IELTS Opinion Essay in detail

 IELTS Opinion Essay

An IELTS opinion essay is a formal piece of writing in which the writer is required to clearly state and support their opinion on a given topic or question. The essay typically responds to prompts such as “Do you agree or disagree?” or “To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

In this type of essay, the writer forms a clear viewpoint and develops it throughout the essay by presenting logical arguments, reasons, and viewpoints, all of which are supported by relevant examples, facts, or evidence. The opinion should be consistent and well-developed from the introduction to the conclusion.

The main purpose of an IELTS opinion essay is to evaluate the writer’s ability to express an opinion clearly, organize ideas logically, and justify arguments effectively in a formal academic style.

You can express your opinion in the fowling ways: 

·        In my opinion,

·        Personally, I think/ I believe (that)

·        I strongly believe that….

·        It is clear (to me) that

·        I (completely) agree/disagree with …

·        It seems to me that…

·        As I see it, …

·        In my view, ...

·        From my point of view, …

·        As far I am concerned, ...

·        I am sure/ convinced that………..

·        I (dis)agree with the statement, because …

Structure

1) Introduction
Paraphrase the question

Give your opinion

State two supporting reasons

2) Main body paragraph 1

Topic sentence – outline 1st reason for supporting this view

Explanation – explain this idea

Example – give an example or expand the idea

3) Main body paragraph 2
Topic sentence – outline 2nd reason for supporting this view

Explanation – explain this idea

Example – give an example or expand the idea

4) Conclusion
Summarise opinion and key reasons

What is an IELTS Opinion Essay?

An opinion essay in IELTS Writing Task 2 asks you to present your point of view on a specific issue.
The question usually contains phrases like:

• Do you agree or disagree?
• To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• What is your opinion?

Your task:

• Give your opinion clearly.
• Support it with examples, reasons, and explanations.
• Stick to one clear opinion (strongly agree / strongly disagree / partly agree).

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Common Question Types

1.      Direct opinion → Do you agree or disagree?

2.      Balanced approach → To what extent do you agree or disagree?

3.      Your view → What is your opinion?

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Structure (4-Paragraph Template)

Question Sample

Some people believe that online education is better than classroom learning. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 

Introduction (40–50 words)

Some people believe that online education is better than classroom learning. In my opinion, while online learning offers flexibility and convenience, traditional classrooms are more effective for interaction, discipline, and overall student development.

Body 1 (90–100 words)

Firstly, classroom learning allows direct interaction with teachers and peers, which is essential for effective understanding. Face-to-face communication helps students ask questions immediately, clarify doubts, and participate in discussions. For example, in a classroom setting, students can debate topics, share opinions, and receive instant feedback, which enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Such interaction is often limited in online classes due to delayed responses, technical difficulties, or the lack of personal engagement. Therefore, physical classrooms offer a richer and more interactive learning experience.

Body 2 (90–100 words)

Secondly, classroom education helps maintain discipline and focus, which are important for academic success. Many students studying online face distractions from social media, notifications, or household activities. In contrast, traditional classrooms provide a structured environment where students learn punctuality, concentration, and teamwork. Group projects, presentations, and peer collaboration encourage responsibility and time management. For instance, students working together on in-class assignments develop cooperation skills that are difficult to replicate in an online environment.

Conclusion (30–40 words)

In conclusion, although online education is convenient and flexible, I strongly believe that classroom learning is more beneficial. It promotes direct interaction, enhances communication, and fosters discipline and essential life skills that cannot be fully achieved through online platforms alone.

Sample 1

Opinion 1: Violence in media has a damaging effect on society

1.      People often copy actions they see on TV
Many viewers, especially children, tend to imitate what they watch. When violent actions are shown on television, people may accept aggression as a normal response to problems, leading to real-life harmful behavior.

2.      Violent video games teach that aggressiveness is normal
Video games often reward players for violent behavior, sending the message that being aggressive is an effective way to solve conflicts. Over time, this can shape attitudes and encourage similar behavior in real life.

