How to prepare for IELTS – Writing
Contents
Page
(Updated Edition) Details of the writing test 2
Task 1 2
Bar and line graphs, pie charts & tables 4
Process or flow charts 7
Objects/how something works 9
How to prepare for Task 1 10
Task 2 13
Questions 14
How to prepare for Task 2 17
General tips for writing 19
Make sure you have a copy of the How to prepare for IELTS – FAQs booklet in
addition to this booklet.
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How to prepare for IELTS – Writing How to prepare for IELTS – Writing
Details of the Writing Test Length & Timing
You have to write at least 150 words.
Procedure of the test You are advised to spend 20 minutes on this task.
The writing test is the third test you do on the test day. You have 60
minutes for this test. There are two tasks or parts to do. You will be Marking
given a card with the two tasks – one task on each side of the card. You Your performance in Task 1 will be assessed on the criteria below:
can make notes or write your plans on the card but it will not be seen Task Achievement
by the examiner. Being able to follow the instructions properly.
Being able to write a clear, accurate and relevant description of the
You will also be given an answer booklet. You have to write your information.
essays in the answer booklet. Notes are not acceptable and essays Being able to focus on the important trends presented as graphic
under the word limit will be penalized. information.
Coherence and Cohesion
Being able to organize your writing using a suitable structure.
Using connective words to link sentences and paragraphs logically.
The Tasks Lexical Resources
Being able to use a wide range of vocabulary naturally.
Task 1 Being able to spell accurately and using the appropriate word formation.
This task tests your ability to perform one or more of the following Grammatical Range and Accuracy
functions in English: Using the appropriate grammatical structures accurately
describe and interpret graphic data Using a variety of sentence structures.
describe the stages of a process or procedure
describe an object or event or sequence of events
explain how something works
The question
You are given graphic or pictorial information and you have to write
a description of this information.
Bar charts, line graphs, pie charts and tables are most frequently
given for this task. However, you could also be given an object or
series of pictures or diagrams or a flow chart to describe.
If graphs are used there may be just one – usually a line graph or a bar
chart. However, there could also be more than one of the same type of
graph or a combination of graphs and charts. For example, you could
get a bar chart and a pie chart together (see Cambridge IELTS 1, p.31) or
a line graph and a table.
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How to prepare for IELTS – Writing How to prepare for IELTS – Writing
Task 1 – Bar and line graphs, pie charts & tables Example 2
Look at the two examples below. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
Example 1 The pie charts below show incidences of firework injuries in Great Britain in 1984
and 1998.
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and
The chart below shows how primary, secondary and tertiary students in Britain make comparisons where relevant.
spend their free time.
You should write at least 150 words.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and
make comparisons where relevant. Incidences of firework accidents in 1984.
You should write at least 150 words.
5%
How students in Britain spend their free time (5 or more hours a week). 16%
At public displays
70 47% At a club/society
display
60 At a family party
50 32%
Children playing
alone
40 Primary
30 Secondary
-
20 Tertiary Incidences of firework accidents in 1998.
10
0 Watching TV Homework Extra- Working for Using the
curricular money Internet
school
11%
activities
33%
At public displays
28% At a club/society
display
At a family party
Children playing
alone
28%
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How to prepare for IELTS – Writing How to prepare for IELTS – Writing
How to do Task 1 – Bar and line graphs, pie charts & tables
x Spend about 5 minutes reading the graph(s) or chart(s) and
preparing your answer.
x Make sure you understand what the axis on the graph(s) or the
percentages in the pie chart(s) represent.
x Make sure you follow the lines in a line graph correctly and don’t
confuse the individual lines if more than one is present. (See Cambridge
IELTS 1, p.72 for example).
x Remember there will usually be too much information for you to
describe every detail, so you will need to focus on the key information
or significant trends.
x If there are two graphs or charts look for ways to compare the
data.
x Think about the time period represented and the tense(s) you
should be using.
x Think about varying your vocabulary and avoiding repetition by
using synonyms. If, for example, the graph refers to job types –
interchange ‘jobs’, ‘occupations’, ‘types of employment/work’ etc.
x Make sure you organize your information clearly. You will need an
introductory statement, body and conclusion.
Your introduction should introduce the graph(s) by stating what
it represents and give an overview to describe what the overall
trend is.
Your body will need to describe the graph(s) in detail.
Your conclusion should include a brief summary your report.
x Don’t copy phrases from the question as this will not be assessed.
Use your own words.
x Don’t include information that is not on the graph or in the chart.
