For University & Professional Registration

IELTS Academic Writing Practice

Master both Task 1 (describing data and processes) and Task 2 (essay writing) with instant AI feedback calibrated to official IELTS standards.

Start for Free3 free practice sessions. No credit card required.

IELTS Academic Writing Tasks

Task 1: Data Description

20 minutes150+ words1/3 of score

Summarize visual information presented in graphs, charts, tables, diagrams, or maps. Describe key features and make comparisons.

Key Skills:
Interpreting visual data
Describing trends and patterns
Making comparisons
Using data-specific vocabulary

Task 2: Essay Writing

40 minutes250+ words2/3 of score

Write an essay responding to a point of view, argument, or problem. Present and justify your opinion with examples.

Key Skills:
Developing arguments
Supporting ideas with examples
Structuring paragraphs
Using academic vocabulary

Visual Types in Task 1

Line Graphs & Bar Charts

Show trends over time or compare quantities

Population growth over decadesSales figures by regionTemperature changes by month
Pie Charts & Tables

Show proportions or present detailed data

Budget allocation percentagesSurvey results breakdownComparative statistics
Process Diagrams & Maps

Show sequences or geographical changes

Manufacturing processesLife cyclesUrban development over time

IELTS Academic Writing Criteria

Task Achievement / Response
Address all parts of the task
Present a clear overview (Task 1)
Develop a clear position (Task 2)
Support ideas with relevant details
Coherence & Cohesion
Organize ideas logically
Use paragraphing effectively
Use cohesive devices appropriately
Ensure clear progression of ideas
Lexical Resource
Use a wide range of vocabulary
Use less common vocabulary
Show awareness of collocations
Minimize spelling errors
Grammatical Range
Use a variety of structures
Use complex sentences accurately
Maintain grammatical control
Use punctuation correctly

IELTS Academic Writing FAQ

What is IELTS Academic Task 1?

IELTS Academic Task 1 requires you to describe visual information such as graphs, charts, tables, diagrams, or maps. You have 20 minutes to write at least 150 words summarizing the key features and making comparisons where relevant.

What is IELTS Academic Task 2?

IELTS Academic Task 2 asks you to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem. You have 40 minutes to write at least 250 words. This task carries more weight than Task 1 in your overall Writing score.

How is IELTS Academic Writing scored?

Your writing is scored on four criteria: Task Achievement (how well you address the task), Coherence & Cohesion (organization and linking), Lexical Resource (vocabulary), and Grammatical Range & Accuracy. Each criterion contributes equally to your band score.

What band score do universities typically require?

Most universities require an overall band score of 6.0-7.0 for undergraduate programs and 6.5-7.5 for postgraduate programs. Many institutions also have minimum requirements for the Writing component specifically, often 6.0 or higher.

Start Your IELTS Academic Practice

Get instant feedback on your Academic Writing tasks. Improve your band score with targeted practice.

Start for Free