The IELTS Academic Writing is made up of two tasks, Writing Task 1 and Writing Task 2. The questions in the Academic Writing test are different to those in the General Training Writing test.
In Academic Writing Task 1, you will be shown a visual representation of information; a graph, table, chart or diagram, and you are asked to summarise, describe or explain the information you see. Make sure you organise your response into three main parts, the introduction, an overview and the main features supported by figures from the diagram.
In Academic Writing Task 2, you will be presented with a point of view, argument, or problem. The topics can range from the environment to immigration, culture, and even technology. You might be asked to, agree or disagree with a point of view or argument, discuss two opposing views, write about the advantages or disadvantages of a topic, or explain a given problem, or the cause of a problem and offer a solution. Your response for Academic Writing Task 2 will need to be in an essay format.
Ask IELTS
Yes, you can use all capital letters in the IELTS Reading and Listening sections. If you use capital letters in the Writing section, make sure that your punctuation is correct and the examiner can see where you start and finish sentences.
Read the assessment criteria used for both Academic and General Training Writing tests carefully before your test day. The examiner will assess your writing based on four criteria for Task 1 and Task 2.
Remember that Writing Task 2 is worth twice as many marks as Task 1. You can improve your Writing band score by practising. Our news and articles page has extensive tips and advice to help you prepare and improve your English-language skills.
Every IELTS test is carefully produced and tested to ensure a consistent level of difficulty across all the test versions. We want every IELTS test taker to have their true English-language ability reflected in their result, which is why we offer so many free and paid tools to help you practise and prepare. Check out our preparation tools for tips and advice so that you can be as prepared as possible for your test date.
Mistakes that can hold you back from a band 8: IELTS Writing Task 2
Let our IELTS Expert guide you through the common mistakes that might hold you back from achieving a band 8 in IELTS Writing Task 2.
7 Mistakes preventing a band 7 or higher: IELTS Writing Task 2
Let our IELTS Expert guide you through the 7 common mistakes that might hold you back from achieving a band 7 in IELTS Writing Task 2.
7 steps to help you reach a band 7: IELTS Writing Task 2
Let our IELTS Expert guide you through the 7 steps needed to achieve a band 7 in IELTS Writing Task 2.
8 Steps to help you reach a band 8: IELTS Writing Task 2
Let our IELTS Expert guide you through the 8 steps needed to reach a band 8 in IELTS Writing Task 2.
