IELTS Writing: Writing Task Types, Test Format, Band Calculation
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“ Everything you need to know in 2024 about IELTS Writing - types, format, timing, scoring, and key tips to remember during the exam to perform at your best. “
If you're preparing for the IELTS exam, you've probably heard that the writing section can be pretty challenging. But don't stress! With the right preparation, you can ace it. This blog will break down everything you need to know about the IELTS Writing test—the different task types, the exam format, and most importantly, some key tips to keep in mind on exam day.
This blog covers the IELTS writing test format, the different task types, and key tips to remember during the exam.
IELTS Writing Task Types
The IELTS writing section consists of two tasks:
IELTS Writing Task 1
This task requires you to describe some visual information provided, such as one or more charts, graphs, tables, or diagrams. There are different variations of Task 1:
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IELTS Academic Writing Task 1
You will be given one visual representing data connected to an academic subject for IELTS Writing Task 1 Academic. You need to summarize the main points in 150 words and provide an overview of the data in your own words.
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IELTS General Writing Task 1
You will be given visual information of general everyday relevance for IELTS General Writing Task 1, like a letter, leaflet, brochure, etc. You need to summarize its key information in 150 words.
IELTS Writing Task 2
This task requires you to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem. The essay must be at least 250 words long. Task 2 is the same for the Academic and General Training versions. Topics are of general interest and suitable for test takers entering undergraduate or postgraduate studies or seeking professional registration.
IELTS Writing Test Format
Total duration: 60 minutes
Suggested time division:
- Task 1: 20 minutes
- Task 2: 40 minutes
Word limit:
- Task 1: 150 words
- Task 2: At least 250 words
IELTS Writing Band Calculation
Your writing skills are assessed on four criteria: Task Achievement, Coherence & Cohesion, Vocabulary, and Grammar & Accuracy. Each receives a band score (1-9), averaging to your final writing score.
Aim high! Most universities require band scores of 6 or 7 for undergraduate studies and 6.5 or 7 for postgraduate programs.
Polishing Your Writing Skills: Tips For IELTS Writing
- Plan and Organize: Dedicate 5-10 minutes to each task for planning. Brainstorm ideas, structure your essay, and create an outline.
- Use Precise Vocabulary: Go beyond basic words. Use synonyms, collocations, and idioms to showcase your vocabulary range.
- Vary Sentence Structures: Don't be monotonous! Combine simple, compound, and complex sentences for smoother flow and impact.
- Connect Ideas Seamlessly: Use transition words and phrases to create a logical flow between sentences and paragraphs.
- Proofread and Edit: Double-check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Read your essay aloud to catch awkward phrasing.
IELTS Writing Preparation Resources
We're providing you with resources in both visual and written formats that’ll come in handy during your IELTS Writing preparation.
Firstly, some of the most watched videos on our channel:
- Understanding IELTS Writing Task 1 ACADEMIC in 20 Minutes
- IELTS 2023 General Writing Task 1 (COMPLETE) with BAND 8+ SAMPLE LETTERS
- IELTS Writing Task 2 - How to Write a Perfect Essay Introduction?
- IELTS Writing Task 2 - How to Write Body Paragraphs in an IELTS Essay?
- IELTS Writing Task 2 - How to Write a CRISP Essay Conclusion?
Now, check all the books that’ll be helpful for your preparation:
- Comprehensive IELTS Writing (General) Band 8 Preparation Course
- Complete Edition of IELTS General Writing: Connecting Dots to Words for a Band 8
- Comprehensive IELTS Writing (Academic) Band 8 Preparation Course
- IELTS (Academic) Writing Actual Tests eBook Combo (January-June 2024) [Task 1+ Task 2]
With diligent practice and these tips in mind, you can master the IELTS writing tasks. The writing section is one of the most challenging parts of the IELTS exam and requires thorough preparation. Remember that clear, organized, and coherent writing following the prompt is the key to maximizing your score. Manage your time wisely and do not rush. With focus and perseverance, you can successfully showcase your English writing abilities.
Sample Essays Based on Countries
- Actual Test in Vietnam - December 2016 & Sample Essays
- Test in the UK - April 2017 & Band 8.5 Model Essay
- Test in the US - March 2017 & Band 8.0 Sample Essay
- Actual Tests in 2013 & Band 8.0+ Sample Essays
- Practice Test 17 & Band 8.0 Sample Essay
- Recent Actual Test in India - January 2017 & Sample Essays
- Test in 2019 with Band 8.0 Model Essay
Other Useful Articles
- 15 Days Practice for IELTS Writing for both Academic and General Training
- Recent IELTS Writing Test (Task 1 & 2) with Band 8 Sample
- Recent IELTS Writing Test (Task 1 & 2) with Sample Answers
- Synonym & Antonym for Academic Words in IELTS Writing with Answers (Part 1)
- Synonym & Antonym For Academic Words In IELTS Writing With Answers ( Part 2)
- Synonyms for Commonly-used Adjectives in IELTS Speaking & Writing
- Timing and word length in the writing module in IELTS
- Two-Word Prepositions to Score Band 7.0+ in IELTS Writing & Speaking (Part 3)
- All Useful IELTS Writing Lessons & Websites
- Useful Structures to Help You Get Band 7.5+ in IELTS Writing
- 6 Useful Tips to Improve IELTS Writing Skills
- 30 Recent IELTS Writing Actual Tests & Model Essays
- 6 secrets to have a great writing essay
Other IELTS Writing Books
- Essay Writing By Gabi Duigu (Ebook)
- Academic Writing Practice for IELTS by Sam McCarter
- Achieve IELTS Academic Writing Success Ebook - Julie Hall
- Grammar for IELTS: Advanced Comparison for IELTS Writing to Get Band 7.5 or Higher
- Advanced Prepositions to Score Band 7.0+ in IELTS Writing
- The Best Preparation For IELTS Writing (Ebook) – Young Kim
- Better Writing Right Now Ebook - Francine D.Galko
- Collins Writing For IELTS by Anneli Williams (Ebook)
- High-scoring IELTS Writing Model Answers (based on past papers) - Ebook
- Top 20 Great Grammar for Great Writing (Ebook)
- IELTS Advantage: Writing Skills (Ebook)
- 20 Collocations to Increase Your Word Power in IELTS Writing
- How to Boost Your Vocabulary Score in IELTS?
- How to express your mixed feelings in IELTS Writing & Speaking?
- IELTS Answer Sheet for Writing, Listening and Reading
- Improve Your Skills: Writing For IELTS 6.0 - 7.5 With Answer Key - Stephanie Dimond-Bayir
- Improve Your IELTS Writing Skills by Sam McCarter
- Increase your Speaking & Writing Score with Synonyms and Antonyms
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between the General Training Writing module and the Academic Writing module?
Are IELTS Writing questions repeated?
Why should I paraphrase the question?
Should I count the number of words I have written?
What will happen if I don’t write 150 or 250 words?
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Nehasri Ravishenbagam