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Browse topics to find key vocabulary, collocations, phrases and. Dive into each topic through relevant podcasts, videos and articles.

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IOT has currently been the most visited website in over 120 countries with more than 28 million students. We are aiming toward a community website that provides IELTS test questions and exam tips for free. Students can easily take the IELTS tests on the website to improve their band scores effectively within a short time through our modern e-learning platform.

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Below you'll find full sets of IELTS Speaking topics with questions for part 1, cue cards for part 2 and more questions for part 3.

Furthermore, there are videos of students answering these questions plus feedback on their performance.

Contents

How to Improve Your Speaking

To begin with, it's best for you to complete my IELTS Speaking test lessons.

After that, you can practice what you've learned with the practice questions below.

However, it's best not to look at all the practice questions until you're ready to answer them. That way, you'll have an experience closer to the real IELTS test.

Next, you can listen to the feedback in the videos below each set of practice questions. This will give you a deeper insight into what to do in your IELTS test.

Finally, you'll need feedback on your own speaking performance which you can find here.

IELTS Speaking Topics #1

IELTS Speaking Questions (Part 1)

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about your home.

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about shoes.

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about parks.

IELTS Speaking Cue Cards (Part 2)

IELTS Speaking Questions (Part 3)

Making Decisions

Decisions in Families

IELTS Speaking Topics #2

IELTS Speaking Questions (Part 1)

Now, I'm going to ask you some questions about your hometown.

Now, I'm going to ask you some questions about household chores.

Now, I'm going to ask you some questions about shoes.

IELTS Speaking Cue Cards (Part 2)

IELTS Speaking Questions (Part 3)

Working in restaurants

IELTS Speaking Topics #3

IELTS Speaking Questions (Part 1)

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about where you live.

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about clothes.

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about school.

IELTS Speaking Cue Cards (Part 2)

IELTS Speaking Questions (Part 3)

Amateur Sport

Professional Sport

IELTS Speaking Topics #4

IELTS Speaking Questions (Part 1)

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about what you do.

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about sleeping.

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about reading.

IELTS Speaking Cue Cards (Part 2)

IELTS Speaking Questions (Part 3)

Importance of holidays

Travelling abroad

IELTS Speaking Topics #5

IELTS Speaking Questions (Part 1)

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about work.

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about animals.

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about headphones.

IELTS Speaking Cue Cards (Part 2)

IELTS Speaking Questions (Part 3)

Professional Athletes

Speaking Topic #6

IELTS Speaking Questions (Part 1)

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about your studies.

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about maps.

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about concentration.

IELTS Speaking Cue Cards (Part 2)

IELTS Speaking Questions (Part 3)

Natural talent

Artistic talent

Speaking Topic #7

IELTS Speaking Questions (Part 1)

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about your home.

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about flowers.

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about barbecues.

IELTS Speaking Cue Cards (Part 2)

IELTS Speaking Questions (Part 3)

Video Games

Outdoor Games

Speaking Topic #8

IELTS Speaking Questions (Part 1)

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about your hometown.

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about road trips.

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about relaxing.

IELTS Speaking Cue Cards (Part 2)

IELTS Speaking Questions (Part 3)

Tourist attractions

Speaking Topic #9

IELTS Speaking Questions (Part 1)

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about your hometown.

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about belts.

Now I'm going to ask you some questions about your primary school.

IELTS Speaking Cue Cards (Part 2)

IELTS Speaking Questions (Part 3)

Smartphones

Communicating with phones

Free Live Feedback Lessons

If you need more support improving your IELTS Speaking scores, come along to my free Live Feedback Lessons.

More Practice IELTS Speaking Questions

As well as the questions above, you will find more reliable practice questions by clicking on the links below.

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Complete sets of IELTS Speaking topics accompanied by recordings of students answers being scored by an ex-IELTS examiner.

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Listening General Training Reading General Training Writing
The Listening question types for IELTS on computer are the same as in the IELTS on paper test.

A variety of tasks is used including: multiple choice, matching, plan/map/diagram labelling, form completion, note completion, table completion, flow-chart completion, summary completion, sentence completion, short-answer questions.

For each question, click on the correct answer.

Multiple choice (one answer)

You will hear an extract from a Part 3 recording in which a student called Judy is discussing her research with her tutor and fellow students.

Click on the correct answers.

Multiple choice (more than one answer)

You will hear an extract from a Part 1 recording in which two people are discussing a guide to a library.

For each question, click on the correct answer and move it into the gap.

Matching

You will hear an extract from a Part 2 recording in which a woman is talking to new staff at a children's summer camp.

For each question, click on the correct space in the table.

Plan/Map/Diagram Labelling (Type A)

You will hear an extract from Part 2 of the test in which a tour guide describes different places in a US town.

For each question, write your answer in the gap.

Form completion

You will hear an extract from a Part 1 recording in which a customer is talking to an agent at a company which ships large boxes overseas.

For each question, write your answer in the gap.

Note completion

You will hear an extract from a Part 1 recording in which two people are discussing second-hand furniture.

For each question, write your answer in the gap.

Table completion

You will hear an extract from a Part 4 recording in which a university lecturer is giving a talk about research into 'learner persistence'.

For each question, click on the correct answer and move it into the gap.

Flow-chart completion (selecting from a list of words or phrases)

You will read an extract from a Part 3 recording in which two biology students are comparing their research on evidence of life on Earth and other planets.

For each question, write your answer in the gap.

Sentence completion

You will hear an extract from a Part 3 recording in which two friends are discussing studying with the Open University.

For each question, write your answer in the gap.
Find out more about the Listening test
Short-answer questions

You will hear an extract from Part 2 of the test in which a representative from a clothing company is giving a talk to high school students.

The General Training Reading question types in IELTS on computer are the same as in the IELTS on paper test. A variety of tasks is used including: multiple choice, identifying information (True/False/Not Given), identifying a writer's views/claims (Yes/No/Not Given), matching information, matching headings, matching features, matching sentence endings, summary completion, note completion, sentence completion, table completion, flow-chart completion, diagram label completion, short-answer questions.

Multiple choice

True/False/Not Given

Matching information

For each question, click on the correct answer and move it into the gap.

Matching headings

You will read a Part 3 text about how robots are used in the newspaper production process.

Matching features

Summary completion

Note completion

Sentence completion

For each question, write your answer in the gap.
Find out more about the General Training Reading test
Flow-chart completion (selecting words from the text)

You will read a Part 3 text about how robots are used in the newspaper production process.

The General Training Writing question types in IELTS on computer are the same as in IELTS on paper.

In Part 1, you are asked to respond to a situation by writing a letter, for example, requesting information or explaining a situation.

In Part 2, you are asked to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument or problem.

Find out more about the General Training Writing test

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IELTS General training - sample test questions

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Do you want to move abroad for work and require a visa? The IELTS General Training test can help you to achieve your goals.

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2020 IELTS Speaking Part 1 Questions and Topics

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The creators of IELTS are constantly changing speaking topics, removing old ones and adding new ones. We studied dozens of sites and forums where…

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IELTS Speaking Part 1: New topics and questions January-May 2023

Usually in IELTS Speaking Part 1, the examiner asks questions on 3 topics. This means that you can be asked about any 3 topics from this list.

1 TOPIC = 3-4 QUESTIONS FROM THE EXAMINER!

HERE'S GIVEN VARIOUS OPTIONS OF QUESTIONS AND THERE ARE MORE OF THEM ON THE EXAM.

The first topic is most often one of these: Work / Studies / Accommodation
It is also possible that the first topic will be: Home Decoration, Hometown or Your Country

MOST OFTEN TOPICS:

Work/Studies
Do you work or are you a student?
Why did you choose this kind of work/to study this subject?
Do you like your job?
What's the most interesting part of being a ... (... / student)?
What's the most difficult part of being a ... (... / student)?
What do you dislike about your work or studies?
What was your dream job when you were a child?
Have you changed your mind since then?
What kind of work would you like to do in the future?

Accommodation
Do you live in a house or an apartment/flat?
Can you describe the place where you live?
What do you like about living there? What do you like about your flat?
Which is your favourite room in your home? Why?
Which room does your family spend most time in?
What can you see from the windows?
Would you change anything about your home? Why/why not?
Would you like to move to a different home in the future?
What sort of accommodation would you most like to live in?

Home Decoration
What kind of decoration do you prefer?
How is your home decorated?
What is your favorite color when decorating your home?
What colour would you never use in your home?
What colour would you choose to paint the walls of your room?
Do people in your country like redecorating their homes?
What is the new decorating trend for this year?

Hometown
Tell me about your hometown.
What's your hometown known for?
Do you like your hometown?
Is it big or small?
How long have you been living there?
Do you think you'll continue living there for a long time?
How has your town changed in the last 20 years?

Your Country
Where is your country located?
Which part of your country do most people live in?
What are the main industries in your country?
What are some of the good things about living in your country?
What are some of the bad things about living in your country?
What makes you feel proud of your country?
Will you stay in your country in the future?

T-shirts
Do you own many t-shirts?
Do you like t-shirts with pictures or prints?
Do you like wearing t-shirts?
How often do you wear t-shirts?
Are t-shirts popular in your country?
When is it appropriate to wear a t-shirt in your country?
Do you have a lot of clothes in your wardrobe?

Keys
Do you always bring many keys with you?
Have you ever lost a key and had to replace it?
Is it a good idea to leave your key with a neighbour?
Have you ever locked yourself out?
How can you avoid losing your keys?
Do you always take your keys when you go out?

Libraries
Do you often go to the library?
Did you go to a library when you were a kid?
What do you usually do in the library?
What kind of people go to libraries to work or study?
Are libraries popular in your country?

Schools
Did you go to a good school?
Where did you go to school?
Did you like your teachers?
Is there anything you want to change about your school?
What are the differences between your school and other schools?
Did you like the current learning atmosphere at your school?
What are the differences between your school and other schools?
Is there anything you want to change about your school?

Outer Space and Stars
Do you enjoy looking at the stars?
Have you ever learned about outer space and stars?
Are you interested in films about outer space and stars?
Can you see many stars at night where you live?
Is it important to study stars?
Would you ever like to go into space?
What would you do if you had a chance to go there?

Chocolate
Do you like eating chocolate?
How often do you eat chocolate?
What's your favorite flavor?
Did you often eat chocolate when you were a kid?
Is it good to give chocolate as gifts to others? Did you do that?
Why do you think chocolate is popular around the world?

Jewellery
Do you like wearing jewelry?
How often do you wear jewelry?
Do you wear a lot of jewelry?
What type of jewelry do you like to wear?
Do you usually buy jewelry?
Why do some people wear a piece of jewelry for a long time?
Have you ever given jewelry as a gift?

Small businesses
Are there many small businesses in your area?
Do you know many small businesses?
Do you prefer shopping in big companies or small shops?
Why do some people prefer to shop at small businesses?
Would you ever like to run your own small business?
When was the last time you bought something from a small business?

School
Where did (do) you go to school?
Do you like your teachers?
Do you like your current learning atmosphere?
What are the differences between your school and other schools?
Is there anything you want to change about your school?

Noise
Do you live in a noisy are?
Does being in a noisy place bother you?
What do you do to escape noisy places?
Are there any specific noises that annoy you?
What noise do we have in cities?
What kind of noise do cars make?
Is it usually louder in the countryside or in the city in your country?
Do you think cities are getting noisier these days?

Staying up late
Do you often stay up late?
Do you usually go to bed early or stay up late?
Did you stay up late when you were a kid?
What do you do when you stay up late?
What did you do the last time you stayed up late?
What do you feel the following day when you stay up late?

Happiness
What things made you happy when you were a child?
What activities make you feel happy now?
What kinds of people make you happy?
When during the day do you feel happiest?
Does food ever make you happy?
What do you do to stay happy?

Weekends
Do you like weekends?
What do you do in your spare time?
What do you usually do on weekends? Do you study or work?
What did you do last weekend?
Do you have plans for your weekends?
Is it important to make the most of your weekends?

Music
What music do you like?
When did you start listening to that type of music?
Do you often listen to music?
How do you feel when you listen to music?
When do you listen to music?
How much time do you spend listening to music every day?
What music do you dislike?
Do you often listen to one type of music?
What music do your friends like? Do you enjoy the same type of music?
Which singer or musician would you like to see in person?
What do you use to listen to music?
What kinds of music are popular in your country?

Art
Do you like art?
Would you like to become an artist?
Have you ever visited an art gallery?
Are there many art galleries in your area?
Do you have any artwork in your house?
Do you like modern art or traditional art?

TO BE CONTINUED

OLD TOPICS WHICH STAYED:

Morning
What's your morning routine?
Do you like mornings or evenings?
Is breakfast important for you?
Have you ever changed your morning routine?

Hair
Do you like going to the hairdresser's?
Do you want to change your hair colour?
How often do you have a haircut?
How long have you had this haircut?
Have you had a haircut you didn't like?

Puzzles
Do you like puzzles?
Do you like doing word puzzles or number puzzles?
Did you like doing puzzles when you were a kid?
When do you do puzzles, during trips, or when you feel bored?
Do you think it is suitable for older people to do puzzles?

Geography
Have you ever studied geography at school?
Do you like geography?
Do you want to travel to a country because of its geographical conditions?

Snacks
What's your opinion on snacks between meals?
Is it healthy to eat snacks?
What kind of snacks do you like to eat?
What kind of snacks do children in your country like to eat?
When do you usually have snacks?
What was the most popular snack when you were young?
Do your parents allow you to have snacks?

Cooking
Do you like cooking?
What do you usually cook?
Would you like to learn how to cook?
Who usually does the cooking in your family?

Names
Does your name have any special meaning?
Do you like your name?
What name do your parents/relatives call you?
Would you like to change your name?
Does anyone in your family have the same name as you?
Are there any differences between how people name their children now and in the past in your country?
How do people choose names for their children?

Weather
What's the weather usually like in your hometown?
What's your favourite weather?
Do you like the weather in your hometown?
Do you like hot or dry weather?
What do you do in hot weather?
Do you prefer hot or cold weather?
Do you prefer wet or dry weather?

Writing
Do you write a lot?
Do you prefer writing by hand or typing?
Did you like writing things when you were a child?
What do you like to write? Why?
Do you think the things you write would change?

Birthdays
What do you usually do on your birthday?
Do you think it is important for you to celebrate your birthday?
What did you do on your birthday when you were young?
How did you celebrate your last birthday?
What birthday presents do you like to get?
How do children celebrate birthdays in your country?

Singing
Do you like singing?
Do you often sing?
Have you ever learned how to sing?
Who do you want to sing for?
When do you like to sing?
What kinds of songs do you like to sing? What music?
Do you want to be a singer?
Is it difficult to sing well?

Public Transport/ Transportation
Do you often use public transportation?
Did you take public transport when you were a child?
Do most people prefer public transport?
What's the most popular means of transport in your hometown?
Is driving to work popular in your country?
Will you use public transport more in the future?
Are there any traffic problems in your area?
How would you improve transport in your town?

Social Media
Do you like social media?
What's the most popular social media in your country?
Do you think your friends spend too much time on social media?
Do you want to work in a social media company?

Technology
Do you like to use new technology?
What are the benefits of using technology?
What technology do you often use, computers or cell phones?
What electronic devices have you bought lately?
Is there any technology you want to buy?
What are the benefits of technology?

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IELTS Speaking Part 1: New topics and questions January-May 2023

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IELTS Speaking Part 1: New topics and questions January-May 2023

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IELTS Speaking Part 2-3: New topics and questions January-May 2023

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IELTS Speaking Part 2-3: New topics and questions January-May 2023

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IELTS Speaking Part 1: New topics and questions September-December 2023

Usually in IELTS Speaking Part 1, the examiner asks questions on 3 topics. This means that you can be asked about any 3 topics from this list.

1 TOPIC = 3-4 QUESTIONS FROM THE EXAMINER!

HERE'S GIVEN VARIOUS OPTIONS OF QUESTIONS AND THERE ARE MORE OF THEM ON THE EXAM.

The first topic is most often one of these: Work / Studies / Accommodation
It is also possible that the first topic will be: Home Decoration, Hometown or Your Country

MOST OFTEN TOPICS:

Work/Studies
Do you work or are you a student?
Why did you choose this kind of work/to study this subject?
Do you like your job?
What's the most interesting part of being a ... (... / student)?
What's the most difficult part of being a ... (... / student)?
What do you dislike about your work or studies?
What was your dream job when you were a child?
Have you changed your mind since then?
What kind of work would you like to do in the future?

Accommodation
Do you live in a house or an apartment/flat?
Can you describe the place where you live?
What do you like about living there? What do you like about your flat?
Which is your favourite room in your home? Why?
Which room does your family spend most time in?
What can you see from the windows?
Would you change anything about your home? Why/why not?
Would you like to move to a different home in the future?
What sort of accommodation would you most like to live in?

Home Decoration
What kind of decoration do you prefer?
How is your home decorated?
What is your favorite color when decorating your home?
What colour would you never use in your home?
What colour would you choose to paint the walls of your room?
Do people in your country like redecorating their homes?
What is the new decorating trend for this year?

Hometown
Tell me about your hometown.
What's your hometown known for?
Do you like your hometown?
Is it big or small?
How long have you been living there?
Do you think you'll continue living there for a long time?
How has your town changed in the last 20 years?

Your Country
Where is your country located?
Which part of your country do most people live in?
What are the main industries in your country?
What are some of the good things about living in your country?
What are some of the bad things about living in your country?
What makes you feel proud of your country?
Will you stay in your country in the future?
NEW TOPICS:
Fishing
Is fishing popular in your country?
Do you like eating fish?
Have you ever been to a place where there are lots of fish around you?
Have you seen any movies with lots of fish?
Why do people go fishing?

Running
Do you like running?
Where do you go running?
How often do you go running?
Which places do you think are perfect for running?
Do you think running is a good way to stay healthy?

Tea/Coffee
Do you like to drink coffee or tea?
Do most people prefer tea or coffee today?
How often do you drink coffee or tea?
Are coffee and tea popular in your country?

Helping people
Do you usually help people around you?
How do you help people around you?
Do your parents teach you how to help others?

Robots
Are you interested in robots?
Would you like to have robots in your home?
Are robots important?
How can robots affect people's lives?
Would you like to drive a robot operated car?

Maps
Do you often use maps?
Are you good at reading maps?
Do you prefer electronic or paper maps?
How often do you maps on your phone?
When was the first time when you used a map?
Did you learn to use maps when you were a child?

Chatting
Do you like chatting with friends?
What do you usually chat about with friends?
Do you prefer to chat with a group of people or with one friend?
Do you prefer to communicate face-to-face or via social media?
Do you argue with friends?
Have your discussion topics changed since you were a child?

Riding a bike/bicycles
How often do you ride a bicycle?
Did you have a bike when you were a child?
Did you ride a bike to school?
Is it difficult to learn to ride a bike?
Is it popular to ride a bike in your country?
When was the last time you used your bicycle?
Will you teach your children to ride a bicycle?

Noise
Do you mind noises?
Do any noises bother you?
Is there too much noise in our world today?
What kind of noise do you come across every day?
What sounds do you like?
What sounds do you dislike?

Films/Cinema
Did you usually go to the cinema when you were a child?
Do you often go to the cinema with your friends?
Do you still like the same kind of movie you liked as a child?
What films do you like?
How often do you go to the cinema?
Did you usually go to the cinema when you were a child?
What was the 1st film that you watched?
Do you prefer foreign films or films made in your country?

Musical Instruments
Do you know how to play a musical instrument?
Do you think students should learn to play musical instruments at school?
Have you taken any classes on musical instruments in school?

Geography
Do you like Geography?
Do you think Geography is useful?
Have you ever studied Geography at school?
Do you want to be a geographer in the future?

Gifts
What's the best gift you've ever received?
Do you like to give expensive gifts?
How often do you buy gifts for other people?
Have you ever given handmade gifts to others?
Have you ever received a gift you didn't like?
Are you good at choosing gifts?

Clothes
What clothes do you like to wear?
What kind of clothes do you never wear?
Do you wear the same clothes on weekdays and weekends?
What colour clothes do you like?
Do you prefer to wear comfortable and casual clothes or smart clothes?
Do you spend a lot of time choosing clothes?

Science
Do you like science?
What's your favorite science subject?
When did you start to learn science?
Is there any technology that you think is helpful in daily life?
Do you think science classes are important?

Transport
What's the most popular means of transport in your hometown?
How do you go to work/school?
Will you use public transport more in the future?
Will you drive more in the future?
Are there any traffic problems in your area?

OLD TOPICS WHICH STAYED FROM MAY 2023

Bags
Do you like bags?
What kinds of bags do you like?
Do you have different bags for different occasions?
Do you often change bags?
Do you usually carry a bag when you go out?
What do you put in your bag?
What factors do you consider when you buy a bag?
Have you ever lost a bag?
What bags do women like to buy?
Is a bag an ideal gift?

Fixing things
Can you fix things?
What kinds of things can you fix?
Have you ever asked people to teach you how to fix things?
Do you think fixing things is a necessary skill?

Rain
Do you like rainy days?
What do you do on rainy days?
What do you usually do when it starts to rain and you're outside?
Do you think that rain is good?
How does rain affect life in your country?
Does it rain much in your city?
Is there any part in your country where it doesn't rain much?
Have you ever changed your plans because of rain?
Would you like to live in a dry or wet place?
Do you prefer wet or dry weather?

Ice cream
Do you like ice cream?
What's your favourite flavour?
Did you eat ice cream when you were a child?
Are there any shops selling ice cream near your home?
Can you make ice cream by yourself?

Wild animals
What's your favourite wild animal?
Are there many wild animals in your country?
Have you ever seen wild animals?
Have you ever been to a zoo or a safari park?
Where can you see wild animals in your area?
What animal would you like to see in the wild?
Do you like watching animals in the zoo?
Are there TV programs about wild animals in your country?

Teachers
Would you like to be a teacher?
Do you think you could be a teacher?
Did you have a favourite teacher?
How did this teacher help you?
Do you remember your teachers from primary school?
Do you have a favorite teacher?
Do you want to be a teacher in the future?

Dreams/Ambitions
Do you think you are an ambitious person?
What was your dream when you were a child?
What is your main ambition in life now?
Are you the kind of person who never gives up on your dreams?

Concentration
Are you a focused person?
What do you do to help you concentrate?
How do you stay focused?
When do you need to be focused?
Did you stay focused in class when you were a child?
Is it difficult for you to stay focused on something?
When is it hard for you to concentrate?
What may distract you?
Is it easy for you to do 2 things at the same time?

Friends
How important are friends to you?
Where do you often meet?
What do you usually do with your friends?
Do you have many friends?
Do your friends think you're a good friend?
What kind of friend would you like to meet in the future?
What kind of people do you like to have as friends?
Do you prefer to spend time alone or with friends?

Days Off
Do you usually spend your day off with your parents or friends?
What do you often do on your day off?
When was your last day off?
How often do you have days off?

Languages
What languages do you speak?
What foreign languages have you studied?
Why did you choose to study that language?
How did you learn that language?
Do you think it's difficult to learn a new language?
Will you learn another language in the future?
Is it hard to learn a foreign language?

Days of the Week
What's your favourite day of the week?
How do you usually spend your time on this day?
What's your typical daily routine?
Is there anything that you do every day?
What do you usually do at the weekends?
Which day is your least favourite day?

Health
What do you do to stay healthy?
What is your favourite sport?
Are there health classes in your school?
What is your favorite sport?
Do you have any advice on keeping healthy for youngsters?

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IELTS Speaking Part 1: New topics and questions September-December 2023

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IELTS Speaking Part 1: New topics and questions September-December 2023. Usually in IELTS Speaking Part 1, the examiner asks questions on 3 topics. This means that you can be asked about any 3 topics from this list.

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IELTS Speaking Part 2-3: New topics and questions September-December 2023

- Part 3
On what occasions do people have to wait for a long time?
What are the daily experiences when people have to wait?
Do people usually like to wait for a long time? Why?
Why do people dislike waiting?
Why do most children have difficulties waiting for a long time?
Do children have more patience than adults?
Who behaves better while waiting: children or adults?
What can people do while waiting in a line?
Do people in your country like waiting in a line?

- Part 3
Are there any differences in the relationship between you and your friends and between you and other people?
Do people feel lonely in crowded cities?

- Part 3
Do people like new things or changes in life?
Why do some people dislike change?
Why do some people quit and change jobs?
How can people adapt to changes in life?

- Part 2
Describe a place in your country that you're interested in
You should say:
where it is
how you knew it
why you are interested in it

- Part 2
Why do some people travel a lot?
Do people have different personalities in different regions of your country?
What causes the differences between different regions of your country?
Do children like to try new things, or do people of your parents' age also like to try new things?

- Part 3
What are the benefits of playing sports regularly?
What are the benefits of sports for children?
Do children need to exercise?
Some people prefer to exercise alone, while others prefer to exercise with a group. Which one do you think is better, and why?
What do you think are the most popular sports in your country, and why?
How important do you think it is for children to participate in sports?
Many people have busy schedules and find it difficult to make time for exercise. What advice would you give them to help them stay fit?
What do you think are the potential risks associated with playing sports, and how can they be avoided?

- Part 2
Describe a beautiful city
You should say:
where the city is
how you knew the city
what buildings the city has
and explain what it is famous for

- Part 3
Why do some people like to visit historical sites?
What are the differences between modern towns and modern cities?

- Part 2
Describe a difficult task that you completed at work/study that you felt proud of
You should say:
what the task was
how you completed it
why the task was difficult
why you were proud of the completion of the task

- Part 3
What are the things that make people feel proud of?
Do people often feel proud when they complete a difficult task?
OLD TOPICS WHICH STAYED FROM MAY 2023
- Part 2
Describe a place you would like to visit in the future
You should say:
where it is
what it's like
how you would travel there
and say why you want to visit that place
OR
Describe a place away from home that you want to visit in the future.
You should say:
Where you would like to go
When you would like to go
Who you want to go with
And explain why you want to visit the place

- Part 2
Describe a film you didn't like/were disappointed about.
You should say:
What the film was
Why you didn't like it
Why you decided to watch it
And explain how you felt about it.

- Part 3
Why do some people read movie reviews?
Do most people believe movie reviews?
What are types of films are popular in your country?
Are historical films popular in your country? Why?
Do you think films with famous actors or actresses would be more popular than films with actors who are not famous?

Full IELTS Writing (Ac) Course
14 lessons / 7+ hours of video content

How to write an answer to ANY type of Essay task

How to write an answer to ANY type of Graph task

How to structure your answer

What to write in each paragraph

What grammar to use

How to link your ideas

What vocabulary to use

What you should write to get a high score

Bonus: IELTS Punctuation PDF Guide
Everything you want to know to have correct punctuation in your IELTS Writing for 7.0-9.0 Score
(31 pages, .PDF)

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IELTS Speaking Part 2-3: New topics and questions September-December 2023

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IELTS Speaking Part 2-3: New topics and questions September-December 2023

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Vocabulary (Lexical Resource) is one of the marking criteria of IELTS Speaking. The examiner assesses how rich your vocabulary is, whether you use synonyms, various fixed expressions and phrasal verbs .

Vocabulary (Lexical Resource) is one of the marking criteria of IELTS Speaking. The examiner assesses how rich your vocabulary is, whether you use synonyms, various fixed expressions and phrasal verbs .

If your goal is 7.0 or higher, you need to use advanced words and phrases to demonstrate the variety of your vocabulary.

Use a variety of expressions and words to express your point of view:
It was good. Very good. Really good, yes! Nice, very nice.
Usually, we use simple words in informal conversations. In IELTS Speaking, however, you need to use more complicated words (to get a high score) despite the informality of this part.
It was amazing. Really enjoyable. Fantastic! Exceptional.
Do you feel the difference? Of course, we exaggerate this way: good is not the same as amazing. But what does it sound like? And it doesn't matter if it was really just "good". The examiners do not assess the content, but the vocabulary, and it should be rich.

So, we try to use the words which are more complicated:
IELTS Speaking Part 2 linking words

To start:

I'd like to talk about...

I'm gonna talk about...

I'd like to tell you about...

What I'd like to talk about is... (my ipad/my trip to Liverpool)

The card contains the topics that you are talking about one by one. In order not to lose the logic of conversation, you can use the linking words:

First of all, ... Secondly,... Finally,...

And also...

What's more,...

Besides,...

Another thing is that...

Another reason why...

Phrasal Verbs
Want to speak like a native speaker? - Use phrasal verbs.

They will make your speech more natural - this is what you need for a high score for IELTS Speaking.

Phrasal verbs - verb + preposition
Enrich your vocabulary with these phrasal verbs:

I sometimes fall out with my colleagues.

(argue)

My friends never let me down.

(disappoint)

I was cracking up when I was watching this TV programme.

(was laughing)

I really enjoy trying out new things.

(discovering/doing)

I'm thinking of taking up tennis.

(discovering/doing)

I usually hang out with my friends at the weekend.

(spend time)

In order to get 7.0 and higher for the Speaking part, you also need to use such words correctly - advanced words and less commonly used expressions to show the range of vocabulary.
When you don't know what to say - say these phrases

That's a tough one ... (это сложный вопрос)

That's a challenging question!

I've never thought about that!

That's an interesting question!

I've no idea what to say, to be honest.

You can use more complex adjectives (extreme adjectives). For example, instead of "very good", it's better to say "impressive" because "very good" is too simple) Here are some good adjectives

Enormous

NY is enormous!

Tiny

Fascinating

It's fascinating!

Crucial

It's crucial to learn foreign languages.

Gorgeous

We stayed in a gorgeous hotel.

Exceptional

The service was exceptional!

Essential

It's essential to success.

Awesome

We had an awesome time!

Complicated

Life is complicated :)

Spectacular

The view from the top was spectacular!

Impressive

The city was impressive.

Hilarious

This film is hilarious!

Entertaining

It was really entertaining.

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IELTS Speaking vocabulary: Which words to use to get a high score?

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Vocabulary (Lexical Resource) is one of the marking criteria of IELTS Speaking. The examiner assesses how rich your vocabulary is, whether you use synonyms, various fixed expressions and phrasal verbs . Vocabulary (Lexical Resource) is one of the marking criteria of IELTS Speaking.

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Vocabulary (Lexical Resource) is one of the marking criteria of IELTS Speaking. The examiner assesses how rich your vocabulary is, whether you use synonyms, various fixed expressions and phrasal verbs .

Vocabulary (Lexical Resource) is one of the marking criteria of IELTS Speaking. The examiner assesses how rich your vocabulary is, whether you use synonyms, various fixed expressions and phrasal verbs .

If your goal is 7.0 or higher, you need to use advanced words and phrases to demonstrate the variety of your vocabulary.

Use a variety of expressions and words to express your point of view:
It was good. Very good. Really good, yes! Nice, very nice.
Usually, we use simple words in informal conversations. In IELTS Speaking, however, you need to use more complicated words (to get a high score) despite the informality of this part.
It was amazing. Really enjoyable. Fantastic! Exceptional.
Do you feel the difference? Of course, we exaggerate this way: good is not the same as amazing. But what does it sound like? And it doesn't matter if it was really just "good". The examiners do not assess the content, but the vocabulary, and it should be rich.

So, we try to use the words which are more complicated:
IELTS Speaking Part 2 linking words

To start:

I'd like to talk about...

I'm gonna talk about...

I'd like to tell you about...

What I'd like to talk about is... (my ipad/my trip to Liverpool)

The card contains the topics that you are talking about one by one. In order not to lose the logic of conversation, you can use the linking words:

First of all, ... Secondly,... Finally,...

And also...

What's more,...

Besides,...

Another thing is that...

Another reason why...

Phrasal Verbs
Want to speak like a native speaker? - Use phrasal verbs.

They will make your speech more natural - this is what you need for a high score for IELTS Speaking.

