact that IELTS academic writing task 2 is attempted by students who wish to pursue their education from abroad. Hence, it is always beneficial that the candidates are aware of the common IELTS topics under education. The topic education is a simple essay topic in the IELTS but one of the most repeated essay writing topics in English.

Example questions:

• Opinion-based: Some people want the main purpose of television should be education while others think that TV should be for entertainment only. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

• Advantages and disadvantages: In some countries around the world, there has been an increase in the number of parents choosing to educate their children themselves instead of sending them to school. Do the advantages of homeschooling education outweigh these advantages?

• Problem - solution: What problems are associated with traditional classroom education, and how can they be solved?"

Vocabulary to be used for IELTS essay topic - education:

1. Curriculum

2. Pedagogy

3. Assessment - Practice Now (Refer to Question 1)

4. Literacy

5. Syllabus

6. E-learning

7. Interactive

8. Extracurricular

9. Academia - Practice Now

10. Scholarship

11. Bilingual

12. Vocational

13. Cognitive

14. Discipline

15. Matriculation

2:- IELTS essay writing task 2 topic for academics - environment

The environment is also another hot IELTS common essay topic due to its relevancy and broad range of possible questions. The candidates can regularly expect an IELTS essay question on this topic. Apart from IELTS, environment is one of the major essay writing topics in English language making it an essential topic to write about.

Example Questions:

• Opinion-based question: Some people argue that individuals can do nothing to improve the environment. Therefore, only governments and large companies can make a difference. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

• Two-point question: Increasing the price of petrol is the best way to solve growing traffic and pollution problems. To what extent do you agree or disagree? What other measures do you think might be effective?

• Problem- solution: Environment pollution has become one of the most serious in today's world. What are the causes of environmental pollution? What measures can be taken to tackle this issue?

Vocabulary:

The words given below can also be practised in the form of dictation words for IELTS to retain them, we suggest that you add the words to your personal dictionary and frame sentences on the same.

1. Sustainability

2. Conservation- Practice Now

3. Biodiversity

4. Emissions

5. Ecosystem

6. Renewable

7. Pollution

8. Deforestation

9. Recycle

10. Carbon footprint

11. Habitat

12. Degradation

13. Organic

14. Contamination

15. Climate change

3:- IELTS essay writing task 2 topic - health

Health is one of a interesting topics to write about . When it comes to IELTS common essay topics, the topic of health cannot be discarded. Often, a lot of IELTS writing task 2 questions are asked about this topic and the candidates must be aware of a few vocabulary words related to the topic, health. It is one of the important English essay topics to be taken care of. They are discussed below:

Example Questions:

• Opinion-based question: In many countries, obesity among children has drastically increased. Parents should be held responsible if their children are obese. What are your views on the subject?

• Advantages and disadvantages: Studies show that people with good habits are more likely to live long and fulfilling lives. What are the merits and demerits of a long life?

• Problem- solution: Many people like to eat unhealthy food even though they know that it is bad for them. Why is the case? What measures can effectively improve people’s unhealthy eating habits?

Vocabulary — Dictation words for IELTS: Health

We suggest that you practice the words given below as IELTS dictation words as these are also found to be misspelt by many students, dictation will help you to retain them in your mind.

1. Nutrition

2. Immunization

3. Wellness - Practice Now

4. Epidemic

5. Chronic

6. Sedentary

7. Hygiene

8. Malnutrition

9. Vaccination

10. Obesity

11. Mental health

12. Rehabilitation

13. Fitness

14. Diagnosis

15. Therapy

4:-IELTS essay topic - technology

Technology is a new and trendy topic. Hence, it is normal that the candidates can expect a question or two from the topic technology and hence placing them under the category of IELTS common essay topics is justified. Bring regarded one of the current essay topics, technology questions were repeatedly observed in the recent writing task 2 of the IELTS examination.

Example Questions:

• Opinion-based question: The reason that most people are in debt is the overuse as well as irresponsible use of credit cards. Banks ought to do a background check and only issue credit cards to individuals who can pay back their debts. What is your opinion?

