IELTS Academic · Writing
IELTS Academic Writing: Task 1 Report and Task 2 Essay
IELTS Academic Writing takes 60 minutes and has two tasks. Task 1 is a report of at least 150 words describing a graph, chart, table, process or map, with about 20 minutes suggested. Task 2 is an essay of at least 250 words responding to an argument or problem, with about 40 minutes suggested.
- Tasks
- 2: visual report (Task 1) and essay (Task 2)
- Time
- 60 minutes, one timer for both tasks
- Length
- Task 1 at least 150 words; Task 2 at least 250 words
- Suggested split
- About 20 minutes for Task 1, 40 minutes for Task 2
- Score
- Band 0–9, in half bands
How IELTS Academic Writing works
In Task 1 you select and report the main features of visual information and make comparisons, in a neutral, formal style. In Task 2 you write an essay that takes a clear position on a question, such as giving your opinion, discussing two views, or proposing solutions. Both tasks share one 60-minute timer, and you can move between them.
Examiners mark each task on four criteria: Task Achievement (Task 1) or Task Response (Task 2), Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. The two task scores combine into your Writing band; check the official IELTS site for how the tasks are weighted.
IELTS Academic Writing tasks
Tips that work
- Keep close to the suggested 20/40 minute split so Task 2, the longer task, gets the time it needs.
- In Task 1, write a clear overview of the main trends; in Task 2, state your position early.
- Plan for a few minutes before each task and leave a few minutes to check.
- Stay above the word minimums; responses that are too short lose marks.
Questions candidates ask
What is the difference between Academic and General Training Writing?
Academic Task 1 describes visual information such as a chart or process. General Training Task 1 is a letter. Task 2 is an essay in both versions, though Academic topics tend to be more academic in style.
Is handwriting or typing used?
In the computer-delivered test you type both tasks, and a word count is shown. EnglishHub practice uses a typed answer box with a live word count in the same way.
How do I get feedback on my writing?
Every Task 1 and Task 2 response you submit gets AI feedback on the four criteria, with comments on what to fix. It is an independent practice estimate, not an official IELTS band.
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