Phrasal verbs - verb + preposition
Enrich your vocabulary with these phrasal verbs:

I sometimes fall out with my colleagues.

(argue)

My friends never let me down.

(disappoint)

I was cracking up when I was watching this TV programme.

(was laughing)

I really enjoy trying out new things.

(discovering/doing)

I'm thinking of taking up tennis.

(discovering/doing)

I usually hang out with my friends at the weekend.

(spend time)

In order to get 7.0 and higher for the Speaking part, you also need to use such words correctly - advanced words and less commonly used expressions to show the range of vocabulary.
When you don't know what to say - say these phrases

That's a tough one ... (это сложный вопрос)

That's a challenging question!

I've never thought about that!

That's an interesting question!

I've no idea what to say, to be honest.

You can use more complex adjectives (extreme adjectives). For example, instead of "very good", it's better to say "impressive" because "very good" is too simple) Here are some good adjectives

Enormous

NY is enormous!

Tiny

Fascinating

It's fascinating!

Crucial

It's crucial to learn foreign languages.

Gorgeous

We stayed in a gorgeous hotel.

Exceptional

The service was exceptional!

Essential

It's essential to success.

Awesome

We had an awesome time!

Complicated

Life is complicated :)

Spectacular

The view from the top was spectacular!

Impressive

The city was impressive.

Hilarious

This film is hilarious!

Entertaining

It was really entertaining.

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IELTS Speaking vocabulary: Which words to use to get a high score?

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Vocabulary (Lexical Resource) is one of the marking criteria of IELTS Speaking. The examiner assesses how rich your vocabulary is, whether you use synonyms, various fixed expressions and phrasal verbs . Vocabulary (Lexical Resource) is one of the marking criteria of IELTS Speaking.

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IELTS Speaking Part 3 | Questions and topics

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IELTS Speaking Part 3 consists of general questions on the topic that you had in the card from the second part.

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In the second part of IELTS Speaking, the examiner gives you a card with a topic and subtopics for you to talk about for 1-2 minutes.

There are thousands of such topics and cards, they are constantly added and changed.

We have gathered this collection of fresh assignments of IELTS Speaking Part 2 tasks online, in the official sources from Cambridge and from people who have already passed the exam

In the second part of IELTS Speaking, the examiner gives you a card with a topic and subtopics for you to talk about for 1-2 minutes.

There are thousands of such topics and cards, they are constantly added and changed.

We have gathered this collection of fresh assignments of IELTS Speaking Part 2 tasks online, in the official sources from Cambridge and from people who have already passed the exam

IELTS Speaking Part 2 questions task look like this:

Describe a happy childhood memory.

Describe a present that you received as a child.

Describe a kind of food you enjoyed eating when you were a child.

Describe a favourite toy that you had when you were a child.

Describe a game that you enjoyed playing as a child.

Describe an experience or situation that made you happy.

Describe an experience or situation that made you laugh.

Describe a café/restaurant that you have been to.

Describe an important event in the history of your country.

Describe an occasion when you spent some time with a child.

Describe a house/apartment that someone you know lives in.

Describe a writer you would like to meet.

Describe a day when you thought the weather was perfect.

Describe a TV documentary you watched that was particularly interesting.

Describe an occasion when you did not have enough time.

Talk about a time when you had to complain and how the issue was resolved.

Describe an outdoor sport activity that you like doing.

Talk about a city you like.

Talk about a city you visited and consider beautiful.

Describe an exciting sport from your childhood.

Describe a time you gave advice to someone.

Describe a meal at a special event.

Describe a success your friend has had.

Describe an important decision you made with someone.

Describe a bad service you received.

Describe a person who has encouraged you recently.

Describe an outdoor sport you would like to try.

Describe an old person you met who inspired you.

Describe your ideal house.

Describe a plant/tree grown in your country.

Describe a TV advert you have never forgotten.

Describe a time when you invited a friend to eat a meal with you.

Describe a souvenir you bought.

Describe a party you recently attended.

Describe an item you lost that was found.

Describe a singer or a music band you like.

Describe a time you answered an anonymous phone call.

Describe an occasion you had to get up early in the morning.

Describe recent good news you read/heard.

Describe an item you bought but haven't used much.

Describe an activity you do alone in your free time.

Describe a famous person from another country you would like to meet.

Describe a successful friend/member of your family/person.

Describe a period in history which has always interested you.

Describe a book you enjoyed reading because you had to think a lot.

Describe something you liked very much which you bought for your home.

Describe a very difficult task that you succeeded in doing as part of your work or studies.

Describe a website you have bought something from.

Describe a time when you started using a new technological device (e.g. a new computer or phone).

You should say:
- What device you started using
- Why you started using this device
- How easy or difficult it was to use
And explain how helpful this device was to you.

Full IELTS Writing (Ac) Course
14 lessons / 7+ hours of video content

How to write an answer to ANY type of Essay task

How to write an answer to ANY type of Graph task

How to structure your answer

What to write in each paragraph

What grammar to use

How to link your ideas

What vocabulary to use

What you should write to get a high score

Bonus: IELTS Punctuation PDF Guide
Everything you want to know to have correct punctuation in your IELTS Writing for 7.0-9.0 Score
(31 pages, .PDF)

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IELTS Speaking Part 2 | Questions and topics

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In the second part of IELTS Speaking, the examiner gives you a card with a topic and subtopics for you to talk about for 1-2 minutes.There are...

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Here are the latest IELTS Speaking Part 1 questions and topics from official Cambridge sources and 2019 real exams.

You may come across one of these topics. Keep in mind that Cambridge constantly changes topics and questions and adds new ones.

Here are the latest IELTS Speaking Part 1 questions and topics from official Cambridge sources and 2019 real exams.

You may come across one of these topics. Keep in mind that Cambridge constantly changes topics and questions and adds new ones.

It is quite likely that the examiner will choose one of these topics and questions mentioned below to start the Speaking section.

You can prepare some answers with advanced words beforehand, which will help you feel confident at the exam. But do not memorize the answers! You should sound natural!
Occupation/Work

Do you work or are you a student?

Why did you choose this kind of work/to study this subject?

What's the most interesting part of being a ...(manager/student)?

What's the most difficult part of being a ...(manager/student)?

What do you like/dislike about your work?

What kind of work would you like to do in the future?

Accommodation

Do you live in a house or an apartment/flat?

What do you like about living there?

Which is your favourite room in your home? Why?

Would you change anything about your home? Why / why not?

Would you like to move to a different home in the future?

What sort of accommodation would you most like to live in?

Hometown

Do you like your hometown? Why?

What do you like most about your hometown?

Is your hometown a popular place for tourists? Why?

Has your hometown changed much in recent years?

Would you prefer to live somewhere else? (Why?)

What kind of place is it?

What's the most interesting part of your town?

Would you say it's a good place to live? (Why?)

AGE PHOTOS WALKING ART FOOD AND COOKING

What are some things that you can cook?

Do you like cooking? How good are you at cooking?

How often do you cook?

What dish are you best at cooking?

Do your parents know how to cook?

Do you think that it's important to know how to cook well?

WEEKENDS PUBLIC TRANSPORT RAIN HEALTH TELEVISION TELEVISION PROGRAMMES ROBOTS

What do you think of robots?

Did you watch any cartoons related to robots in your childhood?

Do you like the idea of robots helping you at home or driving your car?

SHOES NUMBERS HOLIDAYS CHOCOLATE YOUR NAME CLOTHES

Are clothes and clothing fashions important to you?

What different clothes do you wear for different situations?

Do you wear different styles of clothes now compared to 10 years ago?

Do you think the clothes we wear say something about who we are?

Where do you buy most of your clothes? [Why?]

How often do you buy new clothes for yourself? [Why?]

How do you decide which clothes to buy? [Why?]

Have the kinds of clothes you like changed in recent years? [Why? / Why not?]

FREE TIME AT HOME MUSIC

Do you like music? Why / why not?

What kind of music do you listen to? Why?

Has the music that you listen to changed since you were young?

Do you think older and younger generations prefer different types of music?

What types of music do you like to listen to? [Why?]

At what times of day do you like to listen to music? [Why?]

Did you learn to play a musical instrument when you were a child? [Why? / Why not?]

Do you think all children should learn to play a musical instrument? [Why? / Why not?]

PLANTS

Do you like plants?

Do you know a lot about plants?

Have you ever had a plant?

Would you give a plant as a present?

Why do people like plants in their house?

Do you have a garden?

Do you know how to cultivate plants?

SNACKS DREAMS

Do you often have dreams?

Do you usually remember your dreams?

Do you think we can learn something from dreams?

Do you share your dreams with other people?

Do you think dreams affect life?

FUTURE SCHOOL SOCIAL MEDIA TRAVEL TRAVEL HABITS NEIGHBOURS

How well do you know the people who live next door to you?

How often do you see them?

Do you invite your neighbours to your home?

Do you think you are a good neighbour?

Has a neighbour ever helped you?

What kinds of problem do people sometimes have with their neighbours?

How do you think neighbours can help each other?

NEIGHBOURHOOD MONEY
Full IELTS Writing (Ac) Course
14 lessons / 7+ hours of video content

How to write an answer to ANY type of Essay task

How to write an answer to ANY type of Graph task

How to structure your answer

What to write in each paragraph

What grammar to use

How to link your ideas

What vocabulary to use

What you should write to get a high score

Bonus: IELTS Punctuation PDF Guide
Everything you want to know to have correct punctuation in your IELTS Writing for 7.0-9.0 Score
(31 pages, .PDF)

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IELTS Speaking Part 1 | Questions, topics, cards

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Here are the latest IELTS Speaking Part 1 questions and topics from official Cambridge sources and 2019 real exams.You may come across one of these...

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The IELTS Speaking part is divided into 3 parts. The format is the following: the examiner's question - your detailed answer.

Speaking part of IELTS is a face-to-face, informal discussion with an IELTS examiner. However, we do not ask the examiner questions; you can only ask the examiner to repeat the question, if you didn't hear or understand it - the score is not reduced for this.

This part of the test begins with the examiner introducing himself or herself and checking the candidate's identification. It then continues as an interview.

IELTS Speaking Part 1

In this part, you are asked general simple questions about you so that you can relax and chat about what you are doing, what you like, etc.

The examiner gives you a cue card with a topic, pencil and paper.
IELTS Speaking Part 1 Questions
IELTS Speaking Part 2

2nd and 3rd parts have there are much more questions than in the 1st one. But, you can find out with some of the tasks of part 2 and sample questions of part 3 in advance:

You have 1 minute to get ready. You can write some keywords or a short plan of your answer on a piece of paper.

Speak for 1-2 minutes, then the examiner asks a couple of more questions on the topic.
IELTS Speaking Part 2 Questions

IELTS Speaking Part 3

In the last part, the examiner asks questions about the topic on your cue card. For example, in this case, the topic is gifts, so further questions might be about gifts in the family, the country's economy and gifts, etc.
IELTS Speaking Part 3 Questions

It is important to understand that in the 3rd part you are NOT talking about yourself:

IELTS Speaking Part 1 - About yourself
IELTS Speaking Part 2 - About yourself
IELTS Speaking Part 3 - About the world, society in general

How to write an answer to ANY type of Essay task

How to write an answer to ANY type of Graph task

How to structure your answer

What to write in each paragraph

What grammar to use

How to link your ideas

What vocabulary to use

What you should write to get a high score

Full IELTS Writing (Ac) Course
14 lessons / 7+ hours of video content

Bonus: IELTS Punctuation PDF Guide
Everything you want to know to have correct punctuation in your IELTS Writing for 7.0-9.0 Score
(31 pages, .PDF)

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The IELTS Speaking part is divided into 3 parts. The format is the following: the examiner's question - your detailed answer.

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Speaking Test Videos + Examiner comments

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Speaking Test Videos + Examiner comments

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IELTS Speaking Test Videos + examiner comments
IELTS Speaking Part 3 / Band 8.5

This test taker speaks fluently for most of the time and develops topics coherently and appropriately, with only slight content-related hesitations as he engages with the topics.

His vocabulary is precise and sophisticated throughout this part of the test (prominent businessmen; emulate; a growing number of television celebrities; to promote charitable causes; endorsing a cause; negative repercussions; conscious of body image; susceptible to; prevalent).

He uses a wide range of grammatical structures naturally and accurately, with no noticeable error. He also uses a full range of pronunciation features to convey precise and subtle meaning such as emphatic stress (one example that comes to mind is celebrities) and contrastive stress (it's not necessarily for causes ... it's also for celebrity behaviours). He sustains this flexible use of features of connected speech throughout and is effortless to understand.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 / Band 9.0

This test taker speaks fluently, with only rare repetition or self-correction. Any hesitation is not to search for language but to think of ideas. Her speech is coherent, with fully appropriate cohesive features (if you're talking about; other than that; I think it's more; as you can see).

She uses vocabulary with full flexibility and precision in
all topics with a wide range of idiomatic language (have a tendency; be exposed to; the world is becoming more globalised; the norm; strikes a chord; communication tool; actors that sponsor; materialistically; cool gadgets; grasp of people's mindset).

Her grammatical structures are precise and accurate at all times. She uses a full and natural range of structures and sentence types and makes no noticeable errors.

She uses a full range of phonological features with precision and subtlety. The rhythm of her language is sustained throughout and stress and intonation are invariably used to good effect. This and her very clear production of individual words and sounds result in her being effortless to understand.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 / Band 8.0 IELTS Speaking Part 3 / Band 6.0
IELTS Speaking Part 3 / Band 7.0

The test taker speaks quite fluently and gives appropriate and extended responses. She makes good use of a range of markers and linking words (first; actually; I think so; for example; in a lot of ways; that's why). There is some hesitation, but it is mainly content-related as she seeks to clarify her ideas before expressing them. Coherence
is not affected by these slight pauses.

Vocabulary is a strong feature of her performance and she uses a wide range, including some less common, idiomatic and colloquial items (lose your privacy; selling their soul to the devil; getting dumped; it depends on the target; we need a rest from the serious stuff). However, there are also a few examples of error and inappropriate word use (a small news; end of the relax evening; free dresses).

Her grammar displays a good range of both simple and complex structures that are used flexibly and a number of her sentences are error-free. However, there are some noticeable errors in areas such as articles, prepositions, subject/verb agreement and verb tense (if someone recognise you; if people follows; you will like them fail;
it won't be happen like this).

Although she has a noticeable accent, her pronunciation is generally clear and easy to follow. Stress and intonation are used well to enhance meaning (You don't have to pay for a lot of stuff. They will give free dresses and free stays in the hotels). She has a tendency to use syllable-timing, which prevents her sustaining appropriate rhythm over longer utterances. She also has occasional problems with sounds (jung for 'young'), but this has only minimal effect on intelligibility.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 / Band 6.0 IELTS Speaking Part 3 / Band 8.0

This test taker speaks fluently and is able to give quite long and detailed responses without any loss of coherence. Hesitation is usually content-related and only occasionally to search for language.

She uses fillers (you know; I mean) to cover this. Linking words and markers are used very naturally (that's not the case; I'm fine with that).

Her vocabulary resource is wide and it allows her to talk about a range of topics with some flexibility and precision.

There are plenty of examples of stylistically appropriate language (political pressure; into corruption; today's world; offensive; promote the product; a money-making business) with only occasional inaccuracies (do a meeting; in a right/wrong manner).

She uses a wide range of structures with a high level of accuracy. She makes only occasional minor errors. She uses pronunciation well to reinforce meaning, with rhythm, stress and intonation all used appropriately (at times I do like). There are only occasional lapses in word stress and in the formation of 'th'.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 / Band 7.0

How to master IELTS Writing
Task 1 & Task 2
14 lessons

Everything you want to know to have correct punctuation in your IELTS Writing for 7.0-9.0 Score
(31 pages, .PDF)

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IELTS Speaking Test Videos + Examiner comments

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IELTS Speaking Test Videos + examiner comments

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How to pass IELTS Listening - Tips, Strategies, Advice

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1. Spelling Pay attention to spelling! Wrong spelling - incorrect answer! In order to get 1 point you need: a. Hear the right word(s)b. Spell it correctly For example, you wrote "acommodation" - This answer will be marked wrong because of misspelling.

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In order to get a high score for the Reading part you should know the format of the tasks and practise doing them within the time limit. It is important to train to complete all 40 questions in 60 minutes because in the real exam you will not have more time.

When you start preparing for the reading part, it is ok to have more time for the tasks. You should tune into the format and understand what strategies to use. Then, when you feel more confident you can do one reading section within 20 minutes

It is also important to get used to reading texts similar to the exam ones:

Magazine Articles

Instructions

Booklets

Advertisements

Read advertisements, popular magazines, booklets about different countries, museums, hotels in English etc.

IELTS General reading is easier than Academic, but the last text is huge and on an academic topic. So, you should read some texts on wild life, business, environment etc. to get ready for this 3rd section.

Here are some sample reading tasks from the official sources:
Sample tests with answers

Flow-chart completion - Download (.pdf)

Identifying information - Download (.pdf)

Matching information - Download (.pdf)

Matching features - Download (.pdf)

Matching headings - Download (.pdf)

Multiple choice - Download (.pdf)

Sentence completion - Download (.pdf)

Short answer questions - Download (.pdf)

Full IELTS Reading General test

Official materials - Download (.pdf)

Answers - Download (.pdf)

IELTS Reading General Section 2 - Download (.pdf)

IELTS Reading General Sample - Download (.pdf)

Full IELTS Writing (Ac) Course
14 lessons / 7+ hours of video content

How to write an answer to ANY type of Essay task

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How to structure your answer

What to write in each paragraph

What grammar to use

How to link your ideas

What vocabulary to use

What you should write to get a high score

Bonus: IELTS Punctuation PDF Guide
Everything you want to know to have correct punctuation in your IELTS Writing for 7.0-9.0 Score
(31 pages, .PDF)

How to master IELTS Writing
Task 1 & Task 2
14 lessons

Everything you want to know to have correct punctuation in your IELTS Writing for 7.0-9.0 Score
(31 pages, .PDF)

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In order to get a high score for the Reading part you should know the format of the tasks and practice doing them within the time limit. It is important to train to complete all 40 questions in 60 minutes because in the real exam you will not have more time.

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Take a look at some our latest tips to help you understand how to label a diagram in the IELTS exam.

Here's an interesting way to use reading tests from the Cambridge IELTS books:

Choose a passage from one of the reading tests.

Get the correct answers from the back of the book.

Now read the first question, underline keywords, and search for the answer in the passage - you already know the correct answer, so your only aim is to find it is in the passage.

Underline words in the passage that have the same meaning as the keywords in the question.

When you have done this for each question, make a keyword table.

This technique forces you to stop testing yourself. Instead, it makes you focus on finding key vocabulary and understanding the reason for each answer. You might be surprised at the improvements you make if you regularly practise in this way.

Only scan quickly if you are searching for a name or a number.

2. When preparing for the reading test at home, try not to worry about time at first. Your first concern should be to get the score you need, even if it takes you 3 hours instead of 1 hour to do a full test.
4. Labelling a diagram
3. Read better rather than read faster. Work on better reading before working on speed. In short, break it down. Decide which skill you will work on. Rather than trying to complete both at the same time.
5.Skimming and scanning vs finding and understanding
This question asks you to label the digestive system of an earthworm. You should already know where the paragraph is that has this information. If not, skim through until you find it. We now need to learn about scanning.

But the danger is that students focus more on these techniques than on the passage that they are reading, with the result that they often miss the answers by skimming or scanning past them!

basically means 'reading very quickly'. Only skim if you are looking for a distinctive word that doesn't have any synonyms e.g. "Manchester".

basically means 'looking for something without reading'. Only scan if you're searching for a number e.g. "1999".

Here's some simple advice:

For all other questions, forget about skimming and scanning; just read the passage carefully at normal speed.
People who read too quickly ..... in the IELTS test ..... often miss the answers.
6. Instead of skimming too quickly or reading each word slowly, I recommend that you read phrase by phrase. For example, read the first sentence of this lesson as three phrases:
7. Do Topic Research
Try to get into the habit of reading phrase by phrase. You should find that you can go at a reasonable speed and that you'll understand (almost) everything.

Psychology, children's development, family and education are common topics in the IELTS reading test. A good place to read articles about these topics is the "Psychology Today" website.

For example, to read a recent article about the benefits of exercise for children. It's good reading practice, and you'll find some great vocabulary that you could use in the writing and speaking tests.

IELTS Reading: how questions are made

1. They take a reading passage.

2. They read through the passage and stop when they find something interesting.

3. They make a question about that part of the passage, usually by paraphrasing it. For example, if the phrase "staff salaries" is used in the passage, the question writer might create a question with the words "employees' wages".

The people who write the questions for IELTS reading do something like this:
EXAMPLE 1
In other words, they use the "keyword technique" to write the questions, which is why you should use it to find the answers.

By limiting food intake, caloric restriction minimizes the amount of glucose entering cells and decreases ATP generation.

One possibility relates to the ATP making machinery's emission of free radicals, which are thought to contribute to aging and to such age-related diseases as cancer by damaging cells.
Did think it was "anti-ageing" because "cells focus on" and "induce them to shift into an anti-aging", EXAMPLE 2 Lots of paragraphs, I need to find the one relevant for this diagram. however, the whole article is about anti-ageing so it isn't going to be the correct answer. In my case, it's all together. Now it's finding and understanding what is happening. Fortunately the writer has placed the information in a logical order, starting with the mouth and ending with "discarded waste". Questions 7-12 Complete the labels on the diagram below based on the information from the reading passage FINAL TIPS Have you tried doing the test samples on the official IELTS website (ielts.org)? Click You can download or listen to the audio version here: to go to the academic reading download page, then for the general reading samples.
Another hypothesis suggests that decreased processing of glucose could indicate to cells that food is scarce (even if it isn't) and induce them to shift into an anti-aging mode that emphasizes preservation of the organism over such 'luxuries' as growth and reproduction.

D An earthworm has a very intricate digestive system, partitioned into many regions, each with a certain function. The digestive system consists of the pharynx, the esophagus, the crop, the intestine and the gizzard. Food such as soil, tiny stones and bits of grit enters the earthworm's mouth, a small opening at the top of the earthworm, where it is swallowed by the pharynx. Then the soil passes through the esophagus, which has calciferous glands that release calcium carbonate to rid the earthworm's body of excess calcium. After it passes through the esophagus, the food moves into the crop where it is stored and then eventually moves into the gizzard. The gizzard uses stones that the earthworm eats to grind the food completely. The food moves into the intestines as gland cells in the intestine release fluids to aid in the digestive process. The intestinal wall contains blood vessels where the digested food is absorbed and transported to the rest of the body. Any discarded waste that leaves the earthworm's body is called a cast, which the earthworms then distribute by moving about, providing nutrition for the soil.

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Take a look at some our latest tips to help you understand how to label a diagram in the IELTS exam.

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Overall Band Score 7.0

According to official sources, an overall band score of 7 describes a good user of the language, able to handle complex language well and follow detailed reasoning. In other words, someone not fully fluent but more than competent enough to study, work or live where English is the language of communication. Many universities will demand a minimum overall 7.0 band score, especially for those wishing to take courses that are linguistically more demanding.

To put it another way, a band 7 should be what you are aiming for at the very least.

Just how many test takers achieve at least an overall 7.0? Well for candidates aiming to study at undergraduate or postgraduate levels, around one fifth, 21 % obtain a 7.0 or above and more than half of those, 11% of the grand total, achieve an overall 7.0.

Band 7 in Reading

In IELTS reading, a band 7 is easily identified. There are 40 questions in total in both versions, the Academic and General Training. Official IELTS sources state that a band 7 means a score of between 30 and 32 in Academic IELTS and 34 or 35 out of 40 in General Training.

From statistics published by ielts.com, it is clear that many test takers will end up in the 6.0 -6.5 overall band score bracket. For those aiming to study, 41% fall into this category. For General Training, the percentage falls to 31 % with a corresponding rise in those obtaining at least a 7.0 (26% of the total).

Steps to a band 7 in IELTS reading

So, when it comes to the test as a whole or, as here, when it's reading we are interested in, it's a question of knowing what to do to make sure our band score is up there with the best. If we know the very least we have to aim for and there are so many practice tests from official sources and elsewhere, is it now simply a question of doing them and checking our scores? If I am able to consistently score a band 7, is that the end of the story? And what of those of us who are not quite there yet?

Where to start?

Start off by doing a practice test or two to find out how you might score in the real test and to get a feel for the test itself. Do it under exam conditions. One hour to answer 40 questions. Check your score and look over the test again to see where your strengths and weaknesses lie. This will help you to work on areas where you need to improve.

But to push up your band score to 7.0 or above, it's not simply a question of doing practice tests. There is probably far too much IELTS practice material around and there is the danger of overloading yourself with tests and tips. Doing practice tests is not a waste of time but you have to mix them with a thorough understanding of the types of questions set and how they relate to the skills you need to best answer them correctly.

What types of questions do you find easier to handle and which more difficult?

While it's obviously true that the IELTS reading test requires an understanding of and practice in the types of texts and question sets asked, it is also a test of your knowledge of English: knowledge of grammar and vocabulary. It is also a test that to a large extent benefits those who have read more widely in English particularly on topics that often come up in the IELTS exam.

So, let reading extensively in English be our first step towards that 7.0 band score. To make your reading as effective in exam terms as possible, follow these steps.

Text sources

Make a list of the most common topics that appear in IELTS tests. Look through some online IELTS exam practice tests as well as those in books. Note down general text topics. The first practice test in the Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS has a passage on archaeology, one business-oriented passage about airports and a third which poses the question "Is Photography Art?" Look at topics and make a note of the sources they come from. The Official Cambridge Guide, for example, has several source acknowledgements to the New Scientist magazine.

It's a good idea to start reading these sources. We would all have our preferences, often because of our own backgrounds and interests. Mine would include articles from newspapers such as The Guardian (https://www.theguardian.com/uk) and the Independent (https://www.independent.co.uk/), as well those from selected academic journals and publications such as The Economist (www.economist.com). Try looking for academic journals available on open-access sites. A good start is through https://www.elsevier.com/open-access/open-access-journals. It depends on your interests and background but areas like psychology, urbanism and technological advances (robotics, artificial intelligence) are my favourites.

Check out a selection of key sites where you can find reading material similar in topic and subject depth to those in the exams. Remember that for obvious reasons, reading passages do not go into great technical detail but rather, appeal to a well-read audience with an interest in a range of subjects from the humanities to the sciences by way of the social sciences.

Text types

Texts can also be generally classified according to whether they are merely descriptive or more argumentative, for example. Texts which put forward and consider points of view on any given topic, tend to be more sophisticated linguistically speaking with longer, more complex sentences probably with a fair amount of modality (should, may, could, etc.) and conditionals (if, if ...not, unless, whether). These texts we often find as the third and final one in Academic IELTS and the last passage in General Training.

At the same time, try to read in areas less familiar to you. In my case, that might be in the applied sciences, medicine, architecture and urban planning. Read outside your knowledge comfort zone, read extensively and regularly.

How to work for a 7.0

With these two points, text topic and text purpose, in mind, ask yourself if just reading is enough or is it just enough to end up with 6.0, a reasonably good score but not good enough to help you stand out from the crowd.

In other words, it's what you do before, during and after reading that matters. As we shall discuss a little later in more detail, the key to success in IELTS is vocabulary, the ability to paraphrase and recognise synonyms, to see connections between groups of words. To do that in a second language requires effort and organisation. One tip we often see mentioned in second language learning is the idea of keeping a vocabulary notebook where significant items can be stored, ordered, placed in groups with relevant examples of synonyms and contexts as well as comments on the register and grammatical features.

Test preparation

The next step is to prepare for the test itself. IELTS preparation has to include doing some of the IELTS tests but not just for the sake of seeing how many correct answers you get or even how your score improves over time. The benefit of reading test practice lies in how you can clearly relate different types of text with certain types of questions. In General Training for example, the shorter, informative part 1 reading passages are almost always tested through a relatively straightforward matching exercise asking you to identify statements with parts of the text. The use of paraphrase and synonyms evidently provides you with a way to obtain a high score in this set of questions.

Similarly, in both versions, questions that test your ability to interpret the passage at a deeper level, such as judging whether a series of statements concerning content are either true, false or are simply impossible to judge as either for lack of evidence or asking you whether a statement backs or refutes the writer´s opinion or would be impossible to judge given the information at hand, also demand the test taker's lexical range as well as grammatical knowledge, although at a more sophisticated level.

Enriching your lexical resource is one vital way to prepare for the test as well as finding the most appropriate strategies to tackle the different types of reading passages and the questions set on them.

Anyone entering the exam room knowing what to expect, having the resources to deal with whatever comes up, is more likely to obtain a good band score.

The test itself

The third area is the test itself. It's not mentioned as often as it should but an IELTS reading test is not really just about reading. It is a test of your lexical resource, the more you know the better your overall score will be. It's a test of your knowledge of how texts are put together, how coherence and cohesion give us the final product.

Time

It is also a race against time. Sixty minutes, forty questions, three texts in Academic IELTS and more than that, though they might be of shorter length, in General Training. There is no way you can sit and read through each text from beginning to end trying to understand everything. That's not the point at all. It's how you apply certain reading strategies, such as skimming a text for gist, scanning it for specific information to be able to answer questions.

Time is equally important when we try as far as possible, to devote equal portions of time to each set of questions, say, twenty minutes per reading passage in the Academic version. Timing in all parts of IELTS, in the writing and speaking tests, for example, is vital. In the listening test, timing is decided for us and we have to keep up with it but in reading, we have to be in control. Twenty minutes maximum for answer 13 or 14 questions on a reading passage of up to 900 words in length.

Strategies and tips

Perhaps by taking regular practice tests we can decide what works best for us in exam conditions.

Personally, I've always recommended reading the instructions carefully first to know exactly what type of questions I have to answer. It also helps me to get a good general idea from the beginning as to the text topic and enables me to focus on it. Then I would skim the text quickly to get a general idea and hopefully begin to see how to answer some questions. Then it's a matter of moving between the text and the questions. To be sure I have the correct answers, I need a few moments to check.

It's these checking moments that sort of the high scoring candidates from the rest. An IELTS reading test holds no secrets. There may be questions that are more difficult than others. Many test-takers report that it is hard to be fully convinced that something is "Not Given" in the text probably because we are so used to a kind of duality, it's there or not, it's true or false. But if there is insufficient evidence, even though through studying IELTS, I know that there will be some truth or falsehood in the question statement, then it is "not given". Only through practice and the knowledge that everything you need to know is there, written in the text, will you have total confidence with this trickier type of question.

It's a reading test not a writing test but, just as in the case of the listening exam, you have to write the answers on the answer sheet. Often that will simply be choosing a letter from A to D or writing TRUE or YES but it frequently involves fill in exercises, be it notes, a summary or sentence completion, where a certain number of words is specified, such as "no more than two words" or "no more than one word and/or a number". Of course, all the answers once again are just there, somewhere in the text, not hidden from view. Those responsible for exam marking are instructed to only mark as correct perfectly spelt answers that comply with the word count instructions. All else is worthless. Therefore, simple advice though it may be, be sure that your spelling is clear and correct and that you have carefully followed instructions so as not to lose valuable points unnecessarily. Again, having a minute or two at the end to check your answers could mean the difference between a good score and a high score.

Likewise, as there are no penalties for incorrect answers, never leave any questions blank. Take multiple choice questions for example. You have a 25% chance of getting it right if you are not sure.

So a reading test is not just about reading. It's about knowing when not to worry about total comprehension. IELTS reading passages are not overly complicated in terms of topic or specialised vocabulary. In fact, they are intentionally aimed at a general, well-informed readership. All the more reason to read around, to read extensively on a variety of topics in preparation for the test while also working intensively on question types and reading strategies.