• Advantages and disadvantages: Nowadays, parents are allowing their children to use tablets and smartphones to enhance learning. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

• Two-Point question: Nowadays the way many people interact with each other has changed because of technology. In what ways has technology affected the types of relationships that people make? Has this been a positive or negative development?

Vocabulary: Dictation words for IELTS: technology

We suggest that you practice the words given below as IELTS dictation words as these are also found to be misspelt by many students, dictation will help you to retain them in your mind.

1. Innovation - Practice Now

2. Automation

3. Digital

4. Cybersecurity

5. Artificial intelligence

6. Connectivity

7. Software

8. Algorithm

9. Big data

10. Virtual reality

11. Blockchain

12. Robotics

13. Internet of Things

14. User-friendly

15. Encryption

5:- IELTS essay writing topic - society and culture

While analyzing the previous year's papers on the IELTS examination, it can be concluded that a lot of questions are asked from the topic, 'Society and Culture' because it is one of the very strong essay topics for students due to the potential of creating diverse viewpoints making it one of the IELTS common essay topics.

Example Questions:

• Opinion-based question: Nowadays celebrities are more famous for their glamour and wealth rather than for their achievements, and this sets a bad example for young people. To what extent do you agree on this?

• Advantages and disadvantages: People should follow the customs and traditions when people start to live in a new country. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?

• Two-Point question: There are many different types of music in the world today. Why do we need music? Is the traditional music of a country more important than the international music that is heard everywhere nowadays?

Vocabulary— Dictation words for IELTS: society and culture

We suggest that you practice the words given below as IELTS dictation words as these are also found to be misspelt by many students, dictation will help you to retain them in your mind.

1. Multiculturalism

2. Ethnicity

3. Heritage

4. Traditions

5. Social norms

6. Assimilation

7. Cultural diversity

8. Subculture

9. Globalization

10. Integration

11. Values

12. Custom

13. Tolerance

14. Urbanization

6:- IELTS essay topic - work and employment

Work and employment is one of the best essay topics for IELTS examination. The candidates are often asked IELTS writing task 2 questions on the topic 'work and employment' because a lot of questions are centred on this topic and due to this, often at times questions on work and employment' have increased. The candidates should be aware that 'work and employment' is a repeated IELTS common essay topic.

Example Questions:

• Opinion-Based Question: Due to the rapid development and expansion of supermarkets in some countries many small, local businesses are unable to compete. Some people think that the closure of local businesses will bring about the death of local communities. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

• Problem and Solution: In recent years a large number of highly skilled professionals like doctors, engineers and IT professionals from poorer companies are leaving their countries for developed countries for better-paying jobs. What are the possible problems of this and what solutions can you suggest to deal with this issue?

• Problem- Solution: Studies have shown that in many countries the income gap between the rich and poor is ever-increasing. What problems can arise from this situation and what could be done to address this situation?

Vocabulary- Dictation words for IELTS: work and employment

We suggest that you practice the words given below as IELTS dictation words as these are also found to be misspelt by many students, dictation will help you to retain them in your mind.

1. Occupation - Practice Now

2. Workforce

3. Employer

4. Productivity

5. Entrepreneurship

6. Freelance

7. Unemployment

8. Internship

9. Compensation

10. Career path

11. Job satisfaction

12. Work-life balance

13. Promotion

14. Job market

15. Recruitment

7:- IELTS essay writing topic - globalization

This is the age of globalization and thus the candidates are asked a lot of questions on the advancements and prospects of globalization and so on. Due to the surge in globalization and it's subtopics, it has become a latest IELTS writing task 2 essay. Hence, it is absolutely necessary that the candidates have a good understanding of the topic and to help them, the important questions and dictation words on the topic are given below:

Example Questions:

• Opinion-based question: International tourism is now more common than ever before. Some feel that this is a positive trend, while others do not. What are your opinions on this?

• Advantages and Disadvantages: In the future, it seems it will be more difficult to live on Earth. Some people think more money should be spent on researching other planets to live on, such as Mars. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this research?

• Problem- Solution: Several languages are in danger of extinction because they are spoken by a very small number of people. What are the problems associated with the extinction of languages and what are the possible solutions?

Vocabulary— Dictation words for IELTS: globalization

We suggest that you practice the words given below as IELTS dictation words as these are also found to be misspelt by many students, dictation will help you to retain them in your mind.

