How to Write an Opinion Essay - A2 English Writing — Explanation

An opinion essay explains what you think about a topic and gives reasons for your view. At A2 level, your ideas should be clear, organised and supported by simple examples. You do not need to discuss every possible argument. Choose two or three strong reasons and connect them logically.

Understand the question

Read the task carefully and decide your position before writing. If the question asks, Should town centres have more car-free streets?, decide whether you agree, disagree or partly agree. Then write short notes for your best reasons. Make sure every reason answers the exact question.

Plan your opinion essay

A simple A2 plan has three parts:

1. Introduction: introduce the topic and state your opinion.
2. Main body: explain two or three reasons, with details or examples.
3. Conclusion: summarise your view without adding a completely new argument.

Original example essay

Should town centres have more car-free streets?

Many towns are trying to reduce the number of cars in their centres. Personally, I believe that creating more car-free streets is a good idea for several reasons.

Firstly, streets without cars are safer for people. Children, older people and cyclists can move around more easily when they do not need to cross busy traffic. For example, families can walk between shops without worrying about fast vehicles.

Secondly, car-free areas can make town centres more pleasant. There is usually less noise, and cafés can put tables outside. Cleaner, quieter streets may also encourage people to stay longer and visit local businesses. However, towns should provide good buses and suitable parking outside the centre for people who cannot walk far.

Finally, these streets can be used for markets, music and community events. This gives residents more opportunities to meet and spend time outdoors.

To sum up, I think more town-centre streets should be car-free because they can improve safety, reduce noise and create useful public spaces.

Writing the introduction

The introduction should name the topic and make your position clear. Useful phrases include:

• Personally, I believe that...
• In my opinion,...
• I think ... for several reasons.
• Many people believe that..., but I think...

Keep the introduction short. Detailed reasons belong in the main body.

Developing the main body

Give one main reason at a time. Start with a clear point, explain it and add an example:

Point: Community gardens can help neighbours meet.

Explanation: People work together and share tools or advice.

Example: For example, new residents can make friends while planting vegetables.

Useful ordering words are Firstly, Secondly, In addition and Finally. Use For example or For instance before a specific illustration.

Showing contrast

An opinion essay can recognise another view without becoming a full “for and against” essay. Use However, On the other hand or Although:

• Online lessons are flexible. However, some students need direct help.
• Although shared bicycles cost money to maintain, they can reduce traffic.

After mentioning the other side, return clearly to your own view.

Writing the conclusion

The conclusion repeats your main position in fresh words. Do not copy the introduction exactly and do not introduce a new reason. Useful openings include:

• To sum up,...
• In conclusion,...
• For these reasons, I believe...

Writing about what is normally true

Avoid making every statement sound completely certain. Words such as usually, often, sometimes, can and may make general ideas more accurate:

• Public transport is usually cheaper than driving.
• Team activities can improve communication.
• A very long school day may make students tired.

Use should for a recommendation: Schools should offer more practical lessons. Use must only when something is necessary or a strong rule.

Useful linking words

• Adding: and, also, in addition
• Ordering: firstly, secondly, finally
• Reason: because, since
• Result: so, therefore
• Example: for example, for instance
• Contrast: but, however, on the other hand
• Conclusion: to sum up, in conclusion

Common mistakes

• Do not list reasons without explaining them.
• Do not change your position halfway through the essay.
• Use a comma after linking phrases such as Firstly and However.
• Do not use must when you only mean that something is a good idea.
• Avoid absolute statements such as Everyone always... unless they are truly correct.
• Do not add a new main argument in the conclusion.

A2 opinion essay checklist

Check that your opinion is clear in the introduction, each main paragraph contains a reason and explanation, and at least one idea has an example. Use linking words accurately and finish with a short conclusion. Finally, check verb forms, spelling, capital letters and punctuation.