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IELTS Writing Task 2: ✍️ Everything You Need to Know

When helping students prepare for the IELTS test, one of the biggest fears is how to do well in IELTS Writing Task 2. 

IELTS Writing Task 2 is the second part of the writing test, where you are presented with a point of view, argument or problem and asked to write an essay in response. Your essay should be in a formal style, at least 250 words in length and you should aim to complete it in under 40 minutes. 

IELTS Writing Task 2: Everything You Need to Know

In this video, I’ll outline exactly what you must do to create an IELTS Writing Task 2 essay that could score a Band 7, 8 or 9.

It doesn’t matter if you’re new to IELTS or if you’ve failed the exam before – I’ve broken everything down into a simple 3-step process that anyone can use to improve their scores! Watch the video above to find out what they are.

5 Steps to a Band 7 in IELTS Writing Task 2

1. Understand the question.

You must understand the question before you attempt to answer it. This way, you’ll know exactly what the examiner is looking for. One of the biggest mistakes students make is not answering the question fully, which stops them from getting a score higher than a Band 5.

To analyse the question , you must first identify the question type, then identify the keywords in the question and finally identify the instructions words. This will help you understand exactly what the examiner wants you to do with the question.

2. Plan your answer.

The students who get the highest marks in Writing Task 2 always plan their answers for up to 10 minutes. Planning helps you organise your ideas and structure your essay before you write it, saving you time and helping you produce a clear and coherent essay.

3. Write an introduction.

The introduction should answer the question directly. This tells the examiner that you know what you are doing straight away and helps you write your main body paragraphs.

4. Write the main body paragraphs.

This is where you give the examiner more detail . You do this by stating your main points and supporting these with explanations and relevant examples.

5. Write a conclusion.

In your conclusion , you should provide a summary of what you already said in the rest of your essay.

4 Ways to Improve your Score in IELTS Writing Task 2

Many people know they need to improve their writing skills but don’t know how to do it. Here are 4 ways you can boost your score in Writing Task 2:

1. Understand the exam.

You must first understand what IELTS Writing Task 2 is, what you are expected to do and how to give the examiners what they want. This is the first stage and one that is often overlooked.

There are many online resources, often with conflicting and poor-quality information, so finding a reliable source of information is key.

2. Identify your weak areas.

If your car breaks down, you would try and identify which part caused the problem. If you get sick, your doctor will run tests to determine the exact cause of your symptoms.

IELTS Writing Task 2 is the same. We must first identify WHY you are not getting the score you need before we can help you improve.

However, be very careful! You wouldn’t ask the average man on the street for medical advice, so make sure you find someone who knows what they are doing and has the expertise to help you with this.

3. Fix the problems.

Now that we know what the problems are, we must fix them.

If your grammar needs work, fix those issues. If your vocabulary is lacking, work on fixing this issue.

Just as a good doctor can help you fix a medical problem, a good IELTS teacher can help you fix your specific issues.

4. Practice and get feedback.

Practice alone will not help you. It is an essential part of your preparation, but you must also get feedback on your work if you are really going to improve.

You wouldn’t try to teach yourself how to drive without an instructor, would you?

Find someone who will give you accurate and helpful feedback on your work. Otherwise, you will not be able to move to the last stage.

Now that you have understood what you need to do, identified the exact areas you need to work on, improved those areas, and received feedback on your work, you are now ready to get the IELTS Writing Task 2 score you deserve.

Writing Task 2 Structures 

I want to warn you about structures because they are not a magic wand that will help you automatically get a higher score. They WILL help you, but please realise that they are just a small part of your overall score.

These structures provide a sentence-by-sentence template for all the main Task 2 question types, making your job much easier on exam day.

• Task 2 Essay Structures

Essential Writing Task 2 Skills 

No matter how good your English is, you must still learn IELTS writing skills before taking the Writing Task 2 test. These helpful guides will take you through each of these skills step-by-step:

• How to Plan an Essay

Making a good plan actually saves you time when you write your essay. This guide will show you how to plan and write a clear essay every time.

• How to Think of Relevant Ideas

This guide provides 5 different methods to help you quickly think of relevant ideas that are directly linked to the question.

• How to Write a Complex Sentence

Complex sentences help you boost your score for grammar. They are actually very simple to write and are not complex at all.

• How to Paraphrase

Paraphrasing is one of the essential IELTS skills for all parts of the IELTS test. You should paraphrase the question in the very first sentence of your essay to help boost your vocabulary score in Writing Task 2.

• How to Write a Supporting Paragraph

Supporting paragraphs are the main body paragraphs and are the meat in the sandwich. This is where you provide the detail the examiner is looking for in the form of explanations and examples.

• How to Write a Thesis Statement

A thesis statement tells the examiner your opinion. Many IELTS Writing Task 2 questions specifically ask for your opinion, and if you don’t write it clearly, you have not answered the question properly. This article shows you how, where and when to give your opinion.

How many words should I write?

Around 250 words? Exactly 250 words or over 250 words? How many words over? How do I know how many words I have? Will I lose marks if I write too many words? This article answers all those questions.

• How to Understand and Analyse Any Question

A critical part of answering any question. This article shows you how to break down any Task 2 question and identify the keywords, micro-keywords and instruction words to help you answer the question effectively.

• How to Write a Great Introduction

The introduction is the first thing the examiner reads; therefore, we must give them a good first impression. I share a very specific sentence-by-sentence structure in this article to help you write introductions quickly and effectively.

• Task 2 Marking Criteria 

Do you know how Task 2 is marked? What is the difference between a Band 5 and a Band 8 answer? This article breaks down the marking criteria and explains it in simple language so you can give the IELTS examiners exactly what they want.

• How to Write a Conclusion

A good conclusion should be a summary of your main points. The conclusion is the last thing the examiner reads, and if you can write a good one, you will leave them with a very good impression.

• Using Examples

Each of your supporting paragraphs should have a specific example that supports and illustrates your main point. This is an essential skill to learn if you want to get one of the higher band scores.

• Cohesive Devices

Cohesive devices (sometimes called linking words) are one of the most misunderstood and misused elements of writing. Therefore, you must learn how to use them and when to use them.

• The Danger of Synonyms

While synonyms are very important, they can also really reduce your mark if used incorrectly.

• Paragraphing and Editing

This article will show you how to make your writing as clear and as easy to read as possible. It will also advise you on whether to use a pen or pencil.

• IELTS Writing Task 2: 8 Steps to Success

Read this blog now to access our 61-page Task 2 strategy.

• IELTS Writing Tips

I have compiled these tips after years of teaching IELTS, and all of them have been approved by IELTS examiners.

• Coherence and Cohesion

This is a video lesson that shows you in practical terms how to improve your coherence and cohesion score.

Writing Task 2 Common Topics 

Knowing the common topics can help you prepare for the test more efficiently. Here are the 10 most common topics over the last few years. Studying hard is great, but don’t forget to study smart.

The article below will show you the top 10 most common IELTS topics.

• Most Common Task 2 Topics 

Full IELTS Writing Task 2 Practice Lessons 

Here are some lessons that I have used when teaching students about IELTS Writing Task 2. I have changed them so that you can easily learn from home. They are very long but contain all the necessary information combined with the skills above.

• Agree or Disagree (Opinion) Lesson

In this lesson, we look at how to tackle an ‘agree or disagree’ question. Many people worry about whether to take one side of the other or discuss both sides. Additionally, people also worry about how to deal with ‘To what extent’ question types. We allay all of these fears in this lesson.

• Discussion Essay Lesson

‘Discuss both views’ questions often confuse people because you are asked to do many things in one essay. As such, it is very important to remember that the question asks you to discuss BOTH views AND give YOUR opinion.

• Problem and Solution Essay Lesson

These questions are much easier than you think. You probably discuss problems and solutions in your day-to-day life all the time. Keep it simple.

• Advantages and Disadvantages Lesson 

There are a couple of different types of advantages and disadvantages questions. This lesson will show you how to answer them.

• Writing Task 2 Exercise with Video

Writing is a skill, and just like any other skill, it is important to practice to improve.

• From Band 6.5 to 8 Demo Lesson

This is my most comprehensive free lesson on IELTS Writing Task 2. We show you how we took one VIP student from Band 6.5 to an amazing 8.

Sample Answers

You must have some good examples to compare your writing and see if you are on the right track. Click the link below for lots of sample answers and over 100 questions.

Task 2 Sample Answers

• Agree or Disagree Sample Essays
• Task 2 Band 9 Sample Essay
• Latest Real Task 2 Questions
• Official Sample Test Questions
• Cambridge Sample Questions
• Free Practice Test
• How To Use Task 2 Samples
• Recent Confusing Questions
• IELTS Writing Practice Guide

IELTS Writing Task 2 Essential Information

• You must write an essay in response to a question.
• You must write 250 words or more.
• Task 2 is worth 2/3 of your total mark on the Writing test.
• You should spend around 40 minutes on this part of the test.
• General Training and Academic are essentially the same for Task 2. However, they are different for Task 1.
• There are certain types of questions that you will be asked, for example, opinion, discussion etc. See below for more detail on these.
• Task Achievement (25%)
• Coherence and Cohesion (25%)
• Lexical Resource (25%)
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (25%)

Grammar and Vocabulary

Grammar is one of the four things you will be marked on in the Writing Task 2 test. Finding out what your common grammar mistakes are and then fixing them is a very powerful way to boost your score in this area. Here are some common grammar mistakes I have found after making hundreds of tests.

• Top 10 Grammar Mistakes

For most IELTS students, the problem is not grammar in general. In fact, it is usually just 1-2 problem areas. Therefore, when you fix these main weaknesses, you’ll be able to improve your grammar and your writing score dramatically.

• Using Personal Pronouns

Hint- They aren’t as big of a deal as you think.

See the interactive tool below for the answers to the most commonly asked questions we receive about IELTS Writing Task 2: 

IELTS Writing Task 2 FAQs

How can i improve my writing.

You will find all the resources you need on our Writing Task 2 page. Click the link below:

Writing Task 2

We also have two Task 2 courses for those that need to improve their Task 2 skills and strategy. They are both based online and completely free of charge. Learn more about them below:

Task 2 5 Day Challenge

Task 2 Essay Builder

If you need serious help or personalised feedback, you should check out our VIP Course. There is a waiting list, but you can add your name here:

How can I get a Band 7, 8 or 9?

The answer to this question is different for every individual IELTS student, as it depends on a number of factors, including your work ethic, English skills and exam strategy. You'll find a guide to answering this question in this article

If you need serious help with improving your IELTS scores, you should check out our online writing course. There is a waiting list, but you can add your name by clicking the link below:

Can you correct my writing?

Please click the link below and it will give you all the information you need about our writing correction service:

Writing Correction Service

Do you have any sample answers?

Yes, you will find them at the link below:

Will using 'high level' or 'academic' words help me improve my score?

Probably not.

Read my recent article about IELTS vocabulary here:

5 Things You Need to Know about IELTS Vocabulary

Can I use idioms?

