Writing the perfect outline statement for IELTS writing task 2

In the IELTS writing task 2 context, crafting a well-structured introduction is essential. It encompasses various components, one crucial element being a sentence that previews the essay's content and purpose. This is commonly called an essay outline, though alternate terms like "thesis statement" might also be used.

The specific content of your essay outline will vary based on the exact topic of your essay, making it a nuanced matter. However, this article aims to comprehensively guide you through all the essential aspects you must understand.

WHAT IS AN OUTLINE STATEMENT?

First and foremost, let's clarify the concept of an outline statement, as its significance might not be entirely apparent. The term "outline" in this context refers to:

A general overview or plan that highlights the critical aspects of something without delving into the specifics.

Thus, within the IELTS writing task 2, an outline statement can be described as a sentence at the end of your introduction. Its purpose is to provide readers with a glimpse of what lies ahead.

This sentence should concisely convey what the forthcoming paragraphs will cover without diving into the intricate details reserved for later sections. For instance:

This essay will assess both sides of the issue while advocating for addressing challenges and striving for improvement.

Here, my sentence has effectively outlined that the essay will achieve three main objectives:

Examine one facet of the issue.

Explore the opposing perspective on the issue.

Present arguments in favor of resolving problems.

A succinct blueprint for my essay has been established in a mere twenty-five words. This primes the reader for the content to follow, guiding them seamlessly through the essay.

THE IMPORTANCE OF AN OUTLINE STATEMENT

Regarding a task 2 essay, including an outline statement is generally advisable. This contributes to both Task Response and Coherence and Cohesion. However, its necessity hinges on the nature of the question being posed.

For questions that require an opinion, an outline statement articulating your viewpoint is indispensable. Omitting it could compromise your Task Response score. This is because achieving a band 7 or higher requires your essay to:

Consistently present a clear stance throughout the response.

Source: IELTS band descriptors

Thus, your opinion must be distinctly conveyed in the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

Even in cases where an opinion isn't obligatory, incorporating an outline statement remains a prudent practice. I strongly recommend formulating a sentence that outlines your forthcoming approach to the reader.

Here are a few illustrative examples...

OUTLINE STATEMENT TEMPLATES

Below are examples of sentences that can be employed for various IELTS writing questions. Naturally, their suitability depends on the specific question and your intended response.

AGREE/DISAGREE PROMPTS

This essay will contest the idea that _____.

This essay will present an argument in favor of ____.

Many individuals frequently fall into a significant error when addressing agree/disagree questions. They tend to rephrase the question and subsequently express their viewpoint. This results in presenting their stance as if it were their original idea and subsequently agreeing or disagreeing with themselves. This constitutes a substantial mistake and can significantly impact the response.

DISCUSSION PROMPTS

This essay will scrutinize both aspects of the matter and deduce that…

This essay will assess both viewpoints and advocate that…

This essay will consider both perspectives before asserting that…

ADVANTAGES/DISADVANTAGES PROMPTS

If you are tasked with discussing advantages and disadvantages:

This essay will delve into the benefits and drawbacks of…

This essay will elucidate the pros and cons of…

If you are required to evaluate the pros and cons:

This essay will contend that the benefits of ___ surpass the drawbacks.

This essay will contend that the drawbacks of ___ outweigh the benefits.

PROBLEM/CAUSE/ SOLUTION PROMPTS

This essay will initially examine the reasons behind ___ and subsequently propose multiple solutions.

This essay will examine the main issues that have arisen as a result of ____, and then suggest some viable solutions.

This essay will investigate the causes of ____ and also propose some potential remedies.

Note: Your outline statement should always be tailored to your content. Your essay might encompass a single solution or multiple ones. Ensure your outline aligns with the content you plan to present.

TWO-PART QUESTION STRUCTURING

Approaching essay outlines for two-part questions can be more challenging as they heavily depend on the specific question.

Consider the following sample two-part question:

"Some parents buy their children whatever they ask for and allow their children to do whatever they want.

