IELTS Writing Task 2 essay questions.

“Recycling at home has little impact compared to corporate action. To what extent do you agree?”

“Many parents struggle to limit their children's screen time. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“Many historic cities are damaged by overtourism. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“Misinformation on the internet is becoming a serious threat to democracy. To what extent do you agree?”

“Many workers hide mental-health problems from their employers. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“Some argue that companies should switch to a four-day working week. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Artificial intelligence will replace many human jobs in the coming decades. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Social media has changed the way people debate politics. Are the effects mainly positive or negative?”

“Some people argue that climate change is the responsibility of individuals, while others think only governments can solve it. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“In many countries, families are having fewer children than they did in the past. What are the causes, and what effects does this have on society?”

“Some say university should be free for all. Others say students should pay tuition. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.”

“Mental health problems among young people are increasing. What are the causes, and what solutions can you suggest?”

“Some experts believe children should start learning a foreign language at primary school. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some people believe smartphones are damaging social interaction. Do you agree or disagree?”

“More people are working from home rather than the office. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

“In the future all cars, buses and trucks will be driverless. The only people travelling inside these vehicles will be passengers. Do you think the advantages of driverless vehicles outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Some people believe that professionals, such as doctors and engineers, should be required to work in the country where they did their training. Others believe they should be free to work in another country if they wish. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.”

“The most important aim of science should be to improve people's lives. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?”

“Some university students want to learn about other subjects in addition to their main subjects. Others believe it is more important to give all their time and attention to studying for a qualification. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.”

“In many countries around the world, rural people are moving to cities, so the population in the countryside is decreasing. Do you think this is a positive or a negative development?”

“In many countries, people are now living longer than ever before. Some people say an ageing population creates problems for governments. Other people think there are benefits if society has more elderly people. To what extent do the advantages of having an ageing population outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Some people think that competition at work, at school and in daily life is a good thing. Others believe that we should try to cooperate more, rather than competing against each other. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.”

“In their advertising, businesses nowadays usually emphasise that their products are new in some way. Why is this? Do you think it is a positive or negative development?”

“Many manufactured food and drink products contain high levels of sugar, which causes many health problems. Sugary products should be made more expensive to encourage people to consume less sugar. Do you agree or disagree?”

“In some countries, more and more people are becoming interested in finding out about the history of the house or building they live in. What are the reasons for this? How can people research this?”

“Some people say that music is a good way of bringing people of different cultures and ages together. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?”

“In the modern world, many traditional customs and ways of life are disappearing. Why is this happening? Is it a positive or negative development?”

“Some people believe that animal testing for medical research is necessary and should continue. Others think it is cruel and should be banned. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.”

“Many people today buy products, use them for a short time, and then throw them away. What problems does this 'throwaway culture' cause, and what can be done to address them?”

“Many wealthy countries give financial aid to poorer countries, but some people argue that this aid does not solve the underlying problems of poverty. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

“Some people believe that the best way to reduce crime is to give longer prison sentences. Others think there are better ways to reduce crime. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.”

“Some countries still have the death penalty as a punishment for serious crimes. Do you think the death penalty should be used, or should it be abolished worldwide?”

“Some people think that dangerous sports such as boxing, rock climbing, and skydiving should be banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

“Some governments spend large amounts of money on training elite athletes for international competitions, while there are many ordinary people with poor access to sports facilities. Do the advantages of prioritising elite sport outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Many traditional festivals and celebrations are becoming more commercial and less focused on their original meaning. What problems does this cause, and what solutions can you suggest?”

“Some people believe that governments should ban all advertising for unhealthy food, in the same way that tobacco advertising is banned in many countries. Others think this is an extreme measure. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“When people move to a new country, some believe they should fully adopt the customs and lifestyle of the host country. Others think they should maintain their own cultural traditions. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“In many cities, governments have installed CCTV cameras in public places to help reduce crime. Some people think this is a good idea, while others believe it restricts people's freedom. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“The gap between the richest and poorest people in many countries is widening. What problems does this cause, and what solutions can you suggest to reduce this gap?”

