IELTS Writing Tasks

The IELTS writing test consists of two tasks: Task 1 and Task 2. These tasks assess your ability to write in English, and they have different formats and objectives.

Task 1: Academic

In the Academic version of the IELTS writing test, Task 1 requires you to analyze and describe visual information in the form of a graph, chart, table, diagram, or map. You may be presented with data related to trends, comparisons, or processes. Your objective is to provide a clear and concise description of the key trends and significant features of the visual data.

Your response should be at least 150 words. You should spend 20 minutes on this task.

Latest topics on IELTS writing Task 1 with sample responses

Task 1: General Training

In the General Training version of the IELTS writing test, Task 1 involves writing a letter. You will be presented with a scenario and asked to write a letter for a specific purpose, such as requesting information, making a complaint, or expressing appreciation. The letter format can be formal, semi-formal, or informal, depending on the context provided. Your response should be at least 150 words.

Task 2: Both Academic and General Training

Task 2 of the IELTS writing test is the same for both the Academic and General Training versions. In this task, you are required to write an essay in response to a question or statement. Your objective is to present and support your opinion or argument on the given topic. Your essay should be well-structured, with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. It should be at least 250 words in length.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s expected in each section:

For Task 1 (Academic):

  • Describe the key trends or features of the visual data.
  • Provide an overview and highlight significant points.
  • Use a range of vocabulary to accurately describe the data.
  • Organize your response logically.

For Task 1 (General Training):

  • Follow the instructions for the type of letter (formal, semi-formal, informal).
  • Address all the points mentioned in the prompt.
  • Use appropriate tone and language for the context.
  • Organize the letter with a greeting, body, and closing.

For Task 2 (Both Academic and General Training):

  • Clearly state your opinion or argument in the introduction.
  • Support your points with examples and evidence in the body paragraphs.
  • Use appropriate transitions between paragraphs.
  • Summarize your main points and restate your opinion in the conclusion.
  • Maintain coherence and cohesion in your essay.
  • Demonstrate a good command of grammar and vocabulary.

Scoring

In the IELTS Academic Writing , test-takers are assessed based on four criteria:

  1. Task Achievement (Task Response): This criterion evaluates how well you address the task. Have you provided all the necessary information in the report? Did you meet the word count requirement? Are the key features accurately presented?

  2. Coherence and Cohesion: This criterion assesses the organization and structure of your response. It considers the overall flow of your writing, the use of paragraphs, and how well your ideas are connected. Does your report have a logical progression and a clear structure?

  3. Lexical Resource (Vocabulary): This criterion examines the range and accuracy of your vocabulary. Are you using a variety of words? Are they appropriate for academic writing? Are you using terminology accurately and effectively?

  4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: This criterion evaluates your use of grammar and sentence structure. Are your sentences grammatically correct? Are you using a variety of sentence structures? How is your use of punctuation?

Each of these criteria is scored on a scale of 1 to 9, and the scores are then averaged to give your final Writing Task  band score. It’s important to pay attention to each criterion and practice incorporating a range of vocabulary, grammatical structures, and organizational techniques to maximize your score.