A Discuss Both Views Essay asks you to examine two different opinions about a topic and explain your own position when the question requires it. This question type is common in IELTS Writing Task 2, and the same approach to organising ideas can also help students prepare for PTE Write Essay.
A well-written essay presents both viewpoints clearly, supports the main ideas with relevant explanations and examples, and ends with a conclusion that reflects the writer’s opinion. In this guide, you will learn how to structure a Discuss Both Views Essay, develop a clear thesis statement, use relevant vocabulary, and apply a practical writing template with a sample answer.
What Is a Discuss Both Views Essay?
A Discuss Both Views Essay presents two different opinions about the same topic. Your task is to explain why people support each viewpoint and, when asked, give your own opinion.
For example, a question might ask whether success depends more on career and financial achievements or on enjoying life with family and friends. One viewpoint may focus on financial security and professional development, while the other may emphasise personal happiness and meaningful relationships.
A strong response does not simply list the two opinions. It explains the reasons behind them and develops each argument with relevant support. If the question asks for your opinion, make your position clear and maintain it throughout the essay.
IELTS and PTE Essay Writing Time
The writing requirements differ between IELTS and PTE, so students should practise according to the exam they are preparing for.
- IELTS Writing Task 2: 40 minutes; at least 250 words.
- PTE Write Essay: 20 minutes; 200–300 words.
Although both exams require clear arguments and accurate language, their assessment systems are not identical. Use the structure below as a writing guide and adapt it to the requirements of your chosen exam.
Discuss Both Views Essay Structure for IELTS and PTE
A clear structure helps you develop your ideas without repeating the same points.
- Introduction: Paraphrase the question and introduce your position.
- Body Paragraph 1: Explain the first viewpoint with reasons and an example.
- Body Paragraph 2: Explain the second viewpoint and make your position clear where appropriate.
- Conclusion: Summarise the main arguments and restate your opinion.
Each body paragraph should focus on one main idea. Explain why that idea matters before moving to the next point.
How to Develop Each Body Paragraph
A good body paragraph should explain one main argument rather than list several ideas without supporting them. Use the following steps to develop your answer.
- Main idea: Introduce the viewpoint you are discussing.
- Explanation: Explain why some people support this opinion.
- Example: Give a realistic example that illustrates your argument.
- Link: Explain how the example supports the main idea.
For example, when discussing financial success, you could explain that a stable income helps people manage household expenses and plan for the future. A young professional who saves regularly may eventually afford a home or pay for further education. This example shows how financial security can create opportunities and reduce uncertainty.
Use the same paragraph-development method for the second viewpoint, but focus on a different argument. This helps you discuss both sides without repeating the same points.
Discuss Both Views Essay Template for IELTS and PTE
The following template provides a framework for organising your ideas. Replace the words in brackets with information relevant to the question rather than copying the same sentences into every essay.
Introduction
There has been considerable debate about whether [paraphrase the topic]. While some people believe that [View 1], others argue that [View 2]. In my opinion, [your position] because [main reason].
Body Paragraph 1 – First View
One reason why people support [View 1] is that it [main benefit or argument]. This can help individuals [supporting point 1], while also providing opportunities to [supporting point 2]. Since [explain the reason], people may be able to [result]. For example, [relevant example that supports the argument]. Therefore, [summarise the importance of View 1].
Body Paragraph 2 – Second View
On the other hand, supporters of [View 2] argue that [main benefit or argument]. This is important because [explanation], and it can also help people [supporting point]. When [relevant condition or situation], individuals may experience [result 1] and [result 2]. For instance, [relevant example that supports the argument]. For these reasons, [summarise the importance of View 2 and connect it to your position].
Conclusion
In conclusion, although both [first viewpoint] and [second viewpoint] have their advantages, I believe that [your opinion] is more convincing because [main reason].
Writing tip: A template should help you organise your ideas, not replace them. Develop your answer around the exact question, and use examples that genuinely support your arguments.
Discuss Both Views Essay Question: Career Success or Family Happiness?
Success means different things to different people. Some believe that achieving career and financial goals is the most important measure of success, while others think that spending quality time with family and friends is more valuable.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Before writing, identify the two viewpoints and decide which position you will support.
- View 1: Career and financial success provide security, independence, and professional achievement.
- View 2: Spending time with loved ones provides emotional support, happiness, and meaningful relationships.
- Your opinion: Both are valuable, but personal happiness and relationships are a more meaningful measure of success.
This simple planning process helps you develop two distinct body paragraphs and avoid repeating the same arguments.
Discuss Both Views Essay Thesis Statement Templates
Template 1: Discuss Both Views
While some people believe that [View 1], others argue that [View 2]. This essay will examine the reasons behind both perspectives.
Template 2: Discuss Both Views and Give Your Opinion
Although some people believe that [View 1], others consider [View 2] more important. In my opinion, [your position] because [main reason].
