IELTS Writing Test

About the IELTS Writing test

The writing test is different for IELTS Academic and IELTS General candidates.

Academic Writing

2 pieces of writing, 60 minutes

In Task 1, candidates are presented with a graph, table, chart or diagram and are asked to describe, summarise or explain the information in their own words. They may be asked to describe and explain data, describe the stages of a process, how something works or describe an object or event.
In Task 2, candidates are asked to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument or problem
Responses to Task 1 and Task 2 should be written in a formal style

General Writing

2 pieces of writing, 60 minutes

In Task 1, candidates are presented with a situation and are asked to write a letter requesting information or explaining the situation. The letter may be personal, semi-formal or formal in style.
In Task 2, candidates are asked to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument or problem. The essay can be slightly more personal in style than the Academic Writing Task 2 essay