Writing Overview

You have 60 minutes to complete 2 tasks.  You are advised to complete the first one in 20 minutes and spend 40 minutes on the second.

The minimum word count for Task One is 150 words and for Task Two is 250 words. These word counts are important!  You lose vital points for answers that are too short.

Task One

In the General Module, Task One is a letter.  In the Academic module, you need to describe a graph, pie-chart, table or process.

For worksheets, go to IELTS Writing Task 1.

Task Two

In both modules, Task Two is a discursive essay: you are given a subject and have to argue for and against the subject and give your opinion.  The question consists of a statement followed by the question, which is usually "To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?"

For worksheets, go to IELTS Writing Task 2.

For sample questions, go to IELTS Writing Topics for Task 2.

You are given an answer sheet on which to write your essays.  You can ask for extra paper if you need it.  You can use the question booklet to make a plan, write notes etc.

In the back of the Cambridge IELTS Practice Tests, there are examples of answers given by candidates with the Band Score that they received.  This is very useful for comparing to your own work.