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How to get Band 7 in IELTS Reading - IELTS Podcast

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Overall Band Score 7.0 According to official sources, an overall band score of 7 describes a good user of the language, able to handle complex language well and follow detailed reasoning. In other words, someone not fully fluent but more than competent enough to study, work or live where English is the language of communication.

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The IELTS exam comprises of four main sections, the reading is the second part. In this section of the test you are given a question booklet and an answer sheet, both of which you will return at the end of the test.

Your timing is an important factor for the test as you'll be allocated one hour. During this time you need to complete 40 questions from the three required sections.

There are a few differences between the paper-based and computer-based versions of the IELTS Reading test. It is more a matter of the advantages or disadvantages of the two formats.

You can become acquainted with the computer-based IELTS Reading test interface by visiting the following link from the official IELTS website here.

There you will find official samples of all question types for both the Academic and the General Training tests and answer keys for them.

Now have a look at the detailed comparison between the paper-based and computer-based Reading tests below and choose the best format for you.

What are you given at the start of the test? Paper-Based Test:

You are given the IELTS Reading examination booklet that contains the reading passages and questions, and an answer sheet to be completed.
Computer-Based Test:
You are sitting in front of the computer on which the test will be running the test.

Where will I write my answers? Paper-Based Test:

Your answers must be written in pencil on the answer sheet in clear and legible handwriting.

You may take notes on the examination booklet, but you must write your final answers on the reading answer sheet, as the examination booklet will not be looked at and graded.

Computer-Based Test:
You answer all the questions on the screen. There is no text on paper as there is no answer sheet whatsoever.

Will I get additional time to transfer my answers onto the answer sheet? Paper-Based Test:

There is no transfer time in the paper-based IELTS Reading test. When 60 minutes are over, the test is over as well and you must hand in your answer sheet.
Computer-Based Test:
You don't need to bother about transferring your answers onto the answer sheet as there is NO answer sheet.

What can (and should) I do while I'm working on the test? Paper-Based Test:

You can take notes on the examination booklet. This helps you to understand the main ideas in the text paragraphs and reduces the time you need while to answering questions.

You can also underline key words and ideas. This is very useful to mark the location of correct answers in the reading passages.

Computer-Based Test:

If you select some text in the reading passage on the screen you can right click it and select either Highlight or Notes.

You can Highlight any section of the text on the screen if you want to focus on it or mark the location of the answer to a question. This works the same way as underlining on paper.

You can select Notes and type whatever you need on the post-it note that appears. This is similar to taking real notes in the margins of your examination booklet.

You can also mark a question by ticking the Review box (in the lower left corner of the screen) so that you have a look at it later and not forget it

Before you know how to improve your IELTS reading you need to establish whether you need to do the Academic or General test.

The IELTS academic test will evaluate if your level of English is good enough for an academic environment like studying at an English university or college whereas the General test will determine your English proficiency in everyday situations.

The academic passages that you will need to read in your exam are a maximum of 2750 words whereas the general test has a maximum of 2350 words. Let's look at how you can improve your reading in your IELTS Exam!

This reading technique will help you save time in your exam. It means that you will read over the passage to just get a general idea. Underline any keywords that are important to the context of the reading piece. Don't spend too much time trying to understand every little detail of the reading passage. It is important for you to be fast, focused and alert so that you do waste time.

Don't assume that you know what you need to do in a question. Always make sure that you read the instructions carefully so circle or underline the key words before you start looking for the answer.

The "Discuss it with yourself" approach

To understand and remember the most important part of what you're reading, you should say it in your own words. Explain to yourself what you have just read. This will help you focus not only on the words in front of you, but also the ideas.

You need to find 100% proof in the text that you are on the right track to the band score you need.

Find the exact location of the rephrased answer in the reading passage.

Then underline that rephrased line in the passage.

There is only one correct answer for the question, so it is important to find proof to support your choice. This will give you certainty about your answer.

Don't panic if you don't know some words.

It is possible that you won't understand all the words in the passage, but don't panic. Try to conclude the meaning from the context. The content of the sentence where you found it can help you deduce whether it's positive or negative, a person or a job, an animal or a feature.

When you know there's no time left, instead of leaving it blank, guess the answer. If you leave the cell in your answer sheet blank because you don't know AND have no time for it, you will get zero points. For sure. But if you strike it lucky and manage to guess it correctly, you will have at least one more point which is totally able to get you from band 6.5 to 7.0.

An important factor to improving your IELTS reading, is to understand where you're going wrong. If you're losing points because you don't understand the question, you need to work on your vocabulary and language skills.

Learn the formula to improve your vocabulary

If you're losing points because you run out of time, you need to look at your technique and try to improve it. Bonus advice on How to Get a Band 8 or Higher in IELTS Reading

1. Define and/or give synonyms.

2. Find a good example of the word in context.

3. Write your own example with it.

Summarize and paraphrase the main ideas in paragraphs as you read.

Spell check your answers. Being overconfident and NOT checking the spelling of your answers can cost you your desired score in IELTS. Be sure to check!

Try doing timed tests twice as fast as you typically could.

Keep track of your practise performance. Compile a table in which you would keep detailed track of the tests you practised, keeping track of your scores. This will help you grow and learn from your mistakes.

There's one simple secret to learning vocabulary well.

Write your notes in the margins of paragraphs in note form and don't forget to "discuss the idea with yourself" and always put it in your own words. This will help you prepare for the same restated idea in the question and answer options.

If you can do things the right way and it brings you great practise scores, then try challenging yourself and doing the same even faster.

If you want to improve your IELTS reading, you have to prepare! Make sure that you do practice tests and try different types of questions to know what your strengths and weaknesses are. Once you identify what you need to work on, you'll be able to better your IELTS score. You can download or listen to the audio version here:

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How To Improve Your IELTS Reading Skills

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Take a look at how latest guide to improve your IELTS reading score in 2020. Subscribe to our website for more great tutorials.

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Home " IELTS reading test " The 10 types of IELTS reading questions

In this tutorial we cover:

‐ The 10 types of IELTS reading task questions
‐ How to tackle "features matching" questions.
‐ Why you shouldn't read every word of the text...
‐ A handful of test busting tips for solid exam preparation.
‐ An important tip to help you avoid sneaky examiner tricks (negative sentences).

Question Types

1) Multiple choice questions

These are types of questions that requires you to pick the correct answer from the given choices which are in capital letters of ABC and D. This type of questions tests your ability to understand detailed and specific information.

2) Information identification questions

These are types of questions that requires you to identify whether the given information is either true false or it's not given. This type of question tests your ability to clearly understand what the text is talking about.

3) Information matching

These types of questions requires you to find a specific information and placing them where they fit to be. You need to have clearly understood the text and be able to understand every paragraph and what information it contains.

4) Head Matching

These questions requires you to pick a heading from the given headings and place each of them to the paragraphs. Mainly, if you have clearly understood the given text, you'll be able to make a heading out of every paragraph.

5) Sentence completion

In this type of question, you will find an incomplete sentence. You are supposed to complete it with words taken from the text. You therefore need to quickly map the incomplete text to a particular location in the text for you to find the correct answer.

6) Summary completion

A summary part of the text will be given to you. You are required to complete it by picking words from the text with a given maximum number of words to complete it.

7) Features matching

These are types of questions that that requires you to find a specific information about given features and match it. For example you can be given different people who discovered different things at different times. You are now required to match who discovered what at what time. You therefore need to be very keen when matching.

8) Matching sentence endings

This is a very simple question. Part of a sentence is picked from a line in the text. What you need to do here is to just locate where it has been taken from and complete the sentence and there you have your have your correct answer!

9) Short answer questions

You have to be extra careful here! This is a question that expects you to answer the question from the given facts in the text. Moreover you need to check the number of words because you are limited. A maximum number of words is always given.

10) Matching information

You just need not to get this question wrong. All that is required of you here is to find some given information and place them where they fit.

Having highlighted the kind of questions you would expect in an IELTS reading task exam,try these few tips and expect exemplary performance!

Your preparation

i) Read many articles

A week or two prior to the exam, ensure that you read as many articles as you can. This will give a certain kind of experience and confidence for that matter. This is the most important tip here. You can't just wake up someday and go hit a band score of 8.0 in IELTS reading task module without reading practice.

ii) Skimming

This is a IELTS reading task technique that allows you to read through a given text very fast and within the shortest time possible while identifying main ideas of the given text. This technique will help you save on time and will also allow you to have an idea of what the text is all about within the first reading.

iii) Scanning

This is a technique where you read through every line very quickly looking for a specific word or phrase.

It comes in handy when you are looking for a one word answer. It's quite different from scanning because the latter doesn't require you to find any specific word or phrase.

iv) Use Keywords

This is self‐explanatory. Reading a text without identifying the keywords is a suicide mission! Don't try it.

Ensure that you mark some of the keywords as they will be helpful when time for answering questions come .You wouldn't need more time to scan through the text again.

v) Title

The title of the text that you are reading will tell you what the text is all about. First read the title. It will give you an idea of the content of the text so you'll have an ample time comprehending since you already have an idea of what you are reading.

vi) Time management

This is very key! The IELTS reading task module is 60 minutes long and there are three questions for you to answer.

Do NOT share time equally so that you allocate each question twenty minutes. The IELTS standard works with an increasing difficulty that means the last question difficulty level will be higher than the last two so make sure that you'll have close to thirty minutes for the last question.

vii) Check grammar

Be extra careful with the grammar at the beginning of the questions. More so the negatives because they totally change the question and if you are not careful enough you may end up answering oppositely with all your gathered confidence. Every beginning of a sentence is very important.

viii) Do not read the whole text.

Yes! You heard me right. Time is of essence here. There will never be enough time to read through all the text. There are parts of that text that you will never find any question rising from so no need to read. Just remember that your job is to look for the right answers not reading everything.

ix) If you can't find an answer of the current question, leave it pending and proceed.

The trick here is moving from the known to the unknown so just mark it maybe with a big star and move on to answer another question but always remember that you have unanswered question. Once you have finished writing your answers then go back for it.

x) It is very tragic to answer all the questions in the question paper and get caught up by time before transferring it to the answer sheet.

I would strongly recommend that after answering every question, just flip over to your answer sheet and write your answer.

x i) There are those questions that dictate the number of words.

Ensure that you abide by the rules. Count your words one by one and remember that a vowel in a sentence e.g. "a" is also counted as a word.

xii) Spelling mistakes will always count.

Try as much as possible to check on your spelling when you are writing short answers and if you get time after answering all the questions then check once again in case you made any spelling error.

xiii) There are those questions that you are required to complete the sentence.

Make sure that you put all your attention on the meaning of the sentence not just throwing any word to fit in. You need to do well in this exam remember.

xiv) There is something called intelligent guessing.

At times you'll be given difficult words in the passage that you may have no clue at all. What should help you make a correct guess is the context in which the word has been used. Certainly this difficult word will always be related to the topic of the given text.

xv) At times the unfortunate happens.

I am talking of elapsed time and you haven't finished up. If you have a multiple choice question left guess! There is always a 25% chance that you'll get a correct answer in a question of ABC and D multiple choice answer.

Have a listen below, then let me know your thoughts.

Tutorials

Take a look at some more useful tutorials that will you prepare for your IELTS reading exam

Audio Tutorial

Video Tutorials
IELTS reading - 7 band jumping IELTS reading tips (1 of 3)
IELTS reading tips (2 of 3)
IELTS reading - choose your strategy carefully (3 of 3)

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Home " IELTS reading test " The 10 types of IELTS reading questions In this tutorial we cover: ‐ The 10 types of IELTS reading task questions ‐ How to tackle "features matching" questions. ‐ Why you shouldn't read every word of the text...

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A list of grammar points and topics that are necessary to achieve IELTS Band score 7 and higher in the IELTS Writing or Speaking exam section.
This will help you in your IELTS exam because:

You will find out how to structure your grammar study and revision while preparing for the IELTS exam.

You will learn what these grammar points look like and will be able to understand how to use them correctly.

You will see which grammar points are required for the highest level of language proficiency in Band 8 and Band 9.

You know that grammar is an important aspect in both the writing and the speaking section of the IELTS exam. Yet, it is also important to keep in mind that grammar is not only about how correctly you use tenses, sentence structures or adverbs. It is also about the range, or variety and complexity of the grammatical points you are expected to use.

If you want to avoid mistakes and keep using only simple structures and tenses, your score might not exceed 6.0, be it Speaking or Writing. This is why we would like to present a list of some grammar points, illustrated by examples, that are desirable in your writing or speech if you aim at 7.0 or higher. But remember, you need to use them correctly and appropriately in your sentences to obtain that wonderful high score.

Each subsequent band score involves an accurate and appropriate use of the grammar elements mentioned for the previous band. These grammar points can and should be used in your formal and informal letters, depending on the case, in your discursive essays, and, of course, in the Speaking part of the exam.

Band 7 - passive forms

When the situation is in the present and the sentence needs to be impersonal - the passive form of the verb plus the infinitive:
The President is believed to be in contact with the Russians.

Same situation in the past - passive plus the past infinitive:

He is said to have poisoned his opponents in order to gain power. Politicians in Burkina Faso are said to use underhand tactics, such as poisoning, against their opponents in order to gain power.

Second, third, and mixed conditionals

MIXED Conditional: A third conditional cause is sometimes linked to a second conditional result to show the imaginary present result of an imaginary past event or situation.

If my parents had never met, I wouldn't be here now! If pollution had been brought under control earlier, activists such as Greta Thunberg would not have appeared.

MIXED Conditional: A second conditional cause is sometimes linked to a third conditional result to show how an ongoing situation produced an effect in the past.

If he knew about computers, he would have applied for that IT job. If the new workers were more proficient with technology, they would have (undoubtedly) applied for positions in the IT department.

Wish/would rather

Talking about the past - things you regret doing/not doing: wish / if only + past perfect
Many parents wish they had not been so strict with their children when they were very young.

Talking about the present - things that haven't come true now and things that might come true in the future: wish / if only + past simple Both were and was are acceptable but were is more formal.

They wish they were lying on a beach somewhere instead of being here. Numerous IT students wish they were working for companies instead of constantly preparing for exams.

Talking about irritating habits - things which are annoying you: wish / if only + would

He wishes his daughter would make smarter decisions. The electorate of Burundi wish their elected officials would make wiser decisions.

Would rather + past perfect is used to talk about wishes in the past.

She'd rather we had gone to an Italian restaurant. The government of London would rather implement face recognition technology than increase the amount of Police on the streets.

Would rather + infinitive without to is used to talk generally about wishes in the present and future.
The government would rather not give out too many benefits to young people.

Modals for speculation and deduction

could, might, may used to speculate about something the speaker or writer is unsure about:

It could be a possible reason for air pollution, though the scientists are still doubtful. That possible new home we're looking at might in fact be Mars. The answer to this situation may be to readvertise the job.

can't/cannot and couldn't/could not used to indicate certainty, in relation to impossible ideas and situations:

Banning fossil fuels completely cannot be one of the possible solutions for improving energy efficiency. Banning fossil fuels completely, cannot (conceivably) be one of the possible solutions for improving energy efficiency.

could have, might have, may have are used to express uncertainty about something in the past.
The dinosaurs may have survived without the meteor impact that seriously altered weather patterns at the time.

must have is used to express near-certainty about something in the past.
It must have been bitterly disappointing for those citizens who had hoped for political change.

Audio Tutorial

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If you need help with your essay writing, find out more about our essay correction service. Take a look at some IELTS writing task 2 questions to help you prepare.

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Grammar for IELTS Writing | IELTSPodcast

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Have a look at our grammar for IELTS to prepare for your IELTS exam. Subscribe to our tutorials for more useful weekly resources.

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Welcome to the IELTS Vocabulary page! If you're preparing for the IELTS exam, you already know that a strong vocabulary is crucial for success.

Here we put together lists of topic-specific vocabulary and the way you can use them in the exam.

You'll find detailed explanations and an IELTS vocabulary list to practice and improve your vocabulary.

Table of Contents

Vocabulary or lexical resource is responsible for 25% of your final grade, in both the speaking and writing sections.

Here we have a list of the topics you can expect to find on the exam, we are updating it each week.

It's common to be stuck with an IELTS exam score of 6.5 and believe in order to get a band 7 they need to improve their IELTS vocabulary.

However, without feedback, evaluation or expert exam help, it is difficult to pinpoint exactly which area you need to get help for.

How can I improve my vocabulary for IELTS?

Constantly build your passive vocabulary word lists by reading and listening. Then move these words into your active vocabulary by using them when speaking or writing.

To improve faster, when reading, listening or watching English material, try to capture new words in a phrasebook. If you have time add the context too.

The next time you write an essay, review it and look for opportunities to add the words from your list into your text.

Likewise, when speaking try to incorporate your new vocab into your conversations, don't force them though because it will sound odd!

Idioms can be extracted from films and English podcasts, however, I'd recommend audio material because there are no visual clues, making listening a little harder.

Active reading is a great habit to develop and a vital exam preparation skill. Active reading is where you circle, underline and mark the text you are reading, so as to ease comprehension.

If you want to accelerate your learning, have a look at some tutorials about vocabulary acquisition. This page includes how to use a vocabulary phrase book and flashcards.

Take a look at our article which will provide tips and strategies to improve your vocabulary.

Vocabulary for IELTS speaking topics

Vocabulary for IELTS Writing Task

IELTS vocabulary for the writing section refers to the academic style and word choice (lexical resource) when writing your essay.

Below we have put together tutorials with word lists to help you improve your IELTS score.

1. Vocabulary about climate change (word list included)

2. Vocabulary: the environment (with Ted Talk and list of collocations)

3. Vocabulary: sports topics (with Ted Talk and list of collocations)

4. Vocabulary: globalisation - with Ted Talk presentation

5. Vocabulary about law and order (word list included)

6. Vocabulary: technology

7. Vocabulary: politics with Ted Talk presentation

8. Vocabulary: language and culture - with Ted Talk

9. Vocabulary: health with Ted Talk presentation

10. Vocabulary: education topic with Ted Talk and list of collocations

11. Vocabulary about crime

12. Vocabulary about employment and equal pay

13. Vocabulary about fossil fuels

14. Vocabulary about employment

15. Vocabulary: employment and highly skilled jobs

16. Vocabulary about sport with Ted Talk presentation

Video: How to Expand Your Writing Vocabulary (+ 10 words)

What is a vocabulary collocation?

A collocation is a group of words that has an above-average possibility of being found together.

Using collocations in your writing and IELTS speaking helps to make your language sound more natural and fluent. This in turn makes your writing flow and helps you get a better scoring essay.

Important Vocabulary List to learn for IELTS

We have compiled a list of the most essential vocabulary words and phrases you need to know to perform well on the exam.

Our expertly curated list covers a range of topics commonly found on the IELTS exam, from education and technology to travel and the environment.

With our guide, you'll be able to expand your vocabulary and improve your overall score on the IELTS.

Modern Technology

Global Warming

Food and Nutrition

Travel
Immigration
What is the best way to learn topic-specific collocations?

The best way to learn topic-specific collocations is to look for them being used in context. We in the lists above, extracted collocations from Ted Talks, so you can identify how they are used in context.

Using topic-specific vocabulary, collocations and words from the academic vocabulary list will help considerably.

Below is a free PDF ebook of lexical resources with lots of vocabulary lists and examples to learn new vocabulary for your English language study. If you are still struggling then check out the Jump to Band 7 or its Free IELTS Course.
Click here for a free master list of collocations!
VIDEO: IELTS Topic Specific Vocabulary and Collocations

Other IELTS Vocabulary Lessons

Audio tutorial

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

To improve your vocabulary you could get feedback from an ex-IELTS examiner, our service offers very detailed IELTS essay feedback on your vocabulary and word choice.

However, if you are on a budget and need instant feedback then try our online IELTS writing evaluation, fast and free!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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IELTS Vocabulary: Lexical Resource, and Topic specific vocabulary

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Take a look at our IELTS Vocabulary. This lexical resource has a range of topic specific vocabulary and collocations. Subscribe for more.

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Home " IELTS listening test " IELTS listening: multiple-choice questions, short answer questions

In this tutorial, you will:

learn how to tackle 'multiple-choice' and 'short answer' questions more effectively

find out how to avoid some common pitfalls with these types of question

become more familiar with different sections of the IELTS listening test

Most or all of the questions in section one of the listening test are usually 'completion' questions, which involve filling in the gaps to complete a form or table. If there is a second type of question in section one, it may be multiple choice. Often, the recording is divided into two parts, with the second part a continuation of the same conversation.

In this example, a woman who recently moved to the area is asking a neighbour for information about some local restaurants.

Section 1
Questions 7 - 10 Choose the correct letter, A, B or C.
(7) How did the woman's neighbour find out about The Green Papaya?
A He won a free meal in a competition at work.
B A colleague at work recommended it to him.

C He read about it in a local newspaper.

1. As with all parts of the listening test, it's important to look through the task carefully before the recording starts. Improve your ability to focus on the information you need to listen for by underlining the key words in the question.

2. In your head, paraphrase the key words in the possible answers to help prepare you for the conversation you're going to hear. So you are looking at different ways of saying the same information.

Here are some examples:

Answer 'A' mentions 'a free meal'. Another way of saying this might be 'a voucher which entitles you to dinner for two'. Don't confuse with the expression: There's no such thing as a free lunch .

Answer 'B' states 'a colleague recommended it'. You might hear 'a friend from the office suggested trying it'.

Answer 'C' says 'He read about it (the restaurant) in a local newspaper' so you might expect to hear something about 'reading restaurant reviews'. Also phrases such as "browsing", or "flicking" through the local paper.

Expanding your IELTS vocabulary will have a positive impact on your ability to paraphrase.

Be aware that you will probably hear something about all three possible answers when you listen to the recording. The two wrong answers are sometimes known as 'distractors', because they 'distract' your attention from the correct answer.

It's important not to make your decision about the correct answer too early. Feel free to draw ticks and crosses on the question paper while you are listening - but keep listening until the end of the recording before you come to a final decision.

This is the extract of the recording that goes with question 7:

Well, I love eating out and trying new places - and I often read restaurant

Even though the man mentions reading restaurant reviews, and the competition at work, eventually we discover that the correct answer is ' B '.

Multiple-choice questions often appear in sections two and three of the test, as well as in section one. Multiple-choice questions are challenging as they may require test-takers to demonstrate a wide variety of listening skills.

You may need to listen for the gist (or general idea), specific information or detail. You can practise all of these listening subskills - and receive helpful feedback - by signing up for our

Usually, you need to choose A, B or C. However, sometimes you will be given a longer list of options and told to choose more than one. As with all the listening tasks, it is very important to read the instructions carefully.

Another less common type of task which sometimes appears in section two and three involves answering questions with short answers. These are usually relatively straightforward as they involve extracting key facts.

For example, you might see a question which looks like this:

Section 2
Questions 11 - 16 Answer the questions below. Write no more than one word and/or a number for each answer. What two things do participants need to bring with them?
Here is the introduction to the recording:
You will hear one of the organisers of a local outdoor event talking to a group of people who are going to participate in the event the following day.
It's not clear what kind of event it is - but it is going to take place outdoors. You could predict that the participants might to bring food, water - or umbrellas!

This is the first part of the recording:
Hello everybody and thanks very much for coming to the briefing today. The purpose of this session is to try and make sure that things run as smoothly as possible. We will have 200 people attending the event tomorrow so I'm sure that you can appreciate that this all takes quite a lot of organisation.
Now as you're all aware, things will get underway at 11am tomorrow morning. Please make sure that you arrive by 10.45am at the latest. All the food will be provided so you don't need to worry about that side of things. However, the forecast is for hot sunny weather, so please don't forget to bring plenty of water, so that you don't get dehydrated - and sunscreen

So, the answers to questions 11 and 12 are 'water' and 'suncreen' - in either order. Just be sure to follow the instructions and check your spelling. If you write 'plenty of water', your answer will be marked as incorrect as you are required to use just one word.

Latest tutorials

If you need more help preparing for your IELTS exam, take a look at some of our latest tutorials:

Audio tutorial

You can download or listen to the audio version here:

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IELTS Listening Multiple Choice Questions

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In this tutorial we will look at the IELTS listening exam and show you how to answer multiple choice questions. Subscribe for more.

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Home " IELTS listening test " IELTS computer based listening test

In this tutorial, you will find out:

Exactly what to expect when you take the IELTS listening test

How the scoring converts to IELTS band scores

How the computer-based and paper-based tests compare

If it is a good idea to take your IELTS test on a computer?

The listening test is the same for both IELTS academic and IELTS teneral training. It lasts approximately thirty minutes and it is divided into four sections, with each section gradually becoming more difficult.

In each section you will hear a recording of native English speakers and you will need to answer a series of ten questions. The questions are in the 'right' order - you will hear the answers in the same order on the recording.

It's important to be aware that although all the recordings are of native English speakers, they will have a variety of different accents, including American, Australian, British, Canadian and New Zealand, so you need to be ready for this. This comedy show has a lot of different accents. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-Z4761HhkU

Listening to country-specific radio stations or other online resources such as movies or documentaries can be a great way to improve your ability to cope with less familiar accents. For example, David Attenburough has an accent that for me, makes anything he says captivating. He's like the grandad I never had.

It's also important to be aware that you will only hear each recording ONCE.

Types of recordings

The first two recordings involve people talking in everyday social contexts. In the first section, you will hear a conversation between two people, perhaps a customer and a shop assistant or a person asking for help at a tourist information centre, for example.

The second section will involve just one person speaking, so a monologue rather than a dialogue. You might hear part of a radio broadcast or someone explaining the details of a public event.

Sections three and four are set in academic contexts. The third section will involve a conversation between two or more people, such as a university student discussing a course with his or her tutor, or three students discussing an assignment. In the final section of the test you will hear a monologue, such as a university lecture.

Types of questions

The listening test includes a wide variety of different types of questions. You will probably be very familiar with some of these, such as multiple-choice questions, but perhaps less accustomed to tasks which involve matching, labelling diagrams or completing summaries. Question types vary in different sections and some sections of the test will contain more than one type of question, so it's vital to spend some time getting used to all the possible variations you might encounter.

Follow instructions

As well as making sure that you are familiar with the different types of questions, it's also essential that you follow the instructions. Although this might sound obvious, far too many IELTS candidates lose marks simply because they don't do what they are asked to do.

For example, some types of questions specify the number of words you should write. If the question states 'Write no more than two words for each answer', you will need to write either one word or two words for each answer. If you write three words or more, your answer will be marked incorrect. It's as simple as that. As we say in the UK, it's cut and dried. https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/cut-and-dried

Not only will you be penalised for not following the instructions. Answers which are misspelled will also be marked as incorrect so as you expand your IELTS vocabulary , be sure to pay attention to spelling. Grammatical errors will also be marked as incorrect. You have been warned!

Signing up for our online course at IELTS podcast can be an excellent way to help ensure that you are getting accurate essay correction feedback on your performance both in the speaking and the writing.
Each question is worth one point so the maximum score in the listening exam is 40. Each candidate's score is then converted into an IELTS Band Score. The exact conversion depends on the test, but on average you will need a score of about 23/40 to achieve a band 6, 30/40 for a band 7 or 35/40 if you are aiming for a band 8.
In many parts of the world it is now possible to take the listening, reading and writing sections of the IELTS test using a computer. One of the key advantages for test-takers is that you will receive your results more quickly.

But are there any differences between the paper-based and the computer-based test?

If you take the paper-based listening test, you will write your answers on the test paper while you are listening. Then you will be given ten minutes at the end of the test to transfer your answers to an answer sheet. If you take the test on a computer, this step becomes redundant so you will only be given two minutes at the end of the test to check your answers. The test stops automatically at the end of this time period.

If you struggle in the listening section, it might be worth finding a test centre that conducts the test with headphones rather than speakers. The headphones will help block unwanted sounds such as coughs and sneezes.

Apart from that, the tests are identical.

So, is it a good idea to take your IELTS test on a computer?

It really comes down to personal choice. If you are used to handwritten tests, you might feel more comfortable taking the paper-based version of the test. If you can type more quickly that you can write, you might prefer to take the computer-based test. Just bear in mind that even if you are a computer whizz, it's still worth taking the time to familiarise yourself with the computer-based test by practising with some sample questions.

Audio tutorial

You can download or listen to the audio version here:

If you need more help with your IELTS preparation, take a look at our online course here to make that you succeed! : https://www.ieltspodcast.com/online-ielts-course/

Here are some tutorials to help you with your IELTS Listening preparation

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Computer Based IELTS Listening Test | IELTS Podcast

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Have a look at out tutorial to find out the differences between taking your IELTS Listening test on a computer or on paper. Read more!

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IELTS Listening: How to master completion questions

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Learn how to tackle completion questions more effectively with our tutorial. IELTS Podcast can help you succeed.

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These tips are divided into IELTS listening exam specific skills / tips and then general English language listening skills.

A lot of students over focus on the IELTS exam skills and forget that language skills will always come before exam skills.

14 Listening tips for your IELTS exam

1. Attempt all questions - there are no penalties for incorrect answers. Be careful to not waste time on a question that you don't know though - guess and move on.

2. Watch out for plurals in answers. If the question requires a plural answer, a singular answer is incorrect.

3. Answers appear in the order they are heard in the audio. They come quickly or with large gaps between them.

4. Prepare to hear a potential answer that is not the actual answer. This is common when two people are making plans. They first agree on meeting at a certain time, but then one remembers that they cannot so they decide on a new time.

5. Take care when you transfer your answers and pay attention to the word limit for your answers on your answer sheet!

6. Multiple choice answers will ask for a letter (a, b, c, d). Write the letter and not the corresponding answer.

7. When asked to complete a sentence using no more than two words, and the correct answer is "leather coat," then "a coat made of leather" is incorrect. Same goes for numbers.

8. Hyphenated words (like "part-time") are considered as one word.

9. A date (1990) is considered one number.

10. Focus on what the speaker is saying not how they say it.

11. Don't take notes in complete sentences - jot down the key points and abbreviate. You only need to write down enough to help your memory later.

12. Get the habit of distinguishing between essential and non-essential information. If two people are talking about making plans for a dinner date, the important information is the date/time they finally agree upon. Other dates/times they considered become irrelevant.

13. Try to guess what the speaker is going to say. Speakers, will often drop clue words or outline what they will to talk about beforehand. This gives you the ability to start your own outline to then fill in.

14. Listen to IELTS podcast, take notes and improve your note-taking skills.

IELTS listening tips to predict answers in the listening exam

You have the opportunity to read the questions before listening to the recording. Take advantage of this!

The questions can help you determine what type of answer you're looking for. For example, if you have the following question:

"He would like to meet in ____________."

The preposition "in" clues you into the type of answer you should be looking for.

The answer in this case has to be either a period of time (2 days), a month (April), a year (2018), or a season (Winter).

Different prepositions will dictate different answers.
Here are some examples:

Preposition: AT

Possible answer: Time, Part of Day, Place

Examples: 9pm, dawn, the restaurant

Preposition: IN

Possible answer: Period of Time, Month, Year, Season

Examples: 2 days/hour/minutes, April, 2018, Winter

Preposition: ON

Possible answer: Day, Date

Examples: Monday, January 15th (or 15th of January)

Preposition: no preposition

Possible answer: Person other

Examples: Emily now, at once, tomorrow, next year, this afternoon, person

What happens on the listening test?

The IELTS listening test is designed to assess how well you can:

1. Understand both main ideas and detailed information

2. Recognise the opinions and attitudes of a speaker

3. Follow the development of an idea or argument

IELTS listening test structure

The listening test is the same for IELTS academic and IELTS general training and they are scored in the same way.

You will listen to four different recordings and then answer 10 written questions for each (40 in total)

You will only hear each recording once.

You have 40 minutes for all four sections. 30 minutes to listen to the recordings and write your answers on the question paper. Then 10 minutes to transfer these to the answer sheet.