No, you should not write idioms for Task 2.

Can I use personal pronouns?

You should avoid using personal pronouns, but it is fine to use them when giving your personal opinion.

Do you write a conclusion for Task 2?

Yes, it is very difficult to get a good score in Task 2 if you haven't finished your essay with a conclusion. You will find an in-depth lesson on conclusions here:

How to Write an Effective Task 2 Conclusion

How many paragraphs should I write?

Most IELTS task 2 essays follow the same basic four paragraph structure:

• Introduction
• Supporting Paragraph 1
• Supporting Paragraph 2

However, you can find more comprehensive help with structuring your Task 2 essays here:

5 Day Challenge

Do I need to plan my essay?

I would highly recommend planning your essay. A good plan acts like a map that guides you through the essay, ensuring that you give the examiner exactly what they need to award you the score you need. You can find help with planning your essays here: How to Plan an IELTS Essay

You must write at least 250 words in Writing Task 2.

I would suggest that you aim to write around 270-280 words in total. Aiming for 20-30 words more than the required amount makes you more likely to reach the word limit without setting an unrealistic goal.

Will I lose marks if I don't write enough words?

Yes, if you don't write the required number of words, you will lose marks in 'Task Achievement' for not answering the question fully. Read more here .

Can I use contractions?

No, should not use contractions when you are writing an academic essay.

Free IELTS lessons signup

• Academic practice
• General practice
• Task 1 Academic
• Task 1 General
• Task 2 (essay)

Essay samples with tips and answers

Sample 1 ("Violence in media") Presenting opinion

Sample 2 ("Working students") Suggesting a solution

Sample 3 ("Death penalty") Pros & cons

Sample 4 ("Loss of bio-diversity") Cause/solution

Sample 5 ("Obesity") Causes and effects

Sample 6 ("Salary vs. job satisfaction") Agree/disagree

Sample 7 ("Sedentary lifestyle") Problem/solution

More IELTS Writing task 2 questions >

IELTS Writing task 2 - Essay

Here you can find all the essential information about IELTS Writing essay .

IELTS Writing task 2 (or IELTS essay ) is the same task for Academic and General IELTS . You will be presented with a specific topic and asked to write an 250-word essay about it. You should normally spend 40 minutes on IELTS Writing task 2.

On this page you will see :

IELTS Writing task 2 question sample

• Types of IELTS essay questions
• How to answer these questions
• More IELTS Writing task 2 questions and answers

You can get a lot of different topics for your IELTS Writing task 2. You can be asked to give your opinion, to state solutions to some problem, to describe advantages and disadvantages of something and so on.

Here's an example of how your IELTS Writing task 2 may look like :

Immigration has a major impact on the society.

What are the main reasons of immigration? To what consequences can it lead?

Write at least 250 words.

You can find the band-9 answer here >

More IELTS Writing task 2 questions & topics >

How to write IELTS Essay?

1) Determine your opinion on the topic

• Giving your opinion
• Agree/disagree
• Suggesting a solution
• Pros and cons

Depending on the topic, decide what is your opinion on it and why. Have a clear position, don't hesitate between two opinions! Then find examples you will use for this task. You should spend a few minutes on planning.

2) Write an answer using the following structure:

Note that this description is very general. To learn more specific answering strategies, look at the different question types .

3) Style your essay

Use various words and structures , linking devices and avoid repetition.

Use some words from academic word list .

Do not use informal style and avoid irrelevant information, you will receive less points for your work.

Also, don't forget to write at least 250 words, writing less will affect your mark negatively. You should aim at 260-280 words. You won’t get more points for a longer essay.

Other things that might affect your mark:

• Fluency : if your handwriting is not illegible for the examiner and he/she can’t read it properly, you are likely to lose points.
• Unoriginal answer : if you learnt a topic by heart and wrote it, you might get a low score for your essay. IELTS examiner assesses only your own thoughts and opinions.
• Limited answer : if you only answer half of the question and don’t expand your opinion, you will not get more than a band score 5 for the task.
• Information about IELTS Writing test
• Top 10 IELTS Writing tips
• Writing vocabulary

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10 steps to writing high-scoring IELTS essays

Whether you take the general training or academic IELTS test, the second writing task is writing an essay in response to a problem or argument. Here are 10 easy steps, with lots of tips, to guide you on how to write high-scoring essays.

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How is the ielts essay component marked.

Fairness and accuracy are critically important when marking IELTS writing tasks . Your essay will be marked by at least two experienced IELTS examiners on the following criteria:

Task response - Whether you answered the question fully and supported your answer well. 

Coherence and cohesion - How well you linked your ideas together. 

Lexical resource - Whether you used a wide range of vocabulary correctly and appropriately. 

Grammatical range and accuracy - How many grammatical structures you used accurately and appropriately. 

Each of these criteria is worth 25% of your total score for the essay writing task. Both of your writing tasks are used to calculate your overall writing band score.

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How to write high-scoring essays in 10 easy steps, step one: plan your time.

The Writing test (consisting of Writing tasks 1 and 2) takes approximately 60 minutes. Plan to spend around 20 minutes on your first task, and 40 minutes on your essay task. A sample plan for your time might be:

5 to 10 minutes reading the essay question and planning your answer

15 to 20 minutes writing your first draft

10 minutes proofreading and editing your essay

How to write a good introduction

Step two: read the question.

While you may be anxious to jump straight into writing, make sure you take the time to carefully read the essay question. If you misunderstand the question, you risk writing an essay that does not address the issues properly which will lower your score.

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Step three: highlight the issues to address.

There will be multiple issues that you will need to address in your essay. Addressing each issue individually is key to achieving a high essay score. Highlight each individual issue that you will need to address.

The A to Z of IELTS: E is for Essays

Step four: outline your response.

Create an outline of how you will respond to the issues in your essay. This will serve as your ‘blueprint’ when you write your first draft. As a general rule your essay should have:

An introduction stating what you will talk about

Two or three body paragraphs , each addressing one issue or idea

A conclusion summing up what was discussed in the essay

Make sure you note which idea or issue you will address in each paragraph. Check that the issues you highlighted are all accounted for in your outline.

Step five: Expand on your ideas

Write some notes about any key points or ideas you’d like to include in each paragraph. When you’re writing your first draft, these notes will help to make sure you don’t forget any ideas you want to include.

Mind maps to build your vocabulary resource for IELTS

Step six: plan how you will connect your ideas.

Connecting your ideas clearly and correctly is critical to achieving a high essay score. Try to use a range of linking words to make your essay easy to read. You can use connecting devices and phrases to:

List connected ideas

‘Firstly, secondly, thirdly’

‘Furthermore’

Provide more information

Compare ideas.

‘On the other hand’

‘Alternatively’

Don’t fall into the trap of trying to put a linking word in every sentence. Essays will score higher when the writer uses linking words only where necessary and appropriate.

Step seven: Write your first draft

Now that you’ve planned your essay, it’s time to write your first draft. Follow the outline you’ve created and expand on the notes and ideas you included there. 

Avoid informal language unless it is appropriate.

Avoid spelling and grammatical errors where possible.

Use a mix of sentence structures such as simple sentences, complex sentences and compound sentences.

How to boost your IELTS Writing score

Step eight: proofread your essay.

When you have completed the first draft of your essay, it’s important to proofread it. Read your essay from start to finish.

You can read it silently, but it may help to read it out loud if you can do so without disturbing others. Make a mental note or mark your paper anywhere that you may need to fix an issue.

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Step nine: edit your essay.

Carefully go through the issues you noted while proofreading. Edit or rewrite these until they look and sound correct. Examples of issues and how to edit them may include:

The sentence is too long. A sentence is probably too long if you need to take a breath in the middle of reading it. Try splitting this up into smaller sentences.

A sentence sounds strange when you read it out loud. Try using different words or punctuation until it sounds right. It may need to be connected to another sentence.

The same word appears many times. Think about any other words you could use instead.

There is more than one main idea in each paragraph. Move any unrelated sentences to the correct paragraph. Each paragraph should address one issue only.

IELTS Writing: How to organise your responses

Step ten: proofread your essay again.

After your edits and before submitting your essay , give it one final proofread. Make sure you have:

Included all the points you highlighted in step three

Followed your outline from step four

Used good connecting words from step six

Fixed any errors or issues in step nine

IELTS Writing: 8 steps towards a band 8

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With convenient computer and paper based test options, your IELTS test can be completed in a way that you’re most comfortable with. If you’re in a hurry, you could even have your test results back within 2 to 5 days!

Also, the IELTS Familiarisation test is designed to give test takers an idea of what to expect on the actual IELTS test. It includes sample questions from different part of the test, such as Listening, Reading, and Writing.  Set yourself up for success and explore our extensive library of preparation materials today.

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IELTS practice Academic Writing test - Task 1

How to approach academic writing task 1.

In the IELTS Academic Writing test, you will have one hour to complete both of the two set writing tasks. Keep an eye on the time it takes you to complete practice Tasks 1 and 2 to make sure you don’t go too far over, and to use as a benchmark for how long you can expect each task to take you.

In the actual test, you will move from the first to the second task without a break. However, while practising, you may wish to reflect on the outcomes of practice Task 1 using the model answer provided before moving on to practice Task 2. Or you may wish to complete them both before looking at the model answers to give you a more accurate sense of timing.

An easy reminder…

Q: How long should I spend on IELTS Writing Task 1?

A: We suggest 20 minutes – saving 40 minutes for Task 2.

Q: How many words for IELTS Writing Task 1?

A: 150 words is about the right length, but don’t be afraid to go a little over.

Q: Should I be formal or conversational in style?

A: You should write in a formal style, suited to an academic environment.

Q: What are the do’s and don’ts in IELTS Writing task 1?

A: Do pay attention to time - task 1 is worth one third of the total marks (while task 2 is worth two thirds), Don’t let nervousness stop you from trying your best.

Get more tips to help you prepare for the writing tasks

Task 1 – Take a look at the chart below and perform the task as outlined:

This graph shows the proportion of four different materials that were recycled from 1982 to 2010 in a particular country.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, making comparisons where relevant.

What should I do next?

Once you’ve finished, you can download the model answer for Writing Task 1 and see how your work compares.

 This sample offers a useful guide for how to structure your answer for IELTS writing task 1, as well as the style of writing expected.  A good way to improve is to reflect on how your answer compares to the model answer – and, of course, keep practicing.

If you want to see an example of an actual answer sheet for the IELTS Academic Writing test (‘on paper’ version), you can download a sample copy below.

• IELTS practice Academic Writing test - Task 2

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IELTS Writing Task 1: Essential Preparation Tips

Below are the essential preparation tips to learn how to prepare for your IELTS writing task 1 test. These top 12 tips are for the IELTS academic writing paper.

