IELTS Writing
The IELTS is the preferred English language proficiency test that evaluates your English skills. It is divided into four sections, reading, writing, listening, and speaking, out of which the writing section is the toughest. If you are also giving the IELTS this year, this blog is for you as it helps you crack the IELTS writing section with a high score.
Table of Contents
What is IELTS Writing Test?
The IELTS writing section evaluates how you write a response appropriately, arrange ideas, and use grammar and vocabulary precisely. The test duration is 60 minutes, and it comprises two tasks: IELTS writing task 1 and IELTS writing task 2.
IELTS Academic Writing
The IELTS academic writing test comprises two tasks. The topics in these tasks are linked to fields of general interest. They are relevant for test takers who wish to pursue UG or PG studies or seek professional registration. To successfully attempt the test, the candidates must write the answer to both the tasks in a formal style.
IELTS General Writing
The general training writing test of the IELTS is made up of 2 tasks that are based on subjects of common interest. In task one, you will be given a situation and asked to write a letter requesting information or explaining the situation. The letter might be informal, formal, or semi-formal. In task 2, the candidate has to write an essay based on the point of view, argument, or problem.
IELTS Writing Topics
- Agree or disagree.
- Advantages or disadvantages.
- Two-part.
- Causes and solutions to a problem.
- Discuss both sides (and give your opinion).
- Bar chart.
- Line graph.
- Table.
- Pie chart.
- Process diagram.
- Map.
- Multiple graphs.
- Formal letter.
- Informal letter.
- Semi-informal letter.
- Essay.
IELTS Writing Task 1
The IELTS writing task 1 is the first task the applicants have to write. Out of the total 60 minutes, giving only around 20 minutes is usually recommended. It carries only 34% of the marks weightage, comparatively less than the marks of the IELTS writing task 2. The question you get varies on whether you write the IELTS academic or general test.
Read More: IELTS - Writing Assessment Criteria for Task 1
Read More: IELTS - Writing Assessment Criteria for Task 1
IELTS Academic Writing Task 1
In the first task of the IELTS academic writing, you will see a visual representation of information in a graph, table, chart, or diagram. Your goal here is to summarise, describe, or explain the information you see on the screen. You must ensure you arrange your answer into three primary parts, which are given below.
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Part 1 is an introduction.
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Part 2 is an overview.
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Part 3 is the main features of the visuals supported by figures from the diagram.
IELTS General Writing Task 1
In your first IELTS general writing task, you will be given a situation where you need to write a letter asking for information or describing the problem. The letter might be informal, formal, or semi-formal. It is to test your ability to showcase your English language writing skills using letter-writing conventions.
In this task, you will come across a general everyday situation, for example, writing to apologise for a friend's party, complaining to a company about their lousy service, advising a friend about where to go on a vacation, or writing to express your interest in a new job. Please consider the following points regarding this task.
- The minimum word limit is 150, but there is no upper limit. However, you will be penalised if you write under the word limit.
- Additionally, you will be given three bullet points to highlight precisely what information you need to write in your letter about the situation. For example, you may need to describe details, give reasons, express likes and dislikes, or make suggestions or recommendations.
- You will need to use the right tone in your letter. It is how you communicate with people, showing your relationship with them.
- Your tone is pointed out in your letter by an appropriate salutation and closing.
- Your choice of words or phrasing also indicates the tone of your letter.
The candidate generally writes the letter in a formal or informal tone. Usually, suppose the letter is to friends. In that case, the letter style is informal for people you know personally or with family. The reason for writing is positive. On the other hand, if the test-taker writes the letter to an unknown person, their senior, boss, application letters, etc. For all complaints and negative messages, they need to write it formally.
IELTS Writing Task 2
The IELTS writing task 2 is your second task. The candidates have to write. Out of the total 60 minutes, giving at least 40 minutes is usually recommended. It carries 66% of the marks weightage, comparatively more than the marks of the IELTS writing task 1. The question you get varies on whether you write the IELTS academic or general test.
Read More: IELTS - Writing assessment criteria for task 2
Read More: IELTS - Writing assessment criteria for task 2
IELTS Academic Writing Task 2
In the IELTS academic writing task 2, you will be given a perspective, argument, or an issue. Below are some types of topics you can get in the exam.
- The environment.
- Immigration.
- Culture.
- Technology.
You might be asked to disagree or agree with a perspective or argument, discuss two opposing opinions, write about the advantages or disadvantages of a subject, explain a given problem or the cause of the issue and provide a solution. Please note that you have to write the response for IELTS academic writing task 2 in a formal essay format.
IELTS General Writing Task 2
The test-takers are asked to write an essay based on an argument, point of view, or issue. You can write the article in a more personal style than an academic writing task. However, it is essential to remember that supporting your perspective with related examples from your knowledge and experience is key.
The subject matter you have to write here is general. For example, whether it is better to home school children, whether the legal drinking age should be increased, who is responsible for the care of the elderly, or how families could be brought closer together. Please note the following essentials regarding the task.
- The minimum word limit is 250, but there is no upper limit. However, you will be penalised if you write under the word limit.
- The question paper task instructions give you information about the question telling you how to elaborate on the topic in your essay. For example,
- As mentioned above, you must complete the task using relevant ideas and examples to support your content.
- You must organise your essay transparently using paragraphs for each idea.
The IELTS examiner checks your answers based on your ability to follow English essay-writing rules and guidelines to arrange and link information understandably, using language precisely and appropriately to express your perspectives and ideas.
IELTS Writing Tips
The IELTS writing section may contain only two tasks, whether you are writing the academic or general test. Still, scoring the desired 7+ 8+ or nine band score can be pretty tough. So to help you achieve the desired IELTS score for your selected college, university, or training centre, here are some tips to successfully get a high score in the IELTS writing task 1 and IELTS writing task 2.
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If you know how to write an essay, it's fantastic. Still, you should always write in an introduction, two paragraphs, and a conclusion format if you don't.
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Please read the task prompt carefully and understand it. If the question is clear, you are already halfway done with the answer. Identify the question's type. It can be a solution, opinion, criticise the point, back it up, etc.
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After reading the prompt, take 5 min to work with your thoughts and draft your answer with main points and examples.
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Try to answer the question's what, who, why, when, where, and how. It will help you write the best answer.
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If the prompt allows it, write your own opinions and relevant examples. However, always use formal language.
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Avoid dull, repetitive usage of words, and try to have better punctuation, spelling, word formation, and vocabulary.
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Stick to the main points. Your writing should be relevant and focused.
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Stay within the boundaries of the question.
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Complete all your tasks to avoid penalty.
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Practice with as many sample tests as possible.
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Task 2 has more weightage than task 1, giving it more time to complete.
IELTS Writing Samples
The best way to practice IELTS writing, whether general or academic, is via sample papers. These mock papers help you find out your weaknesses (and improve them), improve your speed, confidence, handwriting, and a lot more. So please practice as many sample papers as possible to achieve a higher IELTS writing band score.
Do you wish to improve your IELTS writing band score and take it to a 7+ or even 9? Then, look no further than AECC. With our updated and expert IELTS classes, we will help you crack the IELTS exam on the first try with your desired band scores.
