IELTS Writing Task 2: How to Write a Band 8 Conclusion
Quick answer: An IELTS Task 2 conclusion needs 3 sentences in 40–55 words: (1) summary of your main argument or position, (2) one supporting reason in compressed form, (3) a final implication or recommendation. Avoid introducing new ideas.
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Why conclusions matter
Examiners use the conclusion to check Task Response coherence. A conclusion that contradicts your essay or omits your main argument lowers Task Response by 0.5 band.
Conclusions are usually written in the last 4 minutes when stamina is lowest. Errors cluster here — careless grammar, missing words, abrupt endings.
A clean 3-sentence conclusion adds polish without consuming time.
The 3-sentence framework
Sentence 1: "In conclusion / In summary / Overall, [paraphrase your thesis from the introduction]." Use a different verb-noun pair than the introduction.
Sentence 2: "This is primarily because / The main reason is that [compressed version of your strongest body argument]."
Sentence 3: "Therefore / Consequently / It follows that [recommendation, implication, or future-oriented statement]."
Common conclusion errors
Error 1: introducing a new argument. Conclusions must restate, not extend.
Error 2: copying the introduction word-for-word. Use synonyms and re-ordered structure.
Error 3: contradicting your essay. If you argued one side throughout, the conclusion must side with that view.
Error 4: leaving out a position. For opinion essays, your conclusion must restate your stance unambiguously.
Never use "In conclusion" twice in one essay. If you used it as a transition phrase elsewhere, switch to "In summary" or "Overall".
Worked examples
Discussion essay ("Discuss both views and give your opinion"): "In summary, while there are clear benefits to remote work in terms of flexibility and reduced commuting, the costs of weakened collaboration cannot be ignored. The main reason is that mentorship and spontaneous problem-solving suffer in fully remote teams. A hybrid approach therefore offers the most balanced solution for both employers and employees."
Opinion essay ("To what extent do you agree?"): "Overall, I largely agree that universities should prioritise practical training over theoretical study. The principal justification is that graduates with applied skills face better employment outcomes in modern labour markets. Universities should consequently expand internship programmes and industry partnerships as core components of their curricula."
Problem-solution essay: "In conclusion, urban traffic congestion stems primarily from inadequate public transport investment. The most effective solution is integrated multi-modal networks combining buses, rail, and cycling infrastructure. Cities that adopt this approach are likely to see meaningful reductions in private vehicle use within a decade."
Time and word management
Aim for 40–55 words. Below 35 looks abrupt; above 60 wastes words.
Spend 4 minutes on the conclusion — 1 minute reviewing your essay, 3 minutes writing.
Read the introduction immediately before writing the conclusion to ensure consistency.
Conclusion variations by essay type
Opinion essay: restate your position firmly.
Discussion essay: summarise both views, then state your preferred position.
Problem-solution essay: restate the main solution and project its impact.
Double-question essay: provide a one-sentence summary for each question.
Cause-effect essay: restate the dominant cause and its main consequence.
Practice this with WitPrep
Reading about IELTS only gets you so far — band gains come from rubric-graded practice. Open the IELTS Writing coach to drill this exact skill with band-by-band feedback. If you have not yet baselined your level, start with the free IELTS diagnostic (free, ~10 min).
Related WitPrep reading
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should my conclusion be?
40–55 words. Three sentences is the optimal structure.
Can I introduce a new point in the conclusion?
No. Conclusions must restate, not extend. New ideas lower Task Response.
Should I always start with 'In conclusion'?
Variety helps. Alternate with "In summary", "Overall", "To sum up", "To conclude".
What if I run out of time?
Even 1 sentence is better than nothing. "In conclusion, [thesis]" rescues 0.5 band on Task Response.
Can I use a question in the conclusion?
Rhetorical questions are accepted but informal. Avoid in formal Task 2 conclusions.
Should the conclusion echo the introduction's wording?
Echo the meaning but not the wording. Use synonyms and re-ordered phrasing.
How we verify this content
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