IELTS Writing AI Logo
IELTS Writing AI
25 Proven Tips

IELTS Writing Tipsfrom Band 8+ Scorers

Learn the strategies that separate average essays from Band 7+ essays. Tips from examiners, teachers, and successful candidates.

Time Management (Critical!)

Task 1: 20 Minutes

  • • 3 min: Analyze the chart/graph
  • • 2 min: Write introduction
  • • 3 min: Write overview
  • • 10 min: Two body paragraphs
  • • 2 min: Review and check

Task 2: 40 Minutes

  • • 5 min: Plan your essay (brainstorm + outline)
  • • 5 min: Write introduction
  • • 12 min: Body paragraph 1
  • • 12 min: Body paragraph 2
  • • 4 min: Conclusion
  • • 2 min: Review

25 Essential Tips

1.

Always write an overview in Task 1

Critical
2.

Never copy the question word-for-word

Critical
3.

Write at least 150 words for Task 1

Critical
4.

Write at least 250 words for Task 2

Critical
5.

Take 5 minutes to plan Task 2

Critical
6.

Use specific examples in every body paragraph

7.

Leave 2 minutes at the end to review

8.

Don't write your opinion in Task 1

Critical
9.

Always include your opinion in Task 2

Critical
10.

Use formal language (no contractions)

11.

Write in paragraphs, not bullet points

Critical
12.

Use linking words between sentences

13.

Don't memorize model essays

14.

Practice with timed conditions

Critical
15.

Learn 5 synonyms for common words

16.

Check your spelling in the last 2 minutes

17.

Use a mix of simple and complex sentences

18.

Don't repeat the same vocabulary

19.

Read the question carefully - twice!

Critical
20.

Answer all parts of the question

Critical
21.

Use academic vocabulary, not slang

22.

Write clearly - penmanship matters!

23.

Don't leave any questions unanswered

Critical
24.

Stay calm if you make a mistake

25.

Practice every day for best results

Critical

Mistakes That Cost a Whole Band

Missing the overview (Task 1)

Lose 1 band

Solution: Always write 2 sentences summarizing main trends

No clear opinion (Task 2)

Lose 0.5-1 band

Solution: State your position clearly in introduction and conclusion

Under word count

Automatic penalty

Solution: Aim for 160+ (Task 1) and 270+ (Task 2)

Not answering the question

Lose 1-2 bands

Solution: Read question twice. Highlight key parts

No examples in body paragraphs

Lose 0.5 band

Solution: Include specific examples in every body paragraph

4-Week Study Plan

Week 1

Task 1 Basics

Learn structure, vocabulary for trends, write 3 Task 1 essays

Week 2

Task 2 Structure

Master 4-paragraph structure, practice all 5 essay types

Week 3

Timing & Speed

Practice with 60-minute timer, build writing speed

Week 4

Refinement

Review mistakes, focus on weak areas, take mock test

Ready to Apply These Tips?

Check your essays to see which tips you're following and which you need to work on.