This may be considered irrelevant and cause you to get a lower mark.
x Don’t take more than 20 minutes over this task.
x Try to write neatly and cross out errors with one line only.
x Leave a couple of minutes to read through what you have written.
Remember
that you will receive a higher mark if your use a range of structures
and vocabulary.
you are NOT being asked for your opinion on the information, just
to report it. An opinion would be considered ‘irrelevant’ for this
task.
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How to prepare for IELTS – Writing How to prepare for IELTS – Writing
Task 1 - Processes or flow charts How to do Task 1 – Processes and flow charts
x Spend about 5 minutes studying the flow chart or diagram and
Look at the example below. preparing your answer.
x Make sure you understand what the important stages of the flow
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. chart or diagram are and that you know what order they all come in.
Find a place to begin and work your way through or around the
The following flowchart shows the process students at an English language
school go through. diagram or chart.
x You will need to include all the stages in your description.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and x Make sure you are aware of any stages that happen at the same
make comparisons where relevant. time as other stages or are alternatives.
x You will probably be using the present simple passive and present
You should write at least 150 words.
simple if you are describing a process.
x Use any notes on the diagram but put them into your own words.
x Think about varying your vocabulary. Use synonyms. If, for
example, the diagram describes jobs – interchange ‘jobs’, ‘occupations’,
‘types of employment/work’ etc.
x Make sure you organize your information clearly. You will need
an introduction and body for this report. A conclusion is not
necessary.
Your introduction should introduce the process or flow chart
and give an overview to summarize its overall function.
Your body will describe the process or flow chart in a logical
order.
x For this report you will need to guide the reader with sequence
expressions such as ‘first of all’, ‘after that’, ‘at the same time’,
‘concurrently’ etc. (See Holmesglen website downloadable writing
booklet p.39).
x Don’t copy phrases from the instructions as this will not be
assessed. Use your own words.
x Don’t take more than 20 minutes over this task.
x Try to write neatly and cross out errors with one line only.
x Leave a couple of minutes to read through what you have written.
Remember
that you will receive a higher mark if your use a range of structures
and vocabulary.
you are NOT being asked for your opinion on the information, just
to report it. An opinion would be considered ‘irrelevant’ for this
task.
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How to prepare for IELTS – Writing How to prepare for IELTS – Writing
Task 1 - Objects/how something works x If you don’t know the precise word to describe part of the object,
think of another way of saying it. You are not expected to have
See the example below. technical knowledge.
x Concentrate on significant features.
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. x You are not being asked for the reasons for the development of the
object, just a description of it.
The diagrams below show how to plumb in a washing machine. x Think about varying your vocabulary – using synonyms.
x Make sure you organize your information clearly. You will need
Summarize the information by describing the main features and explaining how a an introduction and body. A conclusion is not necessary.
washing machine works. Begin with a brief description of the structure and function
You should write at least 150 words.
of the object.
Then describe step-by-step how it works.
x Remember for this report you will need to guide the reader with
sequence expressions such as ‘first of all’, ‘after that’, ‘at the same
time’, ‘concurrently’ etc. (See Holmesglen website downloadable writing
booklet p.39).
x Don’t copy phrases from the instructions as this will not be
assessed. Use your own words.
x Don’t take more than 20 minutes over this task.
x Try to write neatly. Cross out errors with one line only.
x Leave a couple of minutes to read through what you have written.
Remember
that you will receive a higher mark if your use a range of structures
and vocabulary.
you are NOT being asked for your opinion on the information, just
to report it. An opinion would be considered ‘irrelevant’ for this
task.
How to prepare for Task 1
x Become familiar with the graph types. See Focus on IELTS, p.33.
x Do lots of practice exercises in describing graphs. See Focus on
How to do Task 1 – Objects/how something works IELTS, pp.17-18; Insight, pp.67-75 & p.115.
x Spend about 5 minutes studying the object and preparing your x Practise identifying key information in graphs and charts. See
answer. Focus on IELTS, p.101.
x Make sure you understand how the object works. Find the most x Practise working out what graph axes represent. See Insight into
logical place to begin a description of the object. IELTS, pp.70-72.
