Task 2 Idea Spray Without Development
Task 2 · Depth · May 2026
Direct answer
The idea-spray trap is listing many Task 2 points without explaining any of them. You write jobs, health, crime, environment, technology—each in one sentence—then move on. Examiners score Task Response on development: claim, reason, example, link. Five naked ideas read as Band 5–6 breadth with Band 5 depth. Fix by choosing two themes and spending the body proving each one fully.
How idea spray looks on the page
List intro First line names four problems; body never returns to two
Example-free claims “This improves society” with no who, when, or how
Paragraph hop New idea every sentence—no cohesive chain
Idea spray vs developed argument
| Spray pattern | Developed pattern |
|---|---|
| Five reasons in five sentences | One reason + example + implication |
| Memorised topic pack | Prompt-specific proof |
| Long essay, thin ideas | Shorter essay, two complete arcs |
Depth-first body plan
After planning, delete every bullet that lacks a concrete example. Each body paragraph: topic sentence → because → for instance → therefore. Pair drills with body paragraph traps and example overload—depth is not more examples, it is one example explained.
Key takeaways
- Many ideas without proof = idea spray.
- Two developed themes beat five shallow labels.
- Every body sentence must serve one topic sentence.
- Word count does not replace explanation.
FAQ
Usually two fully developed body themes—or three only if each stays short but complete with example and link.
No—extra sentences that add new nouns without explanation still read as underdeveloped.
Underline each body topic sentence; every following sentence must explain that one idea only.
See whether your Task 2 lists ideas or develops them.
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