Revision:
IELTS Writing
Welcome to IELTS Writing page. Use the resources below to prepare for your exams.
The IELTS writing exam consists of 2 tasks,
taking 60 minutes overall.
Task 1: Report (20 minutes)
- You will summarize visual data: graphs, processes, or maps.
- You have to write for about 150 words.
- This task accounts for 1/3 of marks. We recommend using 20 minutes for this task.
Example Question:
The pie graphs below show the result of a survey of children’s activities. The first graph shows the cultural and leisure activities that boys participate in, whereas the second graph shows the activities in which the girls participate.
Write a report describing the information shown in the two pie graphs.
Write at least 150 words.
Part 2: Essay (40 minutes)
- You will write an essay on a given topic.
- You have to write for about 250 words.
- This task accounts for 2/3 of marks. We recommend using 40 minutes for this task.
Example Question:
Big salary is much more important than job satisfaction.
Do you agree or disagree?
Provide relevant examples if necessary.
Write at least 150 words.
IELTS Writing Scoring
Your performance in the Writing test is evaluated based on the IELTS Writing Band Descriptors. These include:
- Task Achievement/Response – How well you have answered the question.
- Coherence and Cohesion – How well you organize your ideas and maintain the flow of your paragraphs.
- Lexical Resource – The range and accuracy of vocabulary you use.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy – How effectively you use grammar.
With consistent practice and the right approach, you’ll be well-prepared to excel in the IELTS Writing test. Good luck!
Lesson 1:
Task 1 – Report
In this lesson, we will focus on crafting the basic framework for short responses for Task 1 of the IELTS Writing test.
1.1 Understanding The Format
Type A - Graphs
You are required to describe a bar/line/pie chart or table that includes multiple trends. You are required to make comparisons between values.
Type B - Processes
You are required to describe a flow chart of a manufacturing/natural process, listing out each step in a straightforward, intuitive manner.
Type C - Maps
You are required to describe a map/building plan of an area/building, or a comparison between an area/building at two different times. You should mention every important structure and its location.
1.2 Memorize the Structure
To make sure every response is organized and relevant, we have written 3 golden frameworks that work for EVERY task 1 response. Make sure to memorize this, and simply apply this throughout the exam.
Introduction
Paraphrase the question (avoid copying word-for-word).
- Graphs/Tables:
“The [graph/table] illustrates/shows [key subject] in [location/time period].”
(Example: “The bar chart compares the percentage of energy produced from renewable sources in five countries between 2000 and 2020.”) - Processes:
“The diagram illustrates how [subject] is produced/made/processed.”
(Example: “The diagram shows the steps involved in manufacturing recycled paper.”) - Maps:
“The maps depict changes in [location] over [time period].”
(Example: “The two maps illustrate the development of a coastal town between 1990 and 2020.”)
Salient Features
Summarize the 2 biggest features (often opposite trends).
- Graphs/Tables:
“Overall, [highest/lowest], [increase/decrease], [most significant change].”
(Example: “Overall, Germany had the highest renewable energy production, while Japan had the lowest. Solar power saw the most dramatic growth.”) - Processes:
“The process consists of [X] main stages, beginning with [first step] and ending with [final step].”
(Example: “The process consists of six main stages, beginning with the collection of waste paper and ending with the production of new paper sheets.”) - Maps:
“The most noticeable changes include [new features], [expansion/reduction], and [transformations].”
(Example: “The most noticeable changes include the construction of a new airport, the expansion of residential areas, and the disappearance of farmland.”)
Body Paragraphs x 2
Describe all semi-important details with comparisons. The key is to describe the most details with the least words, and use different ways of depicting the data.
- Graphs/Tables:
Group data logically (e.g., highest to lowest, increases vs. decreases).
Use exact figures (e.g., “rose from 20% to 50%”).
- Example:
“In 2000, Germany produced only 10% of its energy from renewables, but this figure surged to 40% by 2020. In contrast, Japan saw minimal growth, rising from 5% to just 8% over the same period.”
