Writing Body Paragraphs for an Academic IELTS Essay

The most important section in an IELTS essay is its body paragraphs. It’s the place where IELTS test takers address the writing topic in detail and get the maximum band score possible. However, it is also the most challenging one as it requires creative writing skills, rich vocabulary, and the ability to think clearly and to transition from one argument to another in a logical manner. This guide will teach you how to generate ideas and write body paragraphs that will get you the score you need.

Understanding the IELTS Writing Task 2

In IELTS Writing Task 2, you must write an essay of a minimum of 250 words. A word count of 270 -290 words will help you explain your arguments better. Your Introduction and Conclusion paragraph can have around 40-50 words each. The rest of the word count comes from two to three body paragraphs. An ideal length of a body paragraph is between 80-100 words. Refer to these articles which will help you write the perfect Introduction and Conclusion in no time.

Before we learn how to write effective body paragraphs, let’s look at a typical IELTS essay. The paragraphs highlighted in blue are the main body paragraphs. A closer look reveals the function of these paragraphs. They are the backbone of your essay which help develop the main ideas and arguments with supporting statements and examples.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Question (Problem-Solution Essay)

Model Answer

Now that you’ve seen what body paragraphs look like and understood their significance, let’s look at the different question types.

Types of IELTS Essay Questions

Here are some common types of essay questions you might face in IELTS Writing Task 2:

Let’s analyse a few of these question types and learn how to structure the body paragraphs for each.

1. Problem-Solution Essay

In this question type, you will be presented with an issue and asked to write about the problems it causes and offer solutions. Read this guide on all about Problem-Solution Essays.

Example IELTS Question:

Water pollution is becoming a serious problem in many cities. What are the problems it is causing, and how can we resolve this issue?

A typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question has 2 parts.

The first part is a statement made by IELTS: Water pollution is becoming a serious problem in many cities.

The second part is your Task Response:  What are the problems it is causing, and how can we resolve this issue?

As soon as you’ve read the question, you should have a mental plan of your paragraphs ready.

Make a Rough Outline using Keywords

Spend the next five minutes brainstorming for ideas. For the Problems paragraph, keywords could be “waterborne diseases”, “cholera, typhoid”, “water used for cooking, drinking,” “illness”, “hospitals”, “expenses.”

Now generate keywords for the Solutions paragraph: “treating wastewater,” “modern treatment plants,” “filter out chemicals, contaminants,” “strict regulations.”          

How to Write Body Paragraphs for a Problem-Solution Essay

First Body Paragraph (Problem):
Start with a Topic Sentence which tells the examiner what the paragraph is about. Then introduce a problem and extend the idea with relevant examples or supporting statements. IELTS Writing Task 2 questions often ask candidates to provide examples from their own experience so you can do the same.

Second Body Paragraph (Solution):
Start with a topic sentence of transition to convey to the examiner that you’re now moving on to solutions. Offer at least one solution to the problem and specify why this solution would work. If possible, give real-world examples to support your argument. If another solution comes to mind, feel free to include it along with an explanation. Use connectors when required.

Note: The topic sentences at the beginning of your main body paragraphs contribute to your Coherence and Cohesion score.

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2. Discuss Both Views Essay

For this essay, you will be asked to discuss two opposing views on a topic and then give your opinion.

Example IELTS Question:  

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

How to Write Body Paragraphs for a Discuss Both Views Essay

First Body Paragraph (View 1):
Start with a topic sentence that conveys to the examiner the view this paragraph will cover. List reasons why people believe this view, and if possible, give supporting examples or evidence.

Second Body Paragraph (View 2):
Start with a topic sentence of transition that presents the opposing view. Again, provide supporting reasons and examples that justify this opinion.

*Conclusion – The Task Response clearly asks for your Opinion so make sure you mention it in the Conclusion paragraph. Failing to do so will impact your Task Response score.

An example of Main Body Paragraphs for a Discuss Both Views Essay

Body Paragraph 1: Longer Prison Sentences Reduce Crime      
Supporters of lengthy prison sentences argue that these will strongly deter crime. When potential criminals are aware of these long jail terms, they are likely to think twice before breaking the law. A good example would be the relatively low crime rates seen in countries like Singapore, where severe penalties are imposed for crimes like drug trafficking and theft. Another benefit of locking away violent offenders for extended periods is that it keeps the streets safe for the elderly, women, and children. Innocent citizens can live in freedom and dignity, and sleep well at night.

Body Paragraph 2: More Effective Ways to Reduce Crime
However, opponents of this view believe that there are no guarantees that criminals will come out reformed after lengthy prison sentences. Many of them do not get jobs because of the stigma attached to being a former convict. This might send them into a further spiral of depression, hopelessness, and crime. A better idea would be prevention-focused strategies – for instance, those living in underprivileged communities could be given access to quality education, vocational training, and better life opportunities. Furthermore, therapy and counseling inside prisons can help offenders reintegrate into society once they are released. Scandinavian countries like Norway focus on rehabilitation rather than harsh punishment, and this has worked going by the low reoffending rates.

