Start with one clear job
IELTS Writing Task 2 becomes easier when every paragraph has one clear job. A strong essay does not need complicated vocabulary or an unusual structure. It needs a logical argument that the examiner can follow from the first sentence to the last.
The Funnel & Anchor method gives you a simple way to control that structure.
The Funnel
The introduction moves from broad context to your exact position.
1. Context
2. Paraphrase the question
3. Thesis / clear position
Example question: Some people think governments should spend more money on public transport than on building new roads. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Better: As cities become more crowded, governments must decide how transport budgets should be used. While road improvements remain necessary, I believe greater investment in public transport brings broader long-term benefits.
The Anchor
Every body paragraph should be anchored by one controlling idea.
Topic sentence → Explanation → Example → Link back to argument
One major advantage of public transport investment is that it can reduce urban congestion. When reliable buses and rail systems are available, fewer commuters need to depend on private cars. For example, cities with extensive metro networks can move large numbers of people without adding thousands of vehicles to already crowded roads. This makes public transport a more sustainable use of infrastructure spending.
The paragraph test
Before writing, finish this sentence: “This paragraph proves that ______.” If you cannot finish clearly, the paragraph probably has too many ideas.
Common mistakes
Two unrelated ideas in one paragraph
Examples before explanation
Thesis and body do not match
A conclusion that introduces a new argument
Quick checklist
Clear position in the introduction
One main idea per body paragraph
Explain before example
Examples support the topic sentence
Conclusion restates rather than invents
Think funnel at the beginning, anchor in the body:
move toward one clear position, then keep every paragraph attached to one clear idea.