IELTS Writing Guide: Format, Tips & Band Descriptors (2025)

1. IELTS Writing Test Format

The IELTS Writing section is 60 minutes long and has two tasks. Task 2 carries more weight in scoring.

• Task 1 (150 words): Explain data (Academic) or write a letter (General)
• Task 2 (250 words): Essay on a given topic (both modules)

2. Writing Tasks Breakdown

• Academic Task 1: Describe a graph, chart, table, or diagram
• General Task 1: Write a formal/semi-formal/personal letter
• Task 2: Write an opinion essay, discussion, solution, or advantage/disadvantage essay

3. IELTS Writing Band Descriptors

Each writing task is evaluated based on four main criteria:

• 📌 Task Achievement (or Task Response)
• 📌 Coherence & Cohesion
• 📌 Lexical Resource (Vocabulary)
• 📌 Grammatical Range and Accuracy

4. Expert Tips for IELTS Writing

• ✅ Always plan before writing — use 5 minutes for brainstorming
• ✅ Avoid memorized templates; use natural phrasing
• ✅ Stick to formal tone (especially in Task 2)
• ✅ Use linking words: however, moreover, in contrast, therefore
• ✅ Count your words — don’t write too little or excessively

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Off-topic answers — make sure you address the question
• ❌ Overuse of complex words — clarity is more important
• ❌ Incorrect paragraphing — always use 4–5 paragraphs
• ❌ Spelling and punctuation errors — proofread your work
• ❌ Repetition — avoid repeating words or ideas

6. Recommended Practice Resources

• 📝 Zofico Writing Pack – Model answers + Band 9 samples
• 📘 Cambridge IELTS Writing Book
• 🖋️ IELTS Simon, Liz, Ryan (Websites & YouTube)
• 📄 Practice rewriting essays with examiner feedback