IELTS Writing Test Structure (Ac.)

The IELTS writing section is designed to test candidate’s ability to write a response which is appropriate in terms of content, organisation of ideas, the accuracy and range of vocabulary and grammar.

There are two types of the IELTS exam: Academic and General Training. As you may know, you should take IELTS Academic module if you’re planning to study abroad. if you’re intending to work abroad or apply for PR, then you should take IELTS General module. The Reading and Writing sections (but not Speaking and Listening) are quite different between the two tests.

How long does the IELTS writing paper lasts?
The IELTS writing paper lasts for one hour, in which you will need to complete two writing tasks.

What does writing tasks contain?
In Writing Task 1, you may be asked to describe facts or figures presented in one or more graphs, charts or tables on a related topic; or you may be given a diagram of a machine, a device or a process and asked to explain it. You should write in an academic or semi-formal/neutral style and include the most important and the most relevant points in the diagram. Some minor points or details may be left out.

You should spend no more than 20 minutes on this task. You will be asked to write at least 150 words and will be penalised if your answer is too short. While you will not be penalised for writing more than 150 words, you should remember that a longer Task 1 answer may mean that you have less time to spend on Task 2, which contributes twice as much to the Writing band score.

You should also note that you will be penalised for irrelevance if the response is off-topic or is not written as full, connected text (e.g. using bullet points in any part of the response, or note form, etc.). You will be severely penalised for plagiarism (i.e. copying from another source).

This task assesses the ability to identify the most important and relevant information and trends in a graph, chart, table or diagram, and to give a well-organised overview of it using language accurately in an academic style.