Tips for IELTS: Writing
Tips for IELTS Writing
The IELTS Writing section consists of two different writing tasks. You will have 60 minutes in total to complete them.
You don’t have any choice of tasks. Firstly, task one must be a minimum of 150 words. It is recommended that you spend no longer than 20 minutes on this task.
Secondly, task two must be a minimum of 250 words and it is recommended you spend 40 minutes on this task.
TASK 1
You are given a diagram or data of some kind and you have to write about the information in your own words.
TIPS
- Rephrase the title of the diagram in your introduction and include all relevant information.
- In the second paragraph, you should give an overview of the most important features/trends in the diagram.
- In the third paragraph give some accurate details and examples from the graph to identify any similarities or differences.
- Use linking vocabulary to help the flow of the text i.e. as well as, also, moreover, furthermore, in addition.
- Always remember, do not give your opinions or try to interpret the data.
TASK 2
You are given brief details of an opinion, an argument or a problem and you have to write an essay in response to the information given.
TIPS
- Rephrase the statement/question in your introductory paragraph to demonstrate your understanding of the text.
- Generally you would use the next two paragraphs to present a balanced argument about the topic.
- Remember to give examples and statistics if possible.
- Use sequencing vocabulary e.g. firstly, secondly, on the other hand, similarly, in contrast, conversely.
- Use the passive voice where possible as it shows a formal and academic approach e.g. it is thought that…
- You can present one set of opinions in the second paragraph and the contrasting viewpoint in the third paragraph.
- The fourth paragraph is a concluding paragraph where you also outline your opinion about the introductory statement / question.
General Tips
Try to use as much academic language as possible when completing both tasks and make sure that you answer the questions carefully. You will be assessed on:
- Task achievement (task 1) / Task response (task 2) – How well have you answered the question?
- Coherence and Cohesion – How well is your writing organised and how well is it sequenced?
- Lexical Resource – How much vocabulary have you used and how accurately and fluently have you used it?
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy – How many grammar structures have you used and how accurately and flexibly have you used them?
Make sure that you use your time carefully and respect the word limit. If you write too much or too little you may lose marks.
Remember that practice makes perfect. Therefore, you should do lots of practice writing tasks to develop your technique. Look at model answers to help you work towards gaining the score that you need.
Lastly, you can look at the website below for more great IELTS writing tips for the British Council.
If you would like to take a course for IELTS exam preparation, feel free to contact us.
Good luck!
1 Comment
I have finished a course at Rose of York. I have practiced with these tasks as well. Tomorrow is the day. I feel prepared.
Thank you Rose of York for everything!