1. Trade

2. Outsourcing

3. Multinational

4. Cross-cultural

5. Tariffs

6. Import

7. Export

8. Global Economy

9. Localization

10. Free market

11. Economic integration

12. International relations

13. Market Access

14. Trade barrier

15. Supply chain

8:- IELTS essay topic - media and advertising

Media and advertising are frequent topics in IELTS common essay topics because they're part of everyday life. Many people use various forms of media such as newspapers and social medias, so knowing about these subtopics of common IELTS topics for media and advertising is helpful for the writing test. So. it can be rightfully said that a lot of paragraph writing topics can be based on media and advertising.

Example Questions:

• Opinion-Based Question: Although more and more people read news on the Internet, newspapers will remain the most important source of news. Do you agree or disagree?

• Advantages and Disadvantages: Some people think that it is good for a country's culture to import foreign movies and TV programs. Discuss the merits and demerits of this.

• Two-Point Question: These days many advertisements are aimed at children. What effect do you think they have? Should advertising to children be more controlled and regulated?

Vocabulary– Dictation words for IELTS- Media and Advertising

We suggest that you practice the words given below as IELTS dictation words as these are also found to be misspelt by many students, dictation will help you to retain them in your mind.

1. Propaganda

2. Journalism - Practice Now (Refer to Question 1)

3. Broadcast

4. Bias

5. Censorship

6. Endorsement

7. Sponsorship

8. Publicity

9. Mass media

10. Sensationalism

11. Persuasion

12. Viral marketing

13. Social media

14. Brand awareness

15. Consumer behavior

9:- IELTS essay writing topic - crime and punishment

Crime and punishment is an important and popular IELTS common essay topic due to its relevance in society. It's crucial for candidates to be well-prepared for questions on this significant IELTS topic. Crime and punishment can be a decisive IELTS exam topic.

Example Questions:

• Opinion-Based Question: Some people believe that a crime is a result of social problems and poverty, while others think that crime is a result of a bad person’s nature. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

• Problem- Solution: In many countries, crime rates amongst younger people have been rising. Discuss the causes and solutions for this problem.

Vocabulary: Dictation words for IELTS: Crime and Punishment

We suggest that you practice the words given below as IELTS dictation words as these are also found to be misspelt by many students, dictation will help you to retain them in your mind.

1. Rehabilitation

2. Incarceration

3. Recidivism

4. Deterrent

5. Jurisdiction

6. Felony

7. Misdemeanor

8. Probation

9. Restitution

10. Sentencing

11. Parole

12. Victim

13. Offender

14. Law enforcement

15. Juvenile delinquency

10:- IELTS essay topic - family and relationship

A lot of previous year's IELTS writing task 2 questions revolve around the topic, 'family and relationship' which shows the relevancy of the topic. Being one of the most repeated IELTS common essay topics, having a clear idea of the different questions asked under this topic and its subtopics is really helpful for the candidates. Family and relationship is one of the simple essay topics asked in the IELTS writing task 2.

Example Questions:

• Opinion-Based Question: Some people think that parents should teach children how to be good members of society. Others, however, believe that school is the place to learn this. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

• Advantages and Disadvantages: Young people are often influenced in their behaviours and situations by others of the same age. This is called “peer pressure”. Do the disadvantages outweigh the advantages?

• Two-Point Question: Nowadays, more and more people have children later in their life. What are the reasons? Does this have a positive or negative influence on the young ones?

Vocabulary: Dictation words for IELTS- Family and Relationship

We suggest that you practice the words given below as IELTS dictation words as these are also found to be misspelt by many students, dictation will help you to retain them in your mind.

1. Kinship

2. Nuclear family - Practice Now (Refer to Question 3)

3. Extended family

4. Cohabitation

5. Divorce

6. Custody

7. Guardianship

8. Parenthood

9. Sibling rivalry

10. Domestic

11. Foster care

12. Matrimony

13. Parenting

14. Elderly care

15. Family dynamics

11:- IELTS essay writing topic - food and nutrition

Food and nutrition are common IELTS essay topics because food and nutrition is a necessity for any person. When a candidate prepare for the IELTS test, it's smart to learn about these common topics related to food and nutrition. Food and nutrition is a examiner's favourite essay writing topic in English and yet a relatively simple essay topic.