- The recordings and questions get more difficult as the test progresses:

- Section 1 is two speakers having an everyday conversation. They might be making plans for the weekend or discussing where to get dinner that evening.

- Section 2 is a monologue (one person talking) about an everyday situation. It may be a speech or a talk about making plans for something.

- Section 3 is an academic conversation between up to 4 people.

- Section 4 is a monologue on an academic topic.

- The recordings include a range of accents, probably British and Australian, so try to get familiar with these. In this recording we can hear an examiner for the speaking section, but with a Scottish accent.

You can find more info about the the listening test on the IELTS website.

Sound overwhelming? Don't stress. We're going to breakdown the main skills needed to score well on this section exam and outline some tips for you.

Keep track of your results and improvement

For the reading and listening, take practice tests to see where you're losing points.

Practice tests are great because they will show what areas of English are giving you trouble and where to focus your attention in order to improve.

Focus on your weak spots at first before branching out in a new direction!

IELTS writing and listening simultaneously (a key skill!)

Writing while listening is hard if you aim to capture everything.

The key here is that it's not always possible throughout the entire exam so don't let this tactic take up too much time.

This will require you to develop your concentration skills and limit distractions even more so than before because you are now using both of these skills simultaneously.

Concentration skills can be improved through meditation, and practice.

Reverse engineer the reading and listening tests

We also mention this tip in the IELTS Preparation guide.

Find official IELTS exams. Cambridge are the best because they are usually slightly harder than the real test. Make sure you have the answer key. Some people sell it separately.

The Cambridge practice tests are also written by the same professionals who write the official exams.

Sit down with an exam paper and look at the answers first, and then look at the questions.

Work out how the questions are asked, what they ask and how.

This strategy for the IELTS listening test makes it far easier to find answers when you do the real test.

Our IELTS Reading online preparation course is for people who want to score high on the test first time. It has video lessons on how to answer each specific question style. LINK

This is just one of the courses that we offer to help you improve and prepare.

How is the IELTS listening score calculated?

The IELTS listening exam tests English comprehension skills. The examiner looks to see whether you can listen to a piece of information and successfully answer questions.

The listening scores are out of 40 and are calculated based on the number of correct answers. Points are not taken away for incorrect answers.

Once you have completed the listening test you will be graded according to the following bandwidth ranging from a score of 4 to 9.

Five step method for improving your listening skills for IELTS

Improving your listening skills requires active (not passive) listening practice. Focusing on understanding what you are listening to is important when you practice listening.

The best method to develop this skill is through combining listening and reading. Find audio examples with a text transcript to check your comprehension after listening.

Step 1: Listen to the audio clip (no reading)

See how much you can understand the general gist and start to pick out keywords.

Step 2: Repeat and repeat again (still no reading!)

Listen to the clip again. Based on what you understood the first time, is there now more that you can pick out?

Continue to listen to the clip several times through to see if you can comprehend a little bit more each time.

Only move to step 3 when you're not comprehending anything more from the audio. Your goal should be to understand as much as possible from the audio!

Step 3: Read the text

Check your understanding and identify any new vocabulary. See if you can guess the meaning of any new words based on the context before looking them up.

Step 4: Listen with the text

Listen to the pronunciation of phrases and groups of words.

Step 5: Listen a few more times without the text

At this point, you should be able to understand the majority of the clip. Repetition makes it easier to understand the words and phrases when you hear them again.

As Ben W says: REPETITION IS THE MOTHER OF ALL LEARNING.

These steps were adapted from Benny's great blog: FluentIn3Months.

Where can I find IELTS listening exercises?

Listening Resources (authentic native English speaker material)

Below are different resources to help you prepare for the IELTS Listening exam.

Leverage Edu - Take a look at this list of movies that can help you improve your listening for the IELTS exam.

VOA Learning English - A wide variety of news, science, and general interest audio clips and videos, along with written transcripts (perfect for practicing the 5 steps above!). Transcripts include definitions of key vocabulary words. The site also offers one minute lessons on common English idioms. It also groups News Stories by difficulty.

English Test Store -ETS offers listening comprehension exercises like those in IELTS.

Exam English REMOVE LINK - Exam English provides test prep resources including practice tests and exercises. You'll find IELTS specific exercises. Try the listening exercises for other exams. Start at a lower level and progress as your skills improve.

Lyrics Gaps - This is a fun one. This site turns music videos into game-like listening exercises. The music video plays side-by-side with a gap fill.

Audible - I have been addicted to their audiobooks since starting. I find them high quality and informative. Because they are interesting I listen right to the end -unlike practice tests which can send me to sleep! Use this link to get a free 30 day trial.

The British Council has a selection of recordings for students. LINK

Six Minutes English by the BBC is another fantastic free resource. Here they share every day English, often in a real life situation. There is a free pdf vocabulary resource available too. LINK

How to improve your listening skills

The IELTS listening test requires you to exhibit your comprehension skills. Listening is a skill and the best way to improve your listening, is immersion in the language.

The IELTS exam tests your active listening skills, i.e your ability to extract meaning from conversations or speeches. You also need to improve your focus levels in order to improve your listening skills.

An ability to visualise the words you heard is another skill worth developing. The ability to hold information and construct answers in your mind are two other skills.

On IELTSPodcast, Ben often tells his listeners to grab a pen and take notes, this is another form of active listening.
Stronger Vocabulary
Another first step for improving your listening score is by building a stronger vocabulary.
Flashcards
When using flashcards make sure that the word is on the front and how to pronounce it is on the back. If you are a visual learner, try making your own flashcards instead of using ones that have already been made. You can upload our vocabulary lists into Quizlet and start practising today. LINK
Passive Vocabulary
Constantly build your passive vocabulary by reading and listening.

Then move these words into your active vocabulary by regularly using them when speaking or writing , so as to develop fluency faster!

When you have a little more time, add context to the new words that you come across - it will help with understanding them for next time too!
Reading
Another strategy to improve your listening score is by reading more. Reading improves vocabulary and also helps you understand sentence structures better.

Personally, I find addictive turn pager novels boost my reading time. Native speakers will read books with a higher vocabulary too, so it is worth the effort.
Listening to the news in English
It may seem like an obvious step given that you are listening for your IELTS test but this can be very useful and helpful. The news is always being broadcast in English and often includes topic specific vocabulary or phrases. The BBC has a wide range of band score improving podcasts available here: LINKS

How to understand native English speakers

Understanding a native English speaker can be a challenge (especially with all the northern accents!).

Recordings and podcasts can definitely help but English pronunciation is complex.

There are over 20 different vowel sounds and they can difficult to tell apart.

It gets harder with fast speech.

Two words may differ by a single sound but have a very different meaning (minimal pairs). The words van and fan are minimal pairs.

Training your ear to distinguish between the sounds is an important foundational skill.

You can find lots of minimal pairs listening exercises online. English Club has a good one.

Why do native speakers sound like a block of sound!

Native speakers have speech patterns that sounds unique to learners. It's different from textbook or written English.

If you learn what these patterns are, it will be easier to understand them.

Pattern 1: Contractions

Using contractions is the normal method of speech.

Example: "I am" becomes "I'm," "did not" becomes "didn't" etc.

Pattern 2: Weak forms

Structural words in sentences are often pronounced as their "weak form."

Example: "to" and "you" on their own are pronounced with a long u: sounds. As a part of sentences though, they are usually pronounced in their weak form with short uh sounds. For more on weak forms and their pronunciation, check out the video below.

Pattern 3: Phonetic links

Any word that starts with a vowel gets linked to a previous word which makes it hard to hear each word distinctly.

Example: "She is interested in it" all runs together and sounds like one word "shezinterestedinit".

Audio Tutorial - How to Improve for the IELTS Listening Exam

In this IELTS podcast, we give out a few IELTS listening tips on how to perform better on your IELTS listening exam.

We talk about:

How to write and listen simultaneously - a vital skill.

How to predict answers in the IELTS listening exam.

Understanding the proper native use of collocations.

Recognising the points of your IELTS listening exam where should you be paying more attention to your examiner speak.

Listen to the podcast here: Watch on Youtube

IELTS listening test audio and answer sheet downloads
Listening practice test 1 - questions (PDF)
Listening practice test 1 - answers (PDF)
Now take the IELTS listening sample test online from the British Council, click here.

Here are some tutorials to help you with your IELTS listening preparation

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How to improve your IELTS Listening score (14 tips and 5 steps)

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These tips are divided into IELTS listening exam specific skills / tips and then general English language listening skills. A lot of students over focus on the IELTS exam skills and forget that language skills will always come before exam skills. Attempt all questions - there are no penalties for incorrect answers.

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IELTS Reading Tips to improve your score | IELTS Podcast

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Our tutorial shares 17 IELTS reading tips to help you improve your score. Sign up on our website for more tutorials.

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This tutorial goes into detail about writing strong coherent paragraphs for your IELTS writing task exam, especially task two.

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Home " IELTS academic task 2 " How to write an IELTS essay conclusion

State your opinion in a crystal clear way. Usually, you express it in one short sentence. This way your essay will have a good finish. It becomes succinct and your thoughts are condensed. This will definitely help to get a high score for your essay.

Put a small prediction in your conclusion. For example: "It is predicted that the trend of global warming will continue long into the future unless governments take decisive action". Or: "It is predicted that parents and children will continue to use electronic devices to communicate and this can only strengthen their bonds".

Keep an eye on your grammar accuracy and the range of the grammar structures and vocabulary you use. These aspects also considerably increase your chances for getting a high score.

What not to include in your IELTS essay conclusion!

New arguments. If there are any arguments that pop up in your head while writing conclusion, ignore them. You should have control over your mind and stay focused. This is the way to a successful conclusion.

New evidence for the arguments. This point corresponds with the previous one.

Repetitions. Try to avoid saying what you've already mentioned. This refers to the logic used as well as evidence and arguments that were pointed out. Your range of words in the language should also help you avoid word repetitions. Also, sometimes by looking for synonyms you can make the conclusion sound over complicated and confusing to the reader. Do not try to find a synonym if it simply doesn't exists.

Let's have a look at the following two examples of conclusions. Say, you are dealing with the essay on positive and negative aspects of globalization and you have to introduce your opinion.

You write about the positive effects of it (nowadays there are more ideas, the spread of which leads to the spread of language). You also give examples from different countries.

Possible conclusion №1.
"It is necessary to spread ideas, language as well as culture. It will also start to be more tolerated in the future as it becomes more common. In the future, I sincerely hope, the governments will take effective measures to improve the progress of globalization".
Why does the conclusion sound a bit incohesive and unconvincing? Pay attention to the following points:

"It will also start to be more tolerated in the future..." Of course, you are writing about globalization, but the pronoun "it" makes it unclear. You force the reader to make assumptions, creating a strain for a reader, since they have to determine what you're saying.

There is a repetition of the phrase "in the future".

The phrase "I sincerely hope..." sounds like "I think it is...". The following is better in terms of how convinced the author is: "I strongly believe...", "Therefore, I am convinced that globalization is a necessary form to...".

There are no new arguments mentioned - it's good.

Even though there are two sentences about the future, they are quite weak. The author could have made at least one of them stronger.

Possible conclusion №2.
"In conclusion, globalization is, undoubtedly, a positive driver in disseminating ideas, language and culture. It is predicted governments will enact further measures to facilitate its progress".

Actually, the conclusion is quite successful and convincing. Probably, there is no need to say "In conclusion". The position is crystal clear since it is stated that it is "a positive driver". There is no ambiguity that this is an opinion.

There is new information that was not included earlier, in the body paragraphs: "It is predicted...".

There are neither new arguments nor fresh evidence in the example provided. By saying "undoubtedly", the author pushes the ideas and what he/she was talking about before into a more positive light. It is, for sure, the position of the author.

Sometimes, the author may make use of quotations with the view of improving the quality of the essay. Personally, I think this is dangerous because the quotation can easily be reproduced incorrectly or mistakenly attributed to someone else.

Conclusion

If you are struggling writing your IELTS Task 2 essay do not worry you are not alone! So many students find this the most challenging part of the IELTS exam.
Where do I place my ideas?
My mind goes blank?

These are very common challenges and surprisingly simple to solve. The key is having a system to follow so you know exactly what to write when you see a Task 2 question.

When you have a system and know the steps, and the sentence structures it definitely becomes a lot easier.

Have a look at this online course which includes all the chapters you need to pass IELTS.

Tutorials and Tips to Prepare for Task 2

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How to write an IELTS Essay Conclusion (with two sample conclusions)

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High scoring conclusions will show the examiner what the essay has uncovered, summarise your opinion and position, and possibly make a prediction.

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In this tutorial, we examine an important IELTS skill for starting IELTS writing task 2: paraphrasing.

Firstly, let's start by defining paraphrasing.

What is paraphrasing?

Paraphrasing is the expression of a phrase or sentence in another way.

For example, the sentence:

'The school student listened attentively to the podcast'

can be paraphrased as:

'The pupil listened very carefully to the digital audio file'

This technique is used frequently in the writing, reading and listening components of the IELTS exam.

Paraphrasing in IELTS is important because it:

helps you to focus on the main topic, using your own words

provides you with the skill to develop an idea, reformulate a concept and offer variety in your writing style

prevents redundancy and makes the sentence structure in the essay or written material more appealing to the reader

3 ways To paraphrase

In this tutorial, let's review IELTS test paraphrasing techniques to apply in writing task 2 of the IELTS exam.

Most students think of paraphrasing only as meaning using synonyms, but there are different ways to paraphrase that don't require changing the word. These include changing the word form, using the passive voice to change the phrase from active to passive, changing the sentence structure or using different clauses to change the verb form. Use as many of these techniques as you can to score higher on the IELTS test.

We'll examine three principle paraphrasing strategies:

Secondly, we will apply these techniques to examples of writing task 2 in the IELTS exam. Writing skills in this component of the exam include:

giving an opinion

discussing causes and suggesting solutions

discussing arguments for or against an idea or situation

discussing advantages and disadvantages

When you are sure you understand all three techniques, choose another IELTS test writing question and try to paraphrase it by yourself.

Strategy 1: use of synonyms

Let's start with our first strategy: the use of synonyms.

First, read and understand the question.

Use a highlighter to highlight the keywords in the question.

Select synonyms to replace those keywords.

Let's take an example. Read and understand the title of this writing task 2:
Unemployment is one of the most serious problems facing developed nations today. What are the advantages and/or disadvantages of reducing the working week to thirty-five hours?
This essay title asks the writer to provide the advantages and disadvantages of an idea or solution.

In your opening introduction, you should not immediately provide an opinion on the essay topic.

Instead, paraphrase two sentences, using our 3-step strategy.

First, read and understand the question:

Unemployment is one of the most serious problems for developed nations.

A 35-hour working week is a possible solution to unemployment.

Use a pen to highlight or underline the keywords in the question:
Unemployment is one of the most serious problems facing developed nations today. What are the advantages and/or disadvantages of reducing the working week to thirty-five hours?
Select synonyms to replace those keywords.

You can keep the same overall sentence structure and change keywords (making sure not to paraphrase a fixed expression without checking it carefully - for example, high unemployment cannot be changed to 'high lack of jobs' - it should be nationwide lack of jobs or a serious lack of jobs)

unemployment = lack of jobs

serious problems = grave issues

developed nations = industrialized countries

advantages and/or disadvantages = pros and/or cons

working week = professional schedule

Strategy 2: verb transformation

Let's take the same essay topic example and apply our second strategy to it: verb transformation.

In this strategy, we:
Highlight the key verbs Select new verbs or synonyms OR transform the verb Unemployment is one of the most serious problems facing developed nations today. What are the advantages and/or disadvantages of reducing the working week to thirty-five hours?

Facing = confronting

Reducing = lessening

Many countries are faced with the problem of unemployment.

Unemployment, which many countries are facing, is a serious problem in the modern world.

Strategy 3: sentence restructuring

Let's apply our third strategy to the same essay topic. Sentence restructuring is using a new sentence format, based on the writing skill. In this example, the writer is expected to explain the advantages and/or disadvantages of an idea.
What are the advantages and/or disadvantages of reducing the working week to thirty-five hours?
The sentence can be paraphrased as
Let's examine the pros and/or cons of ... Let's look at the pros and/or cons of ...
Okay! Let's now put our 3 strategies together to write sentences with our new synonyms to create an introduction:
Lack of jobs is indeed a grave issue confronting industrialised countries at this time. Let's examine the pros and/or cons of lessening professional schedules to thirty-five hours.
IELTS Writing Task 2: How to write a good introduction
Tip 1: Review the question, classify it, and highlight the keywords. Tip 2: Write brief ideas by brainstorming the topic. Tip 3: Select the best and easiest to explain ideas. Tip 4: Write a general statement by paraphrasing, followed by your position. Tip 5: Explain how you plan to develop your essay. Review your introduction.
Let's try it again - Another example of paraphrasing for IELTS writing task 2

Using the techniques above, let's apply them to a different question, this time about computer games in schools.

Firstly, we'll take an example of a common essay writing skill, discussing causes and suggesting solutions. Let's look at the example and then, apply our 3-step paraphrasing strategy to write an introduction.
Nowadays, many schools are using computer games to teach lessons to many children inside and outside the classroom. What are the negative and positive effects of using computer games in education and what can be done to minimise the negative effects?
2. Use a highlighter to highlight the keywords in the question:

3. Select synonyms to replace those keywords.

nowadays = in modern times

schools = academic institutions

computer games = electronic activities and exercises

lessons = courses

inside and outside the classroom = at school and at home

negative and positive effects = good and bad impacts

education = academic development

Using Strategy 2: verb transformation

Let's take the same essay topic example and apply our second strategy to it: verb transformation.

In this strategy, we:

1. Highlight the key verbs
Nowadays, many schools are using computer games to teach lessons to many children inside and outside the classroom. What are the negative and positive effects of using computer games on education and what can be done to minimize the negative effects?
2. Select new verbs or synonyms or transform the verb

using = employing

teach = instruct

can be done = solution

minimise = reduce

Using strategy 3: sentence restructuring

Let's apply our third strategy to the same essay topic. Sentence restructuring is the skills of applying a new sentence format, based on the writing objective required. In this example, the writer is expected to outline both the negative and positive effects of using computer games on education. The sentence
What are the negative and positive effects of using computer games on education?
Can be restructured into an answer format:
In this essay, I will outline the bad and good impacts of employing electronic activities and exercises on academic development.
The second question
What can be done to minimize the negative effects?
can be transformed to:
I will also examine solutions to reducing the bad impacts of electronic activities.
Okay! We are now ready to put our introduction together, using our 3-step strategy:
In modern times, many academic institutions are employing electronic activities and exercises to instruct courses to children both at school and at home. In this essay, I will outline the bad and good impacts of employing electronic activities and exercises on academic development. I will also examine solutions to reducing the bad impacts of these electronic activities.
Two extra strategies:

Change the word form: Unemployment is a noun, but you can change it to an adjective as an example of paraphrasing.

Unemployment is a serious problem - Change the word form of unemployment from a noun to an adjective: There are many unemployed people in some countries.

In this way, you can change verbs to nouns, nouns to adjectives and vice versa.

Use referencing.

This means using which, that, it - very useful when you can't think of another synonym!

Unemployment is growing in many countries, and this issue is becoming a challenge for many governments.

There is always a way to paraphrase, whatever the question. With more practice, you will be able to identify the best way to paraphrase that sounds natural and appropriate.

Video: how to start IELTS task 2

Click this link to watch the video on Youtube.

Subscribe to the IELTS podcast Youtube channel.

Audio tutorial about starting IELTS writing task 2

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19 sample IELTS essays and 240 task questions ebook
Additional IELTS resources:

Remember, paraphrasing is so important for both writing and speaking in IELTS. You can change the word using synonyms, change the form, change the verb/tense, change the voice from active to passive, or use referencing. and if you're not sure, look at an example before you practice.

If you have your exam in a few months, then you may be interested in getting feedback for your essay writing, the best way is to find a professional essay correction service, or find a tutor.

If you struggle to start IELTS writing task 2 (so many students have this problem!), or if you can't find ideas for Task 2, then this tutorial will help. Take a look at some IELTS writing task 2 questions to help you prepare. Alternatively, you might be interested in boosting your lexical resource by upgrading your vocabulary, this page explains how to do just that.

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In this tutorial, we examine an important IELTS skill for starting IELTS writing task 2: paraphrasing. Sign up on our website for more.

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Home " IELTS academic task 2 " IELTS essay structures for task 2

In this tutorial, we are going to look at the different types of essay structures for your IELTS writing task 2 test. Getting a higher score in the IELTS test does not only depend on your writing skills or how many paragraphs you write - it is equally important to express your own opinion and familiarize yourself with the various essay types and structures, in order to write the best answer possible.

The five types of essay questions commonly seen in IELTS writing task 2

- To what extent do you agree or disagree? (note to what extent... - do not forget, it is a discussion essay, you are not expected to make definitive statements)

- Discuss both views and give your point of view?

- Discuss the advantages and disadvantages? (disadvantages questions)

- Discuss the problems and possible solutions OR discuss the causes and what problems it causes?

- Two questions, for example: Why is this happening? Is this a positive or negative development? The latter are also called direct questions.

Regardless of the question type, it is important to read the question carefully before you start writing the opinion essay. You must demonstrate that you understood the question correctly.

Read sample answers as part of your IELTS preparation for generating more ideas - you are expected to express your own opinion and ideas in this task, whether you agree or disagree with the statement should not matter as long as you express a clear position throughout.

250 words myth?

Although the official criteria from IELTS.org mentions nothing about 250 words, on official exam papers the 250 words instruction can be seen.

Either way, for a band 7 a word count of around 350 words is expected.

A 350-word essay allows you to fully develop your ideas and argue your position, with multiple reasons, facts and examples.

Because you are writing more you have more chances to improve your lexical resource (vocabulary) score. However, the quality of your writing is just as important as quantity - one of the common mistakes many students make is to write as much as possible without structuring the essay. Your ideas, examples you include, complex sentences you use and above all, using the correct essay structure is as important as the final word count. Also, do not forget to use the correct linking words in your essay, and to express a clear position.

In all the examples below we are allowing a paragraph for the introduction and a paragraph for the conclusion. The basic structure is the same, regardless of the essay question you get.

Four paragraph model

We teach this model because:

Often there are just two sides to the argument or two parts to the question, therefore a body paragraph for each part of the question works well. Do not forget to start each paragraph with a topic sentence if you can.

Most of the points in Task 2 are picked up in the body paragraphs, not in the introduction or conclusion.

Therefore spending time and energy on two well constructed, fully developed cohesive paragraphs makes complete sense. This allows you to clearly express your position and why you agree or disagree with the statement in the question. For example, if you are writing about why the advantages of mobile devices outweigh the negative effects, you could mention some disadvantages in the first main body paragraphs and write about the advantages in the second main body paragraph. This way, you express your personal opinion while appearing objective by listing pros and cons.

Also, you can go deeper into the reasons why your argument is correct, the five-paragraph model could mean your arguments are too shallow. It is important to include more detail in your answer.

The vast majority of the students are aiming for a Band 7, and a four-paragraph model can do this, assuming all the other criteria are met.

Click here to learn how to plan and start a four-paragraph IELTS essay.

Five paragraph model

In our online course, we strongly advise against this structure because the time limit of 40 minutes would mean short paragraphs for most writers.

Short paragraphs make it difficult to develop your idea and argue your position. Ideally, one paragraph should express one position.

It could get complicated quickly as to which paragraphs hold which position.

However, if you feel extremely confident and can write very quickly a five-paragraph model could work. In any case, do not write more than five paragraphs in total, including the introduction and conclusion. Four to five paragraphs should be enough to answer the question, express your opinion and whether you agree or disagree with the statement in the question.

Band 5 students who have difficulty developing ideas, may find this model to work because they can limit each paragraph to one single idea.

How do you decide which essay structure to follow?

Depending on your target band score will influence your decision.

Also, try answering the same example question twice, first with a four-paragraph essay, second with a five-paragraph essay, to see which IELTS essay structure allows you to express your main ideas better while demonstrating a clear progression throughout.

Most band 7 students find the four-paragraph model is easier, but only you can decide if this model has more advantages for you personally. Also, do not forget that the marking criterion for writing includes grammatical range, lexical resource and task achievement - while expressing your opinion is important, try to use correct grammar, a wide range of vocabulary, and typical wording expected for the writing test (such as linking words). These, as well as choosing the correct essay structure, will help improve your writing score.

It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the marking criteria used by IELTS examiners and to read sample questions and answers in order to get a high score for your IELTS writing - there are many free resources available for this, for example from the British Council website. IDP Education Australia also has a website that can help with generating ideas. You can also try our recent tutorial all about idea generation.

If you are still a little lost or frustrated then don't worry, lots of students find preparing for IELTS incredibly frustrating.

One solution is to invest in yourself and get help to improve.

The fastest way to improve is with feedback from expert IELTS essay correctors.

We have ex-IELTS examiners correcting your essays and when you sign up for the IELTS email newsletter you can purchase the $5 essay correction immediately.

Tutorials and Tips to Prepare for Task 2

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IELTS Essay Structures for Writing Task 2 (4 or 5 paragraphs?)

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Which essay structure is right for you? Four paragraph model or five paragraph model? We look at the pros and cons of each essay structure.

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Home " IELTS academic task 2 " How to write IELTS writing task 2

The key to writing a good IELTS essay for task 2 is to use a process or system. For a writing task 2 IELTS academic essay that will bring you success in the , you need to think, not just about the result, but consider the process too. An essay is the product of a process and if you leave out just one step in the process the result may be less than ideal.

Writing a good IELTS Writing Task 2 starts with understanding the steps in the process and what the outcomes should be. Remember, you are recommended to spend 40 minutes on this task and you should write at least 250 words.

In this article, you'll learn the following.

There is no magic formula to writing an excellent IELTS essay but the secret is to have a system and to adapt that system to one that gives you the best results.

Let's look at the IELTS essentials for task 2

Step 1 - read the question and understand what the examiner is asking

Make sure that you understand what question is being asked. One of the worst mistakes you can make is to go off on a tangent and fail to answer the question. IELTS questions are precisely worded and they require a specific answer. Time spent reading the question and understanding the requirements is time well spent. It is the surest way to ensure that you answer the question well.

IELTS is very specific and it is not okay to write about the general topic. Instead, the answer must be very specific and pointed.

Common errors

Step 2 - think about what you're going to write for task 2

This is the stage at which you plan the essay, but you can't just plan. You must think. Don't just react with a ready-made essay which may or may not answer the question asked. You need to carefully read the question and decide how you can answer it using your language skills, your experience, and your knowledge.

Of course, the essay that you have previously written may offer you some insights, vocabulary and even ideas, but make sure that what you use applies without doubt to the question which has been asked in the exam. It is as important that you consider parts of previous essays to include in the answer as it is to know what parts to exclude.

Common errors

You set off to write the exam without putting in enough thought and part way through you realize that you haven't answered the question, or the essay is incoherent. Now it is too late to start again.

You fail to answer the question asked.

Writing the essay

Every essay should have three parts, so it is useful to consider each part of the essay as a step in the process of essay writing.

Step 3 - writing the introduction

The introduction is an important step in the writing process. It sets the tone and gives the examiner the first impression of your skills and abilities, so if you get the introduction wrong you could start off on the wrong foot.

In IELTS writing task 2, the introduction should link your answer to the question. You should, therefore, write the introduction considering both the question at hand and the body of the essay that you plan to write.

For a top score, you need to 'set out a position' - in other words, if you are asked whether you agree or disagree with a statement, you should make it clear in the introduction which one you are going to be doing in the essay. This is because the task achievement score depends on you setting out a position and maintaining this throughout the essay. It shouldn't be a surprise to the examiner at the end of the essay to find out whether you agree or disagree!

On the other hand, most task 2 questions do not require you to give an opinion. If you are required to discuss both sides or talk about the advantages and disadvantages of something, make it clear in the introduction that this is what you will be doing.

Having favourite phrases to write most essays is a huge help here. Practically any essay you can think of can start with 'many people believe that...' because as we know, 'many' does not mean 'most'. 'Some people think that' or 'some people believe that' followed up by 'while others are of the opinion that...' is also useful when summarising the question and introducing new ideas.

Common errors

Step 4 - developing the essay ideas, your approach, and your explanations

In approaching the main body of the essay, you must ensure that answer that you give is not only clear, and accurately answers the question, it must also be coherent and well-structured. Divide your essay up into paragraphs that explain just one idea per paragraph. Ensure that you explain how your ideas relate to the question.

Common errors found in task 2

Step 5 - conclude your essay with a summary that completes the circle

Before you write your conclusion, you need to read through your essay and make sure that it is complete and coherent. Your conclusion should round off your essay and complete it. It should summarise the main points in the body and reflect the connection between the introduction and the question.

A good conclusion summarises the contents of the essay in as few words as possible.

Common errors

Step 6 - re-read your essay

Unlike research papers or essays written as homework, you only get one chance at writing the exam essay. It's a good idea to read your essay through at various intervals during the exam. Leaving this to the end may be too late. You should also read it once more when you get to the end to ensure that it makes sense and is a coherent whole. Your essay needs to be clear - and give your opinion only when toy are asked for it.

Stick to a process and you'll avoid two serious problems

What are the problems?

Incoherence - disjointed essays that cause confusion

You have a much better chance of ensuring that your essay is coherent if you use a set method to write it,. This is because with a method you would have gone through all the steps necessary to ensure coherence, moving from step 1 to step 2 to step 3 and so on. This means that you have given each part of the essay an equal level of importance. If you start with the end in mind without considering each step along the way, you may miss out on an essential stage of the process and end up with an essay which lacks coherence.

Many students write essays in preparation for the exam. The problem with this is that, in your eagerness to answer with a carefully prepared essay, you may not answer the test question as it has been asked. This is especially true for 'what do you think' essays.

It may also happen that the essay question that you are faced with may not fit any of the pre-planned essays that you had in mind for your answer and you panic. In this case it is useful to have a reliable process to help you to write that winning essay. If you have a process you should not be worried and can enter the exam room with confidence, knowing that you have a system that will allow you to answer almost any question that's thrown at you. When you have learnt the process of answering IELTS exams it all gets a lot easier.

Giving a list of reasons rather than a clear argument and supporting arguments for each paragraph.

This can be challenging for a lot of students. Many IELTS students think that the more ideas mentioned the better in writing task 2 questions, but that isn't usually true. When talking about the advantages and disadvantages of solar power, for example, many students would be tempted to mention as many ideas as possible in the 'advantages' paragraph in order to maximise their score - reliance on sunshine, cost, challenges of setting it up and repairs in remote regions of the world... but you will score more by focusing on one strong argument in your answer and include examples from your own experience and more information.

Now for some practice

Take an essay that you have previously written and rewrite it. This is not an exercise in correcting errors in the prior essay, but rather an opportunity to take note of the process of writing an essay. The reason we use an old essay is that the ideas and vocabulary already exist. So, you can pay attention to the process, or the how of writing rather than the what.

Don't worry too much about how long its takes, but pay attention to each phrase and ask yourself what you are trying to do all along the way

Take a look at some sample task 2 essays to help you prepare. We also have an IELTS writing evaluation service that will help you improve your band score!

Here's another example.

Where it says 'do you agree or disagree', that means you MUST make it clear what you think. Although it's fine to say there are arguments for both sides it's easier to come down firmly on one side or the other. Similarly, 'is this a positive or negative development' questions are easier to answer by choosing one or the other UNLESS the IELTS question specifically says 'discuss both views and give your own opinion'. Here is an example:

'To what extent do you agree or disagree' questions or 'discuss both views and give your opinions' are better for looking at both sides. For an agree or disagree question, it's fine to focus on just one.

TOP TIP - write a concession!

