Hey, guys! I have a few questions about IELTS Writing Task 2 because I've come across a lot of conflicting information online.
I understand that the format is flexible, but most online sources, namely IELTS Liz, IELTS Advantage, and even the official IELTS IDP website, are adamant that you should include an example in each body paragraph. However, you almost never see examples in their sample essays. In fact, some model essays even present two reasons to support the writer's opinion within a single paragraph.
As someone who only wrote argumentative essays during my O Levels, that is the structure I am most familiar with. However, most online sources seem to advise against it.
Furthermore, the recommended structure for discussion essays varies significantly between these websites. For example, the IELTS IDP website recommends a five-paragraph structure, with the fourth paragraph dedicated solely to stating and defending your own opinion, whereas most other sources omit that paragraph altogether.
How important are these formats? Should I just stick to one because they're confusing me? If so, then which one?