1. Understanding Task 1

• write an academic report on a chart of graph (see below for all types of task 1)
• write over 150 words (the examiner will count your words and there will be a penalty for being under the word count)
• write your report in 20 mins (don’t take more time because task 2 is worth double the marks)

 2.  Practice Tests

Get the Cambridge IELTS Practice test book s. There are 9 books which have been published by IELTS. Each books contains 4 full IELTS tests which are authentic (real) past exam papers.

3. Task 1 Band Scores and Marking Criteria

Understand the band scores for each criterion in writing task 1. The IELTS examiner will mark you on:

• Task Achievement (25%)
• Coherence and Cohesion (25%)
• Vocabulary (25%)
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (25%)

Get to know the requirements for each criterion for the band score you are aiming for. Here’s a link to the IELTS writing task 1 public band score descriptors which are published by IELTS. The examiner will give you a band score for each individual criterion above and then your final score for writing task 1 is the average of the 4.

4. Types of Task 1

Learn the 6 main types of charts that can be given in writing task 1 (maps, diagrams, bar charts, tables, line graphs and pie charts). You should practice writing reports for all types of task 1 by using sample IELTS charts . It is also possible to get a combination of two types, for example a bar chart with a pie chart.

5. Introduction Paragraph

Practice writing the introduction statement. Here are two examples, which one do you think it best?

• Here we can see that the graph represented information regarding the number of sales of two companies in two years
• The chart illustrates the number of sales of two companies (Marks Ltd and Bumper Store) in 2000 and 2010.

The introduction is usually very quick to write and quite formulaic (standard) in content. Here’s a link to see how to write an introduction for a bar chart .

6. Overviews for Writing Task 1

Practice identifying key features for all kinds of charts. The key features make up the content of the overview which is the most essential paragraph in your task 1 report. The key features for most charts are the highest and lowest categories as well as the most significant differences between categories. However, for diagrams the key stages can be harder to identify so here a link to a sample introduction and overview for an IELTS diagram. Many students get confused whether to have a conclusion or an overview – make sure you get it right.

7. Vocabulary

Get a list of useful vocabulary for each type of writing task. This is particularly important for line graphs, maps and pie charts. The line graph is the type of writing task 1 which has the biggest range of possible vocabulary that can be used. Here’s a link to vocabulary for line graphs .

To get a good score in writing task 1, it is important to use a range of words which means  you need to paraphrase when possible. However, as mistakes can cause you to lose points, it is important not to take chances with your vocabulary. Spelling is also checked so make sure you don’t make mistakes with your spelling.

To get a good score, you will also need to work on complex sentence structures. For students aiming for band score 6 and above, this is essential. Luckily sentence structures for task 1 can be learnt and then adapted to fit each individual task  (to some extent). Here’s a link to the 4 main sentence structures for a line graph . Along with grammar is accuracy. The more mistakes you make the lower your score will be so getting rid of common errors is important. Here is a link to spotting grammar mistakes for a pie chart. If you have frequent errors, you may get band score 5 for grammar.

9. Structure for Writing Task 1

You need to make sure you structure your report correctly as the examiner will pay attention to the organisation of information and paragraphing. Here’s a link to the structure for IELTS writing task 1 report. Make sure you follow this as it is easy to get a good score for organisation. Structure and linking devices are part of the criterion of Coherence and Cohesion which makes up 25% of your marks.

10. Linking Devices

Linking is also very important. You will need to show the examiner a range of linking devices that connect information together and compare information in a coherent way. Again, linking is very easy to learn so make sure you pay attention to this. Different charts use different linkers so make sure you review each type of task to see the best linking devices to use.

11. Model Answers for IELTS Writing Task 1

Follow safe models. There are a lot of sample answers for you to follow on the internet, but following a safe model which fulfills the requirement set by IELTS is essential. Here’s a link to a complete lesson on how to write a pie chart report paragraph by paragraph.

12. Practice using the Answer Sheet

Before your test, make sure you practice writing on the official IELTS answer sheet for writing task 1. Watch this video lesson to learn why you should practice with the answer sheet and how to fill it in properly. Here is a link to download the answer sheet .

Recommended

• How to describe a bar chart : Video Tutorial
• Line Graph Model Answer Band 9

Hi Liz, The information provided in your blog was very useful for my success at the exam. Your valuable time committed to provide us information is highly appreciated. I salute for your service. Thanks lot. from Sri Lanka

Glad to hear you did well 🙂

You are really a nice teacher and i did my best through your videos. Free of cost ahahahahahhahah

Hello there Liz how’s your condition ? hope you are doing well, Since You have mentioned that there are 9 IELTS Cambridge practice books, but the last I checked, there are 17 volumes, which ones do you suggest to start for band score 8 for Ielts general training, as an upper intermediate English speaker? I appreciate your support and tysm for this amazing website

Each year IELTS publish a new book. Book 17 is the latest. However, previous books are still fully valid as the test hasn’t changed except in very minor ways, such as being on computer or the listening test no longer having an example at the start of the audio.

Hi Lizzy . Please I can’t t see your recent videos.

I stopped making videos in 2015 and will start again once my health improves. I do, however, continue updating this website with new tips and lessons.

Hey Liz, Today is my first day of IELTS preparation and I found this amazing creation by you. Its already making things easier. Thank you so much!!

I’m glad my lessons are helping you 🙂

Hi Liz. Thank you for the free lessons and tips. I will like to know if the overview for task 1 Writing can be separated from the intro soon a separate paragraph.

Yes, definitely. I usually write my overview as a separate paragraph as it’s the most important paragraph in task 1.

Hi, Elizabeth. It’s been a pleasure for me to practice woth your resources. Thanks for building such a prolific platform for IELTS aspirants

You’re welcome 🙂

Thanks a lot for you great explanations! Just wanted to let you know the link to “conclusion or overview” under point 6 is broken. Best,

Thanks David. I just fixed it. Happy 2021 !

Thank you so much Ma. Your site was very useful to my preparation. My results just came in and I scored 8.0. I’ll gladly recommend this site for others. God bless you!!

Wonderful news!! Very well done 🙂

I cannot thank you enough for the tip to write an overview after the introduction paragraph. I have just received my test results for IELTS Academic and they are 8.5 overall and 7.5 for Writing. I had limited time to prepare for the test and read the tip while in a cab on the way to the test venue. During the Writing part I did the Task 2 first and it took me all of the 41 minutes (and 440 words), with only 19 minutes remaining for the Task 1. Luckily, it was a simple chart and I wrote the introduction and overview first, then wrote two body paragraphs with barely a minute to check for typos and the time was up. I ended up writing 220 words and would have written more if not for the time limit. However, since I made sure I wrote the overview first, I was able to relax and found it so much easier to concentrate on the details of the chart. Thank you for the brilliant idea! None of the other teachers online came up with it.

Great results 🙂 Writing the overview after the introduction is logical. Task 1 is a report and the overview contains the main details of the report so having presenting that early helps both the reader and the writer. Also, as you said, it ensures you don’t miss it if time is limited. Well done to you 🙂

I am glad to have come across this material for the preparation of IELTS exam, Just wanted to know about the general mistakes I (a candidate) might have been doing while going for the Writing portion of the Test. Just to give you a brief, I have appeared for IELTS about 3 times now and have never touched band 7.0 in each attempt (To be precise, I got 6.5 in all attempts in writing particularly), However rest of the sections speak a different story (Getting at least 8.0 in each section respectively). Can you please advise as to what I might be doing wrong in Writing section in particular. I try to increase my Vocabulary learning new words each day and implement those words in my sentence formations as well.

Be careful learning new words and using them in your essay. If you use them incorrectly or inappropriately, your score will go down. It takes time to learn words properly so that you can use them without errors. Avoiding errors MUST be your main goal in IELTS Writing. Also review ALL my free lessons and tips: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2/ . Then consider my Advanced Lessons which will give you the right techniques for a high score: https://elizabethferguson.podia.com/

Hi Liz, Your site is very helpful! Thank you! I see you have recommended the Cambridge IELTs book. They have now released no. 10. Would this be a good resource for the Academic test? I am a native English speaker but not achieving the writing score I need. Your help would be greatly appreciated! Kind regards, Jade

Book 14 is the most recent and book 15 is coming out this summer. They are the only authentic past papers you can buy. Yes, you should be using them. How many you wish to get is your choice and will depend on how much prep you wish to do. These books contain tests, not training or advice or understanding. They won’t help you learn how to tackle IELTS writing and they won’t help you understand the band score requirements. Try my free lessons: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2/ and my Advanced Lessons: https://elizabethferguson.podia.com/

Sorry The question about private lessons and marking writings was meant to be asked to you, Liz. I need the answer as soon as possible please.

Unfortunately, because I work alone, I do not have time to offer private lessons or marking. However, my advanced writing task 2 lessons are very detailed and will answer most of your concerns: https://elizabethferguson.podia.com/

Someone who corrects my essay tells me that don’t use brackets if you want to have high scores. So, i’m quite confused about it because you said it is perfectly normal to use brackets in writing task 1 in the video.

It is completely fine to use brackets for task 1. However, don’t overuse them. Always show flexibility and a good range of sentence structures by presenting data in different ways.

Thanks a lot Liz. This website is really helpful to prepare IELTS.

i am unable to download the answer sheet of IELTS writing test. The link already present is broken. Can you please attach the correct link here.

Thanks for letting me know. I’ve just put up a new link.

No words enough to show my gratitude! May God bless you.

Thanks Liz.

I absolutely loved your site and way of guiding to obtain a good IELTS result.

My writting task definitely felt much better with your tips and guidance.

Today I took the test, I hope the results are positive.

Keep up the good work!

Fingers crossed for you 🙂

What is your result?

Morning Liz, Really appreciate all your efforts! Is there any Videos for “Writing- Letter (General Testing). I see lot of sample letter questions. But there are no sample letters to actually read through the whole letter and grasp the idea or I may be overlooking 🙂 Please advise- Harry

There is a link above to model letters which are full letters that you can read and learn from for IELTS.

Could you please let me know if for task1 in Ielts Academic we may receive to write a letter or that is the case only for Ielts General ?

See this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/

Thanks for all your great efforts! I am wondering if it is fine to have only two sentences in my body paragraphs. Though it can be seen in examples you have provided, some other teachers say it should be at least three sentences. Which one is correct?

There is no such rule in IELTS. For writing task 2, all main points should be fully extended which means that the body paragraphs are mostly of equal length. However, writing task 1 is not an essay, it is a report. Paragraphs are not balanced in length. It is even possible to have a paragraph of one sentence. It’s fine for teachers to advise you, but they should point out that it is advice and not a rule.

Hi, I`m a content maker in iran and we work on teaching EFL. Your content is so helpful and comprehensive. i appreciate that and wish you best

Hi.. Thank you for the information. I would like to ask you a question in writing test. Is it ok if we write the reason why is the percentage different from one year to another year? Thank you

If the reason is stated in the chart, you can write it. You can only provide information that is visible in the chart – you can’t add opinions.

Thank you very much for your everything on IELTS. I Learned a lot.

I realized that now exam patterned changed little bit as Writing Task 01 , they normally give two different charts (Bar Chart & Table or Line graph with Pie Chart) .

