How many paragraphs in an IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay?
Paragraphs are marked by the examiner in IELTS writing task 2. The criterion of Coherence and Cohesion, which is 25% of your writing marks, is about linking and paragraphing. See this page for more band score information & tips
All essays will have an introduction and conclusion – that is 2 paragraphs already. The body of the essay MUST be divided into different body paragraphs (usually either 2 or 3). That makes 4 or 5 paragraphs in total.
Can I have one body paragraph?
No, you can’t. You are being assessed on your ability to separate ideas into different body paragraphs. To get band score 7 in coherence and cohesion, you must have a central idea in each body paragraph with supporting points. You will be marked down if you put all your ideas in only one body paragraph.
Can I have 4 or 5 body paragraphs?
It is not advisable to have so many body paragraphs. To get a high score in IELTS writing task 2, you must develop and extend your main points. This means that each body paragraph must contain enough supporting points. Having 4 or 5 body paragraphs will not give you enough words to develop ideas properly for a high score.
What is the right number of body paragraphs?
Either 2 or 3 body paragraphs is enough to develop ideas and show your ability to organise paragraphs. With 2 or 3 body paragraphs, you can get a high score. When you read your essay question, you plan your ideas and then decide how many body paragraphs to have (2 or 3). You should not decide this before you enter the test. The number of body paragraphs will be decided by the type of question and your ideas. See my model essays on this page: IELTS Writing Task 2 Tips & Model Essays
Main IELTS Pages
Develop your IELTS skills with tips, model answers, lessons, free videos and more.
- IELTS Listening
- IELTS Reading
- IELTS Writing Task 1
- IELTS Writing Task 2: Model essays, tips & video lessons
- IELTS Speaking
- Vocabulary for IELTS
- IELTS Test Information (FAQ)