The content and type of questions

The IELTS does not test your knowledge of English in as much as it tests your comprehension skills. It is more a test of your time management skills and your ability to comprehend in a short time frame. Well, in effect you have to complete two writing tasks in just one hour. The Writing section is different for Academic IELTS and General Training IELTS.



Academic Writing

There are two tasks and it is suggested that candidates spend about 20 minutes on Task 1, which requires them to write at least 150 words , and 40 minutes on Task 2 - 250 words. The assessment of Task 2 carries more weight in marking than Task 1.

In Task 1 candidates are asked to look at a diagram or table and to present the information in their own words. They are assessed on their ability to organize, present and possibly compare data, describe the stages of a process, describe an object or event, explain how something works.

In Task 2 candidates are presented with a point of view, argument or problem. They are assessed on their ability to present a solution to the problem, present and justify an opinion, compare and contrast evidence and opinions, evaluate and challenge ideas, evidence or arguments.

Candidates are also judged on their ability to write in an appropriate style.



General Training Writing

There are two tasks and it is suggested that candidates spend about 20 minutes on Task 1, which requires them to write at least 150 words, and 40 minutes on Task 2 - 250 words. The assessment of Task 2 carries more weight in marking than Task 1.

In Task 1 candidates are asked to respond to give problem with a letter requesting information or explaining a situation. They are assessed on their ability to engage in personal correspondence, elicit and provide general factual information, express needs, wants, likes and dislikes, express opinions, complaints, etc.

In Task 2 candidates are presented with a point of view, argument or problem. They are assessed on their ability to provide general factual information, outline a problem and present a solution, prevent and justify an opinion, evaluate and challenge ideas, evidence or arguments.

Candidates are also judged on their ability to write in an appropriate style.



Tips to crack the Writing Section

It would be wise to spend 20 minutes on the first task and 40 on the second. Well, you will have to decide on your own strategy on the basis of your abilities. Use your time intelligently. Remember to read both titles carefully before you get down to writing your essays

You will have to write 150 words in the first part of the analytical section. Do not count the words at the time of the test but practice hard before appearing so that you know how much text amounts to 150 words. A composition of 200 words will also be ideal. However, avoid exceeding the 200 limit.

The best course of action would be to break the write-up into three paragraphs. Don't forget to cite examples and draw comparisons. The same principles would hold good for the second task in the section, where you will have to write at least 250 words. Here, your logical thinking, your organizational skills and your ability to put down your argument convincingly is what matters. Avoid grammatical mistakes, be use simple and lucid language, and you'll do just fine!