Hope you will add some models for these kind of things.

Rgds Lalith

The patterns have not changed. They gave multiple tasks and single tasks in the past, and they do the same now. You can find model answers for all kinds on this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/

i love you mam thank you soo much

Hy Liz, I just want to tell you that you are doing an amazing job, by helping alot of people understand the mechanics of IELTS, and that too for free.You are an amazing human being, may the blessings of Allah be upon you.

I followed you and IELTS Cambridge books religiously from the day i started preparation, yesterday i got my result and i got an overall 8.0 with 9.0 in reading, 8.5 in listening, 7.0 in speaking and 7.o in writing in contrast to my previous result of 7.o overall.

Thanks a lot liz and keep doing the wonderful job you are doing.

Brilliant !! Such a great improvement from band 7 to 8 !! Very well done to you 🙂 Thanks for letting me know 🙂

Hello Liz, I have some challenges in my writings. I am weary of task 2 essay writing. Pls advice me. Thanks

Get my advanced lessons – you will quickly learn how to tackle them properly: https://elizabethferguson.podia.com/

Hi liz, Can overview contain numbers, percentages or years? I have my exam very soon. Please respond at your earliest.

Yes, it is possible. There is no fixed rule. The majority of the time, the overview will contain only description. But there are cases (such as totals in a table) when the overview might contain numbers.

What if i write task 1 on task 2 sheet and task 2 on task 1 sheet.

If you do that, you will need to change the heading on the paper so that the examiner knows clearly and easily which paper is which.

Hi liz, i noticed you skipped task 1 for general training. Please how does one fill this void

On this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/ , you will find essential tips for GT letter writing and also model letters.

I want to improve my speaking

See this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-speaking-free-lessons-essential-tips/

Could you please upload video with tips for writing task 1 in GT . I am going to take GT in September 9.

I won’t be making more videos until next year.

Can we write hammering the last nail in task 2 of ielts wrtting in place of to conclude🤔

Don’t use informal language in an IELTS essay.

Hi liz can i ask what is the difference between campbridge textbook ielts 9 and 10? What book should i used?? Im a nurse im planning to get ielts next year.

Each book contains 4 real IELTS test published by IELTS. The books are published in order of age: book 12 is the most recent. You can use all books to help you prepare, but books 9 – 12 are the best.

From where I get written samples for writing task so I can check the pattern and follow it in my practice?

See the main pages of this website. Here is the main page for writing task 1: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/

Hello Liz, I really appreciate your effort for posting such a useful videos. can you upload some videos of general writting task 1.

I won’t be making more videos until later this year (if I’m lucky). But I will put GT videos on my list 🙂

Hi Liz, Your website is very essential for IELTS preparation. Can you please upload a video about writing letters for general training writing test 1. Thanks and best regards.

I hope to make more videos at the end of this year.

Thank you miss. Elizabeth Oh! I could find a mistake for you, I am enthusiastic to go to the exam now 😀 * second introduction statement is better

Hi Liz, First of all I’d like to thank you for your efforts and hard working to help us improve. I have a question about academic writing task 1. what are the maximum words that we should write? Is it ok if I write 216 words in this task? Best regards, 😀

If your writing task 1 report contains too many small details, you will get a lower mark. 25% of your marks for task 1 is your ability to select information and highlight key features. Of course, if the chart gives few details, then you might present all but if there is plenty of information to present then you must be selective. So, writing over 200 words is not showing the skill of selecting.

Do you have an overview of when to write a conclusion section for writing part 1? Thank you in advance!

Kind regards

See this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-tips-conclusion-or-overview-for-writing-task-1/

i wann practise ielts writing part .

https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2/

Hi Liz, I am planning to retake IELTS exam because I was unable to get a score of 8 and above for my writing. I need someone to critique my essays. Can you help me on this? Please contact me at: [email protected]

See this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-essay-correction/

Mam… First of all Thanku so much for this website this helping us a lot for preparation… I wanna knw that what is the difference between the Cambridge ilets 9 and 11 which book is to be purchased

Book 11 is the most recent. So, go for that one.

my writing band score is not increasing.why

Go to the main writing pages, and then read about the band scores. Find your weaknesses. Alternatively see my advanced lessons: http://subscriptions.viddler.com/IELTSLizStore

hii Liz…I really appreciate your efforts for creating such a wonderful platform to score in IELTS.Your videos are helping me a lot.Thank you so much..:)

I have a question on writing task 1 . Is it fine if I write upto 190 words?

I look forward to hearing you soon.. Thanks.. Best, Pramit

There is no upper limit. Just make sure you are being selective with the information and not including irrelevant information.

Thank you so much for the response. Best, Pramit

Hi Liz, Thank you very much for helping us. I have a query about word counting. Number of articles are considered in 150 words? I look forward to hearing from you Liz. Best Regards, Manobendro Sarker

All words – big and small are counted.

do we have time for rewriting?

You have a total of 1 hour for two tasks. Time is very limited.

HI MRS Liz i have one question , when we use amount and number n how ? pls clear it for me as soon as u can because my exam next three days

should we write a conclusion or not

You will find a whole page about conclusions and overviews on this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/

hi liz, can we write figures in overview paragraph?

If they are totals, yes.

from where to i could start ilets practice….?

See the video on my home page: https://ieltsliz.com/

jass…. is there any difference in idp and bc marking test

No. The marking criteria are exactly the same and the examiners are trained in the same way. These are not separate companies when it comes to IELTS, they are both co-owners of IELTS.

Hi liz!! Can I use present contin. in WT 1? , Thank you for your data!

https://ieltsliz.com/liz-notice-2015-2016/

mother u explained well

hi mam. when u will be back ?

Hi, In writing task-1, do we also have to analyse the figures? Like for example, if the question is about people listening radio and watching TV, then do we also have to write like..people probably don’t watch TV in morning because they are working in office. Or we just have to stick to explaining the graph backing the statement by data? (Interpretation and analysis both or just the interpretation?)

You never give an opinion or try to give reasons for it. You report what you see. This is report, not an essay. All the best Liz

Do you have an idea in terms of which test is easier to take on the following: IELTS Academic,PTE Academic,TOEFL and CAE?

Sorry, I only work with IELTS and am not very familiar with other testing systems. Liz

Thanks for responding,in terms of the academic,how different is it from the GT? I know listening and speaking its the same exam. The difference is on reading and writing where in writing there is the issue of graphs being part of the curriculum.

I have a date on the 19th of November and i want to ask for assistance in terms of advice as to which areas i can make sure by the time i get to the exam will have mastered. regards Jasiel

The GT test is slightly easier for writing and reading. See these pages: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-gt-academic-writing-differences/ and also https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-general-training-reading-information/ All the best Liz

Kindly assist me,I took a GT exam for immigration to Australia and did not do well in listening because i want 8 band across all modules.

I have a date for academic but wanted to find out if the band will be reduced because i am taking Academic instead of GT, and is it difficult as people say because i could have taken CAE,TOEFL,PTE Academic but feel with the knowledge i accumulated on this site better to do IETLS

regards Jasiel

Sorry, I don’t have information about immigration. Make sure your English is strong enough to get band score 8. If your English is not good enough, you must work to improve it before you book your next test. All the best Liz

Hi, there! Liz, your website is awesome! I’m lovin’ it! The thing is, as I was reading through the pieces of advice you’ve shared above, I came up to something that made me really confused. And that is “Why are you saying ‘each criteria’ instead of saying ‘each criterion’? “

The reason is that I’m not careful when I type quickly and don’t proof read enough. Thanks for spotting it! All the best Liz

Dear liz, Just have one doubt about cocluding task 1. What is the appropriate way to do.

There is no conclusion for writing task 1. Liz

and overview is must in every task 1?

Only in academic writing task 1.

Hello Liz I have question .. The following is writing task 1 statement “The bar chart below shows the percentage of people in UK living alone by sex and age in 2004/05 “.. Is it possible to paraphrase it to the following “The bar chart illustrate the amount of people in UK who are living alone in terms of percentage dividing according to their age and gender during the period 2004/05.. Is that a good paraphrase? If it is not, who can I make it better?

Sorry, I do not give feedback on writing. Liz

Hello Liz I have question related to the overview paragraph, Is there any words except overall by which we can start our overview paragraph ???

“Overall” is the most appropriate to use. It helps the examiner locate your overview quickly and easily which helps you get a better score. Liz

Hi Liz, In writing task 1 (Academic) there are two pages provided. My question is if I want to write more should I continue on subsequent pages given for task 2 or should I ask for separate sheets meant for task 1.

Please reply soon as I my exam is approaching very near.

Thanking you in advance, Rushi

At no time you should write more on any page for task 1. You should never write over 200 words and that will easily fit onto the page given to you. All the best Liz

Can I ask for an additional piece of paper to use it as a draft for planning my WT2 essay?

No. All plans are made on the question paper. If you need extra paper later in the test because your answer sheet is full then you can ask – but not for planning.

Good day Liz! Is it possible to get a bandscore of 7 even if one was’t able to finish task 1? Is it true that examiners are turned off to see so many less common words in essays?

Any writing which is under the word count will get a lower band score. These are the rules set by IELTS. All the best Liz

A big Thank You! 🙂 for all your efforts, a very good blog for ilets preparation with all information at one place. It help me improved a lot and i could score an overall band 7 (L:7, R:7, W:6, S:7) which i think, wouldn’t have been possible without all your tips and videos and samples.

Thank You!!! 🙂

Band 7 is a strong score. Well done! I’m glad my blog was useful 🙂 All the best Liz

Awesome website for Ielts prep Thanks Liz for your dedication and simplicity in L R W S Just 2days before I checked ur writing topics and videos Which boosted my score to 7band in writing thanks a ton

overall, I got 6.5 (L:7,R:6.5,w:7,S:6) lost 7band just by .5 band it could have been not possible without ur brainstormed ideas ur website provides

That’s a good result! Thanks for letting me know. Getting band 7 in writing is very good. All the best Liz

Great website, keep the good work going on.

Please give a link to clear instruction for how to prepare for TASK 1 & 2 GT writing,

There are model letters and tips on this page for GT writing task 1: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/ . All lessons for writing task 2 are for GT and academic students – the essay techniques and questions types are exactly the same. All the best Liz

I have observed many candidates asking about getting exhausted by the time they have to do writing and I have also felt the same by the time we come to writing. Its just that we cannot brainstorm effectively and also we are trying hard to write something but we may turn away from the topic and realize it later

Can you please provide advice of how we can keep ourselves active by the time we reach writing. Thanks

I wish there were special tips but it’s a long test and all students will feel tired by the time they arrive at writing task 2. The only way to avoid making mistakes with your essay is to plan properly. Most students read the essay question and start writing which is why they make mistakes and go off topic when they are tired. But if you spend 5 minutes (at least) analysing the essay question and planning your ideas, how to present them and supporting points, you’ll be fine. Here’s a page to read about planning: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2-essay-planning-tips/ Liz

Thanks Liz.That’s an amazing tip. I can remember myself in a similar situation, where I started writing and than later realized I have been writing away from the topic.

