IELTS Writing Test Format

Duration 60 minutes total

Tasks 2 tasks

Task 1 Time 20 minutes (150 words)

Task 2 Time 40 minutes (250 words)

Academic Task 1: Describe visual information (graphs, charts, diagrams, maps, processes)

General Training Task 1: Write a letter (formal, semi-formal, or informal)

Task 2 (Both Academic & GT): Write an essay responding to a point of view, argument, or problem (250+ words)

Writing Band Score Criteria

Band	Task Achievement/Response	Coherence & Cohesion	Lexical Resource	Grammar & Accuracy
9	Fully addresses all parts with clear, fully developed ideas	Cohesion used naturally and effectively	Wide range of vocabulary with natural usage	Wide range of structures with full flexibility
8	Sufficiently addresses all parts with well-developed response	Sequences information logically with clear progression	Wide range of vocabulary with flexibility and precision	Wide range of structures with good flexibility
7	Addresses all parts with clear, relevant ideas	Clear progression with appropriate linking	Sufficient vocabulary with awareness of style	Good range of complex structures
6	Addresses all parts but development may be limited	Information arranged coherently with clear progression	Adequate vocabulary with some flexibility	Mix of simple and complex structures

Task 1 Strategies

Academic Task 1: Visual Information

Common Task Types

Line graphs: Show trends over time
Bar charts: Compare quantities across categories
Pie charts: Show proportions of a whole
Tables: Present numerical data
Processes: Show how something works
Maps: Show changes over time or compare locations

4-Paragraph Structure

Introduction: Paraphrase the task (1-2 sentences)
Overview: Main trends/features (2-3 sentences)
Body 1: Specific details and data
Body 2: More specific details and comparisons

Key Language for Task 1

Trends:

increase/rise/grow
decrease/fall/drop
remain stable/constant
fluctuate/vary

Degrees:

dramatic/sharp
significant/considerable
moderate/steady
slight/gradual

Comparisons:

higher/lower than
similar to/comparable
in contrast to
whereas/while

Time:

from...to/between...and
over the period
by/until/since
subsequently/thereafter

General Training Task 1: Letter Writing

Formal Letters

To: Companies, officials, strangers

Opening: Dear Sir/Madam

Closing: Yours faithfully

Tone: Polite, respectful, no contractions

Semi-formal Letters

To: Teacher, neighbor, colleague

Opening: Dear Mr./Ms. [Name]

Closing: Yours sincerely

Tone: Polite but friendly

Informal Letters

To: Friends, family

Opening: Dear [First name]

Closing: Best wishes/Love

Tone: Friendly, contractions OK

Letter Structure

Opening: Dear... + reason for writing
Body Paragraph 1: Address bullet point 1
Body Paragraph 2: Address bullet point 2
Body Paragraph 3: Address bullet point 3
Closing: Sign off appropriately

Task 2 Essay Writing Strategies

Common Essay Types

Opinion Essays: What is your opinion? Do you agree/disagree?
Discussion Essays: Discuss both views and give your opinion
Problem-Solution: What are the problems and solutions?
Cause-Effect: What are the causes/effects of this issue?
Two-part Questions: Answer two related questions

5-Paragraph Structure

Introduction: Background + thesis statement
Body 1: Main argument/point with examples
Body 2: Second argument/point with examples
Body 3: Counter-argument or third point (optional)
Conclusion: Restate thesis + final thought

Task 2 Tips for Band 7+

Word Count: Write 270-290 words (not just 250 minimum)
Position: Have a clear position throughout your essay
Examples: Use specific, relevant examples to support your points
Cohesion: Use a variety of linking words naturally
Vocabulary: Show range with topic-specific vocabulary
Grammar: Use complex structures accurately

Interactive Writing Tools

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Writing Prompts

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Sample Essays by Band Score

Task: Some people think that all university students should study whatever they like. Others believe that they should only be allowed to study subjects that will be useful in the future, such as those related to science and technology. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Introduction: The question of whether university students should have complete freedom in choosing their academic subjects or be restricted to practical, future-oriented disciplines represents a fundamental debate about the purpose of higher education. While some advocate for unlimited academic freedom, others argue for a more utilitarian approach focusing on subjects with clear economic benefits. This essay will examine both perspectives before arguing that a balanced approach, combining personal interests with practical considerations, offers the most beneficial outcome.

Why this works: Clear paraphrasing, presents both views, states position clearly, uses sophisticated vocabulary naturally.

Read Full Essay

Same Task as above - Band 7 version

Introduction: There are different opinions about what university students should study. Some people believe students should study what they want, while others think they should only study useful subjects like science and technology. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

Analysis: Addresses the task but with simpler language. Clear but less sophisticated than Band 9. Structure is present but could be more refined.