Conclusion: (Include your Opinion because the Task Response has asked for it)
To conclude, while longer prison sentences are justified in the case of heinous crimes, they are not the only way to dissuade crime. I believe that reductions in crime also require compassionate and practical approaches that tackle the root cause.

3. Opinion-Led Essay

In this type of essay, you will be asked to give your opinion on a topic and justify your views.

Example IELTS Question:

Some believe that the government should provide free healthcare to all citizens. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

How to Write Body Paragraphs for an Opinion Essay

First Body Paragraph:
State the first reason for your opinion, justify why you believe it and give supporting examples or evidence.

Second Body Paragraph:
Now present a second reason for your opinion giving relevant examples or evidence to support your claim.

Note: In an Opinion question, make sure that you state your opinion clearly in the Introduction paragraph and restate it again in the Conclusion.

An example of Main Body Paragraphs for an Opinion Essay    

Body Paragraph 1: Right to Access Healthcare
A major reason I believe in free healthcare for all citizens is because health is a fundamental human right. Everyone, regardless of their financial status, should have seamless access to medical treatment, consultations, and hospital procedures when needed. In many developed countries, such as the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) offers free healthcare at the point of use, except some dental treatments and prescriptions. Such a system promotes equality especially for the vulnerable so that they receive timely care.

Body Paragraph 2: Preventing Wider Social Issues
Another argument in favour of free healthcare is that in countries where people are forced to pay for healthcare, they tend to delay or avoid seeking treatment due to cost concerns. This leads to more serious health complications in the long run, and the result is a longer, costlier treatment that puts immense strain on the healthcare system. Even worse, untreated health problems can cause higher rates of absenteeism in the workplace, reduced productivity, and social unrest with dependent families being the worst affected. Free healthcare addresses these concerns, reducing the overall burden on society.

To sum up, I believe societies and nations can only prosper when people don’t have to fret about illnesses and medical costs. Not only is free healthcare a basic human right but it also ensures that entire populations are disease-free and productive.

Time Management Tips to Write Body Paragraphs

Vocabulary for IELTS Body Paragraphs

1. Introducing a Main Idea (Topic Sentence)

Example:

One major reason why water pollution needs to be tackled with urgency is…

The primary advantage of studying abroad is…

2. Vocabulary for Explaining the Idea

Example:

This is because dirty water can lead to contagious as well as auto-immune diseases among all age groups.

The reason for this is students become more self-reliant as they juggle studies and part-time jobs.

3. Vocabulary for Giving Examples

Example:

A case in point is the Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) which cause numbness and paralysis.

A good illustration is South Asian students in Australia who are pampered back home by their parents but are forced to do everything themselves when abroad.

4. Vocabulary for Adding More Information

Example:

Furthermore, polluted water also finds its way into the sea affecting marine life and ecosystems.

Besides that, students are able to develop soft skills and handle real life hardships with relative ease.

5. Vocabulary for Showing Contrast (Opposite Idea)

Example:

However, studying abroad can be a double-edged sword as students abuse their freedom and fall into bad company.

While some people argue that online classes are the best, others believe that nothing can replace traditional schooling methods which place emphasis on socialization.

6. Vocabulary for Showing Cause and Effect

Example:

As a result, they stop attending classes and engage in illegal cash jobs and street hustles. This leads to the risk of students being deported with immediate effect, no questions asked.

7. Vocabulary for Concluding a Body Paragraph

Example:

In summary, studying in a foreign country is not always a bed of roses.

8. Advanced Vocabulary for Higher Scores

Example:

I firmly believe that if the water pollution crisis isn’t handled immediately, the effects could be devastating.

FAQs

Q1. What is the ideal length of a body paragraph?

An ideal length would be between 80-100 words to fully develop your points while staying concise and clear. It is okay to go slightly beyond this recommended word count provided that the points made strengthen your argument.

Q2. Can I have an optional body paragraph?

Typically an IELTS Academic essay has 2 main body paragraphs but you can include a third one if it helps develop your answer. Irrelevant content in extra body paragraphs can affect coherence so it’s best to stick to the recommended structure.

Q3. Can I give examples within the body paragraphs?

Yes, if possible try to give examples in your paragraphs because these help to strengthen your arguments and clarify what you’re trying to say to the examiner. However, care must be taken to add examples which are relevant and do not appear memorised.

Q4. Is it necessary to have only one reason, problem or solution per paragraph?

Generally it is recommended to have one reason, problem or solution in each paragraph because this ensures clarity and purpose. That said, high-scoring students at times write 350+ words in their essay and often include two ideas per paragraph. As long as the ideas are relevant and fully address the task, this approach can be effective too.

Q5. Can one body paragraph be longer than the other?

Ideally, your body paragraphs should be of equal length but sometimes it is OK for one body paragraph to be slightly longer to provide detail. Just make sure that the essay is cohesive and coherent.

Q6. What are some topic sentences of transition I can use in Paragraph 3?

Check out this link on cohesive words and IELTS transition words.

Q7. What is the best structure of a body paragraph?

A well-structured body paragraph follows the format below:

Q8. How do I connect body paragraphs?

Use connectors/transitions phrases

Start practising essay questions under timed conditions. You will find that writing meaningful body paragraphs becomes seamless and easy.