Is this a good way to raise children?

What consequences could this style of parenting have for children as they get older?"

Here's how I would formulate my outline:

This essay will examine why this approach to child-rearing is unfavorable and its potential adverse effects on their future.

As observed, the outline is divided into two segments, addressing each question consecutively. The presentation is straightforward yet effective.

"THIS ESSAY WILL" VS. "I WILL"

You may have noticed that I consistently used "This essay will..." in my examples above. This is because adopting a slightly more formal approach by eliminating personal pronouns is preferable. Even when questions explicitly call for your personal opinion, you can still respond without incorporating personal pronouns. For instance:

I believe countries should protect their seas, and I will explain why in this essay. This essay will elucidate the reasons why governments should protect their waters.

Both sentences are acceptable, but a neutral and objective perspective is recommended. This avoids excessive personalization, which can come across as slightly informal. However, if you feel more comfortable using "I think/believe/feel/etc.," feel free to continue.

COMMON ERRORS

In my experience with IELTS writing corrections, I've noticed several recurring issues, both major and minor.

The most problematic issue mentioned earlier is when individuals agree or disagree with themselves. This primarily arises from errors in the first sentence but affects the outline, making it seem incorrect. For example:

"City councils should ban the construction of buildings that deviate from the architectural traditions of the area. I completely disagree with this idea."

This is a substantial problem. The writer contradicts themselves because the initial sentence is presented as their viewpoint. It's crucial never to commit this error in IELTS. Instead, frame the viewpoint as belonging to someone else:

"Some people argue that city councils should ban the construction of buildings that deviate from the architectural traditions of the area. This essay will firmly disagree with this notion."

I've rectified the first sentence and made the second sentence more formal.

Another recurring issue involves the misuse of terms in discussion questions. People often make mistakes like:

"This essay will explain both sides of view." "This essay will look at both sides of the view."

These cases demonstrate a misunderstanding of the term "view." In this context, "view" and "side" are essentially synonymous. We can simply say "both views" or "both sides of the issue/argument/debate."

A common mistake is repeating the same information redundantly, such as:

"In my opinion, I think that..." "From my viewpoint, I think that..."

Note that both parts of these sentences convey the same meaning!

Lastly, it's crucial to remember that an essay can perform specific actions but not others.

"This essay will..." argue / state / discuss / debate / explore / explain / analyze / look at / look into / agree / disagree / weigh

Certain actions are exclusive to people (using "I"), such as:

"I..." believe / think / want to / feel

In essence, your essay lacks consciousness and, therefore, cannot experience feelings. It can only present ideas on your behalf.

IS AN ESSAY OUTLINE ALWAYS NECESSARY?

Is an essay outline always essential? In short: no. However, omitting outlines is an advanced technique; including one is generally advisable.

If you omit an outline, your introduction must be sophisticated enough to allude to future ideas, and your body paragraphs must flow intuitively from the opening. The advantage of this approach lies in showcasing a nuanced grasp of cohesion while avoiding formulaic language.

Consider this example:

Question:

"The tourism industry has grown enormously over the last fifty years, and few places are unaffected by it. However, tourism rarely benefits the countries which tourists visit.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?"

Introduction:

Tourism has been a part of human history for centuries, but its rapid surge in popularity occurred in the latter half of the 20th century. Today, millions embark on vacations during both summer and winter breaks, often venturing to foreign lands. While generally perceived as a positive trend fostering global unity and economic growth in developing nations, it has drawbacks.

Instead of relying on phrases like "This essay will..." or "I think that...", I've employed a more subtle approach by stating that "It is generally perceived as a positive trend," while also hinting at potential drawbacks. This approach demonstrates balance, and I'll present both positive and negative aspects in the body paragraphs before reaching a conclusion that neither entirely agrees nor disagrees. Remember: Offering a balanced perspective is acceptable; expressing a strong opinion is not always necessary.