How long is the IELTS Writing section?

The IELTS Writing section is 60 minutes total. You should spend approximately 20 minutes on Task 1 and 40 minutes on Task 2.

What is the minimum word count for IELTS Writing?

For Task 1, you must write at least 150 words. For Task 2, you must write at least 250 words. Writing less may result in a penalty.

How is IELTS Writing scored?

IELTS Writing is scored on four criteria: Task Response (25%), Coherence and Cohesion (25%), Lexical Resource (25%), and Grammatical Range and Accuracy (25%). Each criterion is equally weighted.

Which is more important, Task 1 or Task 2?

Task 2 is worth more (67% of the Writing score) compared to Task 1 (33%). However, you should attempt both tasks as failing to complete either task will significantly impact your score.

Complete Guide 2025

IELTS Writing - Complete GuideTips, Samples & Score Strategies

Everything you need to master IELTS Writing. From Task 1 charts to Task 2 essays, get proven strategies, real samples, and instant AI feedback to boost your band score.

2 Tasks

60 Minutes

Band 0-9

33% of Total Score

Understanding IELTS Writing Band Scores

Expert User

Full command of language

7-8

Good User

Operates at a good level

5-6

Modest User

Partial to effective control

Limited User

Basic competence limited

IELTS Writing Tasks Overview

The IELTS Writing section consists of two tasks. Task 1 requires you to describe visual data, while Task 2 asks you to write an essay on a given topic.

Task 1

Academic Writing

Time20 minutes

Word Count150 words minimum

Weight33% of Writing score

Question Types:

Line graphs, bar charts, pie charts
Tables (data comparison)
Process diagrams
Maps (location changes)

Task 2

Essay Writing

Time40 minutes

Word Count250 words minimum

Weight67% of Writing score

Question Types:

Opinion (Agree/Disagree)
Discussion (Discuss both views)
Advantage/Disadvantage
Problem/Solution

IELTS Writing Scoring Criteria

Task Response

How well you address the task

25%

Coherence & Cohesion

Logical organization and flow

25%

Lexical Resource

Vocabulary range and accuracy

25%

Grammatical Range

Grammar variety and precision

25%

💡 Pro Tip

Task 2 is worth more (67%) than Task 1 (33%), so prioritize your time accordingly. Spend about 40 minutes on Task 2 and 20 minutes on Task 1. However, make sure you complete both tasks!

Essential IELTS Writing Tips

Expert strategies to boost your band score in both Task 1 and Task 2

Plan Before You Write

Spend 2-3 minutes planning
Identify key trends (Task 1)
Outline your essay structure (Task 2)
Note key vocabulary ideas

Time Management

Task 1: 20 minutes (including planning)
Task 2: 40 minutes (including planning)
Leave 2-3 minutes to review
Don't spend too long on Task 1

Word Count

Task 1: Aim for 150-180 words
Task 2: Aim for 270-300 words
Don't write too much or too little
Use word count as a guide, not a target

Vocabulary Strategies

Use academic vocabulary naturally
Avoid repetition of key terms
Use synonyms and paraphrasing
Include collocations and phrasal verbs

Grammar Essentials

Use a variety of sentence structures
Include complex sentences
Avoid basic grammar mistakes
Use passive voice appropriately

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't copy the question directly
Don't write informal language
Don't go off-topic
Don't repeat ideas unnecessarily

Ready to Improve Your IELTS Writing Score?

Use our free AI-powered essay checker to get instant feedback, identify areas for improvement, and track your progress.

Related Resources

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Academic writing examples with explanations

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