Passing IELTS Writing Test

A test of proficiency in a language requires one to be able to speak, read, listen, and write the language in question. Hence, the purpose of the IELTS exam is to test how confident and well an individual’s abilities are concerning the use of the English Language. 

The IELTS test has four sections namely: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

Also, check out IELTS Score and Scoring System.

Each candidate gets tested with tasks assigned to each section and graded accordingly. The scores accumulated from each section make up the overall band score. Therefore, it is paramount to excel in these four sections. 

The subject of our discussion will explore the essential steps of the writing section, explaining what it entails and how to pass the writing section of the examination. 

IELTS Writing Section 

The IELTS writing section has two categories, academic and general writing. Excellent performance in the two areas will guarantee you get a good score in the writing section of the test. 

The examiner will focus on four key areas:  

• Your overall response to the question 
• Ability to connect ideas within the text 
• The use of a wide variety of accurate vocabulary 
• Your use of a wide variety of accurate grammatical forms.

IELTS Academic Writing 

The academic writing section of the writing test evaluates the candidate’s ability to structure and write coherent arguments in an academic style. The academic writing module has two tasks, the first one involves

graphs, charts, tables, or diagrams. It involves using coherent words to describe and interpret the information provided in the visual. 

For this task, you need to write at least 150 words to get good grades.

For the second task, the candidates will write on a given topic which may be centered on an argument or a statement. The candidates are expected to write an essay to demonstrate a clear understanding of how to write concerning the topic. A  minimum of 250 words will be enough to get a good grade. 

Finally, the total duration given for the two tasks is 60 minutes, 20 minutes for Task 1, and 40 mins to complete Task 2.

IELTS General Writing

The other module of IELTS Writing is the IELTS general writing. This module aims to assess the candidate’s ability to use written words coherently and effectively.

Similar to academic writing, the general writing module has two tasks. The first task involves writing a letter for a given situation in not less than 150 words. Furthermore, the second task involves providing an essay in response to a discussion or topic. The candidate is expected to do this with a minimum of 250 words.

The total time allowed for the completion of the two tasks is the same as that of the academic writing module.

Crucial Tips for Passing IELTS Writing Exam 

Writing tests for the IELTS examination is crucial to your score. We will explore some essential tips that will help you in preparing and write the exam.

Read and Understand the requirements 

Understanding the instructions outlined is crucial for every endeavor or activity. Therefore, the first step required in attempting the questions is to carefully read and understand the task requirements.

You need to focus on the task prompt, the instructions, and the guidelines provided. If you understand the requirements, your work becomes easier and you know the relevant ideas and information that you will need for the task.

Plan your response 

Do not be in a rush to answer the questions right away. Keep calm and think using a few minutes. Doing this helps brainstorm and organize your thoughts. Make use of your paper to write them down and create an outline to plan your response.

Touch every part of the tasks outlined 

You will be in a good position if you pay attention to the outlined tasks and specifics. Failure to do this makes your work irrelevant and gets you bad grades. 

Endeavor to use examples and relevant information to back up your ideas.

Use  appropriate language and style 

The tone and style of the language you use in writing must be the right one for the question asked. Do not be formal where you need to be casual. In addition, avoid slang and offensive language.

Do not write off-topic or ramble 

Stay on-topic and avoid rambling or including irrelevant information. Keep your writing focused and concise

Proofread and edit your work 

You are not done if you do not proofread and edit your work for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. Effective and good writing is complete when you go back to check your work.

Manage your time effectively 

Make sure to manage your time effectively during the writing section, so that you have enough time to plan, write, and review your work.

Use paragraphs 

Use paragraphs to organize your writing into clear and logical sections. Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence and make sure all the sentences in the paragraph relate to that topic.

Write in clear and concise language 

Use clear and concise language to express your ideas. Avoid using overly complex words or sentences that are difficult to understand.

Practice writing 

Practice makes perfect. Repeating writing and perfecting skills now and then is essential. Practice writing essays on a variety of topics to build your knowledge and writing prowess. In addition, practice with time occasionally to get used to working well without pressure and improving time management skills

Use a variety of sentence structures 

Using a variety of sentence structures can make your writing more interesting and engaging to read. Try to use a mix of simple, compound, and complex sentences.

Also, check out How to Handle Tough Questions at Job Interviews.

Taking IELTS Writing with Computer VS Taking with Paper

Both cases are equally good. However, the candidate’s choice is the paramount factor because the individual makes his or her choices based on preferences. Choose what is best for you and work with that. A word of advice, you can engage in the practice involving the two areas to help with your choice.

Furthermore, there are pros and cons which will list below to help you with your decision.

Computer 

Pros

• You might be able to write more in the allocated time if you type more quickly than you can write by hand.
• On a computer, you may readily edit and rewrite your writing without having to mark anything as deleted or crossed out.
• It will be simpler to read your work, which could make it simpler for the examiner to comprehend what you are trying to communicate.

Cons

• To use a computer for writing, you must be a good keyboard user.
• Typing versus handwriting may make it harder for certain people to organize their ideas or think creatively.
• There is a chance that distractions or technical problems (such as notifications or difficulty with internet connectivity) will prevent you from writing.

Paper

Pros: 

• While writing by hand rather than typing, some people may find it simpler to brainstorm and arrange their ideas.
• To write by hand, you do not need to be a proficient typist. 
• When writing on paper, there is no chance of interruptions or technological problems

Cons 

• Because handwriting is slower than typing, it could be more challenging to write as much as you’d like in the allowed time.
• The legibility of your writing can be worse than it would be if you were typing.
• While writing by hand, editing and modifying your writing might be more difficult and messier.

Final Notes on Passing IELTS Writing Test

One of the four main areas in which a test taker is evaluated is the IELTS writing component. The test measures the candidate’s ability to use words, a range of senses, have a stock of vocabulary, and understand grammar, among other requirements to demonstrate English language competency.

The writing test is divided into two sections, each with two tasks. The article provides crucial advice on how to succeed in the writing portion.

Before you go, check out How to Ace a Job Interview.