IELTS Write Right

Frequently Asked Questions
1. What do I have to write about in the IELTS writing section? All IELTS candidates must write two short essays: Writing Task 1 and Writing Task 2. If you wish to study abroad you must complete the IELTS Academic Module, in which you will be required to write a 150-word essay describing a graph, table or diagram (Task 1) together with a 250-word essay expressing your opinion on a set topic (Task 2). If, on the other hand, you wish to migrate to an English-speaking country, you must complete the General Training Module. This involves writing a 150-word letter (T1) along with a 250word essay similar to that completed by Academic Module candidates (T2). A total of one hour is allowed for the completion of both writing tasks. Candidates are encouraged to spend about 20 minutes on Task 1 and 40 minutes on T2. In order to achieve a high score, it is important that both tasks be answered well. 2. How does the examiner decide what band score to give me? In IELTS writing the lowest band score is 1 and the highest band score is 9. Most candidates can expect to get a score of between 4 and 7. In marking your writing, the examiner will firstly check to see whether or not you have answered the question – if you are asked to write 250 words about air pollution in cities, you should not write 150 words about side issues such as traffic problems.