Improve your overall writing performance with these essential tips applicable across both Task 1 and Task 2.
You only have 60 minutes for both tasks. Stick to the recommended timings: ~20 minutes for Task 1 and ~40 minutes for Task 2. Practice writing under timed conditions.
Always spend a few minutes (5-10 mins for Task 2, 2-3 mins for Task 1) planning your structure and main points. A clear plan leads to a more coherent and well-organized piece of writing.
Organize your ideas logically into paragraphs. Use linking words and phrases (e.g., However, Furthermore, In addition, Consequently, In contrast) appropriately to connect sentences and paragraphs smoothly. Don't overuse them.
Demonstrate your knowledge of words (Lexical Resource). Use synonyms where appropriate to avoid repetition. Try to use some less common vocabulary correctly, but accuracy is more important than using big words incorrectly.
Use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures (e.g., relative clauses, conditional sentences, passive voice where appropriate). Pay close attention to grammar rules (tenses, articles, prepositions, subject-verb agreement) and punctuation.
Read the question/prompt very carefully and make sure you address every part of it in your response. Failing to cover all points will lower your Task Achievement/Response score significantly.
If taking the paper-based test, ensure your handwriting is clear and easy to read. If the examiner cannot read your writing, they cannot mark it.
Leave 2-3 minutes at the end of each task to quickly read through your writing and check for obvious errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Correcting simple mistakes can make a difference.
Write at least 150 words for Task 1 and at least 250 words for Task 2. Writing significantly under the word count will likely result in a penalty on your Task Achievement/Response score.