IELTS Writing Task 2: What “Task Response” Really Means (With Examples)

Task Response is the IELTS Writing Task 2 criterion that measures whether you fully answered the question, took and held a clear position, and developed your ideas. It carries 25% of your Writing mark.

The three things Task Response measures

1. Did you address every part of the prompt? IELTS prompts often have hidden parts. Miss one half and you cannot reach Band 7 on this criterion.

2. Is your position clear and consistent? State your opinion in the introduction, reinforce it in each body paragraph, and restate it in the conclusion.

3. Are your ideas developed and relevant? Every main idea needs explanation and a specific example.

A worked example

Prompt: “Some people think children should start school as early as possible. Others believe they should start later. Discuss both views and give your opinion.” A Band 6 response describes both views but forgets the writer’s own opinion. A Band 7+ response covers both views, developed, and a clearly stated, consistent personal opinion.

How to guarantee full Task Response

Before writing, spend five minutes on prompt decomposition: rewrite the question in your own words, list every part it asks for, and tick each one in your plan. Want feedback on whether your essays satisfy Task Response? Book a writing check.

Frequently asked questions

• How much is Task Response worth? 25% of the Writing Task 2 score.
• Do I need expert topic knowledge? No — ideas need to be relevant and developed, not academically correct.