About this tool
The IELTS Essay Quick Check counts what can be counted in a Task 1 or Task 2 answer in a second: word count against the minimum, paragraphs, thesis and conclusion signals, linking words, repeated words and sentence types. The checks run in your browser, so you can use it on every draft.
It does not give a band score. It shows where to look first, so you do not spend your practice time on the wrong problem.
What this tool does
Word count against the minimum
Task 2 needs at least 250 words and Task 1 at least 150. You see immediately whether a draft is short enough to risk Task Response.
Paragraph and structure signals
Checks the paragraph count, whether the first paragraph states a position and whether the last one reads as a conclusion.
Linking word overuse
Counts connectors such as however, moreover and in addition and flags any used three or more times.
Repeated words
Lists content words you use four or more times and shows lexical variety, so you can see where to vary your vocabulary.
Sentence variety
Splits your sentences into simple, compound and complex and warns when most of them are simple.
Private and instant
The counts run in your browser. Your essay is not uploaded for this check, and there is no signup.
How it works
Choose Task 1 or Task 2
The minimum length changes with the task.
Paste your essay
Separate paragraphs with a blank line so the structure check works.
Read the five checks
Each result says what was counted and what to try next.
Run the full check when you are ready
Counts cannot judge ideas or accuracy. The full check estimates a band and names the one problem to fix first.
How to use the numbers in your next draft
Length: aim a little above the minimum
Most candidates write 260 to 300 words in Task 2. Going far beyond the minimum rarely helps and costs time you need for planning and checking.
Structure: one clear job per paragraph
A typical Task 2 essay has an introduction, two body paragraphs and a conclusion. If the check shows three or seven paragraphs, ask whether each paragraph does one clear job.
Linking words: fewer, used precisely
Examiners look for logical progression, not a list of connectors. If one linker appears three times, replace it or restructure the sentence so the link is clear without it.
Variety: mix simple and complex sentences
Short simple sentences are fine for clear points, but a range of complex structures is part of the grammar criterion. Include some sentences with because, although, which or when.
Who it is for
- Candidates who want a fast self-check before asking for a full review
- Teachers who want a quick structure check in class
- Learners whose draft is near 250 words and who wonder if it is long enough
- Anyone who repeats the same linking words or vocabulary and wants to see it in numbers
Frequently asked questions
Is the quick check an IELTS band score?
No. It counts words, paragraphs, linking words, repeated words and sentence types from your text. A band score depends on ideas, accuracy and how well you answer the task, which counts cannot judge. For an estimated band use the full IELTS Writing checker.
Is my essay sent anywhere?
No. The checks run in your browser and the text is not uploaded for this tool.
What is the minimum word count for IELTS Writing?
Task 1 asks for at least 150 words and Task 2 for at least 250 words. Writing less can lose marks, so the tool flags answers below the minimum.
How many paragraphs should a Task 2 essay have?
Four or five is common: an introduction, two or three body paragraphs and a conclusion. The check treats four to six paragraphs as normal for Task 2.
How does the tool find the thesis and the conclusion?
It looks for common signal phrases such as 'in my opinion', 'this essay will' and 'in conclusion'. A missing signal is a prompt to look again, not proof that the idea is missing.
Which linking words does it count?
Common connectors such as however, moreover, furthermore, in addition, therefore, for example, in conclusion, whereas and although. It flags any used three or more times.
Does it work for Task 1 and General Training letters?
Yes for length, repetition and sentence variety. The structure signals are tuned for Task 2 essays, so treat them as a rough guide for letters and reports.
Is it free?
The counts are free, need no account and have no daily limit. Marking where each issue sits in your own text and listing your longest sentences is part of a paid plan, and still runs in your browser.
More free IELTS tools
- IELTS Writing Task 2 checkerFree diagnosis with an estimated band and your biggest blocker.
- Paragraph checkerTest one paragraph without writing a full essay.
- Thesis and introduction builderAn introduction and thesis in three style levels.
- Task 2 question generatorRandom Task 2 questions with a 40-minute timer.
- Essay plannerTurn a question into a paragraph plan.
- Band score calculatorCombine your criterion scores into a band.
- IELTS essay samplesModel essays by type and topic.
Want to know what actually costs you marks?
Counts show where to look. The free IELTS Writing checker estimates your band and names the one problem to fix first.