IELTS General Writing
The IELTS General Writing test evaluates your ability to write practical everyday English. You write a letter in Task 1 and an essay in Task 2. The total test time is 60 minutes.
You can start with IELTS General, review IELTS Band Scores Explained, and practise with IELTS Practice Tests.
IELTS General Writing Overview
- Task 1 – Write a letter
- Task 2 – Write an essay
- Total time – 60 minutes
- Task 2 has more weight
- Everyday and social topics
IELTS General Writing Task 1
In Task 1 you write a letter based on a situation. You may need to request information,
complain, explain, or give details. You should write at least 150 words.
Task 1 Letter Types
- Formal letter
- Semi-formal letter
- Informal letter
Common Task 1 Situations
- Request information
- Make a complaint
- Give information
- Invite someone
- Apologise
- Explain a situation
Task 1 Structure
- Opening greeting
- Introduction
- Main points paragraph
- Additional details
- Closing sentence
- Sign-off
IELTS General Writing Task 2
Task 2 requires you to write a short essay. Topics are general and relate to
everyday life, society, work, or education. You should write at least 250 words.
Task 2 Question Types
- Opinion essay
- Discussion essay
- Advantages and disadvantages
- Problem and solution
- Two-part question
Task 2 Structure
- Introduction
- Body paragraph 1
- Body paragraph 2
- Conclusion
IELTS General Writing Skills
- Clear paragraph structure
- Appropriate tone (formal or informal)
- Grammar accuracy
- Linking words
- Task response
- Coherence and cohesion
IELTS General Writing Tips
Time management and tone are very important in IELTS General Writing.
You must match the letter style and organise ideas clearly.
- Spend about 20 minutes on Task 1
- Spend about 40 minutes on Task 2
- Use correct tone in Task 1
- Answer all bullet points
- Structure paragraphs clearly
- Use linking words
- Check grammar and spelling
How to Improve IELTS General Writing
- Practise formal and informal letters
- Write essays regularly
- Learn useful phrases
- Study model answers
- Improve grammar accuracy
- Build topic vocabulary
You can also improve using IELTS Study Plan, IELTS Tips, IELTS Strategy, and IELTS Mini Tests.
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