- Processes:
Describe each stage in order (use sequencing words: First, Next, After that, Finally).
Use passive voice (e.g., “The paper is dried”).
- Example:
“First, waste paper is collected and sorted. Next, it is cleaned and pulped to remove impurities. After that, the pulp is mixed with chemicals and pressed into sheets.”
- Maps:
Compare old vs. new features (e.g., “In 1990, the area was farmland, but by 2020, it had been replaced by a shopping mall.”).
Use location words (e.g., north, center, adjacent to).
- Example:
“The northern part of the town, which was previously woodland, was transformed into a housing estate. Additionally, a new road was built connecting the residential area to the city center.”
Pro Tip
You should always avoid explaining, having opinions, or generating more information.
Your task is just to describe, not reason.
You are now ready to move onto the next lesson.
Lesson 1:
Task 2 – Essay
In this lesson, we will focus on crafting the basic framework for short responses for Task 2 of the IELTS Writing test.
2.1 Understanding The Format
Type A - Agree / disagree
Choose a side about the statement and write 2 arguments supporting it.
Type B - To what extent do you agree / disagree
Give an argument agreeing with the statement, and an argument disagreeing with the statement. Make sure to include comparisons about which one overweighs the other.
Type C - Cause / effect / solution (2 of 3)
Give an argument about each section.
Type D - Advantages / disadvantages
Give an argument about the advantages of a policy/trend, and an argument about its disadvantages.
Type E - Discuss both views
Give an argument agreeing with the statement, and an argument disagreeing with the statement.
Type F - Give your opinion
Choose a side about the statement and write 2 arguments supporting it.
2.2 Memorize the Structure
To make sure every response is organized and relevant, we have written 3 golden frameworks that work for EVERY task 1 response. Make sure to memorize this, and simply apply this throughout the exam.
Introduction
General statement (background on the topic).
Thesis statement (your clear opinion/answer).
Outline sentence (optional: preview main points).
Education systems worldwide debate whether universities should focus on practical skills over theoretical knowledge. While some argue that theory builds critical thinking, I firmly believe that practical skills better prepare students for employment. This essay will discuss why hands-on learning should be prioritized.
Body Paragraphs x 2
Use the following PEE structure.
Point
Give a clear, definitive topic sentence.
The primary benefit of remote work is increased flexibility.
Explanation
Expand your point, by describing the logic flow behind the argument.
Employees can manage their schedules around personal commitments, leading to higher productivity.
Example
Support your answer with statistics, or a historical/personal event. Make them up at will.
For instance, a 2023 Stanford study found that remote workers were 13% more efficient than office-based staff. This demonstrates how flexibility enhances performance."
Conclusion
Restate thesis (different wording).
Summarize key points (1 sentence).
Final thought (optional: recommendation/prediction).
In conclusion, despite minor challenges, remote work offers undeniable advantages, including flexibility and productivity gains. As technology evolves, these benefits will likely expand, making remote employment the future of work.
Pro Tip
First, outline your essay to avoid thinking about content while writing. This ensures that your essay remains consistent and well-structured.
You are now ready to move onto the next lesson.
Lesson 3:
Coherence and Cohesion
Coherence refers to your logical organization and flow of ideas. Cohesion is the linguistic connections between sentences and ideas. Both are important features that enhance your writing.
3.1 Improving your Coherence
From big to small
Ordering is essential in your writing, particularly in Task 1, where your aim is to describe data, processes, or maps in a well-structured way. By following the suggested order, you will achieve a clear and seamless flow, avoiding cramped paragraphs.
Task 1 – Report
Graphs:
- Order by Time: Describe the data for each year.
- Order by Trends: Group the data into two categories: one with rising values and another with declining values.
- Order by Magnitude: Present the data starting from the largest values and moving to the smallest.
Processes:
- Order by Narrative: Describe the process step-by-step, from the first step to the last.
Maps:
- Order by Space: Describe the area from east to west and from top to bottom.
- Order by Category: Describe the categories in this order: residential buildings, facilities, and then business buildings.
