IELTS Writing: Free Practice Tests Online, Exam Tips & Topics, Videos
International English Language Testing System ( IELTS )
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Aishwarya BhatnagarStudy Abroad Expert
The IELTS Writing test is one of the most important part of the IELTS exam. This IELTS writing exam tests candidates’ ability to express ideas clearly and effectively in written English. This content gives you access to Free IELTS Writing Test Material and important tips to achieve a high band score in IELTS Exam.
The IELTS Writing exam is categorised into two major types: IELTS Academic Writing and IELTS General Training Writing. Each type of writing exam has two tasks - Writing Task 1 & Writing Task 2.
| IELTS Writing Exam Type | Writing Task 1 | Writing Task 2 |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic Writing | Report Writing | Essay Writing |
| IELTS General Training Writing | Letter Writing |
IELTS Academic Writing
IELTS Academic writing is mainly opted for by the set of students or candidates who are planning to study abroad in the countries that accept IELTS scores. IELTS Academic Writing is further divided into two tasks: IELTS Writing Task 1 and IELTS Writing Task 2.
In IELTS Academic Writing Task 1, candidates describe, summarise, or explain visual data, such as graphs and charts.
IELTS General Training Writing
The IELTS General Training module is for people who want to migrate to an English-speaking country. In IELTS General Training, Writing Task 1 focuses on letter writing. A candidate will write different types of letters, including formal, semi-formal, and informal letters. Meanwhile, IELTS Writing Task 2 is an essay question where candidates must present a clear and organised response to a given prompt.
Scoring well in the writing test involves understanding the IELTS Writing assessment criteria, which include Task Achievement, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. To prepare effectively, candidates should focus on time management and developing strong writing skills by practising with various question types and reviewing sample answers.
For more information, read the difference between IELTS General and IELTS Academic.
Q. How can I prepare for the IELTS writing test?
To prepare effectively for the IELTS Writing test, it’s essential to understand the format and scoring criteria, manage your time wisely, and practice regularly. Students applying for IELTS Academic can also join Shiksha's Free IELTS Training program to prepare for IELTS Writing Test. Here’s a structured approach to help you succeed:
Understand the Test Format
The IELTS Writing test has two tasks:
- Task 1 (Academic): Write a report summarizing or explaining visual data (graphs, charts, maps, or diagrams).
- Task 1 (General): Write a letter (formal, semi-formal, or informal) addressing a specific situation or request.
- Task 2 (Both): Write an essay in response to an argument or problem. This carries more weight in scoring.
Develop Core Skills
- Grammar and Vocabulary: Focus on improving accuracy, sentence variety, and topic-specific vocabulary.
- Structure and Coherence: Learn the ideal structure for essays, reports, and letters. Use linking words like "however," "therefore," and "in addition" to improve flow.
Practice Regularly
Dedicate time daily to practice writing under timed conditions. Start with shorter tasks, then move to full-length practice sessions. Use prompts from official IELTS practice materials to simulate real test scenarios.
Focus on Scoring Criteria
The key areas evaluated are:
- Task Achievement: Address all parts of the question fully.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Organize ideas logically with appropriate paragraphing.
- Lexical Resource: Use varied and precise vocabulary.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Demonstrate a range of sentence structures with minimal errors.
Get Feedback and Refine
Seek constructive feedback from teachers, peers, or online forums. Use this to identify and work on weaknesses. Regular feedback helps refine your style and eliminate recurring mistakes.
Finally, take full mock tests to familiarize yourself with the time constraints and pressure of the exam day. Reserve a few minutes at the end to proofread for spelling and grammatical errors. With consistent practice and focus, you'll steadily improve your performance.
Q. What is the format for the IELTS Writing Test?
The test consists of two tasks:
- Task 1 (Academic): Summarize or describe visual data (graphs, charts, diagrams, or maps).
- Task 1 (General Training): Write a letter (formal, semi-formal, or informal).
- Task 2: Write an essay expressing an opinion or addressing a problem.
Q. How much time is allotted for the IELTS Writing test?
The Writing test is 60 minutes long. You can spend 20 minutes on Writing Task 1 and 40 minutes on Writing Task 2. Task 2 is more heavily weighted, so managing your time effectively is critical.
