The 5-Minute Rule for Writing Task 2 Planning
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Shadi
- Time Management Hacks
📝 Most IELTS candidates waste too much time writing and not enough time thinking. The result? Unclear structure, weak arguments, and ideas that go nowhere.
Enter the 5-Minute Rule: a simple but powerful technique to plan your essay fast and effectively — one of the most practical IELTS essay planning tips you can use — before you write a single sentence.
⏱️ Why 5 Minutes?
You have 40 minutes for Task 2. Spending just 5 minutes at the start to plan means you’ll write with more clarity, speed, and confidence — and save time correcting mistakes later. This is the core of the 5-minute rule IELTS writing task 2 planning approach.
✅ Step-by-Step: How to Use the 5-Minute Rule
Minute 1: Understand the Question
- Identify the type: opinion / discussion / problem–solution / double-question
- Highlight keywords: topic + instruction words
- Rephrase the question in your own words (in your head or notes)
Minute 2-3: Brainstorm 2 Clear Main Ideas
- Choose 2 strong, simple points you can explain clearly
- Think of 1 short example for each
- Don’t aim for brilliance — aim for clarity
Minute 4-5: Outline Your Paragraphs
- Intro: paraphrase + thesis
- Body 1: main idea + explanation + example
- Body 2: second idea + explanation + example
- Conclusion: summarise + restate your opinion (if needed) — this task 2 planning strategy saves time and boosts clarity.
🎯 Example:
Question:
Some people believe the government should invest more in public transport instead of roads. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Your 5-minute plan:
- Type: Opinion essay
- Position: Agree
- Body 1: Public transport reduces pollution
- Body 2: Efficient for city populations
- Examples: Metro systems in major cities
- Intro & Conclusion: Brief, focused, no new ideas
💡 Final Tip:
Stick to the plan. Don’t let new ideas distract you mid-way. Planning with the 5-minute rule IELTS writing task 2 planning method gives your essay structure, logic, and flow — and examiners love that.
FAQ
Q: Why should we use the 5-minute rule IELTS writing task 2 planning method?
A: The 5-minute rule IELTS writing task 2 planning method improves coherence and task response, gives your essay a clear structure, and saves time on rewrites—so you finish faster and score higher.
Q: What if I can’t think of ideas quickly?
A: Use a simple two‑point plan: pick two clear reasons/examples you can explain, keep examples realistic, and avoid perfectionism. Clarity beats complexity under time pressure.
Q: Does planning reduce my word count or waste time?
A: No. A quick outline helps you hit 250+ words efficiently with fewer pauses and corrections. You’ll write more smoothly and with better logic.