Task 2 – Essay
- Order by nature: benefits, detriments
- Order by magnitude: personal level –> family level –> social level
3.2 Improving your Cohesion
Use connectives
Using a wide range of connectives is crucial in your IELTS writing exam. This shows how you can organize your sentences in a logical and natural manner.
Below is a list of connectives, do memorize it and use the words naturally in your sentences. This list is the same as the one in the Speaking Section.
Simple Connectives:
- And
- Also
- Moreover
- Furthermore
- In addition
- Not only that, but…
- What’s more
Examples in Sentences:
- “Education is crucial to both students’ academic and personal growth.”
- “Moreover, education can enhance students’ working intelligence.
Connectives:
- For example
- For instance
- Such as
- Like
- Namely
- To illustrate
Examples in Sentences:
- “For instance, a Cambridge study denoted that…”
- “To illustrate, research by the government revealed that…”
- “Exercise releases 2 healthy chemicals, namely dopamine and serotonin.”
Connectives:
- But
- However
- On the other hand
- While
- In contrast
- Although / Even though
- Nevertheless
Examples in Sentences:
- “While supporters claim gaming is beneficial, critics argue that…”
- “On the other hand, there are several detriments of social media.”
Connectives:
- Because
- Since
- As
- Therefore
- Consequently
- As a result
- Hence
Examples in Sentences:
- “Consequently, students will be addicted to mobile games.”
- “Since exercise is conducive, it should be widely promoted”
Connectives:
- Similarly
- Likewise
- In the same way
- Compared to
- Just as
- Equally
Examples in Sentences:
- “Similarly, mobile games will also cause additive behavior.”
- “Students have become more tech-savvy compared to adults.”
- “Both electric and diesel vehicles are equally bad for the environment.”
Connectives:
- First / Firstly / First of all
- Second / Secondly
- Next
- Then
- After that
- Finally
- In conclusion
- Examples in Sentences:
- “Firstly, I believe that education is essential for personal growth.”
- “In conclusion, the effects of global warming cannot be undermined.”
Pro Tip
Make sure to use the words naturally and appropriately in your sentences. Forcing these words into your paragraphs without context may negatively affect your score.
You are now ready to move onto the next lesson.
Lesson 4:
Lexical Resource
Lexical resource refers to your vocabulary range and how effectively you use it. To score a Band 9, you need to demonstrate precise word choice, idiomatic expressions, and topic-specific vocabulary.
4.1 Task 1 Vocabulary
The key to acing Task 1 is to never use the same phrase twice. This is often difficult if you don’t have enough vocabulary up your sleeves.
Here is a list of Task 1 vocabulary. Do memorize them so you can come up with multiple ways of describing the same type of value/change.
| People in country | Nationals, natives, residents, citizens |
| Increase | Rise, boost, elevate, escalate, soar, rocket, spiral, climb, ascend, grow, hike up, spike |
| Small increase | Uptick |
| Groups | Brackets |
| Remain the same | Level off, plateau, flatten out, stabilize, hold steady |
| Decrease | Drop, decline, dwindle, plummet, dip, plunge, slump, reduce, tail off, taper off, collapse, slide, crash |
| Percentage | Proportion, portion, segment, share, fraction, |
| Experience | Witness, encounter |
| Bounce back | Recover, rally, rebound, ricochet, regress, revert, retrogress (worsen) |
| Fluctuation | Turbulence, seesaw, vary |
| Significant | Marked, notable, major, dramatic, rapid, sharp, steep, sudden, prominent, conspicuous, discernible |
| Gradual | Steady, consistent, sustained, uniform |
| Insignificant | Slight, minimal, minute, minuscule, marginal, modest, exiguous |
| Peak | Apex, apogee, apotheosis, top the table |
4.2 Task 2 Vocabulary
Level 1: Topic-Specific vocabulary
The words below are in-depth terms that are specific to each topic. They are not difficult, and you should be able to recognize most of them. If you do not, look it up and search for its applications.
Using appropriate vocabulary during your IELTS writing will demonstrate your strong command of the language.