Q. What is the word limit for each Writing task in IELTS Exam?
- Task 1: Write at least 150 words. Writing fewer words will result in a penalty.
- Task 2: Write at least 250 words. Shorter responses also lead to penalties. Aim for concise yet complete answers.
Q. How is the IELTS Writing test scored?
Your writing is assessed on four criteria, each contributing 25% of your score:
- Task Achievement/Response: How well you address the question and provide relevant, complete information.
- Coherence and Cohesion: How logically you organize ideas and use linking words (e.g., "however," "in addition").
- Lexical Resource: Your vocabulary range, accuracy, and use of appropriate expressions.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The variety and correctness of your sentence structures.
Q. Is it okay to include my opinion in all types of essays?
No, it depends on the question type. For example, in Advantages/Disadvantages essays, you generally only present both sides without an opinion unless specifically asked. Make sure to follow the task requirements for each essay type.
Q. What types of questions appear in IELTS Writing Task 1?
- For Academic IELTS, Task 1 usually involves describing visual information, such as charts, graphs, maps, or processes.
- For General Training IELTS, Task 1 is usually a letter based on a situation. It could be formal, semi-formal, or informal depending on the question.
IELTS Writing Mock Test
Register and attempt this IELTS Writing Mock Test. Read the instructions carefully before answering the test.
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
IELTS Writing Test Pattern
The IELTS Writing test is divided into two tasks - IELTS Writing Task 1 and Task 2 - each designed to assess different writing skills.
IELTS Writing Task 1
In Task 1, candidates are required to describe visual information, such as graphs, tables, charts, or diagrams. This task tests the ability to interpret and summarise data accurately. Candidates must write at least 150 words within a time limit of approximately 20 minutes. It is crucial to focus on the main trends, differences, or stages presented in the visual data while maintaining clarity and coherence in writing.
IELTS Writing Task 2
In Task 2, candidates are presented with a point of view, argument, or problem they must discuss in detail. This task evaluates the ability to formulate an argument, provide evidence, and express opinions clearly. Candidates are required to write at least 250 words in about 40 minutes. It is essential to structure the essay effectively, with a clear introduction, body paragraphs supporting the main argument, and a conclusion summarising the key points.
IELTS Writing Task 1 and Task 2 Comparison
| Aspect | Writing Task 1 | Writing Task 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Time Allocation | 20 minutes | 40 minutes |
| Word Count | Minimum 150 words | Minimum 250 words |
| Marks Weight | 1/3 of the total writing score | 2/3 of the total writing score |
| Task Type | Academic: Describe visual information (graphs, charts, diagrams, maps, processes) General: Write a letter |
Write an essay responding to a point of view, argument, or problem |
| Language Focus | Descriptive language, data reporting, comparison language | Argumentative language, opinion-giving, analytical writing |
| Structure |
|
|
| Skills Tested | Data interpretation, Information organisation, Comparison and description | Critical thinking, Argument development, Opinion expression |
| Common Functions | Comparing data, Describing trends, Explaining processes | Discussing advantages/disadvantages, Expressing opinions, Analyzing problems and solutions |
Q. How to plan and strategise for Writing Task 1 during the IELTS Exam?
Task 1 (Academic or General Training)
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Identify Key Features: Practice identifying and summarizing key trends, differences, or stages in visual data. Highlight the most important information that needs to be conveyed.
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Use a Clear Structure: Organize your response logically. A common structure includes an introduction, an overview, and detailed paragraphs that support your observations.
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Paraphrase Effectively: Work on paraphrasing the prompt to demonstrate your vocabulary skills. This is crucial for avoiding repetition and showcasing lexical resource.
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Practice Different Types of Visuals: Familiarize yourself with various types of visual data, including bar charts, line graphs, pie charts, and process diagrams, to be prepared for any prompt.
Q. How to plan and strategise for Writing Task 2 during the IELTS Exam?
Task 2 (Essay Writing)
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Plan Your Essay: Take a few minutes to outline your essay before you start writing. This helps ensure your ideas are organized and logically connected.
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Use a Clear Essay Structure: Typically, an essay will have an introduction, two or three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph should focus on a single main idea supported by examples.
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Develop Arguments and Examples: Practice providing clear arguments and examples to support your points. Use real-world examples or logical reasoning to make your case more compelling.