3.      Connection between media violence and social violence
There are examples where increased exposure to violent movies or games coincided with higher rates of youth aggression. This shows that violent media can influence society negatively by encouraging harmful actions.

Convincing meaning: Exposure to violent media can normalize aggression, encourage imitation of harmful actions, and increase real-life social violence.

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Opinion 2: Violence in media doesn’t have a damaging effect on society

1.      People act from their own motives
Individuals make choices based on their personality, upbringing, and environment, rather than what they see on TV. Watching violence does not automatically lead to violent behavior.

2.      Media can provide a safe outlet for aggressiveness
Violent video games or films allow people to express anger and frustration safely without harming others. This can actually reduce real-world aggression by offering a controlled environment for aggressive instincts.

3.      No clear evidence of a direct connection
Many people watch violent movies or play games without ever committing violent acts. This indicates that media violence alone is not a significant factor in causing social violence.

Convincing meaning: People are responsible for their own behavior, and media can act as a safe channel for aggression rather than causing harm, so violent content is not necessarily damaging to society.

Some people believe that violence on television and in computer games has a damaging effect on the society. Others deny that these factors have any significant influence on people's behavior. What is your opinion?

Choose your opinion & generate arguments

These days, the amount of violence in media is increasing. While some people believe that watching violent television or playing aggressive computer games will lead to dangerous behavior, others argue that media violence does not have a serious effect on society. I agree with the second view and believe that, in most cases, media violence does not change people’s behavior.

Firstly, people act according to their own motives, not simply because of what they watch on TV or play in games. If someone wants to harm others, it is usually due to their personality, upbringing, or education, not because of violent media. While some argue that violent content can make viewers more accustomed to cruelty, I think that intelligent and reasonable people can separate fiction from reality and treat others respectfully, regardless of what they see or hear in movies or games.

Secondly, video games and television may even help reduce social violence by giving people a safe way to release aggressive feelings. For example, someone who enjoys fighting games can express their anger in a virtual world instead of in real life. This can prevent aggressive acts in society and provide a safe outlet for emotions. Finally, despite many claims about the negative effects of violent media, there is little evidence showing a clear link between watching violence and committing crimes or other harmful acts. Many people enjoy violent films or games without ever behaving aggressively in real life.

In conclusion, violence in television and computer games does not have a significant influence on people’s behavior. Personal character, education, and self-control are much more important, and media can even provide safe ways for people to manage aggressive feelings. (279 words)

Sample 2

In some countries, an increasing number of people are suffering from health problems as a result of eating too much fast food. It is, therefore, necessary for governments to impose a higher tax on this kind of food.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? You should use your own ideas, knowledge and experience and support your arguments with examples and relevant evidence.

In many countries, a growing number of people are suffering from health problems due to consuming fast food regularly. Some people argue that governments should impose higher taxes on such food. I fully agree with this view because higher prices can reduce fast food consumption, and the additional tax revenue can be used to support healthcare.

Firstly, increasing taxes on fast food will make these items more expensive, and many people may no longer afford to buy them frequently. As a result, daily consumption of unhealthy food will decrease. For example, a study by Cambridge University found that if fast food prices rise by 10%, nearly 30% of people would reduce their regular intake. Higher costs act as a deterrent and encourage people to choose healthier alternatives.

Secondly, fast food consumption is linked to health problems such as obesity, diabetes, and weakened immunity, which place a heavy burden on the healthcare system. Tax revenue from fast food can be used to treat patients and improve public health services. For instance, in Britain, authorities increased taxes on junk food by 12%, which led to a noticeable decline in fast food consumption while generating funds for healthcare programs.

In conclusion, I believe that higher taxes on fast food are necessary to reduce its consumption. By making fast food more expensive, people are likely to eat it less often, and the extra tax income can be used to treat health problems caused by unhealthy diets. This approach benefits both individual health and the overall healthcare system. (253 words)

Sample 3

Some people think that government is wasting money on the arts and that this money could be spent elsewhere. To what extent do you agree with this view?