I will make sure that the essays I am going to practice further should include brainstorming and than following the plan to write essay. I believe in this way we will not go back and forth and can keep our focus towards given topic only.

Hi Liz…I have a question about conclusion in task -1.You said that conclusion should not be given but in official IELTS Cambridge model answers they have conclusion or overview in final passage of task -1.Please state your view on this.

There is an overview paragraph not a conclusion. The overview can be after the introduction or at the end of the report. Please watch my free video lessons to learn about the overview and the possible locations. Liz

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IELTS Academic Writing  – How To Plan a Task 1 Essay –

The first step to achieving a high score in IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 is to know how to plan your essay. This is very important and in this lesson, I’m going to explain why and show you how.

The lesson includes:

• 3 reasons why you must plan your essay
• 4 simple steps of essay planning
• 4 part essay structure
• A sample essay written step-by-step

Many students get a far lower score than they’re capable of achieving simply because they either don’t know how to plan their Task 1 essay or they think that planning takes up time that is better spent writing the essay.

Here are three key reasons why you should plan.

3 Reasons Why You Must Plan Your Essay

1) planning saves you time.

If you plan your essay before you start writing, you will already know what you’re going to say and won’t need to keep stopping to think about the next idea. This means that you will be able to write much faster than if you don’t have a plan.

You only need to spend 5 minutes on the planning stage. That leaves 15 minutes to write and check your essay.

2) Planning results in a more relevant answer

25% of your marks are for task achievement. This includes,

• Identifying the main features
• Comparing the main features
• Answering the question appropriately

Planning before you start writing will ensure that you include everything that's required in your IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 essay.

3) Planning results in a better structure

Another 25% of the marks are for coherence and cohesion. This includes,

• Organizing your ideas into a logical order
• Having a separate paragraph for part of the essay
• Linking your paragraphs appropriately

You may have done a fantastic job of identifying the main features of the graphic, and found some great comparisons to write about, but you must also be able to form your ideas into a well-structured essay. Without a plan, this is difficult to achieve. Unless you have a good essay structure, you will not score highly for coherence and cohesion.

Spending a few minutes planning your essay will give you a basic outline to follow as you write. This will make your task a lot easier and lead to a far better essay, and a happy examiner.

The 5 Simple Steps of Task 1 Planning

There are 5 steps to writing a good essay for IELTS Academic Writing Task 1:

• Analyse the question
• Identify the main features
• Write an introduction
• Write an overview
• Write the details paragraphs

We’ll look at these in more detail below but first, I want to outline an easy to remember 4 part essay structure.

The 4 Part Essay Structure

You can use the same basic structure for all IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 questions. Ideally, your essay should have 4 paragraphs:

Paragraph 1 – Introduction

Paragraph 2 – Overview

Paragraph 3 – 1 st  main feature

Paragraph 4 – 2 nd  main feature

You are only required to write 150 words. You won’t score extra marks for writing a longer essay. It’s what you write that gains you marks.

With only 20 minutes allowed for the task, it’s important that you don’t try to include too many details. Having an essay structure to work with will help you with this. Aim for quality in your essay, not quantity – the right information written in a logical order.

We’re now ready to work through the 5 step planning process.

Planning a Task 1 IELTS Academic Writing Essay

# 1 analyse the question.

The format of every question in IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 is the same.

Here’s a typical question. The highlighted words will always be the same no matter what type of question you get.

The  chart  below shows  the number of men and women in further education in Britain in  three periods and whether they were studying full-time or part-time.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Every question consists of:

• A brief description of the graphic (sentence 1)
• The instructions  (sentence 2)
• The graphic – chart, graph, table, etc.

To find out what you have to do, you need to look at the ‘instruction’ sentence.

There are 3 things to do:

1.     Select the main features.

2.     Write about the main features.

3.     Compare the main features.

This is the same for every question and every type of graphic.

Many graphics contain a lot of information. You  do not  have to write about everything. Just pick out a couple of main features and you’ll have plenty to write about.

# 2 Identify the main features

In this lesson, I’m going to give you a quick overview of how to identify the main features of the graphics. I go into far more detail in the lessons on the individual question types where I work through sample questions step-by-step to create model answers.

Here’s a reminder of the 7 question types .   Click the links to go to each page for more planning tips.

• Table Chart
• Process Diagram
• Multiple Graph

I’ve created helpful checklists for identifying the main features of the different types of IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 questions. You’ll find them on this page:  How To Understand & Analyse Task 1 Questions

The key features of a graphic will usually be the easiest things to spot.

For a bar chart with a timeline, known as a dynamic bar chart, such as in our sample question, look for general trends. The timeline will give you the biggest clues as to the most significant trends.

Alternatively, a bar chart may be static with the data coming from one point in time. For this type of graphic, you would need to compare whatever different variables are shown. In the in-depth lesson on bar chart essays, for example, you'll see a graph showing the different leisure activities favoured by Canadian boys and girls.

There will be lots of information in the graphic to help you spot the main features. Here are some useful questions to ask for both bar charts and line graphs.

• What information do the 2 axes give?
• What are the units of measurements?
• What can you learn from the title and any labels?
• What are the time periods?
• What is the most obvious trend?
• What are the most notable similarities or differences?

Two general trends in this graphic are:

Main feature 1:  the overall number of students in full-time education increases.

Main feature 2:  the number of women studying part-time increases steadily but for men, it fluctuates.

The general trends you select will be the starting point for your essay. You will then go on to add more detail.

Let’s look at how to do this. Here’s a reminder of the 4 part structure for IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 essays:

This structure isn’t going be an exact fit for every possible essay but it’s an excellent outline to work from. Use it as a guideline and adapt it as necessary.

First, the introduction.

# 3 Write an introduction (Paragraph 1)

In the introduction, you should paraphrase the question, that is, say the same thing in a different way. You can do this by using synonyms and changing the sentence structure. For example:

The chart below shows the number of men and women in further education in Britain in  three   periods and whether they were studying full-time or part-time.

Introduction :

The bar graph illustrates how many male and female students were studying full-time and part-time in Britain during the years 1970/1, 1980/1 and 1990/1.

This is all you need to do for the introduction.

# 4 Write an overview (Paragraph 2)

In the second paragraph, you should report the main features you can see in the graph, giving only general information. The detail comes later in the essay. You should also make any clear comparisons you spot.

This is where you write about the general trends. Here are the ones we picked out above.

Now form these ideas into two or three sentences with a total of around 40 words. State the information simply using synonyms where possible. No elaborate vocabulary or grammar structures are required, just the appropriate words and correct verb tenses. For example:

Paragraph 2 :

Overall, the number of students in full-time education increased over this time. With regard to part-time education, there was a steady increase in women choosing to study part-time but for men, the level fluctuated.

# 5 Write the details paragraphs (Paragraphs 3 & 4)

Paragraphs 3 and 4 are where you include more detailed information about the data in the graph. In paragraph 3, you should give evidence to support your first main idea.

In this instance, the data will be numbers of students in the respective time periods. In other graphics, it might be percentages, age, monetary value or some other unit of measurement.

Don’t forget to make comparisons when relevant.

Here’s our first main feature again:

This is an example of what you could write:

Paragraph 3 :

Between the academic periods 1970/1 and 1990/1, the figures for men studying full-time grew in steady increments, beginning at 100,000 in 1970/1 and rising to nearly 300,000 in 1990/1. For women, the numbers had also risen to around 300,000 by 1990/1 on an increasing trend. Notably, however, the figure for females in full-time education in 1970/1 was roughly half that of men, showing a greater take-up than men between 1970/1 and 1980/1.

For the fourth and final paragraph, you do the same thing for your second main feature. For example:

Paragraph 4 :

A different pattern is shown for part-time education. The graph reveals a steady increase in women engaged in part-time study, rising from 750,000 in 1970/1 to 1,000,000 by 1990/1. For men, on the other hand, the figure fluctuated. From 1,000,000 in 1970/1, they had dropped by almost 200,000 by 1980/1 but recovered slightly in numbers by 1990/1. Over the whole time period, the trend between men and women in part-time education reversed, with male students being greater in number in 1970/1 and female students taking pole position by 1990/1.

Here are the four paragraphs brought together to create our finished essay for IELTS Academic Writing Task 1.

Finished essay

This sample essay is well over the minimum word limit so you can see that you don’t have space to include very much detail at all. That’s why it is essential to select just a couple of main features to write about.

We’ve covered a lot in this lesson. Please don’t feel overwhelmed. Once you start using what you’ve learnt to practice answering IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 questions, you’ll soon be able to plan your essay in 5 minutes.

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Ielts academic writing task 1 – all lessons.

IELTS Academic Writing  –  A summary of the test including important facts, test format & assessment.

Academic Writing Task 1  – The format, the 7 question types & sample questions, assessment & marking criteria.  All the key information you need to know.

Understanding Task 1 Questions  – How to quickly and easily analyse and understand IELTS Writing Task 2 questions.

How To Plan a Task 1 Essay  –  Discover  3 reasons why you must plan, the 4 simple steps of essay planning and learn a simple 4 part essay structure.

Vocabulary for Task 1 Essays  –  Learn key vocabulary for a high-scoring essay. Word lists & a downloadable PDF.

Grammar for Task 1 Essays   – Essential grammar for Task 1 Academic essays including, verb tenses, key sentence structures, articles & prepositions.

The 7 Question Types:

Click the links below for a step-by-step lesson on each type of Task 1 question.

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IELTS writing tips

Home  »  IELTS preparation  » IELTS writing tips

1. Understand the test format

This is entirely an exam specific skill set. Get familiar with the types of IELTS questions. Problem / solution, advantages / disadvantages, extent agree / disagree, discuss + opinion, two part question. Get used to answering them.

2. Optimise your exam time

Wear a watch and allocate 20 minutes for writing task 1 and 40 minutes for task 2. Start task 2 first because it represents most of your points.

3. Check your writing

Budget 5 minutes to review your writing. Look for mistakes you made in previous essays using a free IELTS writing evaluation software . In our  online course  we insist all students develop this powerful skill. Effective self correction can boost your score.

4. Understand the criteria used

Your writing band score is split up into 4 criteria, l exical resource , cohesion and coherence ,  grammatical range and accuracy , and task response / achievement.

5. Writing general task

Follow the bullet points and determine the tone (formal, semi-formal, or neutral). Use the standard frases expected in letter writing. You can find these in  sample letters .

6. Academic task 1

Describe a line chart, bar chart, flow chart or pie chart . Sometimes it can also be a map or a natural process. Each question type requires its own set of vocabulary, for example a line chart will often require the language of change. Pay attention to tenses, dates and units.

7. Writing task 2

Go for simple ideas that are easy to communicate. This is a language exam, not an intelligence test. Complex ideas are difficult to explain and can trip you up grammatically. Have a look at these  essay answers and topic ideas. 