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Practice Different Essay Types: Familiarize yourself with various types of essay prompts, such as opinion essays, discussion essays, and problem-solution essays, so you can approach any topic with confidence.
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Work on Vocabulary and Grammar: Expand your vocabulary related to common IELTS topics (e.g., education, the environment, technology) and practice using complex grammatical structures.
Q. What are some of the common mistakes you must avoid in the IELTS Writing Section?
Common Mistakes to avoid in IELTS Writing Section
-
Task Response Issues:
- Mistake: Not addressing all parts of the task or misunderstanding the prompt.
- Avoidance: Carefully read the question and ensure that your response includes all required elements. Break down the task into smaller parts and check that you cover each one.
-
Lack of Structure:
- Mistake: Writing without a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
- Avoidance: Use a coherent structure. For Task 1, summarize the main points; for Task 2, outline your essay before writing to ensure logical flow and organization.
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Insufficient Development of Ideas:
- Mistake: Presenting ideas without adequate examples or explanations.
- Avoidance: Expand on your ideas with relevant examples, explanations, or counterarguments. Use specific details to strengthen your argument.
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Grammar and Vocabulary Errors:
- Mistake: Frequent grammatical mistakes or limited vocabulary.
- Avoidance: Practice using a range of grammatical structures and vocabulary. Proofread your work for errors. Focus on clarity and accuracy instead of overly complex language.
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Overly Informal Language:
- Mistake: Using colloquial language or slang, especially in Task 2.
- Avoidance: Use formal language appropriate for an academic context. Avoid contractions and casual expressions.
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Not Following Word Limits:
- Mistake: Writing too few or too many words.
- Avoidance: Practice writing within the word limits (150 for Task 1 and 250 for Task 2). Use a timer during practice sessions to build your timing skills.
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Repetition and Redundancy:
- Mistake: Repeating the same ideas or phrases.
- Avoidance: Use synonyms to vary your language and avoid redundancy. Ensure each sentence adds new information or perspective.
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Poor Time Management:
- Mistake: Spending too much time on one task and rushing through the other.
- Avoidance: Practice under timed conditions to develop a sense of how long each task should take. Allocate time to plan, write, and review.
Q. How is the IELTS Writing test scored?
- Each task is scored on 4 criteria:
- Task Achievement/Response
- Coherence and Cohesion
- Lexical Resource
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy
- Each criterion is scored from 0-9
- The final writing score is an average of both tasks, with Task 2 weighted more heavily
Q. Can I write in bullet points for Task 1?
No, bullet points are not acceptable. You must write in complete paragraphs using proper transitions. Visual information should be described in full sentences.
Q. What happens if I write fewer words than required?
You will lose marks in Task Achievement
- Task 1: Minimum 150 words
- Task 2: Minimum 250 words
There is no maximum word limit, but quality is more important than quantity
Q. What tenses should I use?
For Task 1 use:
- Past tense for historical data
- Present tense for processes/diagrams
- Future tense if predictions are shown
For Task 2 use:
- Mix of tenses depending on the topic
- Present tense for general statements
- Past tense for examples or historical references
IELTS Academic Writing Task Format
Format plays a crucial role in gaining a higher band in IELTS writing because it carries separate markings for the structure/format of each paragraph. Both writing tasks are evaluated based on four criteria: Task Achievement, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Mastery of these elements is crucial for achieving a high score in the Writing section of the IELTS exam. Follow the below structure to organize your paragraphs uniformly.
IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Format (Data/Graph Description)
IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 includes the following topics:
Though topics may vary, however, a common set of pointers can be noted for IELTS Writing Task 1 questions. Check out the format below for Task 1 questions on IELTS Writing module:
| Paragraph | Purpose | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Introduction | Paraphrase the question and provide an overview |
|
The graph illustrates the percentage of internet users in four different countries between 2000 and 2020. Overall, there was a significant increase in internet usage across all nations, with Country A showing the most dramatic rise. |
| Body 1 | Describe the main features/trends |
|
From 2000 to 2010, Country A experienced the steepest growth, with usage rising from 20% to 65%. Meanwhile, Country B saw a more gradual increase, climbing from 15% to 45% during the same period. |
| Body 2 | Describe secondary features/details |
|
The latter decade (2010-2020) showed a slower rate of growth in all countries. Country A's usage increased by only 15 percentage points, reaching 80% by 2020, while Country B plateaued at around 60%. |
| Conclusion (*Optional) | Summarize key findings |
|
In conclusion, while all countries demonstrated increased internet adoption over the twenty years, the most substantial growth occurred in the first decade. |
IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 Format (Essay)
Like any other essay, Task 2 on IELTS Writing (Academic) also tests applicants skills on their essay writing abilities. IELTS Writing Task 2 - essay writing can be a point of view, an argument or, a problem to which a solution may be required. To understand how to go about writing the perfect essay for Task 2 on Academic IELTS, check out the details below:
| Paragraph | Purpose | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Introduction | Introduce the topic and state the position |
|
The rise of remote work has transformed modern workplace dynamics. While some argue that this shift has improved work-life balance, others contend it has blurred the boundaries between professional and personal life. This essay will examine both perspectives and explain why a hybrid approach might be most beneficial. |
| Body 1 | First main argument |
|
Remote work offers numerous advantages for employee well-being. Firstly, workers save significant time and money by eliminating daily commutes, allowing for more family time and reduced stress levels. Additionally, the flexibility to work from any location has enabled many to relocate to more affordable areas while maintaining their current jobs. |
| Body 2 | Second main argument |
|
However, working entirely from home can present considerable challenges. Many employees report feeling isolated and disconnected from their colleagues, which can hamper collaboration and creativity. Moreover, the lack of physical separation between work and home spaces often leads to longer working hours and difficulty "switching off." |
| Body 3 (*Optional) | Third argument or solution |
|
A hybrid working model could effectively address these concerns. By combining remote work flexibility with regular office attendance, organizations can maintain team cohesion while still providing employees with the benefits of working from home. |
| Conclusion | Conclude the essay with final thoughts and recommendation |
|
In conclusion, while remote work offers clear benefits for work-life balance, its challenges cannot be ignored. A balanced approach that combines both remote and office-based work appears to be the most effective solution for modern organisations and their employees. |
NOTE: Opinion must be given only if asked.
For additional practice, check out IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics with Answers curated by our in-house British Council Trained trainers.
Format for IELTS General Writing Task
Here’s a structured table for IELTS General Writing tasks, focusing on Task 1 (letter writing) and Task 2 (essay):
Letter Writing:
| Format | Description | Example | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Task 1: Letter Writing | Opening | Start with an appropriate greeting based on the letter type (e.g., "Dear Sir/Madam" for formal, "Hi [Name]" for informal). | Formal: "Dear Mr. Johnson," Informal: "Hi Sarah," |
| Introduction | State the purpose of the letter in the opening line. Keep it clear and concise. | "I am writing to inquire about..." (formal) "I wanted to let you know about..." (informal) |
|
| Body Paragraphs | Address each point mentioned in the prompt in separate paragraphs. Keep a logical flow and use relevant language for the letter type. | "First, I would like to request..." "It would be great if you could also let me know about..." |
|
| Closing | Conclude politely and appropriately for the letter type. For formal, a respectful closing phrase like “Yours sincerely.” For informal, a friendly closing like "Best wishes." | Formal: "Yours sincerely," Informal: "Take care," |
Essay Writing:
| Section | Content | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Introduction | Background/Paraphrase | Restate the question prompt in your own words to introduce the topic. | "In recent years, technological advancements have transformed various aspects of daily life." |
| Thesis Statement | State your main opinion or stance clearly. This will guide the argument throughout the essay. | "This essay will examine both the benefits and challenges of this shift." | |
| Body Paragraph 1 | Topic Sentence | Introduce the main idea or argument of the paragraph. This sentence should reflect one key point supporting your thesis. | "One significant advantage of technology is that it enables instant communication, connecting people globally." |
| Supporting Details/Examples | Provide explanations, examples, or evidence to back up the main idea. Each example should be relevant and specific. | "For instance, messaging apps allow individuals to stay in touch with family members in different countries instantly." | |
| Body Paragraph 2 | Topic Sentence | Begin with another supporting idea that contrasts or complements the first body paragraph. | "However, relying heavily on technology can negatively impact social interactions." |
| Supporting Details/Examples | Explain why this aspect is relevant, and give an example or elaboration to illustrate. | "For example, people spending more time online may have fewer in-person interactions, weakening family and social bonds." | |
| Conclusion | Summary of Main Points | Briefly summarize the main points discussed in the essay without repeating them verbatim. | "In summary, while technology enhances connectivity, it can reduce face-to-face interaction." |
| Restate Thesis/Opinion | Reiterate your stance in a concise way to reinforce your viewpoint. Avoid introducing new ideas here. | "Therefore, although technology brings clear benefits, it’s important to use it in moderation to preserve social connections." |
IELTS Writing Tips and Strategies
This table highlights the IELTS Writing Test Tips:
| IELTS Writing Tips | Details |
|---|---|
| No Right or Wrong Answer |
|
| Marking Criteria |
|
| Adhere to Word Limits |
|
| Paraphrasing is Essential |
|
| Clear Organization |
|
| Manage Time Well |
|
| Avoid Common Mistakes |
|
How to Get 8+ in IELTS Writing?