Pedagogy (teaching methods)
Curriculum (subjects taught in a course)
Literacy (ability to read/write)
Academic rigor (challenging education standards)
E-learning (online education)
Critical thinking (analyzing facts to form judgments)
Scholarly (related to academic study)
Tuition fees (money paid for education)
Vocational training (job-specific education)
Cognitive development (mental growth)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) (machines mimicking human intelligence)
Automation (using machines instead of humans)
Cutting-edge (highly advanced)
Cybersecurity (protecting internet systems)
Digital divide (gap between tech users and non-users)
Innovation (new ideas/methods)
User-friendly (easy to use)
Virtual reality (VR) (simulated digital environment)
Big data (extremely large datasets)
Blockchain (decentralized digital ledger)
Biodiversity (variety of plant/animal life)
Carbon footprint (environmental impact of CO₂ emissions)
Deforestation (cutting down forests)
Ecosystem (interaction of living organisms)
Global warming (increase in Earth’s temperature)
Renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro power)
Sustainable development (growth without harming nature)
Carbon-neutral (balancing CO₂ emissions)
Endangered species (animals at risk of extinction)
Greenhouse gases (gases causing global warming)
Chronic disease (long-term illness)
Epidemic (widespread disease outbreak)
Well-being (state of being healthy & happy)
Sedentary lifestyle (inactive way of living)
Mental resilience (ability to cope with stress)
Preventive healthcare (avoiding illness before it happens)
Holistic medicine (treating the whole body, not just symptoms)
Life expectancy (average lifespan)
Malnutrition (lack of proper nutrition)
Pandemic (global disease outbreak)
Remote work (working from home)
Job satisfaction (happiness with one’s job)
Work-life balance (balancing job & personal life)
Freelancing (self-employed work)
Downsizing (reducing company workforce)
Entrepreneurship (starting a business)
Blue-collar jobs (manual labor jobs)
White-collar jobs (office/professional jobs)
Gig economy (short-term freelance jobs)
Burnout (extreme work stress)
Cultural diversity (variety of cultures in society)
Gender equality (equal rights for all genders)
Social norms (accepted behaviors in society)
Multiculturalism (coexistence of different cultures)
Ethnicity (cultural identity)
Discrimination (unfair treatment based on differences)
Globalization (worldwide interaction & integration)
Traditions (long-standing customs)
Social media influence (impact of platforms like Instagram)
Generational gap (differences between age groups)
Ecotourism (environmentally friendly travel)
Cultural immersion (deep experience in local culture)
Backpacking (budget travel with minimal luggage)
Heritage sites (historically significant places)
Jet lag (fatigue from time zone changes)
Off the beaten path (less touristy destinations)
Sightseeing (visiting famous landmarks)
Sustainable tourism (travel that benefits local communities)
Wanderlust (strong desire to travel)
All-inclusive resort (hotel with all amenities included)
Cybercrime (online illegal activities)
Juvenile delinquency (crimes by young people)
Rehabilitation (helping criminals reintegrate into society)
White-collar crime (financial crimes by professionals)
Capital punishment (death penalty)
Law enforcement (police & legal authorities)
Corruption (dishonest conduct by those in power)
Prison reform (improving jail conditions)
Recidivism (repeating criminal behavior)
Surveillance (monitoring people for security)
Level 2: Advanced Common Vocabulary
The words below are advanced but can be commonly used regardless of the topic. Incorporating 2-3 of these words will greatly enhance your score. To aid memorization, each vocabulary word includes a sample sentence.
Ramification (a complex consequence of an action)
“The ramification of climate change includes extreme weather patterns.”
Precipitate (to cause something to happen suddenly)
“The economic crisis precipitated widespread unemployment.”
Exacerbate (to make a problem worse)
“Deforestation exacerbates global warming.”
Mitigate (to reduce severity)
“Renewable energy can mitigate carbon emissions.”
Catalyst (something that speeds up a process)
“The pandemic was a catalyst for remote work.”
Proximate (near in time or space)
“The proximate cause of the accident was poor visibility.”
