IELTS Writing gives you 60 minutes for two tasks. It's where many test-takers lose marks, because it's assessed by trained examiners against four clear criteria — which means it's very learnable once you know what they're looking for.
The short version
•Two tasks in 60 minutes; spend ~40 minutes on Task 2 (it's weighted more).
•Academic Task 1 = describe a visual; General Training Task 1 = a letter.
•Task 2 is a ~250-word essay for both versions.
•Marked on Task Response, Coherence & Cohesion, Lexical Resource, Grammar.
The two tasks
Task 1 differs by test: in Academic, you describe a chart, graph, table, or diagram in about 150 words; in General Training, you write a letter (formal, semi-formal, or informal) of about 150 words. Task 2 is the same for both — an essay of about 250 words responding to an argument or problem. Task 2 carries more weight, so manage your time to give it roughly 40 of the 60 minutes.
The four marking criteria
Both tasks are marked on: Task Achievement (Task 1) or Task Response (Task 2) — how fully you answer; Coherence and Cohesion — organisation and linking; Lexical Resource — vocabulary range and accuracy; and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Knowing these is half the battle: a clear structure, a range of accurate sentence types, and precise vocabulary lift every score.
Practice writing to time, then check your work against the criteria — or use AI feedback to spot weak structure, repetition, and grammar before test day.
Frequently asked
How long is IELTS Writing and how many tasks?
60 minutes for two tasks. Task 1 is about 150 words and Task 2 is about 250 words; Task 2 is weighted more, so give it more time.
What's the difference between Academic and General Training Writing?
Only Task 1 differs: Academic asks you to describe a chart, graph, or diagram; General Training asks you to write a letter. Task 2 — the essay — is the same for both.
How is IELTS Writing scored?
Examiners mark it on four criteria: Task Achievement/Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Targeting all four — not just grammar — is how you raise the band.