This section provides you with the tips and strategies required to score an 8+ band in IELTS Writing. But before diving further, you must first understand:
What does a score of 8+ band in writing indicate?
- Present ideas with complete clarity
- Use language flexibly and precisely
- Demonstrate sophisticated vocabulary and grammar
- Maintain cohesion throughout
- Fully address all aspects of the task
IELTS Writing Strategy for Task 1 (Data/Graph Description)
1. Introduction Excellence (Band 8+ Characteristics)
- Superior Paraphrasing
-
- Avoid copying question vocabulary
- Example (Poor): "The graph shows changes in population."
- Example (Excellent): "The demographic trends illustrated in the line graph demonstrate the evolution of population dynamics."
- Sophisticated Overview
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- Identify multiple patterns simultaneously
- Example: "Overall, while developed nations exhibited a gradual decline in birth rates, developing countries demonstrated exponential growth, though this trend began to moderate towards the end of the period."
2. Data Analysis and Presentation
- Advanced Data Integration
-
- Combine multiple data points meaningfully
- Use sophisticated comparison structures
Instead of: "Country A was 50% and Country B was 30%" Write: "Country A's figure exceeded that of Country B by approximately 20 percentage points, suggesting a substantial disparity in development levels."
- Dynamic Range of Language for Trends
-
- Simple: increase → sophisticated alternatives:
- "witnessed a substantial upsurge"
- "demonstrated exponential growth"
- "exhibited a marked acceleration"
- "underwent significant expansion"
- Simple: increase → sophisticated alternatives:
3. Advanced Language Features for Task 1
- Complex Grammatical Structures
-
- Relative clauses
- Participle phrases
- Conditional statements Example: "The consumption levels, which had remained relatively stable throughout the 1990s, began exhibiting marked fluctuations, particularly in regions where economic reforms were implemented."
IELTS Writing Strategy for Task 2 (Essay)
1. Introduction Techniques (Band 8+ Level)
- Sophisticated Hook Statements
-
- Use thought-provoking questions
- Present interesting statistics
- Offer relevant historical context Example: "In an era where artificial intelligence is reshaping the very fabric of human society, the debate over its integration into education has become increasingly nuanced."
- Thesis Statement Excellence
-
- Complex yet clear position
- Multi-faceted approach Example: "While the digital revolution offers unprecedented opportunities for educational advancement, a balanced approach incorporating both traditional and technological methods would be most beneficial for fostering comprehensive learning outcomes."
2. Body Paragraph Mastery
- Advanced Argument Structure
-
1. Sophisticated topic sentence 2. Primary support with specific example 3. Secondary support with analysis 4. Counter-argument consideration 5. Synthesis and link to thesis - Example Development (Band 8+ Quality) Poor Example: "Many students use technology in class." Excellent Example: "The integration of augmented reality in medical schools has revolutionized how students understand human anatomy, with institutions reporting a 40% improvement in conceptual understanding compared to traditional teaching methods."
-
3. High-Scoring Language Features
- Sophisticated Vocabulary Patterns
-
- Instead of common words, use precise alternatives:
- "good" → "advantageous," "beneficial," "conducive"
- "important" → "crucial," "pivotal," "instrumental"
- "problem" → "impediment," "obstacle," "constraint"
- Instead of common words, use precise alternatives:
- Advanced Collocations
-
- "implement stringent measures"
- "foster innovation"
- "mitigate adverse effects"
- "facilitate seamless integration"
4. Critical Cohesion Strategies
- Sophisticated Linking Instead of basic transitions, use:
-
- "This paradigm shift suggests..."
