Question 1

Do I have to write in pencil for the IELTS on paper test?

Accepted Answer

Pencil is recommended for the IELTS Listening, Reading, and Writing tests. This is because tests are scanned and work best with pencil. It also means that you can easily erase and rewrite words. If you forget to bring a pencil, the test centre will provide one for you.

Question 2

How can I improve my Writing band score?

Accepted Answer

Read the assessment criteria used for both Academic and General Training Writing tests carefully before your test day. The examiner will assess your writing based on four criteria for Task 1 and Task 2.
Remember that Writing Task 2 is worth twice as many marks as Task 1. You can improve your Writing band score by practising. Our news and articles page has extensive tips and advice to help you prepare and improve your English-language skills.

Question 3

What is the difference between IELTS on paper and IELTS on computer?

Accepted Answer

If you choose to take IELTS on computer, you will take the Listening, Reading and Writing test parts using a computer.
If you choose to take the  IELTS on paper,  you will complete the Listening, Reading and Writing test parts on paper.
The Speaking test for both paper and computer  are  face to face with an examiner. This is the best way  to measure  your  speaking skills  as it takes a more  realistic  approach: a life-like conversation with an examiner.

Question 4

What order will I complete the IELTS test in?

Accepted Answer

If you take IELTS on computer, you will do the tests in the following order on the same day: Listening, Reading and Writing, with the Speaking test before or after this test session.

If you take IELTS on paper, you will do the tests in the following order: Writing, Reading and Listening. Depending on the test centre, the Speaking test can be done on the same day, or up to 7 days either before or after the test date.

Question 5

Why are the topics in the Reading and Writing test so difficult?

Accepted Answer

Every IELTS test is carefully produced and tested to ensure a consistent level of difficulty across all the test versions. We want every IELTS test  taker to have their true English-language ability reflected in their result, which is why we offer so many free and paid tools to help you  practise and prepare.

Check out our preparation  tools for tips and advice so that you can be as prepared as possible for your test date.

Question 6

Will I get more marks if I write more than the word limit In Writing?

Accepted Answer

The minimum word limit is important and you must write at least 150 words for Writing Task 1 and at least 250 words for Writing Task 2.
If you write less than this, you will have fewer ideas and may lose marks. However if you write much more, this does not mean you will gain marks. It is more important that you use correct English, appropriate grammar, and a wide range of vocabulary and sentence structures.

Question 7

Will I lose marks if my opinions differ to that of the examiner?

Accepted Answer

In your Writing and Speaking tests, there are no right or wrong opinions. The examiner is assessing how well you can use your English to report information and express ideas.

Question 8

Can I write my answers in capital letters?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can use all capital letters in the IELTS Reading and Listening sections. If you use capital letters in the Writing section, make sure that your punctuation is correct and the examiner can see where you start and finish sentences.

Question 9

Should we expect topics related to COVID-19 in the Speaking and Writing tests?

Accepted Answer

No, not as part of the question.  However, topics in the IELTS Speaking and Writing tests could be related to health, so you can use COVID-19 as an example if you want to.

Question 10

What is the maximum number of words we should write in the Writing Task 1 and Writing Task 2 essay?

Accepted Answer

This varies from person to person, because some people write quickly.  There is no exact number, but approximately 180 words for Task 1 and 280 words for Task 2 can be a good guide, as long as you have enough time to go back and check  your work.

Question 11

Will I be penalised if I mix UK and US spelling in my Writing test?

Accepted Answer

No.  You can use either British or American English. If you use both in the same sentence it will not be a problem.

Question 12

Can we use numbered lists to support our opinion?

Accepted Answer

It is not a good idea to use numbered lists in the IELTS Writing test.  It is better to use full sentences, connecting words and paragraphs to show your writing ability.

Question 13

Should we show both sides of the argument or just one in an opinion essay?

Accepted Answer

If the question in the IELTS Writing test asks you to discuss both views, then try to give equal weight to both sides.  If the question asks if you agree, you do not have to give an opposing view.

Question 14

Can I write my overview in the second paragraph after the introduction?

Accepted Answer

In Task 1 of the IELTS Writing test, the examiner just needs to see an overview.  It does not matter where you place it, although it is more likely to see one at the end of the answer.

Question 15

Can I use personal answers in IELTS Writing Task 2?

Accepted Answer

Personal examples are fine, because the question says you can use your own experience and knowledge.

Question 16

If I am asked to provide reasons in an IELTS Writing response, can I only provide one reason?

Accepted Answer

If the word in the question is a plural, you should provide more than one.  Also, you can provide one reason but it can have more than one part or aspect.

Question 17

How can punctuation errors impact my score?

Accepted Answer

If the error makes your writing hard to understand, it can reduce your score.  If the error has a little effect on understanding, it will not impact your score as much.

Question 18

Do I need to use different sentence structures to get a good score in Grammatical range and accuracy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you use a variety of structures, you can show you have a deeper understanding of English.

Question 19

Is my IELTS Writing Task 1 and Writing Task 2 response weighted equally in terms of grading?

Accepted Answer

In the IELTS Writing test, Task 1 is worth half the marks of Task 2.

Question 20

Is IELTS Writing Task 2 the same in the IELTS General Training and Academic tests? If not, what is the difference?

Accepted Answer

The questions have the same requirement, but there is a slight difference with the Academic Test. The question might be more focused or more academic.

IELTS Academic Writing

Learn More

Featured news and articles