Example: Although some people consider career and financial achievements the main signs of success, others place greater importance on spending time with loved ones. In my opinion, personal happiness and strong relationships are more meaningful measures of a successful life.
Writing tip: If the question explicitly asks for your opinion, state your position clearly in the introduction and reinforce it in the conclusion.
Discuss Both Views Essay Ideas and Vocabulary
Use vocabulary that directly supports the topic. The following expressions can help you explain career-related success and personal happiness.
Career and Financial Success
- Career opportunities and professional development
- A stable and reliable income
- Professional recognition and achievement
- Financial independence and self-reliance
- Long-term financial security
- A comfortable standard of living
Personal Happiness and Relationships
- Emotional support from loved ones
- Strong family relationships
- A healthy work-life balance
- Greater personal satisfaction
- Reduced stress and emotional pressure
- A sense of belonging and fulfilment
Try to explain each expression through a complete idea. For example, financial independence can give people greater freedom to make decisions, while strong family relationships can provide support during difficult periods.
Discuss Both Views Essay Sample Answer
Question: Success means different things to different people. Some think it is about reaching career and financial goals, while others think it is about enjoying life with loved ones. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Introduction
People have different opinions about what success really means. While some believe that achieving career and financial goals is the main sign of success, others feel that spending quality time with family and loved ones is more important. In my opinion, although professional success provides financial stability, meaningful relationships and personal happiness are more important for a fulfilling life.
Body Paragraph 1 – Career and Financial Success
Achieving career and financial goals can give people a strong sense of accomplishment. A stable income provides financial security, and it can also allow individuals to enjoy a more comfortable lifestyle. Since financial difficulties often create stress, having reliable earnings can make it easier to plan for the future and meet family responsibilities. For example, a person who develops a successful career may be able to purchase a home, support their children’s education, and become financially independent. These achievements can improve a person’s quality of life. Therefore, career development and financial stability are important aspects of success.
Body Paragraph 2 – Enjoying Life with Loved Ones
However, spending quality time with loved ones is equally important because material achievements alone cannot guarantee happiness. Close relationships provide emotional support, and they also give people opportunities to share experiences and create lasting memories. When individuals make time for family and friends, they may find it easier to manage stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance. For instance, someone who regularly spends time with their family, even while managing a demanding career, can strengthen personal relationships and develop a greater sense of belonging. In my opinion, these experiences make life more meaningful because happiness depends not only on what people achieve but also on the quality of their relationships.
Conclusion
In conclusion, career and financial achievements can provide security and comfort, while spending time with loved ones contributes to emotional well-being and personal satisfaction. Although both are important, I believe that meaningful relationships are a more valuable measure of success because they contribute to lasting happiness and a more balanced life.
Common Discuss Both Views Essay Mistakes
When writing a Discuss Both Views Essay, pay attention to the following points.
- Ignoring one viewpoint: Give both sides enough explanation and relevant support.
- Leaving your opinion unclear: If the question asks for your opinion, state it in the introduction and reinforce it in the conclusion.
- Repeating the same idea: Develop a different main argument in each body paragraph.
- Using examples without explanation: Show how each example supports the paragraph’s main point.
- Memorising a complete essay: Adapt your ideas and vocabulary to the question instead of relying on a fixed answer.
- Using unnecessarily complicated vocabulary: Choose words you can use accurately and naturally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is This Structure Useful for Both IELTS and PTE?
IELTS Writing Task 2 includes questions that ask candidates to discuss two views and give their own opinion. For these questions, you should explain both perspectives, support your arguments, and state your position clearly.
PTE Write Essay also requires candidates to develop ideas in a well-organised essay. However, PTE prompts can ask different types of questions, so you should not use a Discuss Both Views template for every task. First identify what the question asks, then choose a suitable structure and develop relevant arguments.
For both exams, focus on answering the question directly, using accurate grammar, and supporting your ideas with clear explanations and examples.
Should I give my opinion in both body paragraphs?
Not necessarily. Each body paragraph should explain its respective viewpoint. You can make your own position clear in the introduction and conclusion, while showing your preference naturally in the relevant body paragraph if appropriate.
Is it a good idea to memorise an essay template?
Learning a flexible structure can help you organise your writing under time pressure. However, memorising a complete response may lead to irrelevant ideas or an answer that does not address the question. Practise adapting your introduction, topic sentences, supporting details, and conclusion to different topics.
Final Note
- Practise using this structure with a range of essay questions. Focus on developing clear arguments, supporting them with relevant examples, and expressing your opinion consistently.
- If you want to practise another IELTS Writing Task 2 question type, read our guide to the Advantages and Disadvantages Essay to learn how to organise arguments and evaluate different positions.
- Rather than memorising one complete template, prepare a few alternative ways to introduce a topic, explain a viewpoint, give an example, and conclude an argument. This will help you write more naturally and respond more effectively to unfamiliar questions.
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