Rachael Brandt

IELTS Writing

The IELTS Writing exam involves writing two short passages in one hour. Task 1, which is worth ⅓ of the points, must be at least 150 words long. Task 2 is worth ⅔ of the points and must be at least 250 words long. On the Academic IELTS, Task 1 involves summarizing the most important information from charts, graphs, diagrams and/or other visual prompts. Task 2 is a formal academic essay. On the General Training IELTS, test takers write a letter for Task 1. The topic and purpose of the letter (i.e. to complain, request information, etc) is provided in the prompt. Task 2 is an opinion essay on a general topic.