IELTS Writing is marked against four equally weighted criteria, each contributing 25% of the writing band score. Task Achievement or Task Response evaluates how fully the prompt is addressed. Coherence and Cohesion assesses logical organisation, clear progression of ideas, paragraphing, and the use of cohesive devices such as linking words and referencing. Lexical Resource measures the range and accuracy of vocabulary, including paraphrasing and collocations. Grammatical Range and Accuracy evaluates the variety and correct use of sentence structures.
Different Task 2 essay types follow distinct organisational patterns. An opinion essay presents a clear thesis in the introduction, then develops two body paragraphs with arguments and examples, possibly including a concession or refutation, before concluding with a restatement of the position. A 'discuss both views and give your opinion' essay dedicates one paragraph to each perspective before stating the writer's own opinion with justification. A 'discussion-only' essay covers both views without necessarily giving personal opinion, while a 'problem and solution' essay typically uses four paragraphs to discuss causes or effects and propose solutions.
Other common essay formats include advantages and disadvantages essays, which balance positive and negative aspects before offering a recommendation, and 'double' or 'two-part question' essays, which require the candidate to address two related questions explicitly. Every Task 2 essay should begin with a strong two-sentence introduction: one sentence paraphrasing the prompt and one stating the thesis. Body paragraphs should be around 90–110 words each, and the conclusion, approximately 40–50 words, should restate the thesis in different words and offer a final thought without introducing new ideas.
Writing Task 1 Academic requires describing visual data such as graphs, charts, or process diagrams. A typical structure includes a paraphrased introduction, an overview summarising the main trend or comparison, and body paragraphs detailing specific data points with figures. Process diagrams are usually described using the present simple passive voice and sequencing markers like 'firstly', 'subsequently', and 'finally'. Writing Task 1 General Training asks candidates to write a letter of at least 150 words in formal, semi-formal, or informal register depending on the context.