The 4-paragraph Task 2 structure that scores Band 7+

Examiners reward structure. When your essay follows a predictable, four-paragraph shape, the assessor can find your position, your reasons and your conclusion in seconds — and that directly lifts your Coherence & Cohesion score.

1. Introduction — two sentences, no more

Paraphrase the question, then state your position clearly. Don’t list your reasons here; save them for the body. A bloated introduction wastes words you need later.

“A Band 7 introduction is boring on purpose. Clarity beats cleverness every time.”

2. Body paragraphs — one idea each

Open with a topic sentence, explain it, then give one specific example. Two developed ideas beat four shallow ones. Use linking phrases to signal the relationship between sentences.

Notice how each colour block does exactly one job. That visual rhythm is what an examiner experiences as “cohesion.”