IELTS Writing

IELTS Writing | Understand the Writing test:

The IELTS Writing modules test your ability to produce two quite different pieces of writing in a fairly short period of time. Before applying to sit the test, you need to decide whether to take the Academic or the General Training module. Each module is divided into two parts and you have only one hour to complete both pieces of writing. TheIELTS writing test is the module that many students find the most difficult. This is because in a short space of time (one hour) you have to write an essay and a graph (academic module) or a letter (general training module). The Academic IELTS Writing exam requires you to respond to two question prompts in one hour. IELTS Writing Task 1 involves writing a report based on information contained in one or two visuals (such as charts or graphs). Task 1 is a very predictable exercise. Therefore, once you master the basic pattern of a good IELTS Writing Task 1 response, you can apply it every time! To help you master IELTS Academic Writing Task 1, we’ll look at the basics of Task 1, analyze sample questions, give tips to boost your score, and share our favorite practice resources.

Write clearly, organise your ideas and use a varied vocabulary.

Purpose of the test

The IELTS Writing test is designed to assess a wide range of writing skills, including how well you

  • write a response appropriately
  • organise ideas
  • use a range of vocabulary and grammar accurately

This is the case for whichever version of the IELTS test you are taking.

Timing:

The IELTS Writing test takes 60 minutes. Spend 20 minutes on Task 1, and 40 minutes on Task 2.

You will need to manage your own time, so make sure you move on to Task 2 after 20 minutes.

Two tasks:

There are two tasks in the IELTS Writing test. You will be asked to write at least 150 words for Task 1 and at least 250 words for Task 2.

IELTS Academic Writing test:

Write in a formal style in the IELTS Academic Writing test.

In Task 1 you will be presented with a graph, table, chart or diagram. You will be asked to describe, summarise or explain the information in your own words. This might involve describing and explaining data, describing the stages of a process or how something works, or describing an object or event.

In Task 2 you will be asked to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument or problem. You should find the issues interesting and easy to understand.

IELTS General Training Writing test:

The topics used in the IELTS General Training Writing test are of general interest.

In Task 1 you will be presented with a situation and asked to write a letter requesting information or explaining the situation. You can write the letter in a personal, semi-formal or formal style.

In Task 2 you will be asked to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument or problem. You can use a fairly personal style.

Marking:

Your Writing test will be marked by a certificated IELTS examiner.

Task 2 is worth twice as much as Task 1 in the IELTS Writing test.

Scores are reported in whole and half bands.

Writing test advice:

Follow this Writing test advice, and make sure you know how to manage your time.

Write your answers in pen or pencil. You may write entirely in capital letters if you wish.

You may make notes on the question paper, but nothing you write on the question paper will be marked.

Make the most of your Writing test:

  • analyse each task properly and spend some time making notes.
  • highlight or underline key words in the tasks to make sure that you focus on what you have to do.
  • plan your answers.
  • use paragraphs clearly; put one idea in each paragraph.
  • do not repeat ideas using different words.
  • do not copy whole sentences from the question – you will receive no marks for this.
  • keep to the topic; do not write about unrelated subjects.
  • manage your time; remember, Task 2 is worth twice as much as Task 1.
  • spend approximately 20 minutes on Task 1 and approximately 40 minutes on Task 2.
  • pay attention to the number of words required for each task; you will lose marks if you do not write at least 150 words for Task 1 and at least 250 words for Task 2.
  • learn to recognise how long 150 and 250 words look in your handwriting; you will not have time to count during the test.
  • you must write your answers in full; answers written in note form or in bullet points will lose marks.
  • pay attention to spelling, grammar and punctuation; you will lose marks for mistakes.
  • avoid informal language.
  • do not memorise model answers; examiners are trained to recognise them and your test will be invalid.
  • spend several minutes re-reading and correcting your answers.

– GO TO GRAMMAR & VOCABULARY SECTION