Imminent (about to happen)
“A storm is imminent, so we should stay indoors.”
Subsequent (following in time)
“The initial protest was peaceful, but subsequent clashes turned violent.”
Prolonged (extended in duration)
“Prolonged exposure to loud noise damages hearing.”
Ephemeral (lasting a very short time)
“Social media trends are often ephemeral.”
Substantial (large in size or importance)
“There’s been a substantial increase in housing prices.”
Negligible (too small to matter)
“The difference in performance was negligible.”
Exorbitant (unreasonably high)
“The cost of healthcare in some countries is exorbitant.”
Ubiquitous (present everywhere)
“Smartphones are ubiquitous in modern society.”
Infinitesimal (extremely tiny)
“The chance of error is infinitesimal.”
Disparate (fundamentally different)
“The two cultures have disparate traditions.”
Analogous (similar in some way)
“The brain is analogous to a computer.”
Divergent (moving apart in opinion/character)
“Their political views became increasingly divergent.”
Homogeneous (of the same kind)
“The group was homogeneous in age and background.”
Dichotomy (a sharp division)
“There’s a dichotomy between theory and practice.”
Inevitable (unavoidable)
“Technological advancement is inevitable.”
Conceivable (imaginable)
“It’s conceivable that AI will replace some jobs.”
Improbable (unlikely)
“An alien invasion is highly improbable.”
Indisputable (cannot be denied)
“The benefits of exercise are indisputable.”
Speculative (based on guesses)
“His argument was purely speculative.”
Exemplary (serving as a perfect example)
“Her dedication to charity work is exemplary.”
Deleterious (harmful)
“Smoking has deleterious effects on health.”
Meticulous (extremely careful)
“He’s meticulous about details.”
Pernicious (subtly harmful)
“Fake news has a pernicious influence.”
Resilient (able to recover quickly)
“Children are often more resilient than adults.”
Paradigm (a typical example/model)
“The internet revolutionized the paradigm of communication.”
Conundrum (a difficult problem)
“Balancing work and life is a common conundrum.”
Quintessential (representing the best example)
“He’s the quintessential gentleman.”
Dilemma (a tough choice)
“She faced a moral dilemma.”
Pragmatic (practical)
“A pragmatic approach solves problems faster.”
Fluctuate (to vary irregularly)
“Oil prices fluctuate frequently.”
Stagnant (not moving/changing)
“The job market has been stagnant for years.”
Revolutionize (to completely change)
“AI could revolutionize healthcare.”
Obsolete (no longer useful)
“Landline phones are nearly obsolete.”
Persistence (continued effort)
“Success requires persistence.”
Level 3: Idiomatic Vocabulary
Here is a list of even more refined and idiomatic vocabulary.
Cause | Has yielded a plethora of Sparked Constitute Attribute to |
Useful | Potent catalyst |
Useless | Frivolous expenditure |
Utilize | When harnessed judiciously |
Create | Curtailed opportunities for Forging Empower Inject |
Reference | To their counterparts |
Critically | Poignantly Staggering Stark reality |
Firmly | Remain steadfast |
Foster | Proliferation Burgeoning |
Breaking through limits | Transcending Dismantling |
Platform | Provide fertile ground for Landscape |
Diminish | Relegating them to the periphery of societal priorities |
Merits | Holds some superficial appeal |
Philosophical thinking | Existential ponderings |
Develop | Cultivate Hone |
Solution | Antidote Therapeutic outlet |
Common | Pervasive Ubiquitous |
Structure | Fabric |
Status | Standing |
Realistic | Utilitarian |
Significant | Telling |
Hugely related | Inextricable |
Associated drop | Attendant decline |
Echoing this | Corroborating this alarming trend |
Interest | Dwelling |
A greater view | A broader narrative |
Subtle | Nuanced |
You are now ready to move onto the next lesson.
Lesson 5:
Grammar and Accuracy
To achieve Band 9, you must use a wide range of grammar structures accurately. This also includes complex sentences, conditionals, and passive constructions.