8. Organise your ideas into coherent paragraphs

This is straightforward. All our successful students love the C2 template.

9. Practice generating ideas

Sit down with a list of sample questions and brainstorm ideas. If your mind goes blank then research online. Here are over  240 sample IELTS task 2 questions  seen in past exams.

10. Get feedback for fast improvement

Self correction is not reliable, you could be missing mistakes. A native English speaker friend will help but may struggle with the academic writing style needed to pass band 6.5. Invest in yourself and get a professional IELTS evaluation of your work. Another option would be to use our new free online IELTS essay checker to get your score, instantly and free.

11. Master the passive and active voice

Both are needed to improve your grammatical range and accuracy, and both will help you paraphrase. Paraphrasing is another vital skill to learn. Here is a  guide  to the principles of academic writing for IELTS.

12. Avoid repetition

Our essay correction tutors constantly see students using the same words throughout their essay. Avoid this by expanding your vocabulary .

13. Expand your vocabulary

Learn collocations, prefixes and suffixes. If you are aiming for a band 7 or higher then you definitely need  topic specific vocabulary .

14. In the exam

Our students say the  computer based test  is easier, especially if you are stuck at 6.5. Writing on the computer allows you to edit, reorganise, copy / paste and even move around complete paragraphs. This is insanely valuable if your handwriting resembles chicken scratch.

15. Learn to focus

The listening and reading test require an incredible amount of intense focus. Past students like Vinod practised meditation and yoga to improve his mental stamina.  Get the full story of how Vinod jumped from 6 to 7.5.

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IELTS Sample Essays

Here you will find IELTS Sample Essays for a variety of common topics that appear in the writing exam.

The model answers all have tips and strategies for how you may approach the question and comments on the sample answer.

You can also view sample essays with band scores on this page. 

Looking at IELTS essay topics with answers is a great way to help you to prepare for the test. 

These IELTS sample essays have been categorised in a way that makes it easy for you to see how certain essay question types require you to provide certain responses to ensure the question is fully answered. 

Specifically these are:

• Agree / Disagree
• Discuss Two Opinions
• Problems and Solutions
• Advantages and Disadvantages
• Other Types

Agree / Disagree Type Questions

In these types of question you are given one opinion and you then have to state the extent to which you agree or disagree with that opinion:

• Advertising
• Alternative Medicine
• Spending on the Arts
• Human Cloning
• Social Interaction & the Internet
• Airline Tax
• Free University Education
• Scientific Research
• Banning Smoking
• Employing Older People
• Vegetarianism
• Paying Taxes  
• Examinations or Formal Assessment 
• Multinational Organisations and Culture
• Internet vs Newspapers
• Technology Development  
• Dying of Languages
• Animal Extinction
• Truth in Relationships
• Role of Schools
• Return of Historical Artefacts

Discuss Two Opinions Type Questions

In this essay question type you are given two opinions, and you have to discuss both of these and then give your own view:

• University Education
• Reducing Crime
• Animal Rights
• Child Development
• Diet & Health
• Donating Money to Charity
• Closing Zoos   
• Becoming Independent  
• Formal and Informal Education  
• Influence of Scientists and Politicians
• Sources for Stories
• Searching for Extraterrestrial Life

Cause Type Questions

There are a variety of 'cause type' essay questions. In these you first have to give the reasons why something has happened, in other words the causes, but then discuss a different aspect of it, such as the effects, solutions or the extent to whether it is a positive or negative development:

Causes & Effects:

• Child Obesity
• Skin Whitening Creams
• Family Size
• Having Children Later in Life
• Time Away from Family

Causes and Solutions:

• Youth Crime
• Global Warming
• Paying Attention in Class
• International Travel & Prejudice 
• Museums & Historical Places
• Disappearance of Traditions
• Communication Between Generations

Causes, Pros & Cons:

• Family Closeness
• Living Alone
• Rural to Urban Migration

Problems & Solutions Type Questions

In these type of questions, instead of discussing the causes of a problem, you need to discuss the problems related to a particular issue in society, and then suggest what can be to solve these problems:

• Overpopulation
• Competing for Jobs  
• Professionals Immigrating

Advantage & Disadvantages Type Questions

In these type of questions you are asked to discuss the positive and negative sides of a particular topic. You will usually be asked this in the context of giving an opinion ( e.g. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? Is it a positive or negative development? ): 

• Traffic Problems
• Food Additives
• Computer Games
• Age Discrimination at Work  
• Children using Tablets and Computers  
• Cell Phones, Internet, & Communication  
• Working from Home 
• Eating Locally grown  Produce  
• Oil and Gas Essay  
• Peer Pressure on Young People
• Online Fraud
• Decreasing House Sizes

'Hybrid' Types of Essay Question

There are sometimes questions that don't fit easily into a particular category as above. I've called these 'hybrid', as they are of mixed character, are composed of different elements from other types of essay, or are perhaps just worded differently. 

• Protecting Old Buildings
• Animal Testing
• Fear of Crime
• Communication Technology
• Influence of Children's Friends  

Sample Essays with Band Scores

You can also view some sample essays that have been written by candidates practising for the test and have band scores and comments by an experienced ex-IELTS Examiner based on the IELTS marking criteria. 

• IELTS Band 8 Essay Samples
• IELTS Band 7 Essay Samples
• IELTS Band 6 Essay Samples
• IELTS Band 5 Essay Samples
• IELTS Band 4 Essay Samples

Student Sample Essays

For more IELTS essay topics with answers you can also view essays that have been written by students. Some have feedback from other students or IELTS teachers:

• Student Model Essays  (with comments by other students)
• Student Model Essays (with comments by IELTS buddy)

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IELTS Writing Task 1 & Task 2 Tips- Tricks to Write Good Essay

IELTS, the International English Language Testing System, is conducted to measure a candidate’s English proficiency. IELTS is one of the most preferred English proficiency tests which measures a candidate’s skills in four different sections: Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking. Candidates must prepare for all the sections thoroughly to secure a better band on the test.

On this page, we will be discussing IELTS Writing Tips for Task 1 and Task 2. Candidates must understand the entire exam structure and the types of questions asked on the test before beginning their exam preparation.

Table of Content

IELTS Writing Structure

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A lot of IELTS aspirants find IELTS Writing quite challenging. Surely the questions are tricky and often involve complicated language. However, with the right knowledge and preparation, any IELTS aspirant can score well on IELTS Writing. The first thing candidates have to do is understand the exam structure and the types of questions asked. In IELTS Writing, there are two categories; Academic and General Training. Both these categories include two tasks; Task 1 and Task 2. Take a look at the table below for a better understanding of the IELTS Writing section.

To score a better band on IELTS, candidates must score well on all four sections of the test. A lot of candidates consider IELTS Writing tasks quite challenging because you only get 60 minutes to complete both tasks, with specific word limits, Task 2 essay topics cover a wide range of complex issues, including social, cultural, economic, and environmental issues, and others. However, IELTS aspirants need not worry about these challenges, as are going to discuss some tips to score well in this section.

• Read the instructions carefully for each task and make sure you understand what is expected of you.
• Familiarize yourself with the test format and practice writing essays and task responses regularly.
• Allocate time for planning, writing, and reviewing your response within the 60-minute timeframe.
• Study sample essays from official sources or past test papers to understand the structure, language, and organization of high-scoring responses.
• Organize your essays with clear introductory, body, and concluding paragraphs. In Task 1, present an overview of the main trends or features before providing specific details. In Task 2, follow a traditional essay structure with a clear thesis statement, supporting paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• Use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures to showcase your language proficiency.
• To support your arguments, use relevant examples, data or personal experiences to illustrate your points effectively.
• Ensure your writing flows logically from one paragraph to the next, with clear transitions and connections between ideas.
• Proofread your essays carefully to eliminate spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors.
• Simulate test conditions as closely as possible when practising, including timing yourself and writing your responses by hand. This will help you build confidence and familiarity with the test format.

These IELTS Writing tips will surely help you score well in both tasks. Candidates must do deliberate practice if they want to get admission to their dream university.

Also Read: IELTS Minimum Score for Top Universities in 2024 IELTS Average Score: Across Worldwide and India IELTS Exam Pattern 2024: Section-wise IELTS Exam Paper Pattern, Question Types IELTS Exam Syllabus 2024 (Section-Wise): Listening, Reading, Writing & Speaking

To score 8 bands in IELTS Writing, you need to ace in both Task 1 and Task 2. Task 1 involves Report Writing for IELTS Academic and Letter Writing for IELTS General. Task 2 includes Essay Writing for both Academic and General. You must understand the structure of the test first and then begin your pratice accordingly. Allocate time for planning, writing, and reviewing your response within the 60-minute timeframe. To strengthen your preparation, try to solve IELTS official practice tests online and score well in those tests.

IELTS Writing section includes two tasks: Task 1 and 2. Candidates are given 60 minutes to complete both these tasks, which involve Report and Letter Writing and Essay Writing. Candidates must check the exam structure and format before beginning their preparation.

The first preparation tip is to understand the task requirements. Read the instructions carefully for each task and make sure you understand what is expected of you. Task response is crucial for scoring well, so ensure you address all aspects of the prompt. Familiarize yourself with the test format and practice writing essays and task responses regularly. This will help you improve your writing skills and become more comfortable with the test conditions. Allocate time for planning, writing, and reviewing your response within the 60-minute timeframe. Practice time management strategies to ensure you have enough time to complete both tasks satisfactorily. Enhance your knowledge and confidence by solving official pratice tests.

IELTS Writing section is very important as it carries a significant weight in determining your overall band score. IELTS Writing contributes equally to the overall band score as the other three sections. Therefore, you must focus on performing well in the Writing section ito achieve a high overall band score. Task 1 and Task 2 assess your ability to communicate effectively in written English, including your vocabulary, grammar, coherence, and cohesion. These skills are crucial for academic study, work, and daily communication in English-speaking environments.

Scoring 8 bands on IELTS might sound like a hard nut to crack but it is not impossible. All you require is a combination of strong language skills, effective test-taking strategies, and thorough preparation. You have to understand the exam pattern of all the four sections; Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking. What is your current status and what score you have in mind will help you understand how much you have to prepare. Take a practice test to assess your current proficiency level in English and identify areas for improvement. Develop strong language skills by reading, writing, speaking and listening academic journals, newspapers, blogs and other academic related content. Use official IELTS practice materials, including sample tests and past exam papers, to familiarize yourself with the test format and types of questions.

This was all about IELTS Writing tips for Task 1 and Task 2. The above-listed tips will surely help aspirants score well in their IELTS Writing. For more such informative topics on IELTS and other standardised tests, visit GeeksforGeeks.

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Ielts essay # 1515 - success in life comes from hard work, dedication and motivation, ielts writing task 2/ ielts essay:, some believe success in life comes from hard work, dedication, and motivation. while many believe success depends on other important factors like money and appearance., discuss both views and give your opinion..

