12 Tips for IELTS Academic Writing Exam

The IELTS Academic Writing exam can be intimidating for many. Test takers end up using complicated vocabulary with incorrect usage in sentences. 

Is using unfamiliar and complex words necessary? Well, the answer is No. You can easily get a higher band score by correctly presenting your ideas using simple words instead of complicated ones. 

In this article, you are about to learn some of the most effective IELTS Academic Writing tips to ace your exam.

Table of Contents

• IELTS Academic Writing Exam Format
  • Task 1 Format
  • Task 2 Format
• 12 Effective Tips to Write IELTS Academic Exam
• Time Management Tips for IELTS Academic Writing Exam

IELTS Academic Writing Exam Format

The IELTS Academic Writing test comprises two tasks to be completed within 60 minutes. Task 1 is to create a report, and Task 2 is to write an essay. Both task types must be written in a formal writing style only. The IELTS Academic Writing section is judged based on 4 criteria:

• Task Achievement
• Coherence and Cohesion 
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy
• Lexical Resource

Now let's explore the IELTS writing tasks in a little more detail. 

Task 1 Format

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 presents a visual image like charts, graphs, diagrams, processes, maps, and tables. Test takers are required to write a report of at least 150 words on such graphical representation. 

Test takers must complete Academic Writing Task 1 within 20 minutes. You must write the report after analyzing the diagram carefully. Students must abide by the following structure while writing the report:

• Introduction: Describe what you see in the pictorial representation briefly.
• Overview: Elaborate on the diagram's significant characteristics, trends, and changes.
• Key Facts/Features: Highlight relevant data through numbers, percentages, and increase or decrease in the key features of pictorial representation.

Don’t Forget to Read: Everything You Need to Know About IELTS Academic Writing Task 1

Task 2 Format

Task 2 of the IELTS writing test requires you to write an essay on the assigned topic. The IELTS essay must be 250 words to be written in 40 minutes. 

Writing Task 2 carries twice the marks than Task 1. So, utmost accuracy and efficiency are required to complete this task. The test takers are presented with academic or general topics or arguments. 

12 Effective Tips to Write IELTS Academic Exam

Getting a perfect score in IELTS Writing requires rigorous practice and expert guidance from experienced professionals. While attempting the IELTS Academic Writing section, you must not worry about the right and wrong answers. Remember, the examiner will evaluate your ability to organize and express your ideas powerfully.

The 12 most effective tips to crack the IELTS Academic Writing test are listed below:

• Read the questions carefully: Comprehend all the parts of the questions. Remember to answer all the questions.
• Stick to the word limit: Write at least the word limit of each writing task. If you write less than the required number of words, then you will lose some marks, affecting your band score.
• Do not copy words: Express your thoughts clearly in your own words. Avoid using the exact words or phrases used in the question.
• No Bullet Pointers: Refrain from using bullet points for writing task 1 and task 2 answers. You must structure your ideas with adequate paragraph spacing. Further, creating a connection and logical progression between the paragraphs by using transition words, like moreover, in addition, to conclude, etc., improves readability.
• Avoid Grammatical Errors: Use and weave lesser-known words or phrases into a sentence seamlessly. While doing this, you must avoid any spelling mistakes and grammatical errors.
• Use Relevant Data: In Academic Writing Task 1, you must select and explain the diagram's critical data points and trends. Write the introduction without copying the exact words from the diagram statement; instead, convey the core facts showcased by the diagram.
• Planning Essay Outline: While attempting Academic Writing Task 2, you must logically structure your essay first. Preparing an outline of the essay helps you organize your ideas effectively. Start with a powerful introduction and passage body using real-life examples, and finally, summarize your thoughts. 
• Effective Vocabulary Application: Differentiate between singular and plural nouns and use them effectively. Remember, correct usage of nouns, pronouns, verbs, adverbs, adjectives, and tenses plays a crucial role in writing reports and essays.
• Consistent Use of One English Style: Use American, British, or Australian English. It is important to understand that each writing style has different spelling for a single word. For example, "program"-- US English and "programme"-- British English. Mixing all the English writing styles is not recommended.
• Avoid writing long sentences: A sentence should be at most 2 lines, as it obstructs readability and increases the chances of grammatical errors.
• Take Timed Mock Tests: After your preparation ends, you must give timed IELTS practice tests. Specifically for the writing section, you can practice by setting a 20 minutes timer for Writing Task 1 and a 40 minutes timer for Writing Task 2.
• Join IELTS coaching classes: IELTS coaching is your success path towards achieving a perfect IELTS band score. Professional guidance from experienced faculty will help you prepare for your test effectively by identifying your weak points and capitalizing on your strengths.

Must Read: Benefits of IELTS Academic Online Coaching

Time Management Tips for IELTS Academic Writing Exam

Time management is crucial, not just to complete the test on time but to keep some spare time to revise and correct errors. Here are some time management tips for Academic Writing Task 1 and Task 2.

Task 1 

Task 2