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Writing tutorial · Tutorial 10 of 16

How to answer an opinion essay

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One developed idea, not five thin ones

A clear position, held consistently, backed by reasons that are explained and given a real example — that's what separates a Task 2 opinion essay from a list of claims.

The real question

"The working week should be shorter and workers should have a longer weekend. Do you agree or disagree?"

A developed paragraph (agree)

A shorter working week would let employees recover from work-related stress, which improves long-term productivity rather than reducing it. Exhausted employees make more mistakes and take more sick days, so extra rest is an investment, not a loss. Trial programs in Iceland and at companies including Microsoft Japan found that output held steady, or even improved, once hours were cut.

reason → explanation → example, highlighted in order
DEB

DEB

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4 things to know about opinion essays

  1. What does the examiner need to see?A clear position, held start to finish.
  2. Do I have to fully agree or disagree?No — partial agreement works too.
  3. How many ideas do I need?Two, well developed — not five thin.
  4. What does "developed" actually mean?Reason, explained, backed with an example.

Audio: DEB (ElevenLabs)