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Essential Rules for Academic Writing: A Beginner’s Guide

Unlock the key rules for academic writing: from structure to citations. Master scholarly communication with expert insights.

Mastering the art of academic writing is a fundamental skill that empowers students and researchers to express their ideas, convey complex concepts, and contribute meaningfully to their respective fields. However, for beginners venturing into the realm of scholarly writing, navigating the intricacies of this formal discourse can be a daunting task.

“Essential Rules for Academic Writing: A Beginner’s Guide” serves as a beacon of guidance, illuminating the path for aspiring scholars as they embark on their academic journey. This comprehensive article offers invaluable insights into the fundamental principles and key rules that underpin successful academic writing, providing a strong foundation for those new to the craft.

What Is Academic Writing?

Academic writing refers to a formal style of writing that is prevalent in academic settings such as universities, research institutions, and scholarly publications. It is a mode of communication used by students, researchers, and scholars to convey their ideas, present research findings, and engage in intellectual discourse within their respective fields of study.

Related article: 11 Best Grammar Checker Tools For Academic Writing

Unlike other forms of writing, academic writing adheres to specific conventions and standards that prioritize clarity, precision, objectivity, and critical thinking. It is characterized by a rigorous approach to presenting arguments, supporting claims with evidence, and adhering to the principles of logic and reasoning.

Academic writing encompasses a wide range of genres, including essays, research papers, literature reviews, theses, dissertations, conference papers, and journal articles. Regardless of the specific genre, academic writing typically follows a structured format, includes proper citation and referencing, and adheres to established academic style guides such as APA (American Psychological Association) or MLA (Modern Language Association).

Types Of Academic Writing

Here’s a table summarizing the different types of academic writing, along with their definitions, purposes and typical structures:

Also read: Words To Use In Essays: Amplifying Your Academic Writing

General Rules For Academic Writing

Here are some general rules for academic writing: by adhering to these general guidelines, you can enhance the clarity, effectiveness, and professionalism of your academic writing, ensuring that your ideas are communicated with precision and impact.

Clarity and Precision

Academic writing demands clarity and precision in the expression of ideas. Use clear and concise language to communicate your thoughts effectively. Avoid ambiguous or vague statements, and strive for a logical flow of ideas within your writing.

Audience Awareness

Consider your intended audience when writing academically. Be aware of their background knowledge and familiarity with the topic. Adapt your writing style and level of technicality accordingly, ensuring that your content is accessible and understandable to your readers.

Use Formal Language

Academic writing requires a formal tone and language. Avoid colloquialisms, slang, and overly informal expressions. Instead, employ a vocabulary appropriate to the academic context, using specialized terms when necessary.

Structure and Organization

Structure your writing in a logical and coherent manner. Use clear headings, subheadings, and paragraphs to guide the reader through your work. Ensure that your ideas are well-organized and presented in a cohesive manner, with each paragraph or section contributing to the overall argument or discussion.

Evidence-Based Reasoning

Support your arguments and claims with credible evidence. Reference authoritative sources and cite them appropriately to establish the foundation for your ideas. Use empirical data, scholarly research, and reputable references to strengthen the validity and reliability of your work.

Critical Thinking

Academic writing encourages critical thinking and analysis. Engage with the existing literature, identify strengths and weaknesses in the arguments, and develop your own well-reasoned perspective. Challenge assumptions, evaluate alternative viewpoints, and provide well-supported arguments.

Proper Referencing and Citation

Maintain academic integrity by properly referencing and citing all sources used in your writing. Follow the specific citation style required by your academic institution or field, such as APA , MLA , or Chicago style . Accurate referencing gives credit to the original authors, allows readers to verify your sources, and demonstrates your commitment to scholarly integrity.

Revision and Proofreading

Academic writing involves a process of revision and proofreading. Review your work for clarity, coherence, grammar, and spelling errors. Ensure that your writing is free from typographical mistakes and inconsistencies. Seek feedback from peers, instructors, or writing centers to enhance the quality of your work.

Also read: What Is Proofreading And How To Harness Its Benefits?

How To Improve The Academic Writing

To enhance your academic writing skills, it is crucial to engage in regular practice and give careful consideration to various aspects. Here are some essential focal points to pay attention to in order to improve your academic writing:

Punctuation

• Proper use of commas, periods, question marks, and exclamation marks to enhance clarity and meaning in sentences.
• Effective use of semicolons and colons to join related independent clauses and introduce lists or explanations.
• Understanding the role of dashes and hyphens to indicate interruptions or join words in compound adjectives.

Capitalization

• Capitalize proper nouns, including names of people, places, institutions, and specific titles or terms.
• Follow capitalization rules for titles, capitalizing the first and last words, as well as major words within the title.
• Ensure consistency in capitalization within headings and subheadings.

Grammar and Sentence Structure

• Ensure subject-verb agreement, ensuring that the subject and verb agree in number and person.
• Use proper tenses and maintain consistency in verb tense usage within a paragraph or section.
• Write clear and unambiguous sentences, avoiding run-on sentences, fragments, or unclear pronoun references.

Academic Conventions

• Apply appropriate formatting and font style as per the guidelines of the specific academic institution or style guide.
• Use headings and subheadings correctly, following a consistent hierarchy and formatting style.
• Use abbreviations appropriately and consistently, following the accepted conventions in the field.
• Adhere to specific guidelines for tables, figures, and graphs, including proper numbering, labeling, and citation.

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Unlock Your Writing Potential: 4 Proven Methods to Enhance Your English Skills

In today’s society, the written word holds immense power to inform, inspire, and spark change. Mastering the art of writing in English can open doors you never thought possible. Whether you are writing an academic paper, crafting a compelling story, or simply looking to express your thoughts more clearly, improving your English writing skills is a journey worth embarking on. This article will reveal four essential methods to elevate your command over the written word. With a combination of practical advice and insightful techniques, we will guide you through each step, transforming your writing from ordinary to extraordinary. Are you ready to turn the blank page into your playground? Let’s begin.

Table of Contents

Mastering grammar and syntax for clear communication, expanding vocabulary to enhance expression, harnessing the power of reading and writing practice, leveraging constructive feedback for continuous improvement.

Concluding Remarks

Achieving mastery over grammar and syntax is like having a well-stocked toolkit that allows you to craft sentences with precision and elegance. While understanding the intricate rules of grammar is crucial, the ability to apply them fluidly transforms good writing into great writing. There are several techniques that can help you hone these skills effectively, such as:

• Practice with Purpose: Regularly engage in exercises that focus on common grammatical challenges and aim to apply the rules in your writing.
• Read and Analyze: Immerse yourself in high-quality texts, both for pleasure and for study, to see how seasoned writers wield grammar and syntax seamlessly.
• Seek Feedback: Engage with peers, mentors, or utilize editing software to gain insights into your writing’s weak points.

Syntax, the arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences, plays a pivotal role in clear communication. Flawed syntax can obscure meaning, while skillful syntax can add rhythm and clarity. Some tips to enhance your syntax include:

• Sentence Variety: Mix short, punchy sentences with longer, compound or complex ones to maintain reader interest and convey sophisticated ideas.
• Parallelism: Use parallel structure to bring symmetry, helping to make sentences more readable and engaging. For example, “She enjoys reading, writing, and hiking.”
• Clarity: Always prioritize clarity over complexity. Keep sentences straightforward unless an extravagant style serves a specific purpose.

One effective approach to enhancing your writing is by actively expanding your vocabulary to better express your thoughts. This process involves not only learning new words but also understanding their nuances and proper usage. You can achieve this through a combination of reading diverse materials, engaging in word games, and practicing daily writing exercises. Regular reading exposes you to a variety of sentence structures and word choices, while word games like Scrabble or crosswords make learning fun. Additionally, writing in a journal or creating short stories daily helps to reinforce new vocabulary and solidify its use in context.

To further enrich your expression, consider incorporating synonyms, antonyms, and idioms into your writing. Here are some strategies to help:

• Use a Thesaurus: Find alternative words to avoid repetition and add variety.
• Learn Idioms: These can add color and a unique style to your writing.
• Understand Connotations: Be mindful of the emotional and cultural nuances words carry.

Here’s a simple comparison of ordinary vs. enhanced vocabulary in writing:

By consciously integrating these enhanced techniques and tools, your writing will naturally become more vivid and engaging.

Seeking feedback from others is an essential part of the writing process. Engaging with peers, mentors, or utilizing editing software can provide valuable insights into your writing’s weak points and help you improve. Constructive feedback can also help you identify areas for improvement and provide guidance on how to enhance your writing skills. Remember to approach feedback with an open mind and use it as an opportunity to grow and develop as a writer.

mastering the art of writing in English requires dedication, practice, and a willingness to continuously improve. By mastering grammar and syntax, expanding your vocabulary, and harnessing the power of reading and writing practice, you can elevate your writing from ordinary to extraordinary. Remember to seek feedback and use it to your advantage, and most importantly, have fun with your writing journey. Happy writing!

a novel, typing away on your blog, or crafting a professional email, ⁣never stop exploring, experimenting, and learning. And above all, never stop writing.

Exploring the World of Writing: Enhancing Your English Writing Skills

Writing is a powerful tool that allows us to express our thoughts, ideas, and emotions. It is a skill that is essential in both personal and professional settings. However, mastering the art of writing in English can be a daunting task for non-native speakers. The good news is that with dedication and practice, anyone can improve their English writing skills. In this guide, we will explore four effective methods to enhance your writing abilities.

• Read, Read, Read!

Reading is the foundation of good writing. When you immerse yourself in a well-written book or an intriguing blog post, the rhythm and nuances of the language begin to embed themselves in your subconscious. The magic lies in variety – explore different genres, authors, and writing styles. This blend of perspectives and terminologies enriches your linguistic repertoire and subtly enhances your writing prowess.

• Reading Fiction: Helps understand storytelling and character development.
• Non-fiction: Builds knowledge and introduces formal writing styles.
• Journals and Magazines: Offers insights into current trends and diverse writing formats.
• Practice, Practice, Practice!

Writing, on the other hand, is where theoretical meets practical. Keeping a daily journal or blog can do wonders for your writing skills. Commitment to writing regularly hones your ability to articulate thoughts clearly and concisely. Experimenting with different writing prompts can spark originality and keep the process enjoyable. Practice is key, and every penned word brings you a step closer to mastery.

• Seek and Utilize Constructive Feedback

Constructive feedback is an invaluable resource in honing English writing skills. By seeking feedback from diverse sources – such as peers, mentors, or professional editors – an individual can illuminate their blind spots and gain new perspectives. Always be open to specific suggestions and constructive critiques rather than vague generalities. Incorporate the feedback into your work and strive to understand the rationale behind each piece of advice. This iterative process not only improves the quality of a single piece of writing but also refines your writing skills over time.

• Analyze and Apply Feedback

Analyzing the feedback you receive with a critical mind is equally crucial. Instead of taking comments at face value, delve deeper to understand the underlying principles and apply them broadly across various writing tasks. Break down the feedback into actionable items and prioritize them based on their impact on your writing. Keeping a feedback journal can also be beneficial; it allows you to track recurring themes and see your progress over time.

