When preparing for IELTS general writing task 2, candidates often focus on grammar, vocabulary, and structure. However, one critical element that directly impacts IELTS writing evaluation is the use of clear, relevant, and well-explained examples. Examples not only strengthen your argument but also show examiners that you can develop ideas logically, which is essential for scoring higher bands.
In this article, we’ll explore why examples are important, how to use them effectively, and how they connect with different writing task 2 questions.
Why Are Examples Important in IELTS Writing Task 2?
When examiners mark IELTS writing task 2 questions, they assess your ability to present and support ideas. Adding examples:
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Makes your essay more convincing.
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Shows your understanding of real-world issues.
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Helps avoid general or vague arguments.
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Improves clarity and flow of the essay.
For instance, in an importance of technology essay, you could simply say, “Technology is essential in education.” But with an example, you make it stronger: “For example, online platforms like Coursera and edX allow students from rural areas to access world-class education.”
This type of support improves coherence and boosts scores in writing band descriptors for Task Response and Coherence & Cohesion.
Types of IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions Where Examples Matter
1. Opinion Essays
These require you to agree or disagree. Examples make your opinion credible.
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Sample: In an “advantages of newspaper essay,” you could add: “For example, newspapers such as The Hindu not only report facts but also educate readers through editorial analysis.”
2. Advantages and Disadvantages Essays
Here, examples balance both sides.
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Sample: In an “advantages and disadvantages of computer essay,” you might write: “For example, while computers help in online banking, they also expose users to cybercrime.”
3. Problem-Solution Essays
Concrete examples highlight real issues.
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Sample: In a “disadvantages of society” essay, you could say: “For instance, rising unemployment among youth often leads to frustration and crime.”
4. Discussion Essays
Examples help in presenting multiple perspectives.
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Sample: In an “importance of time essay,” you could write: “For example, successful leaders like A.P.J. Abdul Kalam always emphasized punctuality as the key to achievement.”
Practical Approach: Using Examples in Paragraphs
Strong paragraph writing with questions and answers in Task 2 follows the PEEL structure: Point, Explanation, Example, Link.
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Point: State your main idea.
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Explanation: Clarify the idea.
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Example: Provide support (statistics, studies, personal experiences, or global facts).
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Link: Connect to the essay’s overall argument.
Sample Paragraph (Importance of Technology Essay):
Technology has transformed communication in society. In the past, people relied on letters that took days to reach. Today, platforms like WhatsApp and Zoom allow instant global communication. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, students continued their education through online classes. Therefore, technology is not just convenient but also essential in crisis management.
The Benefits of Using Real-World Examples
Examiners often appreciate references that show awareness of global issues. Some examples you can use in essays:
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Education: Online learning platforms (Coursera, Udemy).
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Environment: Climate change agreements like the Paris Accord.
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Society: Social media’s impact on youth.
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Childhood essay themes: Role of family and education in shaping values.
Such examples also strengthen answers in related contexts like TOEFL speaking questions and answers, class 11 debate writing, or paragraph about English language assignments.
Common Mistakes Students Make with Examples
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Overgeneralization – Writing vague lines like “Many people use technology” does not count as an example.
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Irrelevance – Adding unrelated examples lowers coherence.
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Too Many Examples – Overloading your essay makes it descriptive rather than analytical.
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Incorrect Data – Inventing fake statistics can make your essay less credible.
Instead, keep examples specific, relevant, and concise.
Linking Examples with IELTS Preparation
When students prepare for IELTS, they often ask:
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“Is IELTS exam tough?”
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“Is TOEFL easier than IELTS?”
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“How many bands in IELTS are required for study abroad?”
The truth is, exams like IELTS, TOEFL, or CELPIP test your ability to communicate effectively. Mastering examples in essays, complex sentences for IELTS, and task 1 formal letter writing can improve your confidence in both Writing Task 1 and Task 2.
Similarly, using examples in IELTS report writing or OET letter sample practice also prepares you for real academic and professional settings.
Examples as a Bridge to Other Writing Skills
The role of examples is not limited to IELTS. They are equally valuable in:
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Advantages of newspaper essay – showing how newspapers inform public opinion.
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Childhood essay – explaining personal experiences.
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Importance of education essay – highlighting real-life achievers.
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Benefits of reading essay – showing how reading improves vocabulary and creativity.
These examples align with broader skills like types of writing skills pdf, letter writing topics for class 8, or model activity task class 8 English part 2.
By practicing with IELTS writing task 2 questions, students naturally improve in related areas such as future overseas education applications, classroom debate writing, and even professional tasks like “how to make money writing ebooks.”