x Become familiar with a variety of ways to:
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How to prepare for IELTS – Writing How to prepare for IELTS – Writing
express percentages Practice for Task 1
express numbers & statistical data Books in the SAC
express the key points in a graph or describe trends Graphs/tables/charts
describe increase and decrease Focus on IELTS: p.102, p.117, p.150, p.182
make comparisons between data. Insight into IELTS: p.116 & p.117
For example, ‘words to describe the degree of change’ – ‘slight’, Preparation & Practice - Writing: p. 116, p.123, p.133, p.135
‘dramatic’, ‘significant’ & ‘moderate’. See Preparation & Practice: Writing Helpful Hints for IELTS: p.104. p.138, p.150
p.107-115; Homesglen website downloadable Writing booklet pp.25-29; Cambridge IELTS 1: p.31, p.72
Focus on IELTS, p.18 & p.23, pp.33-35, p.39; Insight into IELTS, p.69 & Cambridge IELTS 2: p.27, p.51, p.73, p.95
74; Helpful Hints for IELTS, p.58-59. Cambridge IELTS 3: p.27, p.51, p.73, p.97
x Look at the language used for: Processes
describing charts (e.g. pie charts). See Preparation & Practice: Focus on IELTS: p.85
Writing p.119. Insight into IELTS: p.77
describing tables. See Focus on IELTS, pp.67-68; Preparation & Practice – Writing: p.127, p.129
describing a process. See Focus on IELTS, p.83 –85. Cambridge IELTS 1: p.51
describing how something works. See Focus on IELTS, p.131. Objects
describing and comparing objects. See Focus on IELTS, p.166. Focus on IELTS: p.166, p.214
writing introductory sentences. See Preparation & Practice:
Writing p.121. Websites
making reference to graphs/figures. See Helpful Hints, p.56. Holmesglen: http://international.holmesglen.vic.edu.au/IELTS01.htm
x Make sure you know how to use ‘sequencing expressions’ when Writing (downloadable booklet with sample questions with sample
describing a process. See Focus on IELTS, p.87. answers) – practice in describing: single-line graphs; double-line graphs;
x Think about the topics that could be used for this task. For bar graphs; pie charts; tables; process diagrams
example, for graphs and tables, information on:
Births
Crime
Deaths
Education
Environment
Heath
Leisure
Old Age
Populations
Science & technology
Transport
Travel & tourism
Work
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How to prepare for IELTS – Writing How to prepare for IELTS – Writing
Task 2
This task tests your ability to do one or more of the following: Task 2 Questions
present and justify opinions
argue a case Look at the example below.
evaluate and challenge ideas, evidence and argument
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
The Question Write about the following topic:
You are given a discussion topic. The question will either present you
with an opinion or an argument. You have to discuss the question with A great many countries around the world are losing their cultural identity
two or three main points and supporting detail for each point. because of the Internet.
Length & Timing To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
You have to write at least 250 words.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own
You are advised to spend 40 minutes on this task. knowledge or experience.
Marking You should write at least 250 words.
Your performance in Task 2 will be assessed on the criteria below:
Task Response
Being able to present a clear position with a logical, well-supported How to do Task 2
argument. x Study the question carefully. The instructions will always start
Being able to support your argument with personal experience and with the sentence ‘Write about the following topic…’ and include the
reasons. sentence beginning ‘Give reasons for your answer…’.
Being able to focus on the topic and not include anything irrelevant. x Underline key points in the question.
Coherence and Cohesion x Make sure you read all parts of the question, so you include
Being able to write fluently enough to make your message clear to the everything required.
reader. x Quickly brainstorm the topic. Think about your point of view.
Being able to write cohesive sentences and paragraphs. Think about any personal experience you can add.
Lexical Resource x Write a plan. Decide which points are your main points or topic
Being able to use a wide range of vocabulary naturally. sentences.
Being able to spell accurately and using the appropriate word formation.
x Decide what supporting details you have for each main point. You
Grammatical Range and Accuracy
should have at least two main points.
Using the appropriate grammatical structures accurately
x Make sure you organise your points logically.
Using a variety of sentence structures.
x You will need an introductory statement, body and conclusion.
This task carries more weight in marking than Task 1. If, for
The structure for your essay will depend on the type of question. There
example, you get a 5 in Task 1 and a 6 in this task, you will get a 6
are two types of argumentative structures. For example:
overall.
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How to prepare for IELTS – Writing How to prepare for IELTS – Writing
Type 1 – Two-sided Argument Type 2 – One-sided Argument
A great many countries around the world are losing their cultural identity because Children are spending more time at their computers today than playing with their
of the Internet. friends. Do you agree or disagree that computers cause more harm than good?
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? You could use the argument structure - type 2.
You could use the argument structure - type 1. INTRODUCTION
¾ Opening – general
INTRODUCTION statement introducing the * REMEMBER
topic. Your scope tells your reader the main points
¾ Opening – general you will make. Your thesis statement tells the
¾ Background information. reader your opinion.
statement introducing * REMEMBER
Your scope tells your reader the main points ¾ *Scope and thesis
the topic. you will make. Your thesis statement tells the statement.
