At a glance
- Skill
- Writing
- Time to write
- 26 min
- Length
- 150–200 words
What you need to do
In Writing Task 2, you read a short survey question with two options — for example, how a city should spend its money. You choose the option you prefer and explain why, in about 150–200 words.
There is no right or wrong option. Your score depends on how clearly you state your choice and how well you support it with reasons and examples.
What you'll see on the test
- You have 26 minutes to plan, write and check your answer.
- Aim for 150–200 words. The screen shows a word counter.
- The task describes a situation and gives two options, A and B. You choose one.
- You type on a computer. The test screen includes spell check.
What the test is looking for
Content and coherence
A clear position with two or three well-developed reasons, in a logical order with good paragraphing.
Vocabulary
Precise words for giving opinions and explaining reasons, without repeating the same words.
Readability
Accurate grammar, a variety of sentences, and correct spelling and punctuation.
Task fulfillment
One clear choice from start to finish, reasons that answer the question, and about the right length.
Step-by-step strategy
- 1
Choose the option you can support best (1 minute)
Don't spend long deciding. Pick the one you can give two or three good reasons for, even if it isn't your real opinion.
- 2
Plan your reasons (2–3 minutes)
Write two or three reasons. For each one, add an example or a result: who it helps, and how.
- 3
Write a short opening
Say which option you choose in the first one or two sentences. The reader should never have to guess.
- 4
Give each reason its own paragraph
Start with the reason, then explain it and give an example. Use linking words like "first", "in addition" and "most importantly".
- 5
Finish and check (last 3–4 minutes)
End with a sentence that repeats your choice. Then check grammar, spelling and your word count.
Useful phrases
Stating your choice
- “I strongly prefer Option A because…”
- “In my opinion, the city should…”
- “I believe the better choice is…”
Adding reasons
- “First of all, …”
- “In addition, …”
- “Another important reason is that…”
- “Most importantly, …”
Giving examples
- “For example, …”
- “For instance, many families…”
- “This would mean that…”
Mentioning the other option
- “Although Option B has some benefits, …”
- “Some people may prefer…, but…”
- “For these reasons, I believe…”
Common mistakes
Not making a clear choice, or arguing for both options.
Choose one option and stay with it. You can mention the other briefly, but your choice must be clear.
Listing many reasons with no explanation.
Two or three well-explained reasons score better than six short ones.
Writing an email or letter format.
This is a survey response, not an email. You don't need "Dear…" or a signature.
Going off topic.
Every reason should explain why your option is better for the situation in the task.
Repeating the same reason in different words.
Make sure each paragraph gives a new reason — for example cost, health and convenience.
Examples with answers
Example 1
Task
Your city has money for one new project and is asking residents to choose. Option A: Build a new community swimming pool. Option B: Plant 5,000 trees along city streets. Choose the option you prefer and explain why. Write about 150–200 words.
Sample answer
I strongly prefer Option B, planting 5,000 trees along city streets, because it would help everyone in the city, not only people who swim. First of all, trees make our neighbourhoods healthier. They clean the air, and they give shade on hot summer days. In recent years, our summers have become much hotter, and many older people and young children suffer in the heat. More shade on sidewalks and at bus stops would make a real difference. In addition, trees would make the city more beautiful and pleasant to walk in. When streets are green and comfortable, more people walk to local shops, which is good for small businesses. Although a swimming pool would be fun, it would only help the people who use it, and it would cost money to run every year. Trees, on the other hand, last for decades and need very little care once they are planted. For these reasons, I believe planting trees is the best way to use this money.
Why it works: The choice is clear in the first sentence and stays the same to the end. Each reason has its own paragraph with an explanation and a result, and the writer briefly answers the other option without changing sides. Linking words ("First of all", "In addition", "on the other hand") make it easy to follow. It is about 180 words.
Example 2
Task
Your workplace is choosing a new benefit for employees. Option A: A free healthy lunch once a week. Option B: A discount on gym memberships. Choose the option you prefer and explain why. Write about 150–200 words.
Sample answer
In my opinion, the company should choose Option A and offer a free healthy lunch once a week. The main reason is that every employee would benefit from it. Not everyone enjoys going to the gym, and some people don't have time because of their families or long commutes. However, everyone eats lunch, so no one would be left out. In addition, a shared lunch would help our team get to know each other better. At the moment, most of us eat quickly at our desks. A weekly lunch together would give people from different departments a chance to talk, which could improve teamwork. Finally, healthy meals can make a real difference to how we feel in the afternoon. After a heavy fast-food lunch, many people feel tired and find it hard to concentrate. Although a gym discount would be useful for some employees, a weekly lunch would help all of us. For these reasons, I believe Option A is the better choice.
Why it works: The choice is clear from the first line. There are three different reasons (fairness, teamwork, energy), each with an explanation, and the writer briefly answers the other option before concluding. It is about 175 words.
Questions students ask
Does it matter which option I choose?
No. Either option can get a top score. What matters is how clearly and convincingly you explain your choice.
Should I write about the other option too?
You can mention it briefly, for example "Although Option B has some benefits…", but most of your answer should support your own choice.
How long should my survey answer be?
About 150–200 words, which is usually an opening, two or three body paragraphs and a short conclusion.
Can I write about my own experience in the survey answer?
Yes. A short personal example, like something that happened in your neighbourhood, can make a reason clearer and more convincing.
How many paragraphs should my survey answer have?
Usually four or five: a short opening that states your choice, two or three body paragraphs (one per reason), and a short conclusion.
Ready to try it for real? Take our free CELPIP practice test and get your estimated CLB level in all four skills.