IELTS Writing Exam Tips
1. Don’t spend more than 20 mins on task 1. Keep checking the time so you don’t make this mistake. You need 40 mins for task 2 as this task carries more marks and requires more words.
2. Always write over 150 words for task 1 and over 250 words for task 2.
3. Don’t count the number of words you have written. You won’t need to total up the words and you won’t need to mention them at the end of your essay. If you are concerned about word count, just quickly count the lines and multiple by the usual words you see on a line with your writing. For the computer test, there is the advantage of seeing how many words you have written appear on the screen.
4. You can plan your essay on the question paper. No extra paper is given for planning. The examiner will not look at your planning, only at your essay. Planning is essential because the examiner will be marking the chosen content, not just your language.
5. Always write a clear overview for task 1 academic. For GT task 1, make sure you cover all points requested in your letter.
6. Always write your conclusion for task 2. Never miss it out. If you only have 3 mins left, use it to write your conclusion.
7. Always organise your writing for both tasks into body paragraphs. Paragraphing will be marked.
8. Check your spelling. You can use either American or British spelling but don’t mix them.
9. Keep all information focused and relevant. More does not mean better.
10. If you run out of paper, put up your hand and you can get more.
11. Do not remove any paper from the exam room.
2. Always write over 150 words for task 1 and over 250 words for task 2.
3. Don’t count the number of words you have written. You won’t need to total up the words and you won’t need to mention them at the end of your essay. If you are concerned about word count, just quickly count the lines and multiple by the usual words you see on a line with your writing. For the computer test, there is the advantage of seeing how many words you have written appear on the screen.
4. You can plan your essay on the question paper. No extra paper is given for planning. The examiner will not look at your planning, only at your essay. Planning is essential because the examiner will be marking the chosen content, not just your language.
5. Always write a clear overview for task 1 academic. For GT task 1, make sure you cover all points requested in your letter.
6. Always write your conclusion for task 2. Never miss it out. If you only have 3 mins left, use it to write your conclusion.
7. Always organise your writing for both tasks into body paragraphs. Paragraphing will be marked.
8. Check your spelling. You can use either American or British spelling but don’t mix them.
9. Keep all information focused and relevant. More does not mean better.
10. If you run out of paper, put up your hand and you can get more.
11. Do not remove any paper from the exam room.
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