Some people believe that government spending on the arts is a waste of money and that the funds could be used elsewhere. I completely disagree with this view and believe that investment in the arts is valuable and beneficial for society.

First of all, arts are an important part of national culture and heritage. Governments in many countries establish and maintain institutions to preserve and promote art. For example, Canada, the USA, the UK, and Australia have art museums across the country that display ancient and modern works. These museums are often free for visitors, and the government covers the maintenance costs. Such support encourages people to appreciate and learn about their cultural heritage, ensuring that art continues to play a meaningful role in society.

Secondly, arts provide entertainment and contribute to the economy. Movies, exhibitions, and crafts are all derived from artistic activities. For example, film industries such as Hollywood, Bollywood, and Tollywood generate significant revenue and employment. Art exhibitions, craft fairs, and creative workshops display paintings, sculptures, glasswork, and paper art, which support the livelihoods of thousands of artists. Government funding for arts not only helps artists earn a living but also allows the public to enjoy cultural and recreational activities, which improves quality of life.

In conclusion, arts play a crucial role in cultural preservation, entertainment, and economic development. Therefore, it is essential for governments to continue financing the arts through museums, exhibitions, film projects, and craft events. Spending money on arts is not wasteful; it enriches society and benefits both artists and the public. (258 words)

Sample 4

Most artists earn low salaries and should therefore receive funding from the government in order for them to continue with their work

TO WHAT EXTENT DO YOU AGREE?

It often said that the income of almost artists is relatively low. Thus, they should be given funding from government to maintain their work. From my perspective, I completely agree with this point of view for the following reasons.

Nowadays many gifted artists are facing financial strain and wondering whether they should follow their enthusiasm in art or doing something else to make out money. Funding for artists is a best solution for them to clear their way and work on art continuously. Doing this means artists no longer have to work on two more extra jobs to cover their personal expense. Working regardless of money must give them a fresh mind that could produce fascinating and creative concepts that could be priceless.

Another good point to support artists is that it will benefit society in long run. Talented artists would create a work of historical or cultural art which are used as an educational resource that help people to approach them effectively. Moreover, utilizing art is the most effective way to maintain history and culture of a country which every country is trying to reserve. In addition, art galleries are the epitome of artists' production that attracts enormous tourists around the world every year generating a considerable revenue in return. Obviously, it boosts national tourism industry.

In conclusion, even though funding for artist takes a part government's budget away but it definitely is worthy. It not only gives artists a huge support to build their career but benefit the country itself.

(252 words)

Sample 5

In some countries, an increasing number of people are suffering from health problems as a result of eating too much fast food. It is, therefore, necessary for governments to impose a higher tax on this kind of food.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

You should use your own ideas, knowledge and experience and support your arguments with examples and relevant evidence.

In many nations, there are a number of people who are facing issues related to their health because they eat junk food daily. Thus, governments should levy a high tariff on food fast items. This essay agrees with this statement because a higher cost can result in lower consumption of fast food and extra taxes collected can be used to treat sick people.

Firstly, a higher tax on fast food eatables will make these items costly, and it would not be feasible for many people to afford this kind of food. This will result in many people deter to eat junk food on a daily basis and lower consumption of this kind of food. For example, a recent study by Cambridge University found that if prices of fast-food items increased by 10% of their current value, nearly 30% of people will stop eating junk food regularly.

Secondly, many people are suffering from health-related issues such as obesity, immune system and so on due to eating fast food, this will put a financial strain on the healthcare system. Money collected by imposing higher taxes can be used to treat sick people. This will lessen the financial burden on the annual budget spent on the healthcare system. To illustrate, in Britain, the authorities have imposed 12% more tax on junk food, and higher prices of this kind of food resulted in lower consumption of fast food.