5.1 Essential Grammar Structures
A) Complex Sentences (Band 9 Must-Have)
In your responses, you should always look for opportunities to use complex sentence structures. This is done by combining multiple clauses, using the following golden methods:
1. Relative Clauses (who, which, that, where)
Task 1 Example (Academic – Graph Description):
“Renewable energy, which accounted for only 15% in 2000, rose sharply to 35% by 2020.”
Why it works: The clause (“which accounted…”) adds key data about “renewable energy” concisely.
Task 2 Example (Opinion Essay):
“Governments should invest in public transport, which reduces traffic congestion and pollution.“
Why it works: The clause explains why public transport matters.
2. Conditionals (if, unless, provided that)
Task 1 Example (Process Diagram):
“If the temperature exceeds 100°C, the liquid evaporates.”
Why it works: Common in process descriptions where steps depend on conditions.
Task 2 Example (Problem/Solution Essay):
“Unless stricter laws are introduced, plastic waste will continue to harm marine life.”
Why it works: Presents a cause-effect relationship formally.
3. Subordinate Clauses (although, despite, whereas)
Task 1 Example (Comparison Chart):
“While coal usage declined in Europe, it remained stable in Asia.”
Why it works: “While” contrasts two trends smoothly.
Task 2 Example (Discussion Essay):
“Although technology improves productivity, it can also lead to job losses.“
Why it works: “Although” acknowledges both sides of an argument.
B) Other Grammar Structures
Passive Voice
"The data was analyzed using advanced software."
Inversions
"Not only does exercise improve health, but it also boosts mental clarity."
"Rarely do we see such dedication in young athletes."
5.2 Common Grammar Mistakes
As stated in the band descriptors, a perfect grammar with little/no errors is essential in getting a high band score. Below are some common grammar errors. Try to spot them, and click expand to show the correct answer.
A) Article Errors (a/an/the)
She bought an unique gift for her friend.
She bought a unique gift for her friend.
The article “an” is used before words that begin with a vowel sound. “Unique” begins with a consonant sound (/ju:/), so “a” is correct.
I saw a elephant at the zoo.
I saw an elephant at the zoo.
The article “an” is used before words that begin with a vowel sound. Since “elephant” starts with a vowel sound, “an” is correct.
He is the best player in a team.
He is the best player in the team.
Specific nouns require the definite article “the.” Since we are referring to a specific team, “the team” is correct.
B) Subject-Verb Agreement
The list of items are on the table.
The list of items is on the table.
The subject “list” is singular, so the verb must also be singular (“is”).
Each of the students have submitted their assignments.
Each of the students has submitted their assignments.
The subject “each” is singular, so the verb must be singular (“has”).
Neither the teacher nor the students was ready for the test.
Neither the teacher nor the students were ready for the test.
When “neither…nor” is used, the verb agrees with the subject closest to it. In this case, “students” is plural, so the verb must be plural (“were”).
C) Tense Consistency
If she will study, she will pass the exam.
The list of items is on the table.
The subject “list” is singular, so the verb must also be singular (“is”).
She walked to school when she saw a dog.
She was walking to school when she saw a dog.
Past continuous (“was walking”) should be used after a past simple verb (“saw”).
They were waiting for hours when the bus had arrived.
They were waiting for hours when the bus had arrived.
Past perfect should be used to indicate an action that occurred before another action in the past.
5.3 Framework for Self-Checking
Throughout your writing test, keep asking yourself:
Have I used at least 5 complex structures? (Relative clauses, conditionals, inversions)
Are all my verb tenses correct? (Especially past perfect & future continuous)
Are articles (a/an/the) used properly?
Is my punctuation accurate? (Commas before linking words like “which,” “although”)
Memorize this checklist:
✔ No run-on sentences (Use discrete, complete sentences, not just extending)
✔ No missing plurals (“many student” → “many students”)
✔ No incorrect prepositions (“depend from” → “depend on”)
Congratulations!
You have finished the IELTS Writing Course.
Now, let’s test your knowledge by conducting some writing mock tests!