IELTS General Training Writing

The official IELTS by IDP app is here! Download it today.

The General Training Writing test is made up of two tasks, Writing Task 1 and Writing Task 2. The topics in each task are of general interest.

In Writing Task 1, you will be given a situation where you will need to write a letter to request information or explain the situation. You might be asked to write a letter to suggest how to improve facilities at a library. Examiners will look at your ability to provide general and factual information in relation to the task, express needs, wants, likes and dislikes, as well as opinions, views and complaints.

Writing Task 2 is a little different. You will be asked to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument or problem. You will be assessed on whether you can provide general factual information, outline a problem, present a solution, justify an opinion or evaluate and challenge ideas, evidence or an argument.

Ask IELTS

What order will I complete the IELTS test in?

If you take IELTS on Computer, you will do the tests in the following order on the same day: Listening, Reading and Writing, with the Speaking test before or after this test session.

If you take IELTS on Paper, you will do the tests in the following order: Listening, Reading and Writing. Depending on the test centre, the Speaking test can be done on the same day, or up to 7 days either before or after the test date.

Do I have to write in pencil for the IELTS on Paper test?

The test centre will provide pencils for the IELTS Listening, Reading, and Writing tests. This is because tests are scanned and work best with pencil. It also means that you can easily erase and rewrite words.

Can I do all parts of the IELTS test on computer?

If you take an IELTS on computer test, the Reading, Writing and Listening parts of the IELTS test are completed on a computer, but the Speaking test is completed face-to-face with an IELTS examiner.

How can I improve my Writing band score?

Read the assessment criteria used for both Academic and General Training Writing tests carefully before your test day. The examiner will assess your writing based on four criteria for Task 1 and Task 2.

Remember that Writing Task 2 is worth twice as many marks as Task 1. You can improve your Writing band score by practising. Our news and articles page has extensive tips and advice to help you prepare and improve your English-language skills.

Why are the topics in the Reading and Writing test so difficult?

Every IELTS test is carefully produced and tested to ensure a consistent level of difficulty across all the test versions. We want every IELTS test  taker to have their true English-language ability reflected in their result, which is why we offer so many free and paid tools to help you  practise and prepare.

Check out our preparation  tools for tips and advice so that you can be as prepared as possible for your test date.

Will I get more marks if I write more than the word limit In Writing?

The minimum word limit is important and you must write at least 150 words for Writing Task 1 and at least 250 words for Writing Task 2.

If you write less than this, you will have fewer ideas and may lose marks. However if you write much more, this does not mean you will gain marks. It is more important that you use correct English, appropriate grammar, and a wide range of vocabulary and sentence structures.

Ask IELTS

Ask IELTS

Can I write my test entirely in capital letters?

7 Mistakes preventing a band 7 or higher: IELTS Writing Task 2

8 Steps to help you reach a band 8: IELTS Writing Task 2

7 steps to help you reach a band 7: IELTS Writing Task 2

Will I be penalised if I mix UK and US spelling in my Writing test?

Learn More

IELTS Writing Task 2: How to write a good introduction

Question types in the IELTS General Training Writing test