IELTS General Training
Writing Test Guide
Read this guide carefully before starting your simulation.
2
Tasks
400+
Total Words
60 min
Duration
About the Writing Test
The IELTS General Training Writing test requires you to complete two tasks in 60 minutes. Task 2 carries more weight in your final band score than Task 1. You are advised to spend 20 minutes on Task 1 and 40 minutes on Task 2.
Writing fewer words than required will result in a penalty. Always write at least 150 words for Task 1 and at least 250 words for Task 2.
Structure of the Test
You are given a situation and asked to write a letter. The letter may be formal, semi-formal or informal depending on the situation and person you are writing to.
You are given a statement, argument or problem and asked to write an essay in response. Both Academic and General Training candidates write the same Task 2 topics.
How Writing is Scored
Task Achievement / Response
How well you address all parts of the task and present relevant ideas.
Coherence & Cohesion
How clearly and logically your ideas are organised and connected.
Lexical Resource
The range and accuracy of vocabulary you use.
Grammatical Range & Accuracy
The range and accuracy of grammar structures you use.