| Updated On - Jun 9, 2026
The IELTS Writing task is divided into 2 parts, task 1 and task 2. The IELTS test writing task 2 holds more scores and time as compared to task 1. The IELTS writing task 2 topics are the same for IELTS Academic or General, while task 1 topics depend on the test type.
Here’s a breakdown between the 2 task of the IELTS Writing test:
| Parameters | Task 1 | Task 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Question Type | Describe visual information in your own words from the given graph, table, chart, diagram, or map. | Write an essay on the given topic, giving your point of view, argument, or problem solution. |
| Time allotted | 20 minutes | 40 minutes |
| Word limit | 150 |
250 |
Note: These sample questions are inspired by questions, not the original IELTS questions. This is solely for practice purposes.
- IELTS Writing Practice Test 2026: Sample Questions
- IELTS Writing Task 1: Types and Sample Questions 2026
- IELTS Writing Task 2: Types and Sample Questions 2026
- IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Questions 2026
- How is IELTS Writing Scored in 2026?
- IELTS Writing Tips and Suggestions for Indian Students 2026
- FAQs
IELTS Writing Practice Test 2026: Sample Questions
The IELTS Writing Task aims to examine the organization of ideas, language fluency, and grammar by the candidates in limited words.
IELTS Writing Task 1: Types and Sample Questions 2026
IELTS Writing Task 1 requires candidates to describe and summarize visual information, such as graphs, charts, tables, maps, or processes, in at least 150 words. The task tests the ability to identify key features, compare data, and present information clearly and accurately.
Sample 1: IELTS Writing Task 1(Pie chart type)
The pie chart below shows the distribution of expenditure among five categories in an average household in a country in 2025.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.
Sample 2: IELTS Writing Task 1 (Bar graph)
The bar chart below shows the percentage of employees working remotely in different industries in a country in 2025.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.
Sample 3: IELTS Writing Task 1 (Line graph)
The line graph below shows the number of visitors to a national park between 2015 and 2025.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.
Sample 4: IELTS Writing Task 1 (Line graph)
The line graph below shows the percentage of people using public transport and private vehicles in a city between 2010 and 2025.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.
Also read: IELTS Writing Task 1 Practice Tests 2026: Download Free PDFs with Answers
IELTS Writing Task 2: Types and Sample Questions 2026
The IELTS writing task 2 is a descriptive essay task where the candidate needs to write an essay on the given topic. The essay types in IELTS writing task 2 are:
| Essay Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Discussion based | Applicants need to write an explanatory essay on the given topic. |
| Opinion based | Applicants need to discuss their views and opinions on the given topic. |
| Advantages and disadvantages | Applicants are asked to write negative and positive points on the given topic. |
| Solution based | Applicants need to provide solutions to any problems or issues based on the given topic. |
| Direct question essay | Applicants need to give direct questions based on their thoughts and experience. |
IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Questions 2026
Sample 1: IELTS Writing Task 2 (Opinion Essay)
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people believe that universities should require all students to study at least one subject outside their main field of study, while others think students should focus only on their chosen discipline. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.
Sample 2: IELTS Writing Task 2 (Discussion Essay)
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people think that governments should invest more money in improving public transportation, while others believe that building more roads is a better solution to traffic congestion. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.
Sample 3: IELTS Writing Task 2 (Advantages and Disadvantages Essay)
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
An increasing number of companies are allowing employees to work from different locations instead of a central office. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this development?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.
Sample 4: IELTS Writing Task 2 (Problem and Solution Essay)
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
In many cities, young people are becoming less interested in participating in community activities and local organisations. What are the reasons for this trend? What solutions can be implemented to encourage greater participation?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.
Sample 5: IELTS Writing Task 2 (Direct Question Essay)
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
In recent years, many schools have started using artificial intelligence tools to support teaching and learning. Why is this happening? Do the benefits of this trend outweigh the drawbacks?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.