A concession phrase is a high-level skill that will boost your task achievement score if done correctly. The idea is to use an OPPOSITE argument to show that you understand another perspective. For example, if you were writing two body paragraphs agreeing with the statement in the question above, you could also write:
Although some people may be concerned about the cost of replacing plastic goods with glass, it could be argued that our first responsibility is to the environment.
You've shown you understand another view (it's expensive to change current production methods) but made a new point (the environment is more important).

However, if you're going to do this, remember that a concession statement can ONLY be half a sentence. Any more and you've gone off topic and your paragraph will not match your topic sentence. Look for examples of strong concession statements in example essays and only attempt it if you're feeling very confident.

Keep practising!!

It is important to practice as many questions as you can, and many people say that they improved their score by focusing on planning as much as writing full writing task 2 questions. Keep these tips and ideas in front of you to check your planning and writing strategies.

It's also useful to keep a list of relevant examples from your own life to mention in the test. These can include large companies you know about, local businesses you are aware of, and even government policies for your region (and whether they are a positive or negative development and whether you agree or disagree with them!)

Audio tutorial

We also have audio tutorials available.

You can download or listen to the audio version here:

Tutorials and Tips to Prepare for Task 2

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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Write IELTS Task 2 in 6 Steps (avoid common mistakes)

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Home " IELTS academic task 2 " How to write IELTS writing task 2 The key to writing a good IELTS essay for task 2 is to use a process or system. For a writing task 2 IELTS academic essay that will bring you success in the , you need to think, not just about the result, but consider the process too.

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Home " IELTS writing task 2 " Useful phrases for IELTS writing task two

This tutorial contains useful phrases and vocabulary for IELTS writing task 2.

When students ask for general lines for writing task 2, they are looking for phrases that are going to impress the examiner but can be used flexibly.

Use these phrases for introductions, body paragraphs, and supporting sentences. Copy and adapt them. This is perfectly legitimate, however, you absolutely must adapt the phrases to your essay topic in the IELTS exam!

We will go through phrases for IELTS writing task 2 step-by-step, and we have even included links to useful pdfs including an IELTS writing task 2 introduction phrases pdf.

There are a lot of common lines for IELTS writing task 2 and as these are less common, they will help you stand out from the crowd.

We often call these phrases 'general statements' and have chosen, for each part of your essay. the best general statement for writing task 2.

1. Useful phrase best for introductions

This essay will analyse this issue using the examples from... to demonstrate points and support arguments.

You will need to supply examples in accordance with your particular topic. For instance:
This essay will analyse this issue using examples from wartime countries and conflict zones to demonstrate points and support arguments.
and
This essay will analyse this issue using examples from Canada, Australia and Rwanda to demonstrate points and support arguments.
If you need further help to start writing your introductions, check our writing task 2 tutorial for examples of writing complex sentences.

Many students struggle with starters for writing task 2, but there is no need to memorise more than one or two. One of the best starting lines for writing task 2 is:
It is undeniable that ___(insert problem from question)___ is one of the most challenging issues in the western world.
You can adapt this slightly to become:
In the modern world...(insert problem from question)___ is one of the most challenging issues of our time.
2. A phrase best for body paragraphs showing opinions
However, it should not be forgotten (that)... and add the opposing point. Even if you strongly disagree, you must object in a proper way and using good vocabulary as practiced in higher education.
When injecting an opposing thought, the best general line for task 2 is that instead of using only "However," you can use:

Same idea, much higher level of vocabulary.
"For example, a recent study by _________ showed..." "There are also studies being performed on a global level to discover the source of these important problems. One solution proposed by the _(insert global organisation)___ is to_________."
3. A phrase best for body paragraphs showing examples

A great way to boost your IELTS writing task 2 vocabulary (lexical resource) score is to cite examples from research or studies made, using the phrase,
"For example, numerous studies by _________ showed that people support..." "There are also studies being performed on a global level such as those concerning global warming, to discover the source of these important problems. One solution proposed by the _(insert global organisation)___ is to_________."
For instance:

Cite examples from research or studies made, using the phrase,
There would be at least two facets to this proposal. There is also, however, a strong argument not to implement this proposal. The issue of __X__ in western / African countries has The issue of __X__ in most continents has in importance over the past few . There is ample evidence to suggest that... in importance over the past few There is ample evidence to suggest that scientists will promptly discover... There is ample evidence to suggest that local governments will be implementing ... . Numerous studies have consistently found that ...
For instance:
Numerous studies have consistently found that children from economically advanced countries...
For example, a recent study by the (or U.K. government) showed pressing issues... (then supply the details of the findings).
Numerous studies have consistently found that students who learn three languages have a reduced chance of contracting Alzheimer's.
4. Best for body paragraphs

It is fairly easy to comprehend the arguments as to why this proposal has been made.

5. Best for supporting sentences

Instead of saying "There is proof that..." you can say, instead:
Recent electronic gadgets have...
For instance:
Electronic gadgets such as the smartphone, the laptop, and the 3D printer have drastically increased worker productivity.
and
Serious diseases are a recurring matter...
6. Best for supporting conclusions
Serious diseases such as malaria, ebola and dengue fever bring about a considerable amount of expenses.
Give your findings a supportive introduction using the phrase:
As such it can be concluded that...
Then provide your conclusion, for instance:

and

7. A phrase best for strengthening an argument by being specific

It's also useful to memorise some general lines for IELTS writing task 2 that can be used flexibly anywhere in the body paragraphs.

Make sure you have adapted them to your specific essay topic. General lines for task 2 are all over the internet and if you just write them down as a list you will not get credit for them.

To improve your grammatical range and accuracy experiment with these same structures but using different verbs and nouns.

You can find more structures by reading academic material and copying phrases you think you could adapt in your essays. Academic material is easily found by searching in Google like this: Your topic (crime) + .edu + pdf -this will usually pull up academic reports about your given topic. You may also find some new phrases to expand your writing task 2 vocabulary.

If you need need more sentence structures and don't know how to organise all these sentence structures then have a look at the online IELTS course here.

We also have a useful resource of IELTS Writing task 2 questions to help you prepare which contains even more phrases for writing task 2.

Instead of generalising, enumerate or cite samples. For instance:

Replace:

with

Replace:

with

8. Useful phrase 8 -best for conclusions

This phrase is specifically useful during a closing argument, it ties together every trail of thought. Example: As such it can be concluded that in the era and age of technology, globalisation and the need to be trendy, social media marketing can influence what consumers buy. Therefore, when it comes to starting your conclusion, there is no need to memorise several general lines for task 2 on different topics. This one works for every essay type and topic.

Summary

These may be little additions of 3-9 words per phrase but many little phrases go a long way toward a complete error free essay. Using the phrases above are going to be much more useful than searching for a 'phrases for IELTS writing task 2 pdf' or 'common lines for IELTS essay pdf' because we have worked hard to make sure these phrases can be used with any essay type.

Warning! When using these useful phrases for IELTS writing task two...

A quick guide on how to find useful phrases for IELTS writing task two (60 seconds!)

Next Step!

Now you need to take notes and exercise using the relevant examples and phrases in your own sentences for better retention. Note that these phrases need not necessarily be copied. Merely copying can cause you trouble in the future. You must make sure that the way you use the phrases and other words fit your essay perfectly to maintain coherent thought and correct grammatical structures as you would find in an English-speaking country.

If you have questions about the IELTS writing exam don't hesitate to send me an email at struggling -at sign- ieltspodcast.com.

As I've always said, "The important thing is to take action, do something every day, and little by little, you will get there." To master the IELTS essay, IELTS Exam test takers need to practice writing skills such as our IELTS writing tasks, essay writing, opinion essays and IELTS test.

For an introduction to how to start IELTS Writing task 2 click here.

For Band 9 IELTS writing samples, click here and boost your band score!

IELTS writing task 2 vocabulary

If you think that you can get through the IELTS without bumping up your vocabulary a few notches, you might find yourself disappointed. To avoid this, check out our list of IELTS vocabulary.

Audio tutorial

Audio tutorial about useful vocabulary for Task 2

Tutorials and Tips to Prepare for Task 2

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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8 Useful Phrases for IELTS Writing Task 2 | Task 2 Vocabulary

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Home " IELTS writing task 2 " Useful phrases for IELTS writing task two This tutorial contains useful phrases and vocabulary for IELTS writing task 2. When students ask for general lines for writing task 2, they are looking for phrases that are going to impress the examiner but can be used flexibly.

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Home " IELTS academic task 2 " IELTS essay plan for writing task 2

Before starting your essay you need a solid essay plan.

Avoid jumping straight into the introduction, first organise your ideas.

Ametuer tutors will often over simplify this stage, however, it is incredibly important we plan effectively and extensively before starting to write.

A proper plan will prevent you having to rewrite the paragraph if you find yourself off topic later.

Here is a very brief overview of what we teach in our online ielts course.

1. First classify the question.
2. Brainstorm ideas around the idea and clarify your position for each paragraph.
3. Check the ideas correspond to the question (important for task response).
4. Develop the ideas further. Ask yourself WHY?
5. Develop examples that prove your point.
6. Organise your ideas and plan the paragraph.
7. Write your introduction, paragraphs and conclusion.

1. Classify the question

Here you can find the 5 types of IELTS task 2 questions you are likely to see in the exam.

Opinion (Agree or Disagree)
Discuss (Both views + Opinion)
Problem + Solution
Two Part Question
Advantages / Disadvantages

Classifying the question correctly will help you later determine what response you will write.

2. Brainstorm ideas and clarify your position for each paragraph.

At this stage we brainstorm possible ideas, from these ideas we can build out our paragraph.

It is important we get a clear plan established.

Our plan needs to reflect the positions we are taking in each of the paragraphs.

Do we agree or disagree?
What are the problems?
What are the solutions?

If you struggle for ideas this tutorial will help.

Below is a sample question with sample ideas and positions. In this tutorial we have hundreds of essay questions and sample ideas / answers.
Some people think that it is important to use leisure time for activities that improve the mind, such as reading and doing word puzzles. Other people feel that it is important to rest the mind during leisure time. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Paragraph 1:
YES USE LEISURE TIME FOR IMPROVING THE MIND
NO, REST THE MIND .... because work can be stressful, rest can result in better performance at work .... Improve the mind through stimulus, make use of idle time, possibly even learn or improve a language with new apps
Paragraph 2:

3. Check your ideas correspond to the question

Double check that your ideas are answering the question.

It is easy to get an idea and develop it extensively, only to find we are not really answering the essay question.

This will negatively affect your Task Response score which is 25% of the band score criteria in the writing section.

It is easier to catch the problem now - before writing the paragraph.

4. Develop the ideas further. Ask yourself why?

This is a fundamental skill for IELTS essay writing and essential for the criteria: Cohesion and Coherence.

We have a detailed tutorial about cause and effect here.
YES USE LEISURE TIME FOR IMPROVING THE MIND
...possibly even learn or improve a language with new apps Improve the mind through stimulus, make use of idle time, possibly even learn or improve a language with new apps Because this can bring lots of benefits
From the earlier question we had this idea:
Because learning a language improves mental agility.
Paragraph 1:

Now to develop it further we ask ourselves, why?

WHY?

WHY?

5. Develop examples that prove your point.

Developing examples is an extremely valuable skill to boost your score.

You can think of studies that prove your point or even give hypothetical examples (and pick up points for grammatical range and accuracy).

In this tutorial we explore at length how to give examples that score high for lexical resource.

6. Organise your ideas and plan the paragraph.

Now we have our:
- ideas
- position
- examples

Now we can organise the paragraph, here is a possible structure to follow:

- introduction / topic sentence
- our position
- explanation (WHY)
- example
- paragraph close

At IELTSPodcast our online students have the C2 Template, which is a high scoring template of the structure above. It includes sophisticated sentences and naturally links all your ideas together.

Here is a useful video on this topic.

7. Write your introduction, paragraphs and conclusion.

We only start writing after we have completed the plan we just mentioned.

At first formulating plans will take time but the process gets easier the more times you do it.

Ideally it should become an automatic procedure.

Writing the essay is also a challenge and can take a long time to perfect.

A lot of students get stuck at 6.5 because although they can write excellent paragraphs following a basic structure like the one above, it still is not enough to get Band 7.

You can write essays in perfect normal English following the structure above and still get stuck at Band 6.5.

You see, you need a combination of excellent language skills and excellent exam skills.

We offer a trial essay correction for just $5, we can help you improve faster through feedback. This way you can identify the mistakes being made and avoid making them again.

To get the trial essay correction for $5 just sign up to our mailing list here.

Alternatively, if you need to pass fast then have a look at the Jump to Band 7 or it's Free online IELTS course.

For help improving your IELTS writing, take a look at our essay correction service to help you get a high band score!

Audio tutorial

Tutorials and Tips to Prepare for Task 2

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7 Steps to write a high scoring Task 2 IELTS Essay

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Follow the 7 steps to organise your ideas and plan cohesive Band 7 essays. Use this easy to follow structure to save time in the exam.

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In this tutorial we look at 10 typical IELTS task 2 questions and suggest possible topic sentences. In the audio tutorial these sentences are further improved to avoid repetition, and rewritten to improve their effectiveness.

Topic sentences form the backbone of your IELTS Task 2 essay.
What is a Topic Sentence?
A topic sentence is a sentence that captures the essence of your paragraph. It introduces the reader to the topic or main point that you set out to make in that paragraph and sets the tone for the rest of the paragraph.

The examiner should be able to read the topic sentence, and immediately know what the rest of the paragraph will be about. So this part is very important.
Important points to consider :

It is important to read the question extremely carefully so that you can order your arguments in a coherent manner.

You should outline your position and write a coherent argument. It helps to plan your answer or argument before you begin.

Each paragraph should contain one main idea/point. This is where your topic sentences come in. This sentence IS the main idea or point that you wish to make in the paragraph.

Your essay is made of paragraphs that have supporting points. Each paragraph should come together to form a coherent whole essay. The topic sentence is just one way to make your writing shine!

Here are 10 examples of topic sentences that you can practice with for your IELTS essay. I have included the questions and examples on how you could write a paragraph.

1. Some people argue that it is the responsibility of the police to educate children about good behaviour in society, whereas others believe that parents should be responsible for teaching their children how to behave in an acceptable way. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Example:

It is the responsibility of the police to educate children about good behaviour ...

Or

The police and parents have a mutual responsibility to teach children about good behaviour

2. Some people believe that more women should be encouraged to pursue careers in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), while others believe that women are naturally suited for careers in the Humanities/ Social Sciences, such as teaching and psychology. Discuss your views and opinion.

Example:

There are not enough women pursuing careers in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics( STEM)

Or

Women are better suited for careers in the Humanities/Social Sciences

3. Scientists argue that the use of modern gadgets, such as cellphones and tablets, by young people has the potential to boost creativity. Do you agree or disagree?

Example:

There has been evidence that the use of modern gadgets by young people does in fact increase their creativity

Or

The use of modern gadgets decreases the creativity of young people

4. Social media platforms, such as Facebook and Twitter, have become a more important source of news and information for young people, than newspapers. Do you agree or disagree?

Example: Social media platforms, such as Facebook and Twitter, have become a major source of news and information for young people

Or

Example: Newspapers are still a more important source of news and information for young people than social media networks

6. School children should be instructed in their home language for the first 6 years of school.

Example: Young learners need to be taught in their home language in the first 6 years of their education

Or

It is not important for school children to be taught in their home language in the first few years of school

OR more advanced:

Pupils need not be taught in their home language in the first 6 years of their education

7. Nowadays women are having children at a much later age than previous generations. Do you think this a positive or negative thing? Discuss both sides.

Example: Nowadays females have children much later in life than they did in the past

Or

Currently women start families much later in life than previously (vague?)

8. In many countries women are opting not to have children. Some people believe that having children stifles a woman's career growth. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Example: Having children can take a toll on a woman's career

Or

Female careers been hindered by starting families is (unfortunately) a very common concern for both females and employers.

9. Nowadays children are exposed to more sex and violence in the media than before. What are the reasons for this? Is this a good thing or a bad thing?

Example: There are several reasons why young people see more sexual and violent media than before

1 0. Parents need to do more to protect children from cyberbullying. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Example: Parents can do a lot to protect their children from cyberbullying

Or

Parenting nowadays has become increasingly more complex largely thanks due to the internet and cyber bullying.

Regarding protecting their children online, parents need to find a balance between their child's online freedom and becoming online helicopter parents.
especially because most parents are not digital natives.
11. Some people think that children should not have a cell phone until they have reached their teens, whereas others believe that children should have cell phones at an early age. Discuss both views and give your own opinion

Example: Children should not be allowed to have a cell phone until they are 13

Or

Parents should encourage cell phone use at an early age

As you have seen, there are many different ways you can write your topic sentence. The topic sentence forms the backbone of your paragraph- it is where you state your main point, so it is important to get this right.

I hope you find the above examples and tips helpful in your preparation for the IELTS writing task!

For feedback to improve your writing, check out our IELTS essay correction service.

You can download or listen to the audio version here:

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

For more help with your IELTS preparation, take a look at some tutorials here:

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Topic Sentence Examples for your IELTS Essays in 2021

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This lesson contains over 10 sample topic sentences to improve your IELTS essays in 2021.

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IELTS writing topics are extensive, and consistently finding answers for them takes practice. Below I share how I produce an essay, including thinking of ideas, building paragraphs and planning.

For these ideas and sample answers, I usually use the latest latest writing task 2 topics seen by our own students when they do the exam.

IELTS writing task 2 topics (academic) often require simple ideas that are easy to communicate, rather than complex ideas with difficult grammar.

Get the IELTS essay topics with answers pdf here.

Extract text from PDFs, scanned docs, and images effortlessly. Create digital copies for easy access here.

Tutorial contents

Common IELTS writing task 2 topics (list)

Below is a list of the most common IELTS essay topics for task 2 questions. Click the topic to get a sample essay, vocabulary list, and a Ted Talk video (to help learn the vocabulary in context). You can also find an in-depth tutorial about IELTS vocabulary and lexical resource here.

IELTS essay topics, answers and ideas
Technology
Some people think that robots are important for human's future development. Others think that robots have negative effects on society. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Ideas: Definitely important, true, big advances, productivity, intelligence, machine learning, artificial intelligence, etc Can have negative effects -
Unemployment - automation - loss of jobs - safe nets need to be in place - welfare system etc
Even death of citizens - Tesla accident autonomous driving - Conc: there are too many advantages to ignore, we cannot forego these advances however more precaution and govt. Legislation could be wise.
Some people think that new houses should be built in the same style as older houses in the local area. Others disagree and say that local authorities should allow people to build houses in the styles of their own choice. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Yes, should be in the same style, keep property values higher, uniformity, conformity, and cohesion - EG certain villages in prosperous parts of England such as Cheshire, The Cotswolds, and Howarth have extreme rules because the areas have immense cultural heritage. To place a modern MacDonald's style restaurant in one of these areas would be tantamount to architectural vandalism. -Great idea! Innovates an area, and introduces new flavours, styles, and ideas into stale and old areas. Your house can reflect your personality. You can make it more environmentally friendly. You can install technical innovations. Solar panels, or even solar cells in roof tiles, are available from Elon Musk's company. Conc: both are viable and fair, the caveat is that the law should be clear from the beginning and be permanent - changing it would be extremely unfair. Sports
Some people spend a lot of money attending cultural or sports events. Is it a good or a bad thing? Give your opinion and examples from your own experience.

Intro

Body paragraph 1
Definitely a good development, gives something for people to aspire to. It also most likely begets higher revenues for the performers and promoters, which should ultimately lead to even more events. This undoubtedly leads to greater monetary and cultural wealth for a society. Take for example the English Premier League (EPL), this entertainment spectacle has brought considerable wealth into cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and London. Higher ticket prices lead to better wages for football stars, which leads to more quality players wanting to play in the EPL, leading to a considerable increase in high net-worth individuals residing in these cities. There has undoubtedly been a positive self-fulfilling cycle of improvement and quality, fuelled by increasing prices. Furthermore, high prices will most likely mean higher tax revenues for the government, this is definitely beneficial for society. P2 - Same, but apply to a cultural event - ballet - opera???
IELTS essay topics and answer: education

Do you think it is better for students to work before their university studies? Why? Use reasons and specific examples to support your choice.

MY ANSWER: YES! - One position, easier to write, easier to read.

PARAGRAPH 1
Practical experience, contacts, on the job skills. EG: Studies from the UK Government show graduates with work experience are twice as likely to find employment.....

PARAGRAPH 2
Better preparation, the chance to improve social skills, close the gap between academia and private sector, helps the student decide on future before committing long term, EG 1/6 students will change their higher education course while at uni....

Many people believe that it's better to learn something in a group rather than individually. Do you agree or disagree?

IELTS essay topics and answer: education (child)

Some people believe that children should do organised activities in their free time while others believe that children should be free to do what they want to do in their free time. Which viewpoint do you agree with? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

MY ANSWER: YES! - One position, easier to write, easier to read.

PARAGRAPH 1 Practical experience, contacts, on the job skills. EG: Studies from the UK Government show graduates with work experience are twice as likely to find employment.....

PARAGRAPH 2 Better preparation, a chance to improve social skills, close the gap between academia and private sector, helps the student decide on future before committing long term, EG 1/6 students will change their higher education course while at uni....
Many people believe that it's better to learn something in a group rather than individually. Do you agree or disagree?
Paragraph 1 Agree - learning in the group has many advantages Elements of teamwork can be adopted Group can utilize each person's skill and expertise

Paragraph 2 Disagree - Individualism is better self-reliant, owning the result, not being dependent on others, being more mature way, and being more responsible. No laggards.
For the full podcast, click here
IELTS essay topics and answer: globalisation

Many people say that globalization and the growing number of multinational companies have a negative effect on the environment. Which viewpoint do you agree with? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.

PARAGRAPH 1 -DEFINITELY DAMAGING THE ENVIRONMENT
-Increased interaction between countries
-Increase in goods and services traded -this means more production and, therefore more resources. EG China 'workshop of the world' - In many places air pollution masks are needed.

PARAGRAPH 2 -MULTINATIONALS / PROBS WITH GLOBALISATION
-YES increase pollution - (this decision taken for simplicity)
-Globalisation requires global solutions -these can have drastic consequences if accidents happen
-EG BP Gulf of Mexico, oil spill, destroyed the local ecosystem...

Scientists believe that in order to protect the environment, people must use less energy in their daily lives. However, most people have not changed the way they live. Why do you think many people have not taken individual action? What could be done to encourage them to take action?
Ideas for body paragraph 1 Ideas for body paragraph 2 What could be done to encourage them to take action?
- Media campaigns by the government
- Tax or financial incentives EG In Tokyo ......
Some believe that is the responsibility of people to take care of the environment. Others say it is the government that should take care of the environment. Discuss both views and state your opinion.

Conclusion
Both should be doing more!

Some people say that protecting the environment is the government's responsibility. Others believe that every individual should be responsible for it. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Ideas for body paragraph 1
- Yes: Government's responsibility
- Policies govt could do, then country-specific example

MY OPINION: Such a mess, such a disastrous state, such a shame, so much so that all parties need to step up and take responsibility for the state of affairs landed ourselves in.
For the full podcast, click here
IELTS essay topics and answer: travel and transport

In many countries, small shops and town centers are going out of business because people tend to drive to the large out-of-town stores. This results in an increase in car use, and it also means that people without cars have limited access to out-of-town stores. Do you think the advantages of such development outweigh its disadvantages?
Ideas for body paragraph 1 The advantages of out-of-town shopping centres are very limited...
- Slightly cheaper prices - but huge new developments contribute to the urban sprawl of cities... This reduces investment in city centres ... which are much more than just places for shopping EG Vienna regularly has art exhibitions in the city centre... Ideas for body paragraph 2 - For example: those without transport are disenfranchised
- Traffic on the roads
- ALSO (MAIN POINT) -Some might argue they create jobs .. but really it is probably just shifting employment from one area to the other...
IELTS essay topics and answer: employment

Paragraph 1 - The reason for the imbalance
The reason is work-life balance, increased competition in the workplace, changes in society, increase in the amount of working mothers puts strain on the family, EG Studies in the US show that families with two full-time parents are more likely to separate. -therefore this shows that finding the balance is incredibly difficult.

Paragraph 2 - Possible Solutions?
-Regulations from the government, increasing maternity leave, more flexible working practices, reduced working week, EG France had a 35-hour working week...
Some people believe that employees should stay in the same job for the rest of their lives. Others think they should switch jobs at least once during their career. Click here for the band 6.5 - 7 essay graded by an ex-IELTS examiner (from our team of essay correctors!) To what extent do you agree/disagree?
IELTS essay topics, answer,s and ideas: gender issues

INTRO

Paragraph 2 -Results?
-Difficult to say the results because it is still early, however general trend is in this direction,
-Deodorant was considered unnecessary before the 1950s.
-Market will probably grow and it will be completely normal in the future.

CONCLUSION

Some people think that men are naturally more competitive than women. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Students perform better in school when they are rewarded rather than punished.To what extent do you agree or disagree? Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
IELTS essay topics and answer: education (student reward)

IELTS writing essay structure:

Intro: Paraphrase the question and state your side/argument.

Idea / Paragraph 1: they perform better in schools -definitely better
Types of reward - certificate, recognition, positive reinforcement,
Studies show children are sensitive and easily influenced when younger, therefore positive environment probably better...

Idea / Paragraph 2: they perform better when punished - works but too harsh for Childhood
Possibly does work, but it's old fashioned, potentially dangerous - could discourage a student for life

Conclusion: Positive better and more modern.

IELTS essay topics and answer: employment (skills)

IELTS writing essay structure:

Intro: Paraphrase the question and state your side/argument.
Consider both, but give more weight to sociability.
Paragraph idea 2:
Good qualifications, certificates very useful, extremely useful in certain fields such as medicine, but in general, less technical areas, social skills triumph - less common vocabulary "triumph"

Conclusion:

IELTS essay topics and answer: employment (business)

IELTS writing essay structure:

Intro: Paraphrase the question and state your side/argument.

Paragraph idea 1:
Very bad idea to have lifetime permanence- almost zero incentive to improve,
Not fair to employees because the company may pledge allegiance to the company but then the company relocates to Asia. Horrible.
Freedom should be given to employees to "cherry-pick" their career destiny.
Cherry Pick your Best Ideas

Paragraph idea 2:
The employee may become a burden for the company. Employees may become a cost that damages the company, lots of companies suffer because of contractual arrangements made in boom times.
British Airways is a perfect example of expensive pension contracts made, only for the entire industry to change and render the contracts a massive headache.

Conclusion:

IELTS essay topics and answer: gender issues (career)

Paragraph idea 1:
Women should of course be given equal rights to perform to the best of their ability (good collocation) in the market place
Generous provisions and allowances should be made into law to encourage this behaviour and allow females to also fairly take time out from the career ladder to pursue a family.
Do you think that technological advancement has brought more harm than good?
Use specific reasons and details to support your answer.
Paragraph idea 2: another good reason why I think the first point:
Making legal structures to facilitate this transition would not only help to improve the worker's happiness and wellbeing but also improve the health of society as a whole.
Japan has a rather bleak future due to the low fertility rate, perhaps this kind of future could be avoided with more generous legislation.

Conclusion:
Definitely should pursue a career and definitely fulfill the traditional family role also. The government should help make both objectives possible.

IELTS essay topics and answer: technology

What technologies did you use to help you in your studies? Describe how it has helped you. Use specific reasons and details to support your answer.

With the latest technological advancements, dating is now possible online. Would you recommend online dating for your single friends? What are the advantages and disadvantages of online dating? Site some examples to support your answer.
Ideas for body paragraph 2 ...harmless and helps people to relax.
- Playing with toy guns never seemed to be a problem, these are a modern interpretation of toy guns
- With every new development of a generation the older generation is usually worried... EG This happened with the Beatles, with heavy metal and Us hip hop..
In the developed world, technological progress is increasing. What problems will this cause for individuals and society? Suggest some measures that could be taken to reduce the impact of radical technological advancements.

At the present time, artificial intelligence of some technologies is advancing rapidly, especially in the driving sector. Do the advantages of this situation outweigh the disadvantages?
I can write it's an entirely bad thing, or I can write it's an entirely good thing. Ideas for body paragraph 1
- Good: New tech, drive innovation, tech development, job creation etc.
- Example: new investment in tech to stay competitive - Sony - manufactures a new chip plant in Korea for PlayStation 5. Ideas for body paragraph 2
- Bad: Consumerism, waste, unnecessary, planned obsolescence
For the full podcast, click here - Example: Research showed searches for the phrase "slow iPhone" peaked a few weeks before the launch of new iPhone models. Ideas for body paragraph 2 For the full podcast, click here This is an extremely worrying development because people might be manipulated into buying new gadgets and finding exaggerated happiness in their new products. Many doctors say that people in today's world do not do enough physical exercise. What do you think are the causes of this?
What solutions are there to this problem? Ideas for body paragraph 1
Films and computer games which contain violence are very popular. Some people believe they have a negative effect on society and so should be banned. Other people, however, say they are just harmless and help people to relax. Discuss both these points of view and give your own opinion.

Ideas for body paragraph 1

These days, mobile phones and the internet are very important to the ways in which people relate to one another socially. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

Some people are fond of buying new gadgets, phones, or laptops. Is this a good or bad thing? Discuss your opinion.

Conclusion
- Pros and cons: I think in the past it was fantastic, nowadays with the environment in such a consumerism needs to be upgraded somehow.
Ideas for body paragraph 1
Ideas for body paragraph 2
Conclusion
For the full podcast, click here - Although it is understandable they are vital components of modern life, it must not be forgotten, that our lives are so much more than consumer durables. - Yes: lots of problems,
- Sight, attention, technology gap, especially machinery... blue-collar work...
- In some countries, senior citizens are required by law to retake their driving exam.... Ideas for body paragraph 2 - Disagree: The elderly can be better qualified at the job, have more life experience, more insight, and more wisdom...
- Pension burden if not allowed to work after 60.
For example: most Western countries have a serious demographic deficit of an aging workforce. A country simply cannot prosper if all its wealth goes towards a pension. Conclusion For the full podcast, click here
- For some sectors, it should be illegal, or at least the worker should be medically tested, but for other jobs, especially white-collar work, it should be okay. - Disadvantage: When you over a new product, it has been said the product owns you rather than you owning the product.fawn
For example: with an expensive phone, you are constantly worried about the screen smashing, or leaving it on a table, or in a taxi - the worry associated can be stressful. - Advantage: Understandable - a car - can be the most important if you need it for work, family, etc Advantages are mobility, freedom, independence...
Some parents think it is good to have mobile phones for their children, others disagree with it. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

Ideas for body paragraph 1

Topic and answer: health
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What solutions are there to this problem?
- Media campaigns by the government
- Tax or financial incentives EG In Tokyo ......

Topic and answer: society

Weddings are more expensive in many countries nowadays when compared to the past. What is the reason behind this? Is this a positive or a negative development?

Nowadays consumer goods have become the most important part of people's lives. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

Some people believe that if people are allowed to work after the age of 60, it will cause some problems. Do you agree or disagree?

Ideas for body paragraph 1

Simplify your IELTS Writing Practice with our instant online IELTS Essay Checker

Studying for IELTS Writing Task 2? We have a tool to help you. Try our online IELTS essay checker now.

What does it do? It looks at your essays and tells you where you can do better. This means you can learn and improve faster. You don't have to wait for a teacher to check your work.

Our tool does it right away. And the best part? It can save you money. Many students pay a lot for IELTS classes and books.

With our online IELTS essay checker, you can get help without spending a lot. So, after practising with the topics and answers on this page, use our checker.

It's an easy way to get better at writing and save both time and money. We want to help you pass IELTS quickly and without spending too much.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the main topics of writing Task 2?