And so, dear wordsmith, as we close the final chapter on this guide to enhancing your English writing skills, remember that every word you pen down is a step on a journey – a journey without end, brimming with endless possibilities and boundless creativity. By embracing these four methods, you’ll find yourself not merely writing, but crafting and communicating with newfound clarity and elegance.

Whether you’re scribbling in the margins of a novel, typing away on your blog, or crafting a professional email, never stop exploring, experimenting, and learning. And above all, never stop writing.The journey towards becoming a skilled writer is not an easy one. Whether you are expressing your thoughts, working on a novel, or striving to communicate your ideas with clarity, the road to mastery requires dedication, perseverance, and enthusiasm. So, let’s dive into the world of writing and discover the key elements that will help you become a proficient wordsmith.

Practice Makes Perfect

One of the most crucial aspects of becoming a great writer is practice. Just like any other skill, writing requires consistent effort and repetition to improve. Set aside time each day to write, whether it’s a journal entry, a short story, or even a blog post. The more you write, the more you will develop your writing style and voice. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different genres and techniques to find what works best for you.

Patience is Key

Becoming a skilled writer takes time, and it’s essential to be patient with yourself. Don’t get discouraged if your writing doesn’t meet your expectations right away. Keep in mind that writing is a process, and it takes time to refine your skills. Be open to constructive criticism and use it to improve your writing. Remember, even the most successful writers had to start somewhere.

Passion Fuels Progress

Passion is the driving force behind any successful endeavor, and writing is no exception. If you are passionate about writing, it will show in your work. Find inspiration in the things that interest you and incorporate them into your writing. Whether it’s a personal experience, a current event, or a topic you are passionate about, infusing your writing with your enthusiasm will make it more engaging and impactful.

Crafting Coherent Content

In addition to practice, patience, and passion, there are other essential elements to consider when writing. One of them is coherence. Your writing should flow effortlessly, with each sentence leading logically to the next. Use transitional words and phrases to connect your ideas and create a smooth reading experience for your audience.

Another crucial aspect is structure. Organize your writing into paragraphs and use headings and subheadings to break up the content and make it more digestible. This not only makes your writing more visually appealing but also helps to guide your readers through your ideas.

Adding Relevant Information

To make your writing more compelling and relevant, consider incorporating current statistics or examples. This not only adds credibility to your work but also makes it more relatable to your audience. Be sure to use reputable sources and cite them correctly to avoid plagiarism.

Adjusting the Tone

While it’s essential to retain your unique writing style, it’s also crucial to adjust the tone of your writing to suit your audience and purpose. For example, if you are writing a formal piece, your tone should be more professional and objective. On the other hand, if you are writing a personal blog post, your tone can be more conversational and informal.

becoming a skilled writer takes time, effort, and passion. By incorporating these key elements into your writing, you can improve your skills and create high-quality, unique content that will captivate your audience. So, keep practicing, be patient, and let your passion for writing guide you towards mastery. Happy writing!

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IELTS essay, topic: Many criminals commit more crimes as soon as they are released from prison (reasons and solutions)

• IELTS Essays - Band 8

This essay topic was seen in recent IELTS test in Italy .

Many criminals commit more crimes as soon as they are released from prison. What do you think are the causes of this? What possible solutions can you suggest?

The problem of reoffending following the release of criminals from correctional facilities is likely caused by insufficient rehabilitation programmes and the negative perception of ex-offenders in society. Improving jail rehabilitation programmes and lowering stigma through legal changes can be potentially effective solutions.

At the root of recidivism lies the lack of comprehensive rehabilitation in prisons. Many facilities emphasise punishment over rehabilitation, failing to address the primary causes that drive individuals to crime. For example, offenders with poor mental health or substance abuse problems often receive insufficient treatment, which leads to high reoffending rates upon release. Similarly, offenders who committed crimes out of desperation stemming from living in abject poverty are likely to turn to crime again in order to survive. Moreover, the stigma attached to having a criminal record complicates reintegration. It diminishes their chances of obtaining stable employment and social acceptance, thus pushing them back into criminal activities.

Effective reduction of recidivism requires prisons to enhance rehabilitation programmes, incorporating mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and vocational training to improve employability. The duration of most sentences convicts are serving is of sufficient length to allow rectification of the issues that originally led them to crime, provided that prisons have expert-led and sufficiently funded programmes in place. Additionally, societal efforts to reduce the stigma associated with past criminals are crucial. This includes legal reforms to protect the rights of ex-offenders and public awareness campaigns to change societal perceptions. The success of countries like Sweden, with a focus on rehabilitation and low recidivism rates, demonstrates the effectiveness of this approach.

In conclusion, tackling recidivism effectively necessitates a holistic approach that includes better rehabilitation within prisons and proactive societal measures to reduce stigma. This combination can significantly enhance public safety and reduce crime rates by facilitating the successful reintegration of ex-offenders.

Teacher’s feedback:

This essay has all the prerequisites of Band 8 level writing.

Task Response: Band 8 You addressed the task comprehensively, providing a clear explanation of the causes and solutions for recidivism. The essay includes specific examples and a detailed discussion of both components of the prompt. Your conclusion succinctly reinforces your argument, demonstrating a full understanding of the task requirements.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 8 Your vocabulary is varied and contextually appropriate, showing a good range of lexical resource. Terms like “comprehensive rehabilitation,” “societal perceptions,” “public awareness campaigns,” and “rectification of issues” are used accurately and enhance the quality of the discussion. You effectively avoid redundancy and demonstrate the ability to use complex vocabulary to discuss specific ideas clearly and precisely.

Lexical Resource: Band 8 There is a good range of vocabulary used, including terms specific to the topic (habitat destruction, ecological balance, greenhouse gas emissions). The language is generally precise, and the writers uses varied and complex sentence structures.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 8 The essay showcases a wide range of grammatical structures with a high level of accuracy. Sentences are complex but clear, with appropriate use of punctuation and coordination. For example, your use of clauses and commas in sentences like “Many facilities emphasise punishment over rehabilitation, failing to address the primary causes that drive individuals to crime” demonstrates both complexity and control.

Submit your essay for correction and find out how to improve your Writing score.

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How to improve your IELTS Score?

In this article, we will discover what awaits you on your test day.

From section breakdown to timing, get insights to excel and achieve your desired score confidently.

Securing an impressive result on the IELTS test is crucial for individuals aiming to settle permanently in Canada. With its reputation as a leading English proficiency exam globally recognised by academic institutions and governments for immigration processes, an excellent IELTS score can significantly enhance your prospects .

We will delve into each aspect of the IELTS Test , equipping you with the knowledge and strategies needed to achieve your best score and unlock exciting opportunities . By understanding what to expect on test day and employing effective test-taking strategies, you can approach the exam with confidence.

Click here to receive free IELTS preparation material!

Recommended preparation materials to enhance your IELTS score

Preparation is key to achieving your target IELTS score. Utilizing a diverse range of high-quality study materials can significantly enhance your English language skills and boost your confidence on test day.

Here are some recommended resources to aid your IELTS preparation:

IELTS Ready

This is a tailored platform for you to explore a wide range of study resources including mock tests, IELTS tips, and practice exercises. You have two options:

- IELTS Ready Premium : this is a free and unlimited resource which you can access after booking your exam with us . You will find a practice zone, tutorials, question and answer models, advice from experts, and more.

- IELTS Ready Member : this is the perfect tool if you are still wondering when to book your exam , since it is available at any moment. You will find information about the test format and scoring, preparation videos, and simulation tests.

IELTS personal counselling

Prepare with test experts through IELTS personal counselling . Benefit from fully personalized attention , a level assessment, and customized study plans and materials. You will also get regular calls to check your progress, access webinars with advice to obtain the expected score, and work on your improvement areas.

IELTS preparation courses

Consider enrolling in IELTS preparation courses offered by the British Council. They provide structured instruction, personalized feedback, and expert guidance to help you refresh your English knowledge and excel in the exam.

Practice tests

Take advantage of simulated IELTS practice tests . These resources allow you to assess your progress, identify strengths and weaknesses, and become accustomed to the timing and format of the exam. 

Advice to make the most of your time

• Maintain a positive mindset and stay calm under pressure . Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or visualization to manage any anxiety or nervousness. Approach each section of the exam with confidence in your preparation and abilities.

• Pay close attention to task requirements and instructions in the writing and speaking sections of the exam . Practice responding directly to the prompts and addressing all aspects of the tasks. Avoid going off-topic or providing irrelevant information, as this can negatively impact your score.

• Expand your vocabulary by learning new words and phrases regularly. Make use of flashcards, lists, and online resources to study and memorize words in context.

• Train your listening skills by actively engaging with spoken English. Practice listening to different accents and varying speaking speeds to prepare for the diversity of voices you may encounter on the exam. Take notes while listening to recordings to improve your ability to capture important information.

• Surround yourself with the English language as much as possible . Watch movies and TV shows, listen to music and podcasts, and read books, newspapers, and magazines. Immersing yourself in the language will help improve your listening, reading, and vocabulary skills.

• Establish specific, achievable goals for your IELTS preparation . Determine your target score for each section of the exam and create a study plan that outlines how you will work towards achieving those scores. Having clear goals will keep you focused and motivated throughout your preparation.

What to expect on your IELTS test?

As you prepare to take the IELTS exam, knowing what to expect can help relieve anxiety and ensure you're fully prepared for the experience.

IELTS consists of four sections : listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Each one assesses different language skills, including listening and reading comprehension, writing proficiency, and oral communication.

The total test duration is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes . Listening, reading, and writing sections are conducted consecutively without breaks, while the speaking part may be scheduled on the same day or within a week of the other sections.

By familiarizing yourself with the test format, timing, and expectations for each section, you can approach the IELTS exam with confidence and maximize your chances of achieving your desired score.

IELTS score: streamlining your registration process

Registering for the IELTS exam is the initial step towards demonstrating your English proficiency . To navigate the registration process smoothly and secure your desired test date, follow these essential steps:

• Determine which IELTS test you need to take . The Academic module is typically for those applying to study at undergraduate or postgraduate levels, while General Training is suitable for immigration purposes or professional registration.
• Locate an IELTS test centre . Visit the official British Council IELTS Canada website ielts.ca .
• You can choose between IELTS on Computer or paper . Next, you can select the test date and time. After submitting your registration form, you will be prompted to pay the fee online. Confirm the payment to finalize your registration.
• Upon successful registration and payment, you will receive a confirmation email containing important details such as your test date, time, and venue . Keep this confirmation safe as you will need it on test day.
• With your registration complete, dedicate enough time to prepare for the exam using relevant study materials and resources . Familiarize yourself with the test format, practice sample questions, and develop your English language skills.

By following these steps meticulously, you can efficiently navigate the IELTS registration process and embark on your journey towards achieving your desired score.

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