Sample 6: IELTS Writing Task 2 (Double Question Essay)
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
More people are choosing to delay major life decisions, such as marriage and home ownership, until later in life. What factors are causing this change? Is this a positive or negative development?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.
Also read: IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics
How is IELTS Writing Scored in 2026?
IELTS Writing is scored in 4 equally weighted categories for both IELTS Academic and General training. The 4 categories are:
| Scoring Criteria | Scoring basis |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement | How fully, relevantly, and appropriately the response addresses the task requirements, with sufficient detail, overview/position, and support. |
| Coherence and cohesion | Implementation of logic, organization, progression of ideas, paragraphing, and use of cohesive devices, such as linking words, pronouns, etc. |
| Lexical Resource | Range, accuracy, and appropriacy of vocabulary, including topic-specific collocations, and spelling or word formation. |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | Range and accurate use of grammatical structures and punctuation. |
Also read: IELTS Score Calculator 2026: How Band Scores Are Calculated
IELTS Writing Tips and Suggestions for Indian Students 2026
Indian students planning to appear for the IELTS test should keep these points in mind, as the scoring criteria depend primarily on their presentation and accuracy.
- Planning: Plan before writing, as grammar and coherence between the ideas are major scoring criteria. Brainstorm ideas and organize them in a presentable manner.
- Time management: Spend not more than 20 min on Task 1 and not more than 40 min on Task 2. Practise under timed conditions before appearing for the test to avoid any issues.
- Structure and clarity: Use clear paragraphing, one main idea per paragraph. For Task 1, provide an overview and highlight key features or trends with data support. For Task 2, present a clear position throughout, extend ideas with support, and use logical progression. Avoid bullet points or notes.
- Language: Use a range of vocabulary and structures accurately. Aim for precision and variety. Avoid repetition or overly memorized phrases. Write in full, connected text in an appropriate academic or semi-formal style.
- Relevance and accuracy: Stick to the task, do not add unrelated information. Report data accurately in Task 1 and support opinions only if relevant in Task 2.
- Practice resources: Use free official practice tests, sample questions, and scoring videos on ielts.org and partner sites. Review band descriptors to understand requirements for your target band.
Also read: ELTS Writing Tips and Strategies to Improve Your Band Score in 2026
The IELTS Writing test consists of 2 tasks, with Task 1 requiring at least 150 words in 20 minutes and Task 2 requiring at least 250 words in 40 minutes. Since Task 2 carries more weight in the overall writing score, candidates should focus on developing clear arguments and well-structured essays. Success in both tasks depends on the four scoring criteria that are Task Achievement, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Regular practice with different question types and effective time management can help candidates achieve their target IELTS band score.
FAQs
Ques. What types of visual information might appear in IELTS Academic Writing Task 1?
Ans. In Academic Writing Task 1, you may be asked to describe one or more graphs, charts, or tables, or a diagram of an object, device, process, or event. You have to include the most important points, but some minor points or details may be left out.
Ques. What skills does the IELTS Writing Task 2 test?
Ans. This task tests if you can write a clear, relevant, well-organized argument, giving evidence or examples to support your ideas, and use language accurately. Depending on the task type, you will be assessed on your ability to present a solution to a problem, present and justify an opinion, compare and contrast evidence, or evaluate and challenge ideas.
Ques. What are the four assessment criteria used for IELTS Writing?
Ans. Examiners use assessment criteria to award a score for each of the following four criteria:
- Task Achievement (Task 1) or Task Response (Task 2)
- Coherence and Cohesion
- Lexical Resource
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy
Ques. Are the Task 2 topics the same for the IELTS Academic and General Training tests?
Ans. Yes. In both Academic and General Training, Task 2 requires you to discuss a point of view, argument, or problem. Task 1 topics differ between the two versions.
Ques. How to prepare for IELTS Writing?
Ans. To prepare for the IELTS writing test, you need to understand the marking criteria, avoid informal writing, maintain a proper word count, and practice regularly. You can join a coaching centre or online course for structured learning under expert mentorship.
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