- "Such developments notwithstanding..."
- "While acknowledging these limitations..."
- "This phenomenon can be attributed to..."
5. Task Achievement Excellence
- Comprehensive Response Techniques
-
- Address implicit aspects of the question
- Consider long-term implications
- Provide balanced analysis
- Offer nuanced solutions
Advanced Tips for Writing Tasks 1 and Task 2
1. Time Management for 8+ Performance
Task 1 (20 minutes): - 5 mins: Analysis and planning - 12 mins: Writing - 3 mins: Sophisticated editing Task 2 (40 minutes): - 8 mins: Planning and outline - 27 mins: Writing - 5 mins: Advanced editing
2. Common Band 8+ Characteristics
- Structural Sophistication
-
- Varied sentence structures
- Natural transitions
- Logical progression
- Clear paragraph purpose
- Content Development
-
- Deep analysis
- Relevant examples
- Clear reasoning
- Original insights
3. Error Prevention Strategies
- High-band Requirements
-
- Minimize minor errors
- Maintain consistency
- Ensure precise word choice
- Check article usage
- Verify subject-verb agreement
4. Complex Structure Examples
- Conditional Constructions: "Had governments implemented these measures earlier, the current challenges might have been substantially mitigated."
- Participle Phrases: "Considering the multifaceted nature of this issue, policymakers must adopt a comprehensive approach, taking into account both immediate and long-term implications."
NOTE: Band 8+ writing demonstrates not just accuracy but sophistication, naturalness, and depth of analysis. Focus on developing these qualities through consistent practice and careful attention to feedback.
IELTS Writing Training Video
IELTS Writing - Do’s and Don’ts
A few do's and don’ts should be kept in mind while going through the IELTS writing module. Otherwise, these petty mistakes can cost you a good IELTS band score. Here are some essential IELTS Writing Do's and Don'ts, with examples to clarify each point while preparing for IELTS on its Writing module:
| Do's | Examples | Don'ts | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plan your response before writing | Spend 2-3 minutes organizing main points and examples. | Don’t start writing without a plan | Starting without a plan often leads to unorganised ideas and unclear responses. |
| Paraphrase the question in your introduction | For example, if the question asks about the benefits of exercise, start with: “Physical exercise offers numerous benefits…” | Don’t copy the question directly | Copying directly from the prompt can limit your score for Task Achievement. |
| Use a range of vocabulary | Instead of using “important” multiple times, try synonyms like “crucial,” “vital,” or “significant.” | Don’t overuse basic words | Repeating “good” or “bad” reduces your Lexical Resource score. |
| Use a mix of sentence structures | Include simple, compound, and complex sentences, like: “Regular exercise not only improves health but also boosts mood.” | Don’t use overly complex sentences | Overly long sentences can lead to grammar mistakes and may confuse the reader. |
| Stay on topic and answer all parts | If asked about advantages and disadvantages, address both aspects in your response. | Don’t go off-topic or ignore the question | Discussing only the benefits when both pros and cons are required can lower your Task Achievement score. |
| Use examples to support your ideas | For example, "Individuals who exercise regularly often report higher energy levels throughout the day.” | Don’t provide general, unsupported claims | Vague statements like “Exercise is good for you” lack depth and may lower your score. |
| Maintain the required word count | Task 1: At least 150 words; Task 2: At least 250 words. | Don’t write below the word count | Writing only 140 words in Task 1 could result in a penalty for insufficient length. |
| Use linking words for coherence | Words like “furthermore,” “in contrast,” and “as a result” help improve the flow of ideas. | Don’t overuse linking words | Overuse of connectors (e.g., “therefore,” “thus”) can make writing sound unnatural and repetitive. |
| Proofread for grammar and spelling | Spend the last 2-3 minutes checking for mistakes, especially with plurals and verb tenses. | Don’t leave spelling or grammar errors | Frequent mistakes like “he go” instead of “he goes” can impact the Grammatical Range and Accuracy score. |
| Follow a clear structure | Use paragraphs: Introduction, Body Paragraphs, and Conclusion. | Don’t write in one big block of text | Lack of structure makes it hard for the examiner to follow your argument and may lower the Coherence score. |
| Stay within a reasonable length | Aim for around 170-190 words for Task 1 and 270-290 words for Task 2. | Don’t exceed word limits excessively | Writing 400+ words can reduce coherence and may result in unnecessary repetition or irrelevant details. |
Applicants should incorporate these do's and don't's while they practice questions on the IELTS Writing module. Once applicants are habitual of incorporating these expert tips, they shall not face major issues on the IELTS test date.
