IELTS 'positive or negative development' essay: structure and sample
How to answer IELTS Task 2 'Is this a positive or negative development?' questions, with a clear structure, sample paragraphs, and common mistakes.
By English Grader study guides · AI-assisted educational content · Official sources linked below
The short answer
Give a clear verdict in the introduction, and keep it consistent—this is an opinion question, not a neutral discussion.
How this question differs
Unlike advantages/disadvantages essays, you must judge whether the trend is overall positive or negative. Sitting on the fence weakens Task Response.
Related guide: Compare with advantages/disadvantages essays
A reliable structure
Use four paragraphs.
- Introduction: paraphrase + clear verdict
- Body 1: main reason for your verdict
- Body 2: acknowledge the other side, then explain why it matters less
- Conclusion: restate verdict
Introduction
More people now work remotely rather than commuting to an office. In my view, this is a largely positive development because it saves time and widens job opportunities, despite some social drawbacks.
Practise
Write the introduction first and check that the verdict is unmistakable.
Write a Task 2 essay →Put this into practice
Choose a Task 2 question, take a clear position, and check feedback on Task Response.
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Official sources and further reading
Practice examples and study routines are illustrative advice, not official band-scored answers or predictions of exam questions.