Think about question types rather than topics - advantages/disadvantages, discuss both sides (and sometimes give your view), opinion essay or agree/disagree, causes/problem/solution/result essays, and two-part essays. Practice all those with common topics to be confident in IELTS.

What are the most common topics in IELTS writing Task 2?

There are many examples to look at and it's great to do practice tests. In general, common topics are related to work, education, social issues (citizenship, the elderly, government support, healthcare, transportation), technology, globalization, and the environment. Start with those!

How do you get 8 in writing Task 2?

Make sure your essay answer is well organized into paragraphs with a clear introduction and conclusion, topic sentences, and supporting arguments. You must use formal language, fully address the task and make hardly any grammar or word choice errors.

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IELTS Writing Topics and Answers for Writing Task 2 (all 11 topics)

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Full list of IELTS topics, ideas and answers for task 2 questions. All IELTS topics covered with essay plans and sample answers.

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NEW Task 2 Questions (December 2018) 30 IELTS Task Two Questions on Education 10 IELTS Task Two Questions on Globalisation 7 IELTS Task Two Questions on Equality
12 IELTS Task Two Questions about the Environment
29 IELTS Task Two Questions on Technology 11 IELTS Task Two Questions on Travel and Transport 15 Questions on Law and Order 91 Questions on Language and Culture 11 Questions on Government and Society 16 Questions on Sports and Pastimes
NEW Task 2 Questions (December 2018)

1. In today's times internet is making it easy to study online from home. Some prefer online courses to study and they think it is better. Others prefer classroom education. Discuss both views and share your opinion.

2. Successful companies use advertising to make more sales. What can make an advertisement very effective? Do you think this is a bad thing or a good thing for the society?

3. Science will soon make people live up to 100 or even 200 years. Some believe this is a good thing while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

4. Some people believe that after hundred years life will be easier for most of people, while the others are unsure. What is your opinion?

5. Some people think it is important to spend a lot of money on a wedding celebration, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

6. Some people think that giving gifts and presents to friends and family is important to show them that we care. Others think that there are more important ways. Discuss both and give your opinion.

7. The media is increasing interest in famous people who have ordinary backgrounds. Why do you think people are interested in the lives of famous people? Do you think this is a good thing?

8. Some people prefer activities and lifestyle in hot climates while others prefer activities and lifestyle in cold climate. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

9. Online education and training is becoming increasingly popular in the business world. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

10. More and more parents are allowing their children to play on computers and tablets as they think that children should learn technology skills. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

11. People are living in a 'throwaway society', using things for a short time and then throwing them away. What are the causes of this? What problems does it lead to?

12. Nowadays children mostly spend time playing computer games rather than sports. What are the reasons for this? Is it a positive or a negative development?

13. Scientists agree that many people eat too much junk food and it is damaging their health. Some people think that this problem can be solved by educating people, while others believe that education will not work. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

14. Many people believe that TV news and media in general have a detrimental effect on our life. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your own opinion, including relevant examples.

15. Many famous athletes advertise different products. What are the advantages and disadvantages of it?

16. Nowadays people try to balance their work with other things in life, but only some could actually achieve it so far. What are the reasons for that? How can we solve this problem?

17. Some people say that online study is the most effective and convenient way to learn. Others believe that online study will never be as effective as learning at school, in person. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

18. Children and teenagers are committing more and more crimes in many countries. Why is this happening? How can we stop or at least reduce youth crime?

19. Some people prefer cold weather conditions, while others don't. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

20. Some people think subjects taught in school are a waste of time, while others disagree and believe that this type of education is useful for students. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

NEW Task 2 Questions (November 2018)

1. Some people think that the only way to relax is rest or sleep, while others say people need to do exercise or sport to relax. Discuss both view points and give your own opinion.

2. Some parents and teachers think that children's behaviour should be strictly controlled. While some think that children should be free to behave. Discuss both the views and give your opinion.

3. In many countries day by day rubbish (garbage) is increasing. Why is it happening? What can be done?

4. Some people see shopping as a leisure activity mostly for young adults, while others disagree. Do you think this has a positive or negative effect on economic development? Give your opinion and include relevant examples.

5. Shopping has become a favorite pastime among young people. What do you think it is like that? Do you think they must be encouraged to do other things rather than shopping?

6. Some people think that the main factors influencing a child's development these days are things such as television, friends, and music. Others believe that the family still remains more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

7. Food travels thousands of miles from producers to consumers. Some people think that it would be better for the environment and economy if people only ate the local food produced by farmers. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

8. Some people argue that the fittest, strongest individuals and teams can achieve the greatest success in sports. But other people think that success is as much related to mental attitude. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

9. Some people become famous when they are at a young age. Do you think this is positive or negative?

10. Some people believe it is important to give gifts and presents to friends and family to show that we care about them. Others think that there are better ways to show affection to them. Discuss both the views and give your own opinion.

11. Many people believe that spending a lot of money on weddings is fine, while others completely disagree. Discuss both views and give your own opinion and examples.

12. Many people believe the government should spend money on faster public transport. Others think that money should be spent on different aspects of public transportation, such as cost reduction and environment conservation. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

13. Some people believe that manufacturers should be responsible for reducing the large amounts of packaging they use. Others say consumers should avoid buying heavily packaged items. Discuss both views and state your opinion. Give reasons for your answer and include examples from your experience.

14. Some people think that family has the most important influence on children's development, while others believe that factors such as TV, friends, music and books have a more significant impact. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

NEW Task 2 Questions (October 2018)

1. Today, most people get married and give birth in their thirties rather than when they are younger. Is this a positive or negative development?

2. Shops should give preference in selling local food rather than imported food. Do you agree or disagree?

3. Growing population is a big problem in developing countries. Should the government provide new homes in the cities or countryside?

4. Some people think that the media (newspapers) have the right to publish details of people's private lives, while others think it should be controlled. Discuss both views.

5. Some people think that activities during the free-time should be planned while others disagree. Discuss both sides and include examples and relevant data from your own experience.

6. In some countries an increasing number of people are suffering from health problems as a result of eating too much fast food. It is therefore necessary for governments to impose a higher tax on this kind of food? To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? You should use your own ideas, knowledge and experience and support your arguments with examples and relevant evidence.

7. Today more people are overweight than ever before. What in your opinion are the primary causes of this? What measures can be taken to overcome this epidemic?

8. In most parts of the world people are living longer. What are the possible causes of this situation? Is this a negative or positive development?

9. Today, the internet and TV have created that chance for ordinary people to become famous. Is it a positive or negative development?

10. Nowadays food has become easier to prepare. Has this change improved the way people live? Give reasons for your answer using your own ideas and experience.

11. Nowadays many people believe that children should be taught history in schools, however, others argue that children should learn subjects that are more helpful for modern everyday life. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

12. Some parents believe that a child should not waste time by reading entertainment books, instead they should spend time to read educational books only. What is your opinion about this?

13. Some people think that young children need to attend nursery before primary school. While others believe young children can spend all day at home. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

14. Some people believe school children should be given multiple short vacations while others believe they should get one long vacation. Give advantages of both and your point of view.

15. Some people think that the advantages of advertising sports products through famous sports players outweigh the disadvantages. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

16. In our society, there is far more attention on men's sport than women's sport. What are the reasons for this? Do you think that this is positive or negative development?

17. It has been said that reading for pleasure is better in developing imagination and language skills than watching TV. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

18. Advertisements are influencing us in a negative way. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

19. School teachers are more responsible for the social and intellectual development of students than parents. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

20. Some people spend a lot of money for their wedding ceremonies. However, others feel like it is unnecessary to spend a lot. Discuss both view points and give your own opinion.

21. Since traveling abroad became relatively inexpensive, more countries opened their doors for foreign tourists. Is it a positive or negative trend? Give your opinion and include relevant examples.

22. Many countries consider eighteen year olds to be adults, while other countries don't. What do you think about it? Give your opinion and some relevant examples based on your own experience.

NEW Task 2 Questions (September 2018)

1. Some people think that the only way to judge someone's success in business is by the amount of money they make. Is this a true indicator of the success of a business and in what other ways could success in a business be measured?

2. The restoration of old buildings in major cities around the world costs enormous amounts of money. This money would be better spent on providing new housing and road development. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

3. Employers should give their workers at least one month holiday a year as it makes them to do better at their job. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

4. Some people believe the Olympic Games doesn't belong to the 21st century anymore. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

5. Some parents believe that reading books for entertainment is a waste of time for children and they think that their children should only read serious educational books. What is your opinion?

6. Some people think that an advertising on TV is useless and others disagree. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

7. Some people think money is the best gift to give it to youngsters, while others disagree. Discuss both the views and give your opinion.

8. For school children, their teachers have more influence on their intelligence and social development than their parents. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

9. In the modern world it is possible to shop, work and communicate with people via the internet and live without any face-to-face contact with others. Is it a positive or negative development in your opinion? To what extent do you support this development?

10. Many university students live with their families, while others live away from home because their universities are in different places. What are the advantages and disadvantages of both situations?

11. In the modern world it is no longer necessary to use animals for food, clothing or medicine. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include examples from your own experience.

12. Some businesses observe that new employees who just graduated from a college or university seem to lack interpersonal skills needed for communication with their colleagues. What could be the reason for this? What solutions can help address this problem?

13. Some people believe that we should start giving formal education to students at a much earlier age, while others think we should wait until the age of 7. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Discuss and give reasons for your answer.

14. Nowadays in many countries young people leave rural areas to study or work in cities. What are the reasons for this? Do the benefits of this outweigh the disadvantages?

15. Some parents believe that reading entertainment books is a waste of time. In their opinion, children should only read serious, educational books. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your own experience.

16. Nowadays there is a growing trend of private car ownership. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages or environmental problems associated with this?

17. Some people believe that companies should pay for damage they cause to the environment, while others say that the government should be responsible for such expenses. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include examples from your experience.

18. Nowadays there are many medical surveys of treatments to reduce health problems. Who should conduct them, governments, individuals or private companies, in your opinion? Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your experience.

19. The international community must act immediately to ensure that all countries reduce their consumption of fossil fuels such as gas, oil and coal. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your own opinion.

NEW Task 2 Questions (August 2018)

1. For school children, their teachers have more influence on their intelligence and social development than their parents. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

2. Many people believe that it is a good idea to have a dress code at workplaces. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your opinion and examples from your own experience.

3. Some think that private companies should pay for pollution clean up, while others say it should be a government's responsibility. Discuss, and state your own opinion.

4. Many people think that more having more money will make them happier. How important is money to happiness?

5. Many people believe that the use of new technology improves the lives of employees. Others think it is a disadvantage for them. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

6. Some people say that sport is very important for a nation's development, while others believe that sport is no more than a leisure time activity. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

7. Some people think that children should start school sooner while others believe they should not start it before the age of seven. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

8. Some people argue that competitive sports are good for bringing together different people and cultures. Others argue that these sports can cause problems and increase conflicts between nations. Discuss both points of view and give your own opinion.

9. In some countries, it is illegal for employers to reject job applications on the basis of age criteria. Is it a positive or negative development? Give reasons for your answer and include examples from your own experience.

10. Many young people regularly change their jobs over the years. What are the reasons for this? Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

11. Some people think that new technologies benefit the life of workers whereas some deny the statement. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

12. Scientists agree that many people are eating too much junk food and it is damaging to their health. Some people think that these problems can be solved by educating people to eat less junk food. Other people believe that education will not work.
Discuss both opinions and give your own opinion.

13. Some people think that companies and private individuals should pay to clean up the pollution that they produce, not the government. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

14. As more and more students enter universities, academic qualifications are becoming devalued. To get ahead in many professions, more than one degree is now required and in future, it is likely that people will take a number of degree courses before even starting work. This is an undesirable situation. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

15. Many people are involved in sports when they are young but stop once they are adults. Why do many adults stop doing physical exercise? What can be done about this problem?

16. Some people think that it is a good idea for all employees to wear a uniform at work. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

17, Some people think that new technology always improves the lives of workers. Other people believe that it results in disadvantages for workers. Discuss both opinions and give your own opinion.

18. Some people think that international competitive sports such as football bring conflict between people of different age groups and nationalities. Others think the sport is helping reach understanding between people and nations. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

19. Some people think that only staff who worked in the company for a long time should be promoted to higher positions. What is your opinion on this? Give reasons and relevant examples for your answer.

20. Some people think it's a good idea to wear a uniform at work. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer with relevant examples from knowledge or experience.

21. Some people think it is more important to spend time in developing a successful career while others think it is more important to spend time with friends and family. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

22. There is less social contact between young and old. What are the reasons? What measures can be taken?

Latest Task 2 Questions (July 2018) (Education)

Q1. Do you agree with the following statement: home schooling protects students from a number of challenges faced by non-home- schooled children?

Q2. Does distant learning make it easier for students to balance their everyday lives?

Q3 Learning in one's native tongue yields better school scores than learning in a medium language.
Do you agree or disagree? Argue your point of view.

Q4: Should there be a variety of learning methodologies implemented within the school learning
curriculum?

Latest Task 2 Questions (July 2018)

1. Some believe that modern technology has made people less socially active, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

2. The best way to reduce crime among young people is to teach parents good parenting skills. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your own opinion and examples.

3. Some psychologists think that the best way to overcome stress of everyday life is to spend a portion of the day doing absolutely nothing. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

4. There is a trend of increasing amounts of consumer goods, which leads to environmental problems. What are the reasons for this trend? Give your own opinion and solutions.

5. The difference in age between parents and their children has increased compared to the past. Do you think advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?

6. Scientists have been warning for many years already that in order to protect the environment people should use less energy. However, most people do not change their ways of living. What is causing this behaviour? How can people be encouraged to change?

7. Some people think that children should go to kindergarten before attending primary school, while others believe that is better for children to stay all day with their families. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

8. Some people believe that trade and cultural relationships between the countries is a positive development, while others disagree. Discuss both the views and include your own opinion.

9. Recently there are more gas stations being built as opposed to diesel ones in rural areas. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?

10. Many parents (mostly women) decide to stay home and take care of the family members instead of going out for work. Some people suggest that they should be paid by the government for doing that. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include examples from your own experience.

11. Different cultures are mixing today and the world is becoming a global village. Is it a positive or a negative development? Give your own opinion and examples.

12. Nowadays people's life is changing rapidly and, as a result, family relationships are affected. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages? Give your opinion and examples from your own experience.

13. Measures have been put in place to improve road safety by reducing the speed limits. Some people believe there are better alternatives. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

14. Some people think that the range of technology available to people is increasing the gap between the rich and the poor. Others think it has an opposite effect. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

15. Some of the methods used in advertising are unethical and unacceptable in today's society. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

16. People nowadays are not as fit and active as they were in the past. What are the reasons for this? What measures can be taken for this?

Click here for IELTS Topics and answers, including essay valuable Task Two plans.

For above a band 7 you will need IELTS vocabulary, this page shares some useful strategies and sources to improve your lexical resource.

To improve your opinion forming skills, check out the BBC, get a rough overview of the current affairs in each topic. For example, at the moment, regarding the environment the main topic is climate change -could you write 250 words about global warming? Likewise for the topic of technology, what do you know about artificial intelligence? You don't have to be an expert but you do need to have an opinion, and that can only come from getting informed about the topics.

In summary it is advisable to be well versed with current affairs, have a global view of events, and bit of knowledge about each topic.

IELTS writing tips
The writing part of the IELTS can prove to be a little overwhelming; especially, if you don't know how to approach it. Below is a of writing tips to help you feel less overwhelmed.

IELTS writing samples
If you aren't quite sure how to approach your writing section of the IELTS and want some ideas from those who have succeeded click

IELTS essay topics with answers
IELTS essays are a great opportunity for you to show off your English abilities in written form. We have put together a great of IELTS essay topics with the answers!

Essay writing topics
Practice is truly the mother of preparation, why not make sure you are ready to tackle the IELTS essay by going through ourof essay topics you might encounter during the exam.

Sample 19 IELTS Essays and 240 Task Questions Ebook

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NEW IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions 2018 - Seen on exams by students.

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NEW Task 2 Questions (December 2018) 30 IELTS Task Two Questions on Education 10 IELTS Task Two Questions on Globalisation 7 IELTS Task Two Questions on Equality 12 IELTS Task Two Questions about the Environment 29 IELTS Task Two Questions on Technology 11 IELTS Task Two Questions on Travel and Transport 15 Questions on Law and Order 91 Questions on Language and Culture 11 Questions on Government and Society 16 Questions on Sports and Pastimes 1.

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IELTS General Writing Task 2: Essay Sample Answers

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The 2nd task in IELTS General Writing is to write an essay. Here are the examples of successful responses for a high score. Pay attention to the…

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How to write a formal IELTS letter | IELTSPodcast

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Read our tutorial on how to write a formal letter in your IELTS exam. Increase your band score by following our advice!

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Home " IELTS writing general task 1 " IELTS general task: how to write an informal letter (idioms and phrases)

In this tutorial, we cover some extremely useful vocabulary to use for IELTS writing task, including phrases and idioms.

The idioms are also valuable for IELTS speaking, as are the phrases to use in your IELTS exam.

We also look at how to construct the letter, what to check got after you have finished and when is the best time to test your new phrases and knowledge. Click here to see some examples of the letters for general IELTS.

How to write an informal letter

Write a letter to a friend about a recent holiday.

You must address your friend using the correct punctuation so: Dear Amy,

You must plan your letter so it is interesting and grabs your readers/friends attention

It is a good idea to use idioms and add a sense of humour

Phrases to use as an introduction

Activity: Now write an introduction

Don't forget to use the keywords in the previous slide.

Idioms you can use in your letter:

Paragraph 1 - Using fillers to explain

Paragraph 2 - More info about the holiday

More vocabulary!

Use this vocabulary to help:

Paragraph 3 - What's next

Talk about what your plans are.

Phrases such as:

Last paragraph - Phrases

Checking

Check you have covered everything in the question!

Check your punctuation and spelling

Check you have explained your point

Check you have a range of idioms

Audio tutorial

Listen to the podcast here:

More General Task 1 Tutorials

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General Task 1: How to Write an Informal Letter (idioms and phrases)

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Learn all the steps to write an informal letter, 3 set phrases for an introduction, 4 phrases for endings and how to use fillers to explain.

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IELTS General Writing Task 2: Essay questions

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There are several types of essays in IELTS General Writing Task. The differences are in the questions that come after the topic. The structure of…

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· How to build the structure of your IELTS General Writing Task 1 answer.
This will help you in your IELTS General Writing exam because:
· You will learn the main elements that you should build into your GT Writing Task 1 answer.

· You will learn invaluable tips that work with all the types of IELTS General Writing Task 1 questions to help you in the IELTS Exam.

General Training Writing Task 1, which is always a letter writing task, is often perceived easier than its Academic counterpart. Yet, GT Task 1has its own intricacies requiring preparation.

In this tutorial you will learn to structure and elaborate all the types of letters in a fast and efficient manner.

First, here are the features of General Training Writing Task 1.

You should spend no longer than 20 minutes and it accounts for about 30% of your entire writing score.

In GT Writing Task 1 you will always be asked to write one type of letter. It may be one of the following types: informal, neutral/formal or formal.

Whether you write a formal, neutral/formal or informal letter, you should structure it clearly and efficiently, so the purpose (advising, apologizing, complaining, requesting, etc.) is easily perceivable.

The universal letter structure consists of these compulsory parts.

· Opening with a salutation (saying hello) part.

· Introduction: purpose of writing

· 1 body paragraphs that will explain the situation or outline the problem

· Concluding sentence

· Closing with a farewell (saying goodbye) part.

· Signature (is OPTIONAL!)

Important: clearly signal the beginning of a new paragraph in one of the following ways:

- Leaving an indent: this means writing at about 3-4 centimetres to the right of the left margin.

- Skipping a line: this is leaving an entire line space between 2 paragraphs, and start the new paragraph with a small indent.

Let's outline the GT Task 1 letter in more detail.
SALUTATION
The salutation is ALWAYS placed on the first line, with a comma after it.

Important: DON'T WRITE ANYTHING AFTER the salutation. Start the introduction on a new line.

Remember, salutations should maintain register across letter types to avoid inaccuracies and impoliteness which leads to a loss in points.
INTRODUCTION Neutral and Formal letters
After the greeting, (Dear Mr Romano/Dear Sir or Madam,) state the purpose. Be serious and professional, not warm and friendly. You do not know the reader.

Dear Sir/Madam,

Dear Ms Weaver,

I am writing to thank you for...

I am writing to inform you that...

I am writing to inquire about...

I am writing to express my concern about...

Informal letters
Open informal letters with a warm and friendly style, acknowledge your friendship then explain the reason for your letter. The first paragraph could even include just friendly small talk, not very related to the reason for your writing. See the example below.
I hope you, Abby and Joe are all well! It was so wonderful to spend time with all of you in Chicago last month. It felt great to catch up with you, get to know your little champ, and have fun together after so long. You have always been so dear to me, and always will be. Anyway, the reason I'm writing is that I have some good news: I am getting married in July and I'd love to invite you all. All the best, BODY PARAGRAPHS
Divide your letter into paragraphs. If you bunch up everything in one paragraph, you will lose marks.

The structure will directly depend on the elements of the task. Use this structure:

· 1 body paragraph - explain the situation or outline the problem

You must cover all three bullet points from the task. If you omit even one of the points in the prompt, you will get a lower mark, as it will negatively affect Task Achievement.

Let's see how body paragraph planning was done in sample outlines for three GT Writing Task 1 letter questions below.

· 1 body paragraph - explain the situation or outline the problem

You must cover all three bullet points from the task. If you omit even one of the points in the prompt, you will get a lower mark, as it will negatively affect Task Achievement.

Let's see how body paragraph planning was done in sample outlines for three GT Writing Task 1 letter questions below.
SUMMARISING SENTENCE
Any type of letter will look more natural and complete if you place a summarising sentence between the second body paragraph and the farewell phrase.

The purpose of this sentence is to wrap up the entire letter in a short summary and give it a feeling of closure and logical ending.
FAREWELL (and signature - optional!)
The farewell is ALWAYS the very last line of any letter type. Use a comma after it.

If you choose to use a signature, DO NOT use a period/full stop after it.

Here are recommended farewells and signature based on the formality of the letter.

Note that ONLY the informal letter can be signed with only your FIRST name.

Important: DON'T WRITE ANYTHING AFTER the farewell, except your signature, if you choose to use one. You will write your signature from the next, new line.

Remember, just as salutations, farewells cannot be swapped from one letter type to another because it will result in style inaccuracy and lack of politeness, also detracting from your Writing score.

We hope that this complete overview of how to approach the structure of General Training Writing Task 1 letters will help you organize your writing better and reduce your planning and writing times!

Here a some helpful general task 1 sample essays to help you prepare for the exam.

If you need to improve quickly for band 7, try our IELTS essay correction service.

You can download or listen to the audio version here:

| Direct Download Here | Stitcher | iTunes | Spotify | Soundcloud | Transcript | [powerpress]

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Learn the best structure for you general task 1 letter | IELTSPodcast

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Structures and phrases for formal, informal, neutral letter writing. Full guide including opening, farewell, and salutation phrases.

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Home " IELTS General Task 1 " IELTS general writing task 1: letter samples, phrases and tips.

IELTS letter writing for general task 1 - training and overview

The general task 1 section of the exam requires you to write a letter. Letter writing in English consists of standard phrases and structure, most of which are outlined below in this tutorial.

Also, you can use the question as a ready made plan to follow for your writing, you can write a few sentences for each bullet point in the question, and you have a well structured answer covering the task response requirement.

Below we have a large list of questions, IELTS letter samples and phrases to help you with your online IELTS preparation. For more help with IELTS writing, take a look at our range of writing tasks.

IELTS writing general task 1 sample letters to make a complaint

1. Example Letter: A formal complaint
You have eaten at a restaurant and it was such a terrible experience that you have decided to inform the manager by letter of what happened, and that you want your money back. Things to include:
- Facts. You need to be concise but explain what happened.
- Polite. No one responds to insults.
- Outline what you wish from this. What do you want to happen?
- Firmness. You want to be taken seriously.

2. A reporter complained about a new TV program that you like. Write a letter to the newspaper editor.- Describe your point of view.
- Say what you like about the show and why.
- Ask the newspaper to take some action.

Useful general task 1 phrases to make a complaint

IELTS letter samples for task 1: to make an application

IELTS task 1 formal vocabulary to make an application

I am writing in relation to the advertised position of...

Please find my CV attached...

IELTS general letter writing samples: how to write an invitation

General writing task 1 sample: Your friends recently moved to a new city. You will also be moving to the same city. Write a letter to your friends and include:
- Ask where to find a place to live
- Tell them what type of place you're looking for
- Share some fun things you would like to do when you get there

IELTS general writing task 1 sample: You will be graduating from university and would like to invite your family to the ceremony.
Write a letter of invitation to your parents. In the letter:
- Explain that you have completed your studies
- Give details of the event, including time, date and dress code
- Let them know how many tickets they have and who they are for

IELTS general writing task 1 sample: You have won a holiday to Hawaii with one extra ticket.
Write a letter to someone to invite them along with you. In the letter:
- Explain what has happened and that you would like them to come
- Give details of when the trip will take place
- Inform the person of the things they will need for the trip

IELTS writing task 1 vocabulary to invite or reply to an invite

IELTS general letter writing samples: answers to advise

Writing task 1 sample letter : Write a letter to the newspaper editor about an experience you had at a restaurant. The experience can be good or bad. Describe your experience in detail and state whether or not you recommend others to visit the restaurant.

IELTS writing task 1 vocabulary to advise

IELTS sample letters / answers to apologise

1. Writing task 1 sample letter to apologise : IELTS sample: A formal apology and explanation
You have received a letter from your university of Albion demanding a reason for your absence
from an exam. You were ill that day, but failed to submit the evidence. Write a letter to the
Examinations Committee explaining your situation. You should include:
- Apologies for the situation
- Identification for yourself (Name, student number, case number)
- An explanation of what had happened and any possible evidence you may have
- Possible resolutions to consider.

2. Writing task 1 sample letter to apologise: You recently applied for two separate jobs. Both have chosen to hire you, but you must write a letter to one of them explaining why you are unable to take the position. Include in your letter:
- An apology
- An explanation of your situation

General letter writing task 1 GT vocabulary to apologise

Writing task 1 sample letters : answers to make a request

IELTS writing task 1 sample: You recently used a taxi and left some important documents there. Write a letter to the taxi manager and say:
- Describe what you left and where it happened.
- Why are these papers important?
- What would you like the manager to do about it?

IELTS general writing task 1 vocabulary to make a request

General task 1 informal letter samples and answers

1. IELTS informal letter sample: Your best friend is moving back to your city after being o verseas for five years.
Write a letter to convince your friend to move in with you. In the letter:
- Explain how much you have missed your friend
- Describe how you feel about your friend's return
- Give reasons that you and your friend should share a home

2. IELTS informal letter sample: Write a letter to a pen pal.This can be your first letter or a letter you're writing after knowing your pen pal for a long time. Include details you would normally include when writing to a pen pal in this situation.

IELTS general writing task 1 vocabulary for informal letters

Task 1 GT sample answer to inform

A letter to inform is used whenever the sender (you) would like to inform the receiver of some information. The information you wish to convey could be related to just about anything. Below is a list of topics or concepts your letter may cover
- Inform about a death/ engagement/ wedding/ special life event
- Inform about an acceptance or rejection of application
- Inform about the receipt of a document or package
- Inform about a current event

The purpose of an "inform" letter is to make sure that whatever important news the receiver has to get is clear and articulate. You want to ensure that your letter has a structure. This would include your introduction, your body and ultimately your conclusion.

The introduction- here you want to set up the conversation of the letter. This can include a greeting, an enquiry about how the receiver is doing and then depending on how well you know the receiver a brief introduction of who you are.

Example: Letter to inform about an upcoming wedding

Sample introduction:
This is Jill, we met at the art exhibition last year. I hope this email finds you well.
The body - Once the introduction is complete you need to write the reason for your "inform letter".

Sample Body:
Jack and I engaged! I would love it so very much if you could make it to our wedding. You played a huge role in us getting together and it only makes sense that you are part of the big day.
The conclusion - this section is where you close your letter. You can make any final requests or list any final requirements

Sample conclusion:
Your friend, Jill
By the way, I lost all my contacts as my phone was stolen. This is my new number 123 456 789. I look forward to hearing back from you.

For more help with your IELTS preparation, take a look at our tutorials:

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Home " IELTS General Task 1 " IELTS general writing task 1: letter samples, phrases and tips. The general task 1 section of the exam requires you to write a letter. Letter writing in English consists of standard phrases and structure, most of which are outlined below in this tutorial.

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Take a look at the latest IELTS General Task 1 questions for 2024 to help with your IELTS Writing preparation.

Table of Contents

Latest General Writing Task 1 Questions: 2019 till date

In the sections below, we have provided recent general writing task 1 questions from the actual exam from January 2019 till date.

Latest General Writing Task 1 Questions: January 2024

Latest General Writing Task 1 Questions: July 2023

Latest General Writing Task 1 Questions: April 2023

Latest General Writing Task 1 Questions: October 2022

Latest General Writing Task 1 Questions: June 2022

January to March 2022 General Task 1 IELTS Questions

October to December 2021 General Task 1 IELTS Questions

You use the local swimming pool often, and during one of your visits, you have encountered a problem. Write a letter to the manager. In your letter

July/August 2021 General Task 1 IELTS Questions

1.You are going to another country to study. You would like to do a part-time job while you are studying, so you want to ask a friend who lives there for some help. Write a letter to this friend.

In your letter:

2. Write a letter to the manager of a cinema (movie theatre) about a jacket you have left behind after a film.

In your letter:

3. You recently attended a conference and would like to give a presentation to your colleagues about it. Write a letter to your manager and include:

4. You live with a roommate at university but you have trouble studying because of a problem related to your roommate. Write a letter to an administrator at your university and include:

5. You saw an advertisement in the paper for a property management position at an apartment complex. Write a letter to express your interest.

6. You recently went to a public event (for example an exhibition, festival, or show) that you think your friend would enjoy. Write a letter to a friend.

In your letter:

7. You are going to throw a party and would like to cook a special dish for your guests but do not have the recipe. Write a letter to your friend.

In your letter:

8. You own an old item that you think is valuable and would like to sell. Write a letter to the owner of an antique's shop.

In your letter:

9. You have made a reservation at a hotel for a business trip for you and your colleagues. However, you need to make some changes to your booking. Write a letter to the hotel manager.

In your letter:

10. You have discovered a lot of rubbish in a lake near where you live. In the past, the lake had always been clean. Write a letter to the local council.

In the letter:

February/March 2021 General Task 1 IELTS Questions

1. Write a letter to your landlord complaining about the noise in the block of flats which he owns.

You should include:

2. You want to arrange a conference for your company, and you need to ask one of your colleagues to give a presentation in this conference.

Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter include:

3. You own an old item that you think is valuable and would like to sell. Write a letter to the owner of an antiques shop.

In your letter

4. You have lost something on a bus and called the customer service to get help. You weren't happy with their response. Write a letter to the bus company manager.

In your letter, you should:

5. You enjoyed a holiday organized by a tour company. Write a letter to the manager and praise the tour guide who accompanied you on the journey.

In your letter, you should:

6. You recently went to visit a friend in their new home. Write a letter to your friend.

In your letter:

7. You work in an office and have recently been experiencing a health problem. You think that the problem started because of the working conditions in the office. Write a letter to your manager.

In your letter:

8. You recently went to a public event (for example an exhibition, festival, or show) that you think your friend would enjoy. Write a letter to friend.

In your letter:

9. You recently celebrated a special occasion in your personal life and received a card and a present from your colleagues at work. Write a letter to your colleagues.

