Essay architecture
The same blocks perform different jobs in different questions
IELTS does not prescribe one universal paragraph template. Start with the instruction, then choose only the blocks that help answer it.
Opinion
Introduction: Optional context + Paraphrase + Position + Reason preview
Body 1: Develop the first reason supporting the position.
Body 2: Develop a second reason, or concede and rebut the strongest opposing point.
Body 3: Optional when a genuinely distinct third reason is needed and can be developed within the time available.
Discussion
Introduction: Optional context + Paraphrase both views + Position + Roadmap
Body 1: Explain the first stated view and why people hold it.
Body 2: Explain the second stated view and connect it to the writer's judgement.
Body 3: Optional if the writer separates personal evaluation from the two view paragraphs, but a four-paragraph essay can usually integrate it efficiently.
Problem & solution
Introduction: Optional context + Paraphrase the issue + Scope thesis + Solution link
Body 1: Analyse the requested causes or consequences rather than merely describing the topic.
Body 2: Develop feasible solutions and show how they address the preceding causes or problems.
Body 3: Optional when the prompt asks separately about causes, effects and solutions and each part needs adequate development.
Advantages & disadvantages
Introduction: Optional context + Paraphrase the development + Evaluation thesis + Contrast frame
Body 1: Develop the most relevant advantage or group of related benefits.
Body 2: Develop the main disadvantage and, for an outweigh task, compare its significance with the benefits.
Body 3: Optional when several genuinely distinct effects require development; avoid turning the essay into a list.
Direct questions
Introduction: Optional context + Paraphrase the shared topic + Answer map + Position
Body 1: Answer the first question directly.
Body 2: Answer the second question directly and maintain any stated evaluation.
Body 3: Optional if one question contains two separate demands that cannot be developed adequately in one paragraph.