Direct double-question IELTS essay

A direct double-question essay asks two separate questions, so the safest structure is:

1. Introduction
2. Body paragraph 1: answer Question 1
3. Body paragraph 2: answer Question 2
4. Conclusion: summarise both answers

Example task:

Many people today choose to live alone.
Why is this happening?
Is this a positive or negative development?

This is not mainly an agree/disagree essay. The student must directly answer both questions.

Universal structure

Introduction

Sentence 1: paraphrase the topic.
Sentence 2: give a direct answer to both questions.

Template:

In recent years, [topic] has become increasingly common. This trend is mainly caused by [reason 1] and [reason 2], and I believe it is largely [positive / negative / mixed] because [main judgement].

Example:

In recent years, living alone has become increasingly common, especially in large cities. This trend is mainly caused by greater financial independence and changing social values, and I believe it is largely a mixed development because it gives people more freedom but may also increase loneliness.

Body paragraph 1 — answer Question 1

This paragraph should answer the first question only, usually about causes, reasons or factors.

Template:

One major reason for [trend/problem] is [reason 1]. This is because [explanation]. Another important factor is [reason 2], as [explanation]. As a result, [general consequence connected to the trend].

Example:

One major reason for the rise in one-person households is that many adults are now financially independent enough to live separately from their families. This is especially true in urban areas, where young professionals often move for work or study. Another important factor is a shift in social expectations, as marriage and family life are no longer seen as compulsory stages of adulthood. As a result, living alone has become a normal lifestyle choice rather than an unusual situation.

Body paragraph 2 — answer Question 2

This paragraph should answer the second question. It may ask whether the development is positive or negative, what its effects are, what solutions are possible, or what governments and individuals should do.

Template for a positive/negative development question:

In my view, this development is [positive / negative / mixed]. On the one hand, [benefit/drawback 1], because [explanation]. However, [opposite side if needed]. Therefore, although [concession], [final judgement].

Example:

In my view, this development is mixed. On the one hand, living alone can be positive because it allows people to develop independence and organise their lives according to their own priorities. However, it may also weaken daily social support, particularly for older people or those who work remotely. Therefore, although living alone can offer personal freedom, it becomes problematic if it leads to isolation.

Conclusion

The conclusion should answer both questions again, briefly.

Template:

In conclusion, [trend/problem] is mainly the result of [reason 1] and [reason 2]. While it can [positive side], it may also [negative side], so I consider it [final judgement].

Example:

In conclusion, the increase in living alone is mainly the result of financial independence and changing attitudes to family life. While it can give people greater freedom, it may also reduce social contact, so I consider it neither entirely positive nor entirely negative.

Full universal template

Teaching tips

• Especially important: the introduction should contain a short answer to both questions.
• Body paragraph 1 should answer the first question, not discuss the whole topic generally.
• Body paragraph 2 should answer the second question directly.
• The conclusion should not introduce a new idea; it should briefly summarise both answers.
• For double-question essays, a simple plan is often best: BP1 = Why? and BP2 = Good/bad? / Effects? / Solutions?