In your letter:

October/November 2020 general task 1 questions

You recently discovered that there are plans to construct an airport in your locality. Write a letter to the local authority.
In your letter, you should tell:

2. Recently you saw an article in a newspaper/journal about a city/town you know and some of the information in the article was incorrect. Write a letter to the editor regarding this.

In your letter, you should tell:

3. Write a letter to your landlord complaining about noise in the block of flats which he owns. Include:

4. Write a letter to your manager about your work from last year. Include

5. Write a letter to your friend about a job opportunity you came across that they might find interesting.

In your letter, you should:

6. Your friend is about to move into a new house. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter

August 2020 General Task 1 Questions

1. Your friend has just moved to a new house. Write a letter to your friend and let him know about the gift that you have prepared for him/her.

2. Recently you visited a foreign country with a friend write a letter to someone.
You should tell
- why you enjoyed the trip
-what you are doing now
-invite her to visit you

3. Write a letter to your manager to request setting up a cafeteria for the staff.

4. A foreign friend of yours plans to visit your place and stay with you, but you are not available on that date. Give your friend another alternate date for the visit.

5. You are leaving your job and would like to invite your friend to replace you. Write a letter to your friend.

6. Write a letter to your colleague asking for help in setting up the equipment for your presentation.

7. You are planning a vacation and want your friend to go with you. Write a letter to your friend.

Latest October 2019 general task 1 questions

1. You are attending a course at an evening school. Write a letter to the director of the school with a complaint about the course. In your letter, you should:

- Describe the course you are taking.
- Explain what you don't like about the course.
- Give your opinion about what should be done about it.

2. You are attending a night course at the school. You are not happy with some parts of the course. Write a letter to the school director about this. In your letter, you should tell:

- What course you are studying
- What you are not happy about
- What you expect from the school director.

3. You stayed at a friend's house last weekend and lost your watch. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter, you should:

- Thank him/her for the good time you had.
- Describe your watch.
- Tell your friend what would you like him/her to do with it if he/she finds it.

4. Write a letter to a book store manager who is living in another city. Ask him/her to make available a book that you are interested in. In your letter, you should tell:

- What book you are looking for?
- Why you need this book?
- How you plan to purchase the book?

5. You have recently attended a professional course. Write a letter to your manager to thank him/her for the opportunity. In your letter, you should tell:

- What it was about?
- Explain why it was helpful to you.
- Suggest other co-workers who should attend the course.

6. Your friend is in another country. Write a letter to your friend asking for advice about employment opportunities in his country. In your letter, you should tell:

- Why you want to work there
- What skills and work experience you have
- Inquire about the benefits (salary and hours).

7. You have an English-speaking friend. You want to invite him/her to see a movie. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter, you should:

- Describe the movie you want to see together.
- Explain why you think he/she will be interested in it?
- Suggest where and when you should meet before the movie.

8. You ride a bicycle to work, but there is a problem with the parking. Write a letter to the manager of the parking management company. In your letter, you should tell:

- Why you ride a bicycle to work
- What the problem is with the parking
- What your suggestions are.

9. You have organized a 90th birthday party for your relative and invited elderly guests. It was a successful party. Write a letter to the hotel manager, to provide the feedback: In your letter, you should tell:

- When the party took place
- Why it was successful
- Thank a staff member who was really helpful.

10. There are some problems in the changing room in your sport center. Write a letter to the sport center manager. In your letter, you should:

- Describe the problems in the changing room
- Explain why the sport center is important for you
- Suggest what the manager should do.

11. You and your colleague want to use a company room. Write a letter to your manager and ask for permission. In your letter, you should:

- Explain why you need the room
- Describe which room you need and why
- Tell what changes you'll need in the room.

12. You are a member of a sports club. Write a letter to the club president about an event that will be organized there. In your letter, you should tell:

- What it is
- Who you will invite
- What your role is in this event.

13. You are going to take a vacation soon and want your friend to go with you. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter, you should:

- Tell him/her why you want the holiday/vacation
- Describe your plan
- Invite him/her to go with you.

14. You had a dinner with your friend's family. Write a letter to you friend and express your feelings about the dinner. In your letter, you should:

- Say what you enjoyed about the dinner
- Describe how you feel about his/her family
- Invite your friend and his/her family to you place.

15. You rent an apartment and you are quite happy with it but you want to suggest a renovation. Write a letter about your suggestion. In your letter, you should tell:

- Your appreciation of current condition
- What is the renovation and why?
- What is the benefits of your suggestion?

Latest September 2019 general task 1 questions

1. You want a book that you cannot ﬁnd. Later you find it and it is available in a bookstore in another city. Write a letter to the manager of bookstore. In your letter, you should:

· give details of book
· say why you need this book
· tell him how you will pay for it.

2. You want to take a course related to your work. Write a letter to your employer. In your letter, you should:

· describe what the course is
· explain how it will beneﬁt the company
· suggest how to arrange time for it.

3. Recently you have attended a job interview which went well, but you are still waiting for the result. Write a letter to HR manager of the company. In your letter, you should:

· give details of the job
· tell why you think the interview went well
· explain why you need to know the result.

4. You would like to attend a training course. Write a letter to your company manager. In your letter, you should say:

· why you would like to attend this course?
· why it would be beneficial for you and the company?
· suggest how to arrange time for it.

5. Your town council has decided to demolish an historic building due to lack of funds to renovate. Write a letter to your counselor . In your letter, you should say:

· why it is important to preserve the historic building
· how the funds could be generated.

6. Your child's school is going for a trip out of the country for 3 days and a parent is allowed to join the group. Write a letter to school. In your letter, you should:

· ask questions about the trip
· tell them why you want to join the group
· explain how you can help.

7. You need a book and you can't find it in the library. Write a letter to a bookshop manager. In your letter, you should:

· describe the book.
· say why need it?
· say how you will pay for it?

8. Your friend has written a letter to you asking for advice on his/her parents who will visit your area. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter, you should:

· suggest the places they can visit
· recommend a place where they can stay
· oﬀer to do something with them.

9. You are unable to attend a farewell party of a colleague at work. Write a letter to him/her. In your letter, you should:

· say why you can't come
· give him/her your best wishes.
· suggest another time and place for you to meet.

10. Write a letter to a translation agency about a report to be translated urgently. In your letter, you should:

· explain the content of the letter
· explain why you need the translated report
· why you need it urgently.

11. Write a letter to your friend, who is visiting a city that you are familiar with. In your letter, you should:

· describe to him a place worth visiting
· suggest some eating options
· suggest transport options.

Latest August 2019 general task 1 questions

1. Your friend has written to you asking for your advice on his/her parents who will be visiting your area. Write a letter to your friend.

2. Write a letter to a city planning manager about the demolition of a historical building in your area.

3. Recently you attended a job interview which went well, but you are still waiting for the outcome. Write a letter to HR manager of the company.

4. Parents of a close friend are coming to your area for a visit. He/she has asked you to suggest some places for older people to visit. Write a letter to your friend.

5. Your town council has decided to demolish historic building due to lack of funds for renovation. Write a letter to your councilor.

In your letter, you should tell:
· why it is important to preserve the historic building
· how the funds could be generated.

6. You have a spare room in your apartment that you would like to rent out to a student. Write a letter to the Student Accommodation Officer of local college.

7. You had just missed a friend's party, write a letter to apologise.
In your letter, you should:

· apologise to your friend
· explain why you couldn't attend the party
· tell her what steps you will take to avoid missing it in the future.

8. You have recently taken a two-day course. Write to give your feedback to the course organiser.

9. You have recently bought some furniture and it was broken when you received it. Write a complaint letter to the store manager.

In your letter, you should tell:
· what you bought and when?
· how was it broken?
· suggest how the problem could be solved

10. Write a letter to your local council complaining that the street where you live has become dirty lately.

11. You have found a problem with an item which you bought online. Write a letter to the company manager.

Latest July 2019 general task 1 questions

1. You recently visited a theatre and had an accident there. The staff were very helpful. Write a letter to the manager giving good feedback.

2. You attended a meeting last week, but you were not happy with the hotel which you stayed in. Write a letter to the organizer who booked the hotel for you.

3. Your landlord wants to increase your house rent. Write a letter to him to explain your situation.

In your letter, you should tell:
- why you think the rent shouldn't be increased
- what you will do if it is increased.

4. You are relocating to a new city. Write a letter to an agent to arrange a house for you and your family.

5. A young person is going to spend his first day at the office next month. Write a letter to explain what he should do on his first day.

6. Write a letter to your company's director recommending a group in your local community that deserves help.

7. Write a letter to your friend about a special item that you have brought back from your holiday in their city.

8. You are going to visit a friend who loves sports. Write a letter about an outdoor sport that you would like to try for the first time.

Latest June 2019 general task 1 questions

1. You recently traveled on a train which arrived very late, and then you faced many problems. Write a letter to the owner of the company.

2. Your family is moving to a new city. Write a letter to the real estate agency in your new city to enquire about a rental house.

3. Write a letter of invitation to a friend for a special celebration.

4. A local newspaper has conducted a competition recently to find a person who contributed the most to the society. Write a letter to the editor with a recommendation for a suitable person.

5. Write a letter to your friend who is visiting your apartment while you are gone.

6. You were advised by your doctor that you need to do more physical exercises. Write a letter to your friend asking him to join you.

7. You need to seek admission in a short course. Write a letter to the admission officer.

8. Your friend has been recently blessed with a baby. You have bought a present.

9. You have lost your driver's license. Fortunately, someone found and sent it back to your address. Write a letter to appreciate the help.

General task 1 questions May 2019

1. You want to recommend someone to work in a company. Write a letter to the manager.

In the letter, you should tell:
- who the person is
- how did you know the person
- working experience of the person.
- why do you recommend the person

2. Write a letter to the local council to stop the closure of a children's toy store in your area.

3. Write a letter to the local council about the closure of a playground in your area because children don't use it much.

4. You have recently ordered a book online, but the book was delayed and has not arrived yet. Write a letter to the company manager.

5. You are working at a big company with almost 500 employees. Write a letter to your manager to recommend opening a cafeteria at work.

6. You have seen an advertisement for full-time job at a grocery store and want to apply for it. Write a letter to the manager.

7. Your child is going on a 3-day educational trip to another country. The head teacher wants to find parents to go with the group and you would like to go. Write a letter to the head teacher.

8. You left your book at a friend's home and you want him to send it back. Write a letter to your friend.

General task 1 questions April 2019

1. Write a letter to your colleague telling him about your planned visit to the town you use to work.

2. Write a letter of complaint about late delivery to the website where you ordered an item.

3. A local college is having an international day. You want to speak to students about your country from different cultures. Write a letter to the college head.

4. Write a letter to a newspaper editor about the poor condition of a historical building in your area.

5. You and your friend booked a theater tickets in advance. Apologise to your friend as you can't make it to the theater with him.

6. Write a letter to your friend who is starting an import/export business and asked you for recommendation for a product from your own country.

7. Write a letter to your friend who is traveling overseas, and you were staying at their apartment. There was a storm at that time and the apartment got damaged.

8. You are interested in attending a short course at a college in an English speaking country. Write a letter to the college administration.

General task 1 writing questions February 2019

1. You are living overseas and you have just come across an article about your country in a magazine where some of the information are incorrect. Write a letter to the editor.

2. You are interested in attending a short course at a college in an English speaking country. Write a letter to the college administration.

3. Write a letter to your neighbor about the damage that occurred to your car while he was parking his car in the lane outside your home.

4. Write a letter to your friend offering him/her a concert ticket.

5. Write a letter to invite your English-speaking friend to watch a new film with you about your country.

6. You have been placed to a new job the same as your friend's who is working from another company. Write a letter to your friend to ask for help.

7. You're working overseas in an international company. You are leaving the country in emergency. Write a letter to your friends explaining the situation.

8. You are moving to a new country, write a letter to the accommodation agency to rent a house.

9. Your friend from another country is interested to visit your hometown. Write a letter to him.

10. You are planning to give a presentation in your large company. Write a letter to your colleague asking for help.

11. Your local council have asked locals some suggestions on how to keep the city safer. Write a letter to council.

12. Write a letter to the manager to ask for permission that you would like to participate in a new program.

13. You are currently running a course and have a part-time job. Your boss suggested that you leave your course and work full time. Write a letter to your boss.

In the letter, you should:
- tell him/her your decision
- explain the reason for your decision.

14. You have recently visited a building which is of historical importance and came to know that it's in bad condition. Write a letter to local newspaper office.

15. You're interested in a music course that you saw on an advertisement. Write a letter to the club.

16. Write a letter to the airport manager to complain about the problems that you met on the flight recently.

January 2019 General Writing Task 1 Questions

1. Your friend has asked you about the course details you recently took at a training centre.

2. You work as part time and you are attending a course. Your manager offered you full time and asked to leave the course. Write a letter about your decision on job offer.

3. Your work in a company has some changes and you need to take a training course. Write a letter to your manager.

4. Write a letter to your friend inviting him/her to your family party. In your letter

- Explain why you are organizing the party
- Describe what you are planning to do
- Say how important it is to have your friend at the party

5. Your colleague found another job and invited you to his/her farewell party. Unfortunately you are unable to attend it. Write a letter to him/her and say

- Why can't you attend the party?
- Why did you enjoy working with him/her?
- Offer him/her to meet some other time.

6. You recently attended a course in another country but had to leave the course to return back to your country. Write a letter to your teacher.

7. You have recently used a moving company to move your household items to a new place and they have been damaged in transfer. Write a letter to the company's manager and say

- When and where did it take place?
- What is your complaint?
- Suggest a reasonable solution.

8. You work a part-time job in a company and the company posted an advert seeking a person for a full-time position. Write a letter to your manager requesting to apply for the advertised position.

9. Write a letter to one of your classmates and invite him/her to a party.

10. You have recently stayed in a hotel and after returning back you realise that you have left a piece of cloth at your hotel room. Write a letter to manager of hotel.

11. Write a letter to the manager about the important documents which you left in their taxi.

12. You have recently flown to another country on a business trip. You were satisfied with the flight, but didn't like services at the airport. Write a letter to the airport manager.

Latest 2018 General Task 1 Questions

In the sections below, you will find IELTS General Task 1 questions from July to December 2018.

December 2018

1. You relocated to an overseas country recently and shipped your furniture and other possessions through a shipping company. When you received them, you found some of them got damaged. Write a letter to the delivery manager of the shipping company:

- When and where the shipment was
- Describe the damages
- What you want the shipment company to do.

2. You received a letter from a friend who asked for a recommendation letter from you for the job that he/she is applying for. Write a letter to the manager:

- Explain how well you know this person
- Describe how this person work
- Why you think this person is suitable for the job.

3. You have a spare room in your flat or apartment and you want to rent it to a student. Write a letter to the director of the accommodation office at the local college. In your letter:

- Explain where your apartment is
- Describe the room
- What kind of person would you like to rent it to.

4. You want to learn a language. There is a teacher nearby where you live. Write a letter to the teacher:

- How you came to know about him/her
- Explain why you want to learn
- Ask some questions.

5. Your friend is coming to stay in your neighbourhood. He has asked some information about the local school. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:

- Describe the school
- Tell him/her about your opinion
- Explain why his/her children would like this school.

6. Write a letter to HR department of a company requesting information about a interview that you attended but still waiting for results. In your letter:

- Describe the position applied for
- Why the interview went well
- Why do you need the results

7. Write to the company's manager about construction near your home. In your letter:

- How you heard of their construction plans
- What you think of their plans
- Your hopes for the construction in case it pushes through.

8. Write a letter to a translation agency requesting them to translate a document for you. In your letter:

- Emphasize on the urgency
- What is the document about
- Why do you need it to be done quickly.

9. You recently received furniture that was already damaged at the time of arrival. Write a letter to the manager of the shipping company about it and say

- What furniture did you order?
- What was the damage?
- Suggest what needs to be done about it.

10. You have received a record that needs to be translated. Write a letter to a translating agency and say

- What is there on the record?
- Why do you want to translate it?
- Why is it so urgent for you to get it translated?

11. You have recently attended a work-related course. Write a letter to your manager and say

- What course was it, and when did you take it?
- What did you like about it?
- What improvements can be made in the future?

November 2018

1. Write a letter to your friend who has moved to another country and now he/she is coming back to your country for a visit. You have arranged a party for him/her. In your letter:

- Give the date and location of the party
- Say which friends are coming to the party
- Give more information about the friends current lives.

2. You have not received the prize which you have won at a newspaper. Write a letter to the editor of the newspaper with below details:

- Details of how you won the prize
- What is the prize given to you
- What actions you expect to be taken.

3. Write a letter to your manager about a party that you want to organize at the office. In your letter say

- What the party is about
- Why it is necessary
- What you want from him to do.

4. Letter to council for the dirty street:

- Explain why it has become dirty recently
- What problem it has caused
- Giving some suggestions.

5. You decided to drive a bicycle to work and do not have parking space available. Write a letter to building manager:

- Why you decided to use bicycle
- What is the problem
- Provide some suggestions.

6. You have recently read a newspaper article about your school friend whom you did not hear about for a long time. Write a letter to the newspaper editor

- Highlighting some article details
- Ask for some information about your friend

7. The street where you live is very polluted. Write to the local council and ask to act about this situation. You should say:

- What is the main problem?
- How does it affect your street?
- Give some suggestions and request action.

8. Write a letter to the local council about the poor condition of roads in your area. Include the following in your letter:

- Explain the situation and roads' condition.
- How does it affect you and other people?
- Suggest what measures need to be taken, in your opinion.

9. You have recently attended a job interview which went well, but you are still waiting for the decision. Write a letter to HR manager of the company and say

- Give details of the job.
- Why do you think the interview went well?
- Why do you need to know the result?

October 2018

1. You recently attended a meeting at a hotel. When you returned home, you found you had left some important papers at the hotel. Write a letter to the manager of the hotel. In your letter:

- Explain the problem
- Say why the documents are important
- Suggest a solution

2. Your office building doesn't have parking available. Write a letter to the manager. In your letter:

- Explain the problem
- Suggest a solution
- Say why parking will benefit all employees

3. Your company has recently introduced new uniform for the staffs. Write a letter to your manager that you are not happy with the new uniform:

- Explain why you are not happy with the new uniform
- What you want new uniform to be like
- - Giving some suggestions.

4. You like the apartment but you need some improvements to be made in it. Write a letter to the landlord:

- Explain why you you are happy living in the apartment
- Describe what improvements are to be made
- Explain why it is important to make the improvements.

5. Your brother couldn't join you on a trip that you guys planned. Write a letter to a friend inviting him to join:

- Explain about the trip
- Explain why your brother couldn't make it
- Giving details about the trip.

6. Your friend wants to spend a holiday trip with you, but it is not suitable for you. Write a letter to your friend:

- Explain why it is not suitable for you
- Giving the suggestion.

7. You have bought furniture from a store. When you received there were some damages. Write a letter to manager:

- Giving information him about the furniture.
- Explain the damage.
- Asking the manager to do something.

8. Your brother couldn't join you on a trip that you guys planned. Write a letter to a friend inviting him to join:

- Explain about the trip
- Explain why your brother couldn't make it
- Giving details about the trip.

9. Your child is going on a trip to another country for 3 days. School is looking for some parents who can join the trip and you decided to apply for the same. You are interested in going with trip. Write a letter to the head of the school and include:

- Why you want to join the team
- What you can do to assist
- Queries related to the trip.

September 2018

1. You have bought a toy in an online toy shop, but the toy is damaged. You have to write a letter to the shop manager:

- Describe the toy.
- Describe the damages.
- Providing a resolution.

2. You are working in a giant company which does financial or other items help to the different group of local community. Write to your manager about some group you want to provide help next year.

- Describe a group.
- What help do the group need.
- What kind of help you expect to provide.

3. You missed attending a friend's invite. Write a letter to your friend:

- Apologise for not coming.
- Explain how did you try to contact him/her.
- What is the alternate plan.

4. The local council is about to destroy children playground in your area because it is under use. write a letter and tell them:

- Why it is not well used
- What can be done so more people can use it.

5. The office where you work does not have a proper car park. Write a letter to your manager and say

- Explain the problem of no parking space available.
- Suggest a solution for the car park problem.
- Explain how this will help your company.

6. There is a group of people in your community that needs help. Write a letter to your company director and say

- Describe this group.
- What kind of help do they need?
- How will this group and the community benefit from it?

August 2018

1. You have recently visited a sports centre and discovered some problems and the poor condition of a changing room there. You have made a complaint earlier, but still no action was taken. Write a letter to the facility manager about it. In your letter:

- Describe the problems
- Include details of your complaint
- Say what actions you would like them to take.

2. Your child's school has arranged a trip abroad for students. The principal of the school asked some parents to join the trip to help. Write to the school principal and say:

- Why do you want to join the trip?
- How could you help during the trip?
- Ask some questions about the trip.

3. You recently stayed in a hotel and an employee was very helpful to you. Write a letter to the hotel management to tell them what happened. In your letter:

- Describe the situation
- Explain what happened
- Say what you would like the manager to do

4. There is a problem with the changing rooms in the sports centre that you visit. You have complained several times but with no success. Write a letter to the manager of the sports centre. In your letter:

- Describe what the problem with the changing rooms is
- Say what happened the last times you complained
- Explain what you want the manager to do

5. Your child is going away on a school trip for three days to another country. The head teacher wants some parents to join the trip and you would like to go. Write a letter to the head teacher. In your letter:

- Say why you would like to go
- Suggest what you could do to help during the trip
- Ask some more questions about the trip

6. Write a letter to hotel manager praising a staff member. In your letter:

- Explain the situation
- What they did
- What you want manager to do.

7. You are getting married soon. Write a letter to your friend from a different country and invite him/her to the wedding. In your letter:

- Describe your future wife/husband.
- What will happen at the wedding
- Why do you want to invite him/her

8. You have had problems with a changing room in a sports center. You have made some complaints but nothing has been done about it. Write a letter to the manager stating:

- The issues with the changing rooms
- What has been done about it
- What you want the Manager to do.

9. Write a letter to colleague who gave you a book that helped you for a presentation at work. You should:

- Describe the presentation
- Why was it important
- How did it help you.

10. Your child is going on a trip to another country for 3 days. School is looking for some parents who can join the trip and you decided to apply for the same. You are interested in going with trip. Write a letter to the head of the school and include:

- Why you want to join the team
- What you can do to assist
- Queries related to the trip.

July 2018

1. City council is planning to pull down one of the historic buildings in your town, because they do not have funds to renovate it. As a citizen, you don't want it to happen. Write a letter to the city council and say

- What is the importance of the building?
- Why should it be renovated?
- Suggest a plan to raise funds and maintain the building in the future.

2. Write a letter to your friend about a job offer that can be suitable for him/her and say

- Describe the job.
- What are the facilities available?
- Why is this job suitable for him/her?

3. You recently started commuting to work by bicycle and discovered that there is a problem with bicycle parking near the building where you work. Write a letter to the building manager and say

- Explain the reason for using a bicycle to commute.
- What problems have you encountered with parking?
- What are your recommendations to solve them?

4. You work in a company and need to take a certain course. Write a letter to your manager and say

- Explain why you need this training course.
- Where and when will you take it?
- How will the company benefit from it?

5. Write a letter to your friend about a book that you have read recently. Include the following in your letter:

- Describe the book.
- Why do you want him/her to read it?
- Tell him/her how to get the book.

More Preparation Tips for IELTS General Task 1

For more help with your IELTS preparation have a look at:

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Latest General Writing Task 1 Questions 2023 | IELTS Podcast

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Take a look at the latest IELTS General Task 1 questions for 2023 to help with your IELTS Writing preparation.

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If you're looking for IELTS Writing Task 2 sample questions and answers to help improve your writing score, you've come to the right place.

Below, you'll find sample questions, band 9 sample answers and feedback videos showing you how to avoid the key mistakes that other students have made.

Contents;

How to Improve with IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Questions and Answers

To benefit as much as possible from this page, do the following;

1. Look at one question and write an answer.
Do not look at the video or sample answer yet.

2. Watch the video and/or read the sample answer.
Find mistakes in your answer by comparing with the video and sample.

3. Take action your mistakes.
Make sure that you don't repeat the same mistakes in your next answer.

Also, my IELTS Writing Task 2 lessons will help you understand what to include in your Task 2 answers.

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IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Question #1 Feedback Video

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Some individuals think the online libraries offer more benefits than conventional libraries. I completely agree with this idea because online libraries generally have a wider selection of books and using online libraries saves time.

The first reason why I believe that online libraries are more beneficial is that they have a larger range of books. This is because it doesn't cost any money for the materials to publish online books, whereas every paper book needs to be printed and distributed, and this extra cost means that normal libraries are limited by the amount of money that they have to spend on the books that they make available. As well as this, traditional libraries are limited by the amount of space that they have and must often throw away old books to make space for new ones, but this is never necessary for online libraries that can easily add more digital books to their online storage.

Furthermore, using an online library saves time in comparison to using a bricks-and-mortar library. This is largely because people do not need to commute to and from the library whenever they want to do some research or borrow another book. This means that they time that they would have used for commuting can be used for other things when a person uses online libraries. People can also use the search function in an online library to find the information that they need almost instantly, whereas in a normal library, it can take hours to find the correct resources as it must be done manually.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that online libraries are superior to offline ones because they offer a wider range of books and they save time for the users.

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Additional Sample Questions

For additional IELTS Writing Task 2 sample questions from official sources, you can use these links.

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IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Questions & Band 9 Answers

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Find IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Questions, Band 9 Sample Answers and feedback videos showing the mistakes of other IELTS students like you.

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Getting a high IELTS Listening score isn't as complicated as the other parts of the IELTS test.

Contents

Prefer to watch the video version?

IELTS Listening Test Overview

The IELTS Listening test is the same for Academic and General Training IELTS.

It takes approximately 30 minutes, and the audio is played one time only.

Typically, Sections 1 and 3 have two speakers, while Sections 2 and 4 have one speaker.

After the last section, you get 10 minutes to transfer your answers to the answer sheet in the paper-based IELTS test.

For the computer-based IELTS test, however, your answers are added directly to the question sheet, so you have just 2 minutes to review at the end.

Nowadays, you'll find the word Part used instead of Section in the IELTS Listening Test.

Achieving a High IELTS Listening Score

1. The Context

The introduction includes a brief description of what the recording is about.

You should listen to this because it will give you a better understanding of what's coming, making it easier to follow the recording.

2. Which Questions to Check

Sections 1 to 3 have breaks in the middle of each recording, and the introduction states when the break will be.

Therefore, the introduction also explains which questions to focus on now and which ones to leave until the break.

For example, if it says, "First, you have some time to look at questions 1 to 6," you can ignore the other questions in the section until later.

This information makes it easier to follow these sections, find the answers, and get a higher IELTS Listening score.

Analysing the Questions

Next, you have approximately 30 seconds to analyse the questions.

However, 30 seconds isn't enough time to read through all the questions, so being strategic is vital.

You can follow these steps;

1. Check the Instructions

Firstly, we must read the instructions for each question type carefully to ensure we understand what is required.

For instance, you may need to select a letter, like in this Labelling a Map Question.

Or, you may need to write down words you hear in the recording like this Form Completion Question.

2. Check The Organisation

For some question types, you'll also need to look at how the information is organised.

In the Table Completion Question below, for example, reading the top row and the left column clarifies how the information is organised.

3. Read The Questions

Start with the first question, and read as many as you can.

You won't have enough time to read them all, and we will look at how to overcome this issue in the next part of the lesson.

However, you should be aware that Multiple-Choice Questions, like this one, can have very long options to choose from.

Initially, focus on reading the questions, and we can look at the options after the recording starts.

The exception to this is when you have Multiple Answer Questions, like this one where you have to choose more than one of the options.

For these question types, it's helpful to read all the options in advance; otherwise, you won't know what information you're listening for.

During The Recording

1. Missing an Answer

Once the recording starts, turn all your attention to Question 1 and Question 2.

Because the answers come in order, you'll hear the answer to Question 1 first.

At the end of each section, there is time to go back and guess any answers you missed and hopefully improve your IELTS Listening score further.

2. When to Read

In the recordings for each section, the speakers discuss one topic at a time.

This means that they will completely finish with one topic before moving on to the next.

While the speaker is introducing a new topic, that is a good opportunity to read and prepare for the upcoming questions.

For example, in this Matching Question, after discussing ' sections', the speaker will introduce the topic of ' questions '.

However, while reading the questions, you must continue to listen to the audio.

It's impossible to do both simultaneously, so you must switch back and forth between the two.

Every few seconds, briefly listen to the recording so that you continue to follow it and to check when you must start listening carefully again.

One type of distractor is when the speaker directly answers the question but later changes the answer.

For example, they could say, "It's at 1 o'clock on Tuesday. Oh! Actually, I meant to say 2 o'clock on Wednesday."

This is why it's important to continue listening until the topic has been discussed completely.

Another type of distractor is when the speaker mentions all of the options in a question.

For example, in this Flow Chart Question, the words exam, begin, staff, look, waiting and examiner could all be used in the recording.

4. Predicting Answers

Predicting answers is beneficial for your IELTS Listening score, especially when the question requires you to write down words you hear in the recording.

To do this, use the context of the recording and whatever other information you can glean from the question to guess what the answer will be.

By predicting, you are more likely to hear the information you need because you're focusing on whether your prediction is right or wrong.

In this Note Completion Question, for instance, we know from the instructions and the sentence structure that Question 14 is a one-word plural noun.

Then, considering it's under the heading 'Overview' and that they get more difficult, we can predict that the answer is 'sections' or 'parts'.

Even if our prediction is wrong, it doesn't matter. Just the act of doing this helps us to listen more closely for the answer.

After the Recording

Even if you know the correct answers, it won't improve your IELTS Listening score unless those things are right.

This is also an excellent opportunity to guess any answers that you didn't hear because the content of the recording will still be fresh in your mind.

Improving Your IELTS Listening Score

What you must do to improve your IELTS Listening score depends on what mistakes you're making.

All of your mistakes will either be related to exam techniques or your language ability.

Exam Technique Mistakes

These types of mistakes are easier to overcome as you simply remember what you did wrong and make sure that you never repeat the mistake again.

Here are some examples of this type of mistake;

2. Losing Track

You were focusing on the questions when you should have been listening to the recording.

3. Unfamiliar Format

When you first start practising, you need to get used to the format of the test and the format of the question types.

If you're making mistakes because you're still unfamiliar, this just requires more practice.

Here are the typical problems and how to overcome them.

1. Accent

Some candidates get answers wrong because they are unfamiliar with the accent of a speaker in the recording.

Most often, candidates are unfamiliar with the Australian accent, so you can watch more Australian TV shows and movies to overcome this.

3. Can't Understand

If you're not getting the IELTS Listening score you need because you don't understand the recordings or questions, you definitely need to improve your English.

You can follow my Vocabulary Improvement and Grammar Improvement Strategies to help you with this.

The solution, of course, is to start listening to English more often.

Make sure to watch videos that are 30 minutes or longer to practise following longer recordings.

5. Reading Speed

One of the biggest challenges of the listening test is how difficult it is to read the questions and listen to the audio at the same time.

One way to make this easier is to improve your reading speed to have more time to focus on the recording.

They also allow you to determine if you're able to get the IELTS Listening score you need or if you must improve further.

You can use this IELTS Listening score chart to determine your band score based on the number of correct answers in your practice test.

The practice listening tests published by Cambridge are the most reliable.

In addition, the IELTS Listening Test no longer includes an example at the beginning of Section 1.

That means any book before number 16 has an example, even though that won't happen in your actual test.

What Now?

Now, it's time to figure out your mistakes.

Do one practice listening test, figure out what you've done wrong and work on improving your weaknesses.

Here are some official practice materials in case you don't have any Cambridge IELTS books yet.

If you're doing the paper-based IELTS test, this is a copy of the answer sheet you'll use in the test.