Best Books for IELTS Writing Practice:
Some of the most suitable IELTS preparation books for the Writing module are as follows:
- The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS-for Academic & General Training
- The Barron's IELTS Superpack
- Official IELTS Practice Materials
- Target Band 7:IELTS Academic Module- How to Maximize Your Score
- Comprehensive IELTS Writing (Academic) Band 8 Preparation Course
- Get IELTS Band 9 in Writing Task 1 Data Charts and Graphs
- IELTS for Academic Purposes: A Short Intensive Course
- Get IELTS Band 9 in Academic Writing
- Top 20 Great Grammar for Great Writing
Applicants can choose from this list of books to prepare for IELTS Writing sections, including Task 1 and Task 2 on Writing.
IELTS Writing Task 1 & 2 Sample Questions
IELTS Writing- TASK 1 General Training (Letter Writing)
IELTS Writing FAQs
Q. Can we write less than the word limit on IELTS Writing Task 1 and 2?
A. Word limits in IELTS writing must be followed strictly. There is a separate marking for the word limit. In task 1 of writing the minimum word count is 150 words and for task 2 the word limit is 250 words.
This word count falls under a separate important parameter of the marking criteria named cohesion and coherence which asks you to organize your paragraph well with the appropriate word limit.
Q. What kind of questions are asked in IELTS Writing?
A. In IELTS writing there are various essays which one has to prepare for the exam. There are 5 different kinds of essays namely:
- Opinion based
- Descriptive
- Merit/demerits
- Problem /solution
- Two- part question
Every essay has its own approach, hence it’s really important that the candidate is aware of all the techniques behind each and every essay. The exam may carry any one of the five.
Q. How is the IELTS Writing task 1 & 2 marked?
A. In IELTS writing marking for task 1 and task 2 is done separately. The examiner first marks you and gives you a band on task 1 and then on task 2. Then the bands are calculated on an average for a total individual score.
There are four basic parameters based on which the marking is handled in writing. These include:
- Task responses/ Task completion
- Lexical resources
- Grammatical range and accuracy
- Coherence and cohesion
Q. What type of vocabulary words to use in IELTS Writing module?
A. IELTS Writing has a vast list of words and phrases which can be used in the exam. Paraphrasing shows how you know your vocabulary. Where there are few lists of words which should be avoided during the exam like slang words, contractions and colloquial language.
Words from the question should not be repeated on the paper otherwise the bands would be hindered. Use flexible vocabulary with variations in words for a higher band. Check IELTS Vocabulary Words with Meanings
Vocabulary is not just important for IELTS Writing section, in fact it is equally necessary for other tested sections on IELTS like:
Q. Should I state my opinion in IELTS Writing Task 2?
A. Read the question really carefully given on the IELTS Writing Task 2. If the question asks you to define or state your opinion, then you should do so but if it does not ask you to give any opinion of yours then you should not.
This is important to note that such errors fall between the task response parameter of the marking criteria of the writing task. It should also be noted that the opinion has to be placed correctly in the paragraph when answering opinion based questions on IELTS Writing Task 2.
Q: What is the difference between CBT and PBT IELTS Writing?
A: The questions are the same, whether it’s CBT or PBT. You need to be comfortable with typing if you’re attempting Computer-based IELTS or if you’re going for paper based IELTS, your handwriting should be understandable.
Q. Which one should I attempt first - IELTS Writing Task 1 or 2?
A. You can do any task first according to your preference, but it is suggested that you finish both tasks within their recommended time frames. So whichever IELTS Writing task seems easier to you, you must go for it and complete it within the stipulated time or before time so that you get more time for your next task.
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