¾ Background information. reader your opinion.
¾ *Scope and thesis BODY PARAGRAPH 1 (Pro-
statement. argument 1 & justification)
¾ Topic sentence/main point
BODY PARAGRAPH 1 (Pro- ¾ Supporting sentence 1
argument 1 & justification) ¾ Supporting sentence 2
¾ Topic sentence/main ¾ Supporting sentence 3
point
¾ Supporting sentence 1 BODY PARAGRAPH 2 (Pro-
¾ Supporting sentence 2 argument 2 & justification)
¾ Supporting sentence 3
BODY PARAGRAPH 3 (Pro-
BODY PARAGRAPH 2 (Pro- argument 2 & justification)
argument 2 & justification)
CONCLUSION
BODY PARAGRAPH 3 (Con * REMEMBER
In your refutation you point out the problems
¾ Restatement of your opinion.
argument 1& *refutation) with the con-argument & strengthen your own ¾ Summary of your main points.
argument.
x Remember to link ideas within/between sentences and paragraphs.
CONCLUSION x You will receive a higher mark if your use a range of structures and
¾ Restatement of your vocabulary.
opinion. x Don’t copy from the question as this will not be assessed. Use
¾ Summary of your main your own words.
points.
x Don’t take more than 40 minutes over this task.
x Leave at least 5 minutes to check through what you have written.
x You will lose marks if your essay is less than the required number
of words.
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How to prepare for IELTS – Writing How to prepare for IELTS – Writing
x Write as many timed essays as possible. Do the ones that have
How to prepare for Task 2 sample and model answers in the books in the SAC.
x Look at as many sample questions as you can. Practise
underlining the key points and brainstorming the topics, making Practice for Task 2
plans for each one. Gradually reduce the time you allow yourself to do Books in the SAC
this, so you can do it in under 5 minutes. See all the practice books Cambridge IELTS 1: p.32, p.52, p.73 (p.73 inc. model answer)
and web sites for sample questions. Lots of them have sample answers Cambridge IELTS 2: p.28, p.52, p.74, p.96 (all inc. model answers)
as well. Cambridge IELTS 3: p.28, p.52, p.74, p.98 (all inc. model answers)
x Look at the language used: Helpful Hints for IELTS: p.104, p.125, p.138, p.150
for making paragraphs and sentences cohesive (linking your ideas
within and between sentences and paragraphs). For example, Websites
logical links that show addition (as well as, in addition) or contrast Homesglen:
(whereas, on the other hand). See Focus on IELTS, p.21-22, Helpful http://international.holmesglen.vic.edu.au/IELTS01.htm
Hints for IELTS, p.54 Writing (downloadable booklet (p.41-450) with sample task and answer
for expressing views. For example, ‘I believe that …’ ‘I would argue & strategies including using connectives).
that …’ . See Insight into IELTS, p.88.
for making contrasts and concessions. For example, ‘ Despite the
fact that …’. See Insight into IELTS, p.88 & Focus on IELTS, p.100
for refuting an argument. For example, ‘There is little evidence to
support the …’ See Insight into IELTS, p.89
for giving opposing arguments. See Helpful Hints for IELTS, p.71.
for providing support to your main points. For example, ‘In my
experience …’ or ‘A good example of this is …’. See Insight into
IELTS, p.92
in conclusions. For example, ‘In conclusion ..’ or ‘’On balance…’.
See Focus on IELTS, p.120, Helpful Hints, p.71.
x Think about the topics that could be used for this task. For
example,
Technology
Crime
Tourism
Transport
Education
Population
Media
Health
Society
x Brainstorm the topics for possible questions.
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How to prepare for IELTS – Writing
General tips for Writing
Before the exam
x Practise writing answers to the tasks in the time allowed, especially if
you haven’t written at speed by hand for a while.
x Keep up-to-date with current affairs.
During the exam
x Use a pen. It should be easier to write faster with a pen.
x Make sure you have a checklist in mind for editing your writing at the
end. Make one up now with the errors you know you make. For
example,
Have I ….
9 written enough words?
9 dealt with all parts of the question?
9 added ‘s’ to all the 3rd person singular verbs in the present
simple?
9 used the correct articles (a, an or the)?
9 added ‘s’ to all the countable nouns I have used in the plural?
9 used the correct prepositions?
9 used the correct tenses?
9 used a variety of sentence structures?
9 used a variety of vocabulary?
9 used a variety of connective words?
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