As well as improving your IELTS Listening scores, don't forget to improve your IELTS Reading Scores and follow my guide for studying at home.

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IELTS Listening Score - Improve and Achieve Your Score

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Achieve a high IELTS Listening score by learning what to do during the test and understanding how to improve after every practice test.

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Most IELTS Reading tips are complicated and difficult to follow.

In just one lesson, you'll learn everything you need to easily get the highest possible score.

Contents

Prefer to watch the video version?

IELTS Reading Tips to Find Answers

Instead, this is what to do in your IELTS Reading test;

1. Read the Title (if there is one)

2. Read the First Paragraph

3. Answer Any Questions You Can

4. Repeat with the Next Paragraph

IELTS Reading Tips to Find Answers #1

IELTS Reading Tips to Find Answers #2

Read the First Paragraph

Read all of the first paragraph from start to finish.

Here are some specific IELTS Reading tips related to this.

Don't Read Too Fast

You need to read as fast as you can, but not faster than you can.

If you read too quickly, you'll finish the paragraph without understanding what you've read.

Reread When Necessary

You'll inevitably get distracted from time to time.

Don't Read with Your Lips

A lot of people move their lips into the shapes of the words they're reading.

This is a bad idea because it slows your reading down to the speed at which you speak.

If you have this habit, you need to stop.

Follow Your Finger

IELTS Reading Tips to Find Answers #3

Answer Any Questions You Can

After you've finished reading the paragraph, go through all the questions for this passage and answer whichever ones you can.

This means that you'll read the questions every time you finish a paragraph.

As you read the questions, you may need to reread some sentences in the paragraph to check specific details.

Answers You're Not Confident Of

There will be some answers that you think you've found, but you're not entirely sure if you're correct.

For these, note the answer on the question sheet or notepaper with a slash (/) next to it.

The slash (/) will remind you to continue checking this question after reading each of the subsequent paragraphs.

You Don't Have to Read Every Question

However, for some question types, the answers are found in the same order as the questions.

That means the answer to the first question is nearest the top of the passage, the answer to the second question is below the first answer, the answer to the third question is below the second answer and so on.

Here is an example of one of these question types.

True/False/Not Given Questions

Because we know that answers for this question type are in order, we don't need to read all eight questions after finishing the first paragraph.

As you find the answers, move down through the questions in this question type and always read the top two that you haven't answered yet.

Below, you'll find all the other question types for which answers appear in the same order as the questions.

Yes/No/Not Given Questions

Sentence Completion Questions

Multiple-Choice Questions

Matching Sentence Endings Questions

Short Answer Questions

Tips to Find Answers #4

IELTS Reading Tips to Improve Scores

Now that you know how to do a reading test, let's look at how to improve your IELTS Reading band score.

1. Use Reliable IELTS Reading Practice Tests

2. Do One IELTS Reading Practice Test

3. Analyse Every Incorrect Answer

4. Do Another IELTS Reading Practice Test

IELTS Reading Tips to Improve Scores #1

Use Reliable IELTS Reading Practice Tests

It's essential that you use the IELTS Reading practice tests that Cambridge produced.

However, we didn't discover until after the test that she had been using unofficial materials, and it's clear the effect this had on her IELTS Reading band score.

However, don't purchase books 1 to 4 as those are the old format of the IELTS Reading test.

Cambridge IELTS books 5 to 10 contain for IELTS Academic Reading tests and one IELTS General Reading test.

Because of that, those editions are not the best value for money if you're doing the IELTS General Reading test.

From book 11 onwards, there is one version for Academic IELTS and one for General Training IELTS so make sure to buy the appropriate one.

IELTS Reading Tips to Improve Scores #2

Do One IELTS Reading Practice Test

After each IELTS Reading practice test, use this table to convert the number of correct answers you get into an IELTS Reading band score.

Once you start getting the scores you need in your practice tests, you can start practising within the time limit.

IELTS Reading Tips to Improve Scores #3

Analyse Every Incorrect Answer

You should not do another IELTS Reading practice test until you've completely analysed every incorrect answer you chose.

The mistakes you discover will fall into one of two categories;

Exam Skill Mistakes

Any mistakes you discover related to exam skills must be remembered so that you don't repeat them in subsequent IELTS Reading practice tests.

Here are examples of these types of mistakes;

Not following the instructions.

Or perhaps you wrote " True" when the instructions indicated that you must write " Yes ".

Not Checking Grammatical Accuracy

The answers to some questions are determined by their grammar.

If you don't check the grammar of each question carefully enough, it can result in selecting the wrong answer.

Spelling

If you misspell a word on the answer sheet, the answer will be marked as incorrect.

This is why you must check the spellings in the passages for any words you're unsure how to spell.

Doing more IELTS Reading practice tests without improving first is a waste of time and a waste of a practice test.

To do this, you can follow my Vocabulary Improvement and Grammar Improvement Strategies.

Some students learn new vocabulary from reading passages, but I advise against this as you're unlikely to see those words in other reading tests.

Also, once you get the score you need and practice under exam conditions, you might discover that you can't read quickly enough.

To resolve this, the only solution is to read in English regularly.

Tips to Improve Scores #4

Do Another IELTS Reading Practice Test

What now?

Right now, you need to get some Cambridge IELTS books and follow IELTS Reading tips from above.

You can use these IELTS Reading practice tests while you're waiting to get the books.

Also, some students doing the paper-based IELTS test like practising with printed copies of the answer sheet, and you can find it here if you're interested.

You can also complete my lessons for the other parts of the IELTS test;

Finally, make sure to sign up for my free Live Feedback Lessons every week, once the IELTS Reading tips have helped you achieve your IELTS Reading band score.

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Learn 8 simple IELTS Reading tips to improve your current reading band score and effectively answer all the questions within one hour.

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IELTS letter writing seems easy, but without a consistent tone, your Task Achievement score will be 6 or lower.

Contents:

What is Tone?

To have the appropriate tone for IELTS General letter writing, we must write in a formal or informal style.

The reason that tone is important is that it affects what people think about us.

So, for example, we normally use informal language with our friends, but if we need to discuss something serious, we will use formal language instead.

Similarly, we normally use formal language with our employer, but if we're at a work party, we would use informal language.

To adjust the tone of the language, different vocabulary and grammar must be used.

You can also see how Cambridge describes formal and informal language here.

General Guidelines for the IELTS Letter Writing

Which Tone to Use for IELTS General Letter Writing

When the question says to write a letter to a friend, like the one below, we use an informal tone.

When we're writing a letter to anyone else, we use a formal tone.

For IELTS letter writing, there's no need to worry about semi-formal language as formal and informal is enough to meet the examiner's requirements.

Not Too Informal

Also, you should use complete grammatical structures.

Saying something like, "You going?" isn't acceptable, and you need to use the full structure, "Are you going?"

Idioms

Don't use idioms in IELTS general letter writing as they will reduce your score.

Abbreviations

Don't use abbreviations like e.g. or etc.

Cohesive Devices for IELTS Letter Writing

As you're likely aware, you need to use cohesive devices to get a high Coherence and Cohesion score in Task 1.

Cohesive devices tend not to be informal and are mostly formal or neutral.

However, word lists are not a good way to learn new vocabulary so just use this list to help you learn about the tone of the cohesive devices you already know.

As you may have noticed from the above image, formal cohesive devices are often longer than neutral ones.

If you'd like a pdf download of the above cohesive devices, you'll get these, as well as sample questions and answers, when you sign up for my newsletter.

Grammar for IELTS Letter Writing

In this part of the lesson, we are looking at how different grammatical structures can affect the tone of your writing.

However, if you don't have a firm grasp of English grammar already, you should focus on that first.

As grammar in Task 1 is scored the same way as Task 2, my grammar lesson will show you how the examiner decides and how to improve your score.

The Length of the Structures

Being Direct

Also, informal structures tend to be more direct.

Keep in mind, though, that being direct can be rude if you're giving advice or asking for help.

Contractions

Contractions are considered to be less formal.

For example;

This is something to keep in mind for your IELTS letter writing because we are making an effort to sound more formal or informal.

For Task 2, though, it's acceptable to use contractions because modern English is less strict about this convention.

Phrasal Verbs

Phrasal verbs are often more informal.

For example;

Formal: He arrived late to the party.

Informal: He turned up late to the party.

Passive Voice

Passive voice isn't always formal, but it can be used to make a sentence sound more formal.

Vocabulary for IELTS Letter Writing

Neutral Tone

Firstly, it's important to note that most vocabulary is neutral rather than formal or informal.

Let's first look at an example from the Cambridge Dictionary.

Vocabulary You Already Know

Unfortunately, most students don't check if new words are formal, neutral or informal when studying vocabulary.

This means that you could potentially know thousands of English words already but don't know which ones to use for formal and informal letters.

An English Speaking Friend

A better option is to do some IELTS General letter writing and then ask an English-speaking friend to check the tone for you.

Online Resources

1. An alternative is to use a site like HiNative where people from all over the world help each other with language learning.

With this option, however, you won't be as confident that the feedback you get is reliable.

2. If you're willing to pay money, an app called Wordtune gives you suggestions on how to make your writing sound more formal or informal.

This app won't actually tell you which words are formal or informal, though; it just gives accurate suggestions on how to adjust the tone.

3. As you'll see in my Lexical Resource lesson, I'm against using word lists to learn new vocabulary.

However, in this situation, they are a quick way to discover if words we already know are formal or informal.

I have looked at all the most popular formal and informal vocabulary lists online and determined that these are the most reliable ones.

Free Live Feedback Lessons

You can also come to my free Live Feedback Lessons, where I will give you feedback on the tone of your writing.

Learning New Vocabulary

So how can you discover if any new vocabulary you learn is formal or informal?

In short, you need to check a dictionary and make a note of it in your vocabulary notebook.

For the full explanation, make sure you follow my Vocabulary Improvement Strategy.

However, you can also become better at recognising tone by noticing the intentions of the person speaking or writing.

Magazines like National Geographic or Time want to show that they are reputable sources of information so use formal language.

However, magazines like J14, which are aimed at teenagers, want to be seen as fun and trendy, so use informal language.

The tone of the language used in a movie or TV show will depend on the situation and the relationship between the speakers.

Noticing the intentions of a speaker or writer in this way is important for improving your ability to use the appropriate tone in IELTS letter writing.

Warning

Don't read classic literature!

However, the word 'distinguished' is not used as often anymore, as you can see in this image from Google Books.

Sample Answers for IELTS Letter Writing

What we've looked at so far is how to adjust the tone of our writing.

Now, let's see what it actually looks like.

Below are two letters with the exact same information, but the first is for the writer's boss and the second for the writer's friend.

Formal Sample Answer

Dear Mrs Smith,

This Sunday, I am having a dinner party to mark my and my husband, John's, 20th wedding anniversary. He is not aware that I am organising this party which means that it will be quite a big surprise for him. John immensely enjoys when we have guests, and because of this, I am quite confident that he will be very pleased when the guests arrive.

There will be cuisine from your country served as my husband is very fond of Nigerian dishes. Under normal circumstances, we don't eat it very often, though, as it is quite challenging to get the right ingredients in this part of the world. Fortunately, however, I have been able to acquire all the necessary ingredients, and I am confident that John will enjoy the party all the more because of this.

I thought that it would be nice if you could come to the party as well since there will be some guests who I believe you would enjoy the company of. Dinner will be served at approximately 5 o'clock; however, it would be nice if you could come earlier and we can chat before the other guests arrive. Please let me know by Saturday if it is possible for you to attend because I would like to ensure that there is enough food for everyone.

Yours sincerely,

Jennifer O'Connell

Informal Sample Answer

Dear Jane,

I'm throwing a dinner party on Sunday to celebrate 20 years of marriage with John. He doesn't know that I am planning it, so that will be a big surprise for him. You know that he loves having visitors over to the house, so I'm pretty sure that he'll be delighted when he sees all of the guests arriving.

We will have dishes from your country there because John is actually a massive fan of Nigerian food. We usually don't eat it much because it's just so tricky to get the right ingredients around here. Luckily, though, I was able to get everything I need already, and I know that this will make the party all the better for him.

I was hoping that you can come to the party too because there will be other people there that I think you will enjoy meeting. Dinner will be at about 5 o'clock but get here before that if you can, and we'll hang out for a while before everyone else comes. Can you let me know by Saturday if you'll be coming because I want to make sure that I cook enough food?

Best wishes,

Jenny

What now?

I'm sure this lesson has highlighted a lot of things you need to focus on for your IELTS test and if you ever need to review it, you can use this video.

However, make sure you understand how the examiner assesses IELTS letter writing with my Task 1 band scores explanation and how to write a letter with my Step by Step Strategy. Finally, you can compare your writing with my sample letters.

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IELTS Letter Writing - Formal & Informal Tone

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Learn formal and informal language for IELTS letter writing to overcome the biggest challenge of scoring a band 7 or higher.

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Overview of IELTS Writing Task 1 General

If you're unfamiliar with the IELTS General Writing test, you can see a good overview by IELTS.org here and check out this guide to studying at home.

Under that, you will see a sample answer with the paragraphs coloured to show which prompt they are addressing.

Dear Mr Smith,

I regret to inform you that I am unable to continue working as a member of your team as I must return to my country to complete a master's degree. I have been fortunate enough to be accepted into one of the top universities in my country, and this is an opportunity that I must pursue.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working in this position as it gave me a wonderful opportunity to learn so much about this industry. I hadn't realised that there are so many factors to consider when organising transportation, and furthermore, I believe that all of the skills I have learned will benefit me in future endeavours.

My intention is to continue working here until the end of next week, after which I will be returning home. I would like to have given you a longer period of notice, but the master's program is starting next month, and I must return to my country before that so as to organise my accommodation for when I am studying.

Yours sincerely,

Lar Ryan

And that's pretty much all you need to do when answering an IELTS Writing Task 1 General question.

Just write one paragraph for each prompt.

Answering the Question in IELTS Writing Task 1 General

Step 1 - Analyse the Question

The Situation

Every IELTS Writing General Task 1 question describes a situation, and you can see an example of this highlighted in the question below.

In the answer you write, the situation must be the exact same or else you'll get a low Task Achievement score.

For example, if I answered the above question by writing about a phone, I would get a low score because the question says that you ' purchased a toy '.

The Recipient

The next part of the question tells you who to write to. Again, you can see this highlighted in the question below.

This part of the question is very important as well as it will determine which tone you need to use in your letter.

If you are writing a letter to a friend, you must use an informal tone.

If you are writing a letter to anyone else, you must use a formal tone.

Following these two conditions is by far the most straightforward approach.

If you're not familiar with how to write in a formal and informal style, I have a complete lesson on this for you - Formal and Informal Tone

The Question Prompts

Finally, there are 3 instructions about what to include in your answer.

Step 2 - Write the Answer

Beginning the Letter

At the bottom of the question, it tells us how to begin the letter.

The one above says to write ' Dear Sir or Madam, ' which is how we begin a letter to somebody when we don't know their name.

However, the question might also look like this;

When the question says ' Dear .........,' we must include the name of the person you are writing to.

Write the First Paragraph

In the first paragraph, write about 60 words that respond to the first prompt.

What you need to do now is essentially creative writing.

The question has given the situation to you, and now you must create the characters, what happened to them and how they feel about the situation.

What is often difficult about this is writing a full paragraph about something that you could say in one sentence.

Also, every sentence in the paragraph must focus on what the prompt told us to write about.

Therefore, including other information like why we bought it or who we bought it for isn't appropriate.

Sample Paragraph

Yesterday, the brown teddy bear which I ordered from your website was delivered to my house. The bear appears to be made from polyester, and it is wearing a purple dress and matching hat, which are fashioned from a heavy velvet material. As well as that, the bear's paws are covered with red and white checkered cloth.

You'll also notice that the language used is formal as this is not a letter to a friend.

Write the Second Paragraph

In the next paragraph, we will respond to the second prompt.

In every paragraph, you should directly address the prompt in the very first sentence.

For example, in this paragraph, we will say exactly what the problem is in the first sentence.

Sample Paragraph

However, the nose of the bear had not been firmly attached and has fallen off this morning. The bear was placed on a shelf immediately after the delivery and has not been touched since. I'm, therefore, entirely confident that the issue was caused during the manufacturing process, rather than something that happened since it was delivered.

Write the Third Paragraph

Then, we write the final paragraph as a response to the final prompt.

As this prompt requires us to say what we want the shop owner to do, it's best to exclude any information about this in the other paragraphs.

If we had already said what we want the shop owner to do in paragraph 1 or 2, that would mean that we need to repeat that information here, which is bad for our Coherence and Cohesion score.

Sample Paragraph

As this product was purchased as a gift for my daughter's birthday this weekend, I need you to send a replacement to me before the end of the week. My wife will be at home during the daytime, which means that your delivery driver can come at any time that is convenient for you.

Signing Off

Finally, we sign off.

Dear Sir or Madam,

Yesterday, the brown teddy bear which I ordered from your website was delivered to my house. The bear appears to be made from polyester, and it is wearing a purple dress and matching hat, which are fashioned from a heavy velvet material. As well as that, the bear's paws are covered with red and white checkered cloth.

However, the nose of the bear had not been firmly attached and has fallen off this morning. The bear was placed on a shelf immediately after the delivery and has not been touched since. I'm, therefore, entirely confident that the issue was caused during the manufacturing process, rather than something that happened since it was delivered.

As this product was purchased as a gift for my daughter's birthday this weekend, I need you to send a replacement to me before the end of the week. My wife will be at home during the daytime, which means that your delivery driver can come at any time that is convenient for you.

Yours sincerely,

Lar Ryan

Step 3 - Proofread the Answer

As with any piece of writing, the last thing you should do is proofread what you've written.

How to Improve in IELTS Writing Task 1 General

To get a good writing score, you need the IELTS test skills you are learning in this lesson, and you need the appropriate language ability.

In the beginning, don't worry about how long it takes you to write a letter.

Instead, just focus on the quality of your answer and doing everything correctly.

Once you've finished writing the answer, use this list of questions to help you find any mistakes.

Did you use the correct tone?

Is the answer consistent with the question's situation?

Did you begin the letter appropriately?

Does the first sentence of each paragraph directly address the prompt?

Does paragraph 1 discuss the first prompt and nothing else?

Does paragraph 2 discuss the second prompt and nothing else?

Does paragraph 3 discuss the third prompt and nothing else?

Did you sign off appropriately?

Once you can write answers to the necessary standard, focus on doing this in 20 minutes or less.

That's how much time you will have in the IELTS Writing Task 1 General test.

Practice Activity for IELTS Writing Task 1 General

Use the list of questions above to find mistakes in the sample answer below.

Sample Answer with Mistakes

Hi John,

A few weeks ago, I sent a photo I had taken to an art gallery in my hometown, and they have chosen it to appear in an exhibition they're putting on next week. I had never submitted anything to an art gallery before, so I wasn't expecting to hear back from them, which makes it all the more exciting for me.

The photograph which will be shown is one which I took at the pier approximately 6 months ago during the lovely weather that we experienced. It was about 10 o'clock, and the sun was setting behind the mountain on the far side of the river. Because of the timing, there was no glare from the sun, and it was casting a beautiful warm orange glow across the sky.

I wanted to ask if you would like to come to the exhibition with me. I don't know any of the other photographers or the organisers, so I'd prefer not to go by myself. As well as that, you know a lot more about art than I do, so you could help me answer any difficult questions that I might get asked.

Best wishes,

Lar

Did you use the correct tone?

No, the answer doesn't have the correct tone throughout.

This is what it should look like: " The photo they are showing is one that I took at the pier about 6 months back during that lovely weather that we had. "

Is the answer consistent with the question's situation?

No, it isn't.

The first sentence doesn't match the situation described in the question.

Did you begin the letter appropriately?

No, it doesn't begin in the way the question instructed us.

The question says to begin with ' Dear ........., ' and that is what we should do.

Does the first sentence of each paragraph directly address the prompt?

Yes, the first sentence of every paragraph directly responds to the prompt.

Does paragraph 1 discuss the first prompt and nothing else?

Yes, it does.

Does paragraph 2 discuss the second prompt and nothing else?

Yes, it does.

Does paragraph 3 discuss the third prompt and nothing else?

I wanted to ask if you would like to come to the exhibition with me. The exhibition is on Wednesday and doesn't start until 7 pm so I can pick you up at your place at around half five and we'll get dinner somewhere first. So just let me know if you can go or not because I'll find someone else to come with me if you're not able.

Did you sign off appropriately?

Yes, the sign off is appropriate as ' Best wishes, ' followed by the writer's first name is suitable for an informal letter.

What now?

If you haven't already completed my other IELTS Writing Task 1 General lessons, that's definitely the next step for you.

These useful tips from IDP are also worth checking out.

After that, begin writing your own Task 1 answers. You will find two practice tests here.

If you need more IELTS Writing Task 1 General questions, you can sign up for my newsletter below.

Finally, if you'd like to review the lesson you've just completed, you can watch this video about IELTS Writing Task 1 General Letter Writing.

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IELTS Writing Task 1 General (Step By Step)

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Discover how to answer an IELTS Writing Task 1 General question and get a high score by avoiding IELTS candidates' most common mistakes.

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Speaking IELTS Test - What to Do and Expect

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Learn exactly what you need to do in all parts of the Speaking IELTS test and discover what to expect from the examiner during your test.

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One of the marking criteria for Writing Task is vocabulary - the variety of words and expressions that you use. For a score of 7 and above, it is necessary to include advanced words and less common expressions in the letter. It is also important to start and finish the letter correctly.

One of the marking criteria for Writing Task is vocabulary - the variety of words and expressions that you use. For a score of 7 and above, it is necessary to include advanced words and less common expressions in the letter. It is also important to start and finish the letter correctly.

How to start a letter

The writing style (formal / informal) defines the words that you use to start and finish the letter:

There are two types of formal letters:

You write to an organization (you don't know who you are addressing to)
You write to the head, teacher, tenant and you know the name of the person you are addressing to.

In formal / semi-formal letters, after the greeting, we always write the purpose of the letter:

I am writing to inform you that ...I am writing to ask/inquire ...I am writing with regard to ...I am writing in connection with ...I am writing with reference to ...I would like to express my concern about ...

In informal letter after the greeting we write:

The body of the letter

Each letter has its own purpose: complaint, request, recommendation / advice. Therefore, we select constructions and expressions that correspond to the particular purpose of the letter:
ASK FOR INFORMATION

I would be grateful if you could ...I would be grateful if you could inform me ...Could you please tell me if ...I wonder if you could tell me ...I would like you to ...I need to ask your advice about ...
COMPLAIN THANKS APOLOGY ADVICE SUGGEST
Useful phrases to finish the letter

FORMAL
Thank you very much for your attention. I hope the situation will be resolved soon. I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you very much for your cooperation. If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
INFORMAL
Formal letter of complaint

Introduction: Explain the problem: Conclusion:
I look forward to hearing from you soon.

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IELTS General Writing Task 1: Advanced vocabulary for letters

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One of the marking criteria for Writing Task is vocabulary - the variety of words and expressions that you use. For a score of 7 and above, it is...

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To understand the test format of the IELTS Writing Task, it is useful to study samples of successful answers. Pay attention to the structure of the letter; what words and grammatical constructions are used. In this task you can write formal and informal words and expressions.

To understand the test format of the IELTS Writing Task, it is useful to study samples of successful answers. Pay attention to the structure of the letter; what words and grammatical constructions are used. In this task you can write formal and informal words and expressions.

Formal Letters
WRITING TASK 1 You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You are due to start a new job next week but you will not be able to because you have some problems. Write a letter to your new employer. In your letter
You should write at least 150 words.
You do NOT need to write your own address.

Begin your letter as follows:
Dear ..............., Dear Ms Barnes, I am writing concerning the position of Assistant Office Manager that I am due to begin next Monday. However, a problem has arisen. As you know, I currently work for my uncle's food-packing business, and you will remember from my interview that I have gained valuable experience there. Unfortunately, he has had to go into hospital for an operation, leaving my aunt in charge of both the home and the business. She has asked me, as this is a particularly busy time of year, to stay on and help her with the running of the office. I realise this will be inconvenient to you, but very much hope that, given the circumstances, you would be prepared to allow me to take up my position with you two weeks later than planned. I would like to emphasise that I remain very keen to work with you, and that I will be gaining further useful experience during this time. I look forward to hearing from you. On a recent holiday you lost a valuable item. Fortunately you have travel insurance to cover the cost of anything lost. Write a letter to the manager of your insurance company. In your letter: Dear Sir or Madam, That was the 'HP' brand laptop which I bought last month with a price of USD 650.00. It was black colored and with the latest i-7 core processor technology covering a 2 years of warranty. I have visited Goa to spend my yearly holiday along with my entire family member. The laptop was stolen from my hotel room where we were at sea beach. It is to be mentioned here that the room was locked during that time. After returning I found myself in this unpleasant situation and contacted to the hotel authority immediately and made a serious complaint. Moreover, I have made a General Diary to the nearest police station for the same reason. The copy of the GD is enclosed here. Therefore, I request you to properly investigate the matter and arrange to pay the claimed amount under insurance by a cheque at an early date so that I can purchase a new one. Your early action in this regard will be highly appreciated.
I am writing in connection with a laptop I lost last weekend which was under the travel insurance with your company.
* Describe the item you lost
* Explain how you lost it.
* Tell the insurance company what you would like them to do.
You travelled by plane last week and your suitcase was lost. You have still heard nothing from the airline company. Write to the airline and* explain what happened
* describe your suitcase and tell them what was in it
* find out what they are going to do about it

Dear Sir or Madam, I am writing to you regarding my suitcase, which was lost on the British Airways flight from London to New York (BA123) on January 2nd. When I realized the loss on my arrival in New York I reported it to the counter staff. The agent promised to give my hotel a call within the next hours, but unfortunately this did not happen. I have contacted British Airways numerous times since by phone without being able to locate the suitcase. My suitcase is made of dark blue fabric with black handles and a single. It contains clothing, presents for friends I will visit and photographic equipment I was planning to use on my trip. I already had to buy some cloths and toiletry for which I attached the receipt to this letter expecting you to refund my expenses. I hope this matter can be resolved very soon as I plan to continue my trip to California on the 7th of January and will no longer be able to pick up the suitcase in New York after this date. You can reach me on my mobile 123456789.

Informal Letters

WRITING TASK 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
You want to sell some of your furniture. You think a friend of yours might like to buy it from you.* explain why you are selling
* describe the furniture
Dear ...............,* suggest a date when your friend can come and see the furniture
Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

MODEL ANSWER
This model has been prepared by an examiner as an example of a very good answer. However, please note that this is just one example out of many possible approaches.

Dear Jan,

As you know, we'll be moving to a new house soon and there are a few things that I won't be able to take with me. The new house is a bit smaller so I have to sell some furniture and I was wondering if you might be interested?

In particular I want to sell my big dining table. Do you remember it - the one in the living room? It has wooden legs and a grey glass top and it's big enough for six people. There are six matching chairs to go with it.

I know you've always liked this furniture so I could let you have it at a good price. I'd rather sell it to you than to a stranger!

Why don't you come around and take another look at them on Saturday? We'll be here all day, so maybe we could have some lunch together?

Give me a ring and let me know.

Love,
Shanda.

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IELTS General Writing Task 1: Letter Sample Answers

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To understand the test format of the IELTS Writing Task, it is useful to study samples of successful answers. Pay attention to the structure of the...

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The letters in IELTS General Writing Task can be formal, semi-formal or informal. For example, you write a complaint letter about some service or a product, to thank a friend, to notify the boss about the changed circumstances, to ask for help, apologize, etc.

The letters in IELTS General Writing Task can be formal, semi-formal or informal. For example, you write a complaint letter about some service or a product, to thank a friend, to notify the boss about the changed circumstances, to ask for help, apologize, etc.

FORMAL LETTERS

We write to a company / hotel / restaurant / your boss

We know the name of the person we are writing to

INFORMAL LETTERS

We write to a friend or a relative

SEMI-FORMAL LETTER

We write to a teacher asking to provide you with a reccommendation

After you have read the assignment, it is very important to determine the writing style: formal or informal. This will define:

How you start a letter and how you finish it
What words and phrases to use

Formal letters

For example, the task may look like this:

WRITING TASK 1 You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You are due to start a new job next week but you will not be able to because you have some problems. Write a letter to your new employer. In your letter
You should write at least 150 words.
You do NOT need to write your own address.

Begin your letter as follows:
Dear ...............,

You write a letter to your new employer, which implies formal style.

So, the task includes several points:

Write a minimum of 150 words
Start your letter with the words Dear ...,
Explain the situation
Describe your problems
Tell him / her when you think you can start

To successfully complete this task, you must complete all 5 points. If you forget something - the score decreases, because you completed the task partially.

WRITING TASK 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
On a recent holiday you lost a valuable item. Fortunately you have travel insurance to cover the cost of anything lost. Write a letter to the manager of your Insurance company. In your letter
* describe the item you lost
* explain how you lost it
* tell the insurance company what you would like them to do

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear Sir or Madam,

Here you write to the manager of the insurance company, who do not know and have never seen. The style is formal. We start the letter formally: Dear Sir or Madam,

Informal letters

Here you write to a friend or relative; the person you know.

For example, the task may look like this:

WRITING TASK 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
You want to sell some of your furniture. You think a friend of yours might like to buy it from you. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter* explain why you are selling
* describe the furniture
Dear ...............,* suggest a date when your friend can come and see the furniture
Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

This task asks you to write a letter to a friend who may be interested in buying your furniture. Use abbreviations and informal words: let's meet, why don't you call me? A few things I'd like to sell, let me know, give me a ring.

In this letter, we kindly ask a friend to look after the pet. We make up a friend's name, imagine a pet and answer all three points of the assignment.

A friend has agreed to look after your house and pet while you are on holiday. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter* give contact details for when you are away
* give instructions about how to care for your pet
* describe other household duties
Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear .....................,

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IELTS General Writing Task 1: Letter types

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The letters in IELTS General Writing Task can be formal, semi-formal or informal. For example, you write a complaint letter about some service or a...

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If you're unsure what your General Training Task 1 answer should look like, it's helpful to see some sample answers first.

Below, you will find several Band 9 Task 1 Letter Samples to help you understand what is required from you to get a high IELTS score.

Contents;

Instructions

The sample answers below will help you understand how you should organise your own Task 1 answers.

However, you will improve even faster if you answer the questions first and then compare what you've written with the sample. You can also watch the videos to see what typical mistakes other students made and check if you made the same ones.

However, if you haven't already studied what to do in Task 1, I would recommend that you first check out my General Training IELTS Writing Task 1 Lessons.

#1 Formal Letter Sample

Question #1

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Sample Answer #1

#2 Informal Letter Sample

Question #2

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Sample Answer #2

#3 Formal Letter Sample

Question #3

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Sample Answer #3

#4 Informal Letter Sample

Question #4

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#5 Formal Letter Sample

Question #5

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#6 Informal Letter Sample

Question #6

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Sample Answer #6

#7 Formal Letter Sample

Question #7

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Sample Answer #7

#8 Formal Letter Sample

Question #8

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#9 Informal Letter Sample

Question #9

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Sample Answer #9

#10 Informal Letter Sample

Question #10

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Sample Answer #10

#11 Formal Letter Sample

Question #11

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#12 Informal Letter Sample

Question #12

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Sample Answer #12

#13 Formal Letter Sample

Question #13

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#14 Formal Letter Sample

Question #14

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#15 Formal Letter Sample

Question #15

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#16 Informal Letter Sample

Question #16

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Sample Answer #16

Free Live Feedback Lessons

Besides that, if you need further support, you're welcome to sign up below for my free Live Feedback Lessons on Zoom every week.

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These band 9 Writing Task 1 sample letters will show you how to organise your answers and what information to include.