1. What is the IELTS Writing Task 2?

For Writing Task 2, you must write an essay of over 250 words. You have 40 minutes to complete this task. IELTS will provide you with the essay question.

2. Where Can I Find a Course to Help Me with IELTS Writing Task 2?

Do a course designed by a former IELTS Examiner with hundreds of 5* reviews. Find out what really improves your score in the exam. Click here to learn more.

3. Length of Essay

You must write over 250 words, but there is no upper limit.

4. Marking Criteria

Your essay is marked by an examiner who will assess you on four criteria: Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Vocabulary, and Grammar. Each criterion is worth 25% of your Task 2 marks.

5. How Many Marks is IELTS Writing Task 2 Worth?

It is worth double the marks of Writing Task 1. So, make sure you give yourself the full 40 minutes to write your essay.

6. Length of Time Available

It is recommended to take 40 minutes to plan and write your essay. You can decide how to allocate your time, but spending more than 40 minutes is not recommended.

7. Is There a Difference Between IELTS Academic and IELTS General for Writing Task 2?

There is little difference. Both the General Training (GT) and Academic Writing Task 2 are essays with similar topics, formats, and techniques. The only difference is that the GT essay question is slightly easier than the Academic test.

8. Where Can I Find a Former IELTS Examiner to Help Me?

To get real expert help with more than 800 5* reviews, book an IELTS Examiner on italki and receive detailed written feedback to help you with Task 2. Click here to book a session.

9. Is There a Difference Between Computer-Based and Paper-Based IELTS?

Yes, there are some differences. The format and content are the same, but the computer-based version allows you to type your responses, while the paper-based version requires handwriting. The computer-based version may offer faster results and easier editing.

10. Who Marks the IELTS Writing Task 2?

The IELTS Writing Task 2 is marked by trained examiners who work for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

11. Do I Need to Always Give My Opinion?

Only give your opinion if the instructions ask for it. For example, if the question says, “Do you agree or disagree?” it is clearly asking for your opinion. Don’t give your opinion if the question doesn’t ask for it.

12. What Kinds of Topics Will I Get in IELTS Writing Task 2?

There are common topics that appear frequently in the test. Follow this link to see a list of common topics for Writing Task 2.

13. Is Spelling Important?

Yes, the examiner will check your spelling. It is part of the Vocabulary criterion.

14. Is Punctuation Important?

Yes, the examiner will assess this as part of your Grammar score, but it also affects your Coherence mark.

15. Can I Get Extra Writing Paper if I Run Out of Space?

Yes, you can. Just raise your hand, and an invigilator will give you extra paper.

16. Where Can I Find Real Practice Questions?

Click here to view some of the website.

17. Should I Write the Question on the Answer Sheet?

No, you don’t need to do this. The examiner already has the question.

18. Can I Use a Pen or Pencil for Writing?

Yes, you can use either in the exam.

19. How Long Before I Get My Results?

It depends on your test center, but normally within 7 days.

20. How Do I Think of Ideas About What to Write About?

Read the “Generating Ideas” section of this document.

21. How Many Paragraphs Should I Write?

4 or 5 is okay, but we recommend writing 4 because of the time constraints.

22. What’s the Difference Between a Topic Sentence and a Point in the Essay Structure?

There is no difference. Some teachers say one, and some say the other.

23. What’s the Difference Between an Argumentative Essay and an Opinion Essay?

There is no difference. Some teachers say one, and some say the other.

24. Should I Use a Template to Write My IELTS Writing Task 2?

We strongly recommend that you don’t use a template with exact phrases. These essays generally score low marks and are confusing to read. However, using a structure is okay.

25. Is the IELTS Exam Different or Examined Differently in Different Countries?

No, examiners are trained in many countries and travel worldwide to conduct the exam. Additionally, the writing exam is marked in specialized centers that are not necessarily in the country where you take the exam.

26. Are There Any Tricks to Help Me Get Band 9?

No, you must study, practice, and understand the exam to achieve Band 9.

27. Is There a Perfect Way to Structure My IELTS Writing Task 2?

No, there are different ways to achieve Band 9. What matters is that your essay is easy to read and understand.

28. Is It Important to Use Advanced Grammar, Vocabulary, and Linking Language?

These are okay if used for clear communication. However, if you include them solely to impress the examiner and not to communicate clearly, it can lower your score.