In conclusion, higher taxes on fast-food items is required to reduce its consumption because it will make this kind of food costly and funds collected from taxes can be used to treat sick people. ( 269 words)

Sample 8

In the future, it seems more difficult to live on Earth. Some people think more money should be spent on researching other planet to live on, such as Mars. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? OR

In the future it may be necessary for us to live on other planets. For this reason, some people believe that we should spend money now to research other planets, such as Mars. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Some people argue that living on earth is becoming more and more difficult. Therefore, we have to research for another planet to live. In my opinion, although I believe that it will be hard to live on earth in the future, the searching for the new planet is not necessary.

On the one hand, there are mainly two reasons why life on earth will be unsustainable. One obvious problem is that the rising level of pollution in the land and the ocean which leads to the disproportionate number of the population in these areas. For example, with the polluted ocean, there will be no fish to catch. As a result, fishermen and people who live near the beach will have to move to other areas to survive. Another factor is the overconsumption of natural resources. When the fossil fuels such as oil and coal are exploited to meet the mass demand for energy, they will quickly run out. Unfortunately, it takes ages for these resources to recover

On the other hand, I believe that discovering the new planet is a waste of money. There are various urgent problems which directly affect people's lives that we should consider. One of which is to improve the advances of technology in farming and therefore to reduce the risk of famine. Furthermore, people still have enough time to save the earth, by replacing fossil fuels with environmental-friendly and renewable energy such as wind or solar power, we will reduce the rate of global warming. Take Rex hotel as a simple example; they are now using trucks with the oil made from corns to minimize the number of emissions.

In conclusion, although it is getting harder and harder to live on the earth, I still believe that there are many ways to deal with this problem rather than to search for another planet to live. (310 words)

Sample 9

Students in schools and universities learn more from their teachers than through other means such as the Internet, libraries, and TV. To what extent you agree or disagree?

Nowadays, new technologies such as the Internet, libraries, and television have greatly influenced education. Despite this, many people believe that students learn more from their teachers than from other sources. In my opinion, while teachers play a crucial role, other learning resources are also important and cannot be ignored.

Firstly, teachers provide not only knowledge but also guidance, inspiration, and moral support. They explain difficult concepts, encourage students to think critically, and correct misunderstandings. For example, a student struggling with mathematics may understand a topic better when a teacher explains it in a simple and interactive way. Moreover, teachers motivate students, help develop problem-solving skills, and shape their character, which cannot be fully achieved through self-learning or online resources alone.

Secondly, alternative sources of learning such as the Internet, libraries, and television also play a significant role. These resources allow students to explore subjects at their own pace, access up-to-date information, and develop independent learning skills. For instance, when students are assigned research projects, they often consult online articles or digital libraries to collect additional information, which enhances their understanding of the topic. Such resources are especially helpful for students who cannot attend school regularly due to personal, financial, or geographical reasons.

In conclusion, teachers have an irreplaceable role in a student’s learning journey by providing guidance, motivation, and moral education. However, the use of other learning resources complements classroom teaching and helps students gain knowledge independently. Therefore, the most effective education system combines the expertise of teachers with access to alternative sources of information to provide a well-rounded learning experience. (261 words )

Sample 10

Some people believe that international trade and communication with other countries is a positive trend, while others think it is harmful to nations and they might lose their identities. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your own opinion and relevant examples.

In recent years, there has been a debate about whether international trade and communication benefit nations or threaten their cultural identity. While some argue that global interaction may harm national traditions, I firmly believe that international cooperation is both inevitable and crucial for a country’s development.

Firstly, global trade and communication are essential for economic growth and resource management. No nation can remain fully isolated in today’s interconnected world. International cooperation allows countries to overcome shortages in critical areas such as modern medicines, advanced technology, and raw materials. For example, even a largely isolated country like North Korea engages in limited trade with its neighbors to sustain its economy and political stability. For most nations, disconnecting from global markets would significantly weaken economic strength. Therefore, maintaining international relations is necessary for improving competitiveness and prosperity.