“Cybercrime is a growing problem around the world. What problems does cybercrime cause, and what measures can governments and individuals take to protect themselves?”

“Many skilled professionals, such as doctors and engineers, leave developing countries to work in richer nations. What problems does this 'brain drain' cause, and what solutions can you suggest?”

“Some people believe that immigration has a mainly positive effect on the economy of the host country. Others think it has a mainly negative effect. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.”

“Some people think that museums and art galleries should focus on showing local art and history rather than works from other countries. Others believe museums should display art from around the world. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“In many countries, people are eating more fast food and this is causing health problems. Some people think that governments should tax fast food to discourage people from eating it. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

“In many countries, the number of crimes committed by teenagers is increasing. What are the causes of this trend, and what solutions can you suggest?”

“Some people believe that consumer societies — where buying and owning material goods is seen as very important — lead to less happiness overall. Do the advantages of consumer societies outweigh the disadvantages?”

“In many supermarkets today, food is imported from all over the world. Some people think this is a negative development because it harms the environment and local farmers. Do the advantages of importing food outweigh the disadvantages?”

“In some countries, fathers are entitled to paternity leave after the birth of a child, while in others they are not. Some people argue that paternity leave should be made compulsory worldwide. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

“Some people think that mothers should stay at home with their young children while fathers go out to work. Others believe that both parents should share childcare and work responsibilities equally. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Many countries are raising the retirement age because people are living longer. What problems does a rising retirement age cause, and what measures can governments take to address these problems?”

“As populations in many countries grow older, there is a debate about who should be responsible for caring for the elderly. Some people think families should take care of their elderly relatives, while others believe the government should provide this care. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“In many parts of the world, women are still underrepresented in senior management and political leadership positions. Why does this problem persist, and what can be done about it?”

“In many workplaces, older employees now report to younger managers. What problems does this create, and what can be done?”

“Many adults in developed countries do not get enough sleep. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“Virtual reality may one day replace international travel. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some believe standardised tests are the fairest way to assess students, while others argue they fail to measure real ability. Discuss both views.”

“Many young people now trust influencers more than traditional advertising. Is this a positive or negative trend?”

“Cryptocurrencies could one day replace traditional currencies. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some argue cities should be designed for pedestrians, not cars. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some argue major decisions should be made by referendum rather than by elected officials. To what extent do you agree?”

“Antibiotic resistance is becoming a serious global threat. What are the main causes, and what can be done?”

“Some believe public protests are an essential part of democracy; others say they cause too much disruption. Discuss both views.”

“Some argue multinational companies should pay tax in every country where they operate, not just where they are based. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some argue remote work damages team cohesion and company culture. To what extent do you agree?”

“Many believe that schools should focus more on life skills such as cooking, budgeting, and basic law. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some predict that teachers will eventually be replaced by educational technology. To what extent do you agree?”

“A university degree no longer guarantees a good job. Do you agree, and what should young people do instead?”

“Some governments invest huge sums in space research while others say the money should be spent on Earth-bound problems. Discuss both views.”

“Some argue that reducing meat consumption is essential for the environment. Do you agree, and what can governments do?”

“Many people find it impossible to disconnect from their devices, even on holiday. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“Self-driving cars will be common within a decade. What are the advantages and disadvantages?”

“Today's young workers change careers more often than previous generations. What are the causes, and is this a positive or negative trend?”

“Some argue widespread CCTV cameras make cities safer; others say they invade privacy. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“In many countries, the gap between rich and poor is growing. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“Some argue all children should be required to be vaccinated; others believe parents should choose. Discuss both views.”

“Many cities are growing so large that they face serious infrastructure problems. What are the main causes, and what can be done?”

“High-rise buildings are the only practical solution to urban housing shortages. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some say families should look after elderly relatives, while others believe this is the state's responsibility. Discuss both views.”

“Traditional cuisines are disappearing under the influence of international fast-food chains. To what extent do you agree?”