Example Questions:

• Opinion-Based Question: Everyone should become vegetarian because they do not need to eat meat to have a healthy diet. Do you agree or disagree?

• Advantages and Disadvantages: Populations in developing nations are rapidly growing, and people now believe that we should turn to GM crops to increase the production of food grains. Discuss the Advantages and Disadvantages of this approach.

• Problem-Solution: The number of people suffering from health problems caused by a modern lifestyle which cannot be treated with modern medicines. Some people believe that alternative medicine can help. What are the problems associated with alternative medicines and what are the solutions to them?

Vocabulary: Dictation Words for IELTS: Food and Nutrition

We suggest that you practice the words given below as IELTS dictation words as these are also found to be misspelt by many students, dictation will help you to retain them in your mind.

1. Diet

2. Nutrients

3. Organic

4. Processed food

5. Calories

6. Superfood

7. Vitamins

8. Minerals

9. Obesity

10. Malnutrition

11. Vegetarian

12. Vegan

13. Protein

14. Carbohydrates

15. Fats

12:- IELTS essay topic - sports and recreation

Sports and recreation are also considered hot IELTS common essay topics because they're widely discussed. When studying for the IELTS test, it's beneficial to be knowledgeable about these common subtopics and questions on the topic 'sports and recreation'. It is one of the important topics to write about in English language.

Example Questions:

• Opinion-Based Question: Some people think that schools should reward students who show the best in sports activities, while others believe that it is more important to reward students who show improvements in academics. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

• Advantages and Disadvantages: Many sports players advertise sports-related products. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?

• Problem- Solution: People in the current generation are not fit and active. What are the problems? What can be done to encourage people to participate in sports activities?

Vocabulary – Dictation Words for IELTS: Sports

The words mentioned below can also be used to practice in the form of dictation for better retention and usage.

1. Athletic

2. Endurance

3. Competition

4. Teamwork

5. Sportsmanship

6. Fitness

7. Training

8. Recreation

9. Leisure

10. Spectator

11. Coaching

12. Tournament

13. Performance

14. Physical activity

15. Wellness

Types of IELTS essay

IELTS Writing Task 2 is essay writing, the essay can be on any topic and the students here must be aware of the type of essays commonly asked in IELTS Writing Task 2. Some common types are:

• Opinion-based questions - Remember to read the question statement properly and have a correct analysis of the opinion that you share, you just have an opinion that is well explained along with an example.

• Advantages and Disadvantages - You must state the merits and demerits of a topic and share your opinion if it's asked, otherwise simply write the merits and demerits.

• Problem- Solution Essay - In this type of essay, you should share the problem related to the question stance and must explain it well, in the next paragraph, write the solution of the same problem that is discussed.

• Causes and Effects Essay - Under this type of question, do not get confused and be careful that you have been asked to write the causes (reasons) of a particular aspect and then the effects of that particular issue.

• Two different questions - This is a very clear type of essay, just read the question statement and write what is asked.

IELTS Vocabulary

When it comes to IELTS writing success, IELTS vocabulary can never be ignored. Having a strong vocabulary is essential for the candidates to showcase their English language prowess. You can refer to IELTS vocabulary article to sharpen your IELTS vocabulary.

IELTS dictation words

Regular practice with dictation words enhances your ability to understand spoken English, which is crucial for the Listening section of the IELTS exam. Dictation words also expose you to a wide range of vocabulary used in various contexts, helping you expand your word bank for both the Listening and Writing sections. You can refer to this expertly written 100+ IELTS dictation words for your IELTS dictation practice.

IELTS grammar

IELTS grammar also plays an important role in determining the IELTS success of every IELTS aspirant. A strong grasp of grammar improves your ability to communicate effectively in English, which is essential for the Speaking and Writing sections of the IELTS exam. You can go through IELTS grammar article to dive deep into this topic.

IELTS practice books

IELTS practice books are extremely helpful in enhancing the IELTS preparation of the candidates. At Careers360, have designed a collection of seven IELTS preparation eBooks that can potentially take uplift the candidate's preparation to another level.