Two-Part Question Traps in IELTS Writing
Task 2 · Two-part · May 2026
Direct answer
The two-part trap is treating a prompt with two tasks as a single opinion essay. Why is X happening and is it positive? needs reasons and evaluation. What are the causes and what solutions exist? needs both. Examiners score Task Response on whether each part received a developed answer—not a mention in the introduction only.
Common two-part prompt forms
Causes + solutions Both must be developed
Reasons + opinion Description alone is not enough
Two clauses Each and carries equal weight
Two-part traps that cap Task Response
| Trap | Why it fails |
|---|---|
| Half-answer | Strong part one, silence on part two |
| Intro-only mention | Both named; one developed |
| Wrong template | Agree-disagree on causes+solutions |
| Merged blur | One vague paragraph for both |
Plan one block per part
Number the questions. Body paragraph per part—or causes block then solutions block. Conclusion audit: did I answer both? See also double-question trap and problem-solution traps.
Key takeaways
- Underline both tasks before planning.
- Equal development beats one long paragraph.
- Match template to prompt type.
- Conclusion checks both parts.
FAQ
Risky—separate paragraphs keep Task Response and coherence clear for examiners.
Both equally; half-answers rarely score above Band 6 for Task Response.
No—two-part = two distinct tasks; discussion = two views plus your opinion.
Check whether your essay answers both parts of the prompt.
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