“Recent years have seen the rise of commercial space tourism. Is this a positive or negative development for society?”

“Some argue that cities need more parks and green spaces, even if that means less housing. Do you agree or disagree?”

“In modern cities, many people feel isolated despite being surrounded by others. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“The rise of the gig economy means more workers have no fixed employer. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

“International travel has many cultural benefits, but its environmental cost is enormous. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Some say workers should specialise in one career for life; others believe people should change careers several times. Discuss both views.”

“Some governments set a minimum wage to protect workers. Others argue it harms small businesses. Discuss both sides and give your view.”

“Sedentary lifestyles are leading to a rise in serious diseases. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“News programmes increasingly resemble entertainment. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Some people believe renewable energy will completely replace fossil fuels within a generation. To what extent do you agree?”

“Mass tourism has changed many local cultures beyond recognition. To what extent do you agree?”

“More university students are choosing to study online rather than attend a physical campus. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?”

“Some people believe that children should start formal education as early as possible. Others think they should not begin until at least age seven. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.”

“Some experts argue that homework should be banned for primary-school children. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

“City centres are unaffordable. The only fair fix is to limit luxury housing. To what extent do you agree?”

“People spend less time with extended family. Why is this happening, and is it a positive or negative change?”

“Plastic waste threatens marine life. What are the causes, and what can governments do?”

“Hosting international sporting events such as the Olympic Games can be very expensive for a country. Do the benefits of hosting such events outweigh the costs?”

“Some people think that advertising aimed at children should be banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

“Some people believe that zoos play an important role in protecting wild animals, while others feel that keeping animals in zoos is cruel and unnecessary. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Some people believe that professional athletes are paid too much money. Others argue that their high salaries are justified. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.”

“Some people say that art and music should be compulsory subjects in secondary schools. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

“Some prefer luxury holidays in resorts, while others enjoy backpacking. Discuss both views.”

“Some argue that fathers should share childcare equally with mothers. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some argue people should work for themselves rather than for large companies. Do you agree?”

“Many fish stocks around the world are collapsing because of overfishing. What are the main causes, and what can be done?”

“More students are choosing to study abroad. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Some parents choose private education for their children, while others prefer public schools. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Genetic engineering is increasingly used to modify food crops. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Some companies are exploring drone delivery for online shopping. What are the advantages and disadvantages?”

“Some governments require workers to take a minimum amount of annual leave. To what extent do you agree with this policy?”

“Some say unpaid internships exploit young workers; others see them as a chance to gain experience. Discuss both views.”

“Traditional gender roles are changing rapidly. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Youth crime is rising in many cities. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“Some argue testing products on animals is necessary, while others believe it is unethical. Discuss both views.”

“Some argue exercise is the key to losing weight, while others say diet matters more. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“The COVID-19 pandemic exposed how dependent countries are on global supply chains. Should governments now prioritise domestic production?”

“More government services are moving online. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Some countries impose strict term limits on political leaders, while others allow them to remain in office indefinitely. Discuss both views.”

“Some believe teenagers should have part-time jobs to learn responsibility. Others think they should focus solely on school. Discuss both views.”

“Streaming services have changed how musicians earn money. Has this been good or bad for the music industry?”

“Podcasts have largely replaced traditional radio for many listeners. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Some cities are encouraging more 24-hour businesses and activities. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Some say travel is more rewarding when you are young, while others believe older people benefit more. Discuss both views.”

“Some believe the death penalty deters serious crime, while others see it as inhumane. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Some governments have introduced bans on single-use plastic bags. Is this an effective policy?”

“Some say historic buildings should be preserved at all costs; others argue cities need modern development. Discuss both views.”

“Some say global brands have made cities look the same everywhere. To what extent do you agree?”

“Foreign companies investing in developing countries bring jobs but also drive out local businesses. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

“In many countries, more couples are choosing to have only one child. What are the causes, and is this a positive or negative trend?”

“Highly skilled workers leaving developing countries for richer ones causes serious problems. To what extent do you agree?”

