IELTS Writing Task 1: Guide

• IELTS Writing Task 1 involves summarizing, describing, or comparing visual information, examples include graphs, charts, tables, and diagrams.
• Task 1 requires a minimum of 150 words.
• Task 1 is about objective reporting, not personal opinions.
• The time allocated to Task 1 is 20 minutes.

Task 1 Response Structure

• Introduction: Briefly introduce the visual information.
• State the type of chart, graph, or diagram being analyzed.
• Briefly state the topic of the graphic provided.
• Briefly summarize the graphic's overall trend or purpose.
• Overview: Summarize the main trends or key features.
• Focus on major details instead of trying to capture all data points.
• The overview should not include specific data.
• Body Paragraph 1: Describe the first key feature or data set in detail.
• Use specific data and figures to illustrate your points.
• Compare and contrast data where relevant.
• Body Paragraph 2: Describe the second key feature or data set in detail.
• Provide specific data and figures in your response.
• Make comparisons where appropriate.

Task 2 Argument Development

• Task 2 involves presenting an opinion-based argument (e.g., agree/disagree, advantages/disadvantages, problem/solution).
• Task 2 requires a minimum of 250 words.
• Task 2 has a time allocation of 40 minutes.
• Understanding the question type is crucial for effectively developing your argument.
• Common question types include opinion, discussion, advantage/disadvantage, problem/solution, and direct question essays.
• A clear position or thesis statement must be articulated in the introduction of opinion essays.
• Each paragraph should focus on one main idea or argument.
• Support ideas with evidence, examples, or explanations.
• Address and refute counterarguments where appropriate.
• A well-developed argument considers different perspectives and complexities of the issue.
• Avoid generalizations and oversimplifications in your response.

Coherence and Cohesion

• Coherence refers to the overall clarity and logical flow of the writing.
• Cohesion refers to the connection of ideas at the sentence and paragraph levels.
• Use varied cohesive devices to link ideas.
• Use coordinating conjunctions like "and", "but" and "or" to link ideas.
• Use subordinating conjunctions like "although", "because" and "if" to link ideas.
• Use transition words like "however", "furthermore" and "therefore" to link ideas.
• Use pronouns like "he", "she", "it" and "they" to link ideas.
• Use synonyms and paraphrasing to link ideas.
• Each paragraph needs a clear topic sentence that introduces the main idea.
• Logically organize and connect ideas within a paragraph.
• Avoid abrupt shifts in topic or tone.
• Use a clear and consistent organizational structure in your writing.
• Make sure the introduction and conclusion effectively frame the essay's main points.

Lexical Resource

• Lexical resource refers to the range and accuracy of vocabulary used.
• Use a wide range of vocabulary to express ideas precisely.
• Avoid overusing simple or basic words.
• Use synonyms and paraphrasing to show vocabulary range.
• Use collocations correctly, which are words that naturally go together.
• Understand the nuances of different words and use them appropriately.
• Avoid using informal or colloquial language in academic writing.
• Correct spelling is essential.
• Use a dictionary or thesaurus to expand your vocabulary.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy

• Grammatical range refers to the diversity of grammatical structures used in writing.
• Grammatical accuracy refers to the correctness of grammar rule application.
• Use a mix of simple, compound, and complex sentences.
• Use a variety of verb tenses correctly.
• Make sure to use correct subject-verb agreement.
• Use correct punctuation.
• Avoid grammatical errors that can impede communication.
• Proofread carefully to catch errors.
• Practice using different grammatical structures.