The IELTS writing section contains two tasks. In the first task, a situation is provided, and applicants have to write a letter in response to it. The second task includes answering an essay by providing an argument or stating a viewpoint.
For essay type question, candidates are assessed based on their ability to provide factual information, present a solution and justify an opinion.
If you are an aspirant, check this blog to know more about the latest IELTS essay topics.
How to Write an IELTS Essay?
To achieve an 8-band score and above, you must follow specific parameters. Below are some simple steps to write the best IELTS essay.
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Understand the Question
It is essential to understand the question and then answer accordingly. Also, it is crucial to answer what has been asked. Hovering around the topic and producing an essay close to it is never entertained.
Moreover, a generalised essay also negatively affects your IELTS score. Thus, make sure to maintain originality and include examples which are known to you.
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Ensure to Answer All Parts of the Question
The task 2 questions generally contain several parts. This is why carefully reading and understanding the question is essential before beginning to write. Missing out on any part can have an impact on the score.
In addition to this, make sure to use a clear statement to present that you know the answer.
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Logically Structure Your Essay
In the writing section for both academic and general training IELTS, you have 60 minutes to answer. Therefore, divide your time carefully. Once you have understood the question, prepare a structure for it.
This will save your time and allow you to touch down every essential part of the question. However, simply adding an introduction and conclusion will not help. The framework for the essay must be made logically.
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Divide the Essay into Paragraphs
Although it is an essay, writing one long paragraph never seems attractive to read. Thus, dividing the essay into smaller sections with required gaps makes the examiner think and appreciate your effort towards the answer.
Using appropriate transition words and punctuations also helps maintain parity and a flow throughout the essay. For instance, if a question demands both your opinion and perspective on the topic. Begin with stating your opinion, justify your perspective, and complete it with a relevant conclusion.
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Polish Your Vocabulary
In this writing section, applicants will be judged based on their fluency and language skills. Therefore, having a polished vocabulary and good grammar helps you answer the question.
Using uncommon words specific to the topic or adding some idioms to express your views is quite appreciated at IELTS. This explains you have a command of the language and you can present your thoughts.
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Avoid Memorised Phrases
A basic guideline mentioned on the IELTS website is that you must not use memorised phrases throughout the essay. This is because these popular phrases are easy for the examiner to identify, and it shows that you are unable to form ideas on your own.
Additionally, try not to use vague terms like controversial issues, in a nutshell, etc. Words like these do not illustrate your strength in the language; instead, use words like: major issue, in conclusion, etc.
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Mix Up Sentence Constructions
If you aim for a band 8 score, your language skills must reflect that you have an excellent command of it. Thus, try to add a different variant of sentences so that your essay doesn’t seem monotonous.
Furthermore, avoid writing long sentences, as it increases the chances of making errors and doesn’t appeal to a reader.
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Revise Before Submitting
The last tip is to revise and check for any minor errors. As it is a time-bound exam, you will have a limited time to complete your essay. Most candidates try to use the given time to its fullest and avoid revising.
This trick doesn’t work because you are bound to make certain mistakes like typos or spelling mistakes when writing in a set time. Hence, complete your essay before time; use the last 10-15 minutes to thoroughly check your essay.
Dos and Don’ts of Writing IELTS Essay
| DOs | DON’Ts |
| Use examples that relate to the topic | Overgeneralise |
| Write 250+ words | Ignore any part of the questions |
| Add relevant transition phrases | Use numbers, symbols or special characters |
| Differentiate paragraphs for introduction and conclusion | Underline any word or phrases |
| Leave space between each section | Write one-sentence paragraphs |
| Use collocation and phrasal verbs | Use slangs |
| Add relevant phrases | Include old-fashioned words |
| Understand the tone of the question | Mix UK and US English spellings |
Updated IELTS Essay Topic List
These are some of the latest IELTS essay topics.
| Theme | Essay Topic |
| Environment |
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| Education |
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| Business |
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| Culture |
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| Covid-19 |
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| Society |
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| Personality |
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| Health |
|
What are the Types of IELTS Essays?
The various types of IELTS essays are as follows –
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Discussion Essays
These essay questions demand that applicants provide a proper explanation to the question. Questions like these are the most common in IELTS exams.
The best way to answer questions like these is to address the topic first and then directly move on to its explanation.
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Opinion Essays
One can smoothly answer these kinds of questions if they are aware of the latest IELTS essay topics. It is suggested that beginning your answer with a general notion is never appreciated.
Practice being specific while forming your opinion and making clear statements. This will minimise the chances of forming generic ideas.
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Advantages and Disadvantages Type Essays
Essays like these require you to answer both the positive and the negative aspects of the topic. So, ensure to answer accordingly.
Also, check if you have been asked to offer any opinion at the end. Otherwise, refrain from offering a biased statement regarding any topic.
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Direct Answer-Type Essays
Questions like these are relatively rare in IELTS. Nevertheless, if you come across such essays, try to answer directly.
When answering such essays, keep your tone formal, write a crisp introductory paragraph and explain your statements in the body.
Some might feel that the writing section is the toughest to crack in IELTS. However, if you practice diligently, it will be a cakewalk. So, for every aspiring IELTS candidate, combine these tips, practice the latest IELTS essay topics, and prepare to achieve a higher band score.
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