“In some countries, an increasing number of mothers return to work soon after having a child. Is this a positive or negative trend?”

“More people watch films at home via streaming services rather than at the cinema. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Magazines and websites devoted to celebrities are everywhere. Why is this so popular, and is it a positive or negative trend?”

“Budget airlines have made travel cheap for millions but also worsen climate change. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Some cities are turning their centres into pedestrian-only zones. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Some believe governments should spend more on preventing illness than on treating it. To what extent do you agree?”

“Many governments have introduced taxes on sugary drinks. Is this an effective way to improve public health?”

“More people are choosing holidays in their own country rather than travelling abroad. Why is this happening, and is it a positive or negative trend?”

“Some say young people should be required to do volunteer work in their community. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some say tourists should make an effort to learn the language of countries they visit. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some governments censor films and books that they consider offensive. Is this ever justified?”

“Some argue that multicultural societies are stronger; others say cultural differences cause conflict. Discuss both views.”

“Many manufacturing jobs are disappearing because of automation. What are the consequences for society, and what can be done?”

“Many workers complain of poor work-life balance. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“Some predict cash will disappear entirely within a generation. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“The rapid replacement of electronic devices creates huge amounts of e-waste. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“The world's growing population is putting pressure on natural resources. What are the main causes, and what solutions can you suggest?”

“Some people argue zoos play a vital role in protecting endangered species; others believe they are cruel and unnecessary. Discuss both views.”

“Many regions face severe water shortages. What are the main causes, and what can be done about it?”

“Some argue history should be compulsory in school, while others say students should focus on practical subjects like science. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Some say formal education is the best preparation for work, while others believe real-world experience matters more. Discuss both views.”

“Many city governments are spending more on public transport and less on roads. Is this a positive or negative trend?”

“Many governments are raising the retirement age as populations live longer. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“More young people are moving to cities, leaving rural areas with ageing populations. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“Some argue tourists should be required to learn about local customs before visiting a country. To what extent do you agree?”

“Video games are now a major part of many young people's lives. What are the advantages and disadvantages?”

“Tech companies collect vast amounts of personal data. Some say this is dangerous; others say users gain useful services in return. Discuss both views.”

“Some say healthcare should be entirely free; others believe individuals are responsible for their own health. Discuss both views.”

“Some say governments should fund the arts; others think public money should be spent on more essential services. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Some countries require all citizens to vote in elections. Do you think this is a good policy?”

“Some believe celebrities are poor role models for young people. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

“Some people prefer traditional or alternative medicine over conventional treatment. What are the reasons for this, and is it a positive or negative trend?”

“Modern life is destroying traditional cultures. To what extent do you agree?”

“In some cultures, grandparents play a major role in raising their grandchildren. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this arrangement?”

“Some governments want to ban private cars from city centres. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Many species are becoming extinct. What are the main causes, and what solutions can you suggest?”

“Some argue multinational companies harm developing countries; others say they bring valuable investment. Discuss both views.”

“Some people think the global spread of English damages other languages. Others see it as a positive force for communication. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Some say parents should be legally responsible for their children's behaviour. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

“Some people say that advertising is extremely successful at persuading us to buy things. Other people think that advertising is so common that we no longer pay attention to it. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.”

“Some believe universities should focus on one subject in depth, while others say they should offer a broad range of subjects. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“In some countries, owning a home rather than renting one is very important for people. Why might this be the case? Do you think this is a positive or negative situation?”

“In the future, nobody will buy printed newspapers or books because they will be able to read everything they want online without paying. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

“Some children spend hours every day on their smartphones. Why is this the case? Do you think this is a positive or a negative development?”

“It is important for people to take risks, both in their professional lives and their personal lives. Do you think the advantages of taking risks outweigh the disadvantages?”

“In some cultures, children are often told that they can achieve anything if they try hard enough. What are the advantages and disadvantages of giving children this message?”

“Governments should impose higher taxes on unhealthy food. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

“Some say globalisation has destroyed traditional cultures, others say it has enriched them. Discuss both and give your view.”