What Task 2 asks you to do
Writing Task 2 presents a survey question with two options, such as whether a city should spend money on a new park or a new library. You choose one and explain why in 150 to 200 words in 26 minutes.
There is no right answer. Raters score how clearly you choose and how well you support your choice.
A 4-paragraph template
- Your choice (2 sentences). State the option you prefer and hint at your reasons.
- Reason 1 (3 to 4 sentences). Explain it, then add a specific example or detail.
- Reason 2 (3 to 4 sentences). A different kind of reason: if reason 1 is about money, make reason 2 about people or time.
- Close (1 to 2 sentences). Restate your choice. You can briefly admit one benefit of the other option.
Sample prompt and model answer
Survey: Your city has money for one project. Option A: build a new community swimming pool. Option B: add more bike lanes across the city. Which do you prefer, and why?
I would prefer Option B, adding more bike lanes across the city. In my view, this project would help more people every day and solve problems we already have.
First, bike lanes are useful to residents of all ages and neighbourhoods. A new pool would only serve the area around it, and many families would still need to drive there. Bike lanes, on the other hand, connect homes, schools and workplaces. My teenage son, for example, could safely ride to school instead of waiting for a crowded bus.
Second, more cycling would reduce traffic and pollution. Rush hour on Main Street is getting worse every year. If even a small number of commuters switched to bikes, roads would be less crowded for everyone, including drivers and buses. Cycling to work would also help people stay active as part of their daily routine.
Although a pool would be great for recreation, I believe bike lanes are the better long-term investment for our city.
Tips
- Choose the option you can explain more easily, not the one you think raters prefer.
- Give each reason its own paragraph and start it with a signpost: "First", "Another reason", "Finally".
- Personal examples are fine and often make your reasons stronger.
- Keep 2 to 3 minutes at the end to check spelling and grammar.
Next: Writing Task 1: the email · CELPIP writing overview.
Make your Task 2 answer stronger
A coach corrects your survey response and shows how to support your choice.
Questions
Can I choose both options in CELPIP Writing Task 2?
No. Pick one option clearly. You can mention one benefit of the other option in your conclusion.
How long is CELPIP Writing Task 2?
You have 26 minutes to write 150 to 200 words.