The IELTS Writing test assesses candidates' ability to express themselves in English
through two main tasks: Writing Task 1 and Task 2.
Structure of the IELTS Writing Test
The test consists of Task 1 and Task 2 and lasts for 60 minutes. It accounts for 25% of the
total IELTS score and plays a crucial role in the overall exam structure. There are two
types of IELTS tests: IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training, and the Writing
section differs accordingly.
The difference lies in the writing topics. The Academic test focuses on academic-related
topics, such as schools and students, while the General Training test covers everyday life
issues and workplace-related topics.
IELTS Writing Task 1
Task 1 has two formats: Academic and General Training.
For the Academic version, candidates must summarize information presented in
the form of graphs, tables, charts, or diagrams. The purpose is to assess their
ability to analyze and describe trends in the given data.
For the General Training version, candidates are required to write a letter, email,
or report, providing specific information according to the task requirements.
The minimum word count for Writing Task 1 is 150 words.
General Outline for Writing Task 1
1. Introduction – Paraphrase the question
2. Overview – Describe the overall trend or the most significant changes in the
data/map
3. Body Paragraph 1 & 2 – Analyze and compare figures or describe differences in
maps
There are seven types of charts in Task 1:
Table
Line Graph
Pie Chart
Process Diagram
Bar Chart
Map
Mixed Graph (Combined Chart)
IELTS Writing Task 2
Task 2 requires candidates to present their views on a social issue or situation. They need
to express opinions, analyze causes and effects, or discuss possible solutions. The essay
must be at least 250 words long.
General Outline for Writing Task 2
1. Introduction – Introduce the topic by paraphrasing the question and providing a
direct response
2. Body Paragraph 1 – Main idea 1 → Explanation → Expansion → Example →
Mini-conclusion
3. Body Paragraph 2 – Main idea 2 → Explanation → Expansion → Example →
Mini-conclusion
4. Conclusion – Summarize the two key points and restate the answer
Common Types of Essays in Writing Task 2
Opinion Essay
Discussion Essay
Problem-Solution Essay
Advantage-Disadvantage Essay
Two-Part Question Essay
IELTS Writing Scoring Criteria
The IELTS Writing score is assessed based on four equally weighted criteria, each
accounting for 25% of the final score:
1. Task Achievement/Response – Addressing the question directly, presenting clear
ideas, and meeting the required word count
2. Coherence and Cohesion – Logical organization, clear paragraphing, and smooth
connections between ideas
3. Lexical Resource – Using a wide range of vocabulary accurately and
appropriately
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy – Demonstrating a variety of sentence
structures with minimal errors
Unlike IELTS Reading and Listening, which have a score conversion chart, the IELTS
Writing test is graded on a band scale from 1 to 9 by certified examiners approved by
the British Council or IDP Australia.
Task 1 contributes 1/3 of the total Writing score
Task 2 contributes 2/3 of the total Writing score