Secondly, concerns that globalization erodes national identity are often overstated. Cultural identity is rooted in history, language, and traditions, which are not easily replaced by foreign influences. Exposure to other cultures usually encourages people to appreciate new ideas rather than abandon their own heritage. Additionally, with the rise of the internet and digital media, people can experience foreign cultures without formal international cooperation. Isolating a country would neither fully protect its culture nor promote development.

In conclusion, I strongly believe that international trade and communication are both necessary and beneficial. They strengthen national economies and facilitate progress while allowing societies to maintain their unique cultural identities. Global interaction does not threaten national heritage; instead, it enriches it and contributes to the overall growth of nations in an interconnected world. (264 words)

Sample 11

Some people think that men and women have different qualities. Therefore, some certain jobs are suitable for men and some jobs are suitable for women.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Some people believe that men and women have different qualities, and therefore certain jobs are more suitable for one gender than the other. I completely disagree with this view because professional abilities depend on individual skills, not gender.

To begin with, the idea that men and women should be limited to specific jobs is outdated. In the past, physical strength was often seen as the main requirement for many occupations, which led people to assume that men were more capable. However, modern workplaces rely much less on physical labor due to technological development, and both men and women can perform the same tasks effectively. For example, women now serve as soldiers, pilots, engineers, and police officers—jobs that were traditionally male-dominated. Their success shows clearly that gender does not determine job performance.

Furthermore, many qualities required in today’s jobs, such as communication, creativity, leadership, and problem-solving, are not linked to gender. Instead, these skills vary from person to person. A man may be an excellent nurse or primary school teacher, while a woman may be a highly skilled mechanic or software developer. Proper training, dedication, and interest are far more important than whether the worker is male or female. If society continues to attach gender labels to certain professions, many talented people may be discouraged from pursuing careers they are passionate about.

In conclusion, it is wrong to believe that some jobs are suitable only for men or only for women. Individual ability and commitment can matter much more than gender. Allowing people to choose careers freely benefits both individuals and society as a whole by making the workforce more skilled, diverse, and productive. (271 words)

Sample 12

Some people think that success is the best measure of intelligence, while others thinks that intelligence can be measured in other ways more effectively.

What is your opinion on this?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

People have different opinions on whether success is the most accurate measure of intelligence. Some believe that achieving success in life clearly shows a person’s intelligence, while others argue that intelligence should be assessed in other ways. In my opinion, success alone cannot measure intelligence because it depends on many other factors.

To begin with, many successful people are indeed highly intelligent. Business leaders, scientists, and innovators often show exceptional problem-solving abilities and creativity, and their achievements suggest high intelligence. However, success is not determined by intelligence alone. Hard work, opportunities, family background, and even luck play important roles. A highly intelligent person may fail to achieve visible success due to financial difficulties, lack of support, or unfortunate circumstances. Therefore, judging intelligence solely by success can be misleading.

Moreover, intelligence can be measured in other ways that do not relate to success. Psychologists use IQ tests, memory assessments, and logical reasoning tasks to evaluate different aspects of intelligence. Emotional intelligence is also important, including the ability to understand others’ feelings and manage relationships effectively. Many people with high emotional intelligence may not be wealthy or famous, but they excel in communication, empathy, and problem-solving. These abilities cannot be judged simply by how much money someone earns or how famous they are. Additionally, success itself is subjective. For some, it means high income, while for others, it means leading a meaningful or happy life. A teacher who educates hundreds of students or a nurse who helps patients recover may not be rich, but they can still demonstrate great intelligence and make valuable contributions to society.

In conclusion, while success can sometimes reflect intelligence, it is not the only or the best measure. Intelligence is multidimensional and should be assessed using broader and more reliable methods. (294 words)

Sample 13

"Prevention is better than cure.”Out of a country's health budget, a large proportion should be diverted from treatment to spending on health education and preventative measures. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

It is often argued that governments should prioritize health education and preventive strategies over medical treatment. I completely agree with this view because prevention reduces long-term healthcare costs and promotes a healthier society.

To begin with, investing in health education can significantly minimize the occurrence of many lifestyle-related illnesses. Diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and heart problems are largely caused by poor diet, lack of exercise and harmful habits like smoking. If the government allocates more funds to awareness campaigns, school-based health program and community workshops, people are more likely to adopt healthier behaviors. As a result, fewer individuals would require expensive treatments later in life. This approach not only saves public money but also enhances the overall well-being of citizens.

Furthermore, preventive measures such as regular screenings, vaccinations and early diagnosis play a crucial role in reducing the burden on hospitals. For example, vaccines can stop the spread of infectious diseases before they become widespread public threats. Similarly, routine check-ups help detect illnesses at early stages, when they are easier and cheaper to treat. If governments focus on prevention, healthcare systems will face less pressure, enabling better service for patients who genuinely need medical intervention. However, while prevention is essential, treatment should not be ignored entirely. A balanced approach is necessary, but the majority of the budget should indeed support prevention because of its long-term benefits.

In conclusion, diverting a larger share of the health budget towards education and preventive measures is a wise investment. It reduces healthcare costs, prevents avoidable diseases and builds a more sustainable health system. (264 words)

Sample 14

It is often said that as technology develops, traditional cultures are gradually lost and the two cannot exist together. While I agree that technology has changed many cultural practices, I do not believe it completely destroys tradition. If used carefully, technology and tradition can coexist and even support each other.

Firstly, technology has clearly affected traditional customs. Many young people today spend most of their time online or using digital devices instead of participating in cultural activities, festivals, or learning local crafts. As a result, some traditional skills, such as folk music, handmade weaving, and local storytelling, are slowly disappearing. Moreover, globalization, often driven by technology, exposes people to foreign lifestyles and ideas, which can sometimes overshadow or replace local customs. This demonstrates that technology can influence and reduce the practice of certain traditions.

Secondly, it is not correct to say that technology and tradition cannot exist together. In fact, technology can help preserve and promote cultural heritage in many ways. Traditional dances, songs, and rituals can now be recorded, documented, and shared online, allowing people worldwide to learn about them. Museums and cultural institutions use digital archives and virtual tours to teach history and traditions more effectively. Additionally, many young people are learning traditional skills through online tutorials, which would not have been possible in the past.

In conclusion, technology may present challenges to traditional cultures, but it does not necessarily destroy them. On the contrary, it can help preserve, promote, and even revive traditions. Therefore, when used properly, technology and tradition can coexist, complement each other, and ensure that cultural heritage continues for future generations. (267 words)

Or,

Technology, the buzzword of today, has improved the quality of life world over. It is true that technology is one of the reasons behind the abrupt destruction of our traditional culture. In my point of view, technology and our tradition go well together.

Firstly, traditional games from the bygone days have been evaded by the juvenile and by the grown-up. They are much attracted towards video games rather than ancient games. According to them, these are old-fashioned games. An axiom for this issue is to include traditional games into the video games so that younger generation will get exposure to it. In addition, traditional musical instruments such as banjos are being replaced by new innovations such as guitars, pianos and so on. Apart from this, the numbers of traditional performances organized have also been reduced due to the invention of idiot box which always broadcast a variety of TV shows and serials, making less importance to the traditional performance.

In this era of globalization, people prefer to live in modern apartments. So usages of traditional houses have become comparatively less. Unlike traditional houses, flats offering much secure environment. Moreover, apartment helps to reduce vicissitudes of our life. To have an ancient touch, one can include traditional concepts and furniture while building the apartments.

In conclusion, the strong current of technological advancement has indeed eroded some traditions; nevertheless, both of them are not mutually incompatible. We can preserve our traditions which reflect our origins and roots but at the same time manage to develop our country with full utilization of technology as it could be used to reinstate traditions.