You get 40 minutes to write your IELTS essay. You can use a pencil or a pen. Using a pencil is definitely a better idea because if you make mistakes, it is easy to correct them.
Read the question carefully
Before you start writing, read the question carefully. Sometimes, the task rubric may ask you to discuss both sides of the given argument and then express your opinion. Sometimes you have to say whether you agree or disagree with the given argument. It is important to have a good understanding of exactly what you are required to include in your essay.
Note down your ideas on the question paper. You do not have to include all of them in your essay. Choose the most relevant points and then develop them into paragraphs. Make sure that you are using appropriate tone and style.
Neatly divide your essay into paragraphs
Your essay should have 4 or 5 paragraphs. In the introduction rewrite the given question in your own words and then express your opinion briefly. Each body paragraph should discuss just one main idea. In the conclusion, restate all of the main points. Do not introduce any new information in the conclusion. Your introduction and conclusion should have two or three short sentences.
Proof read
After you have finished writing, check your essay for grammar and spelling mistakes. You may not be able to correct all the mistakes; however, you should try to correct as many mistakes as you can. You should also check whether you have addressed all aspects of the task. Sometimes there are two questions in the task rubric. You have to answer both of them. If you answer only one of the questions, you will lose marks.
Make sure that your body paragraphs support the opinion expressed in the introduction. So, for example, if you opine that there are more advantages than disadvantages to a particular situation, your body paragraphs should primarily be about the advantages. Of course, you can mention some disadvantages as well but try to make them sound less important.
Write at least 250 words. Ideally, you should write 270 – 280 words. If you repeat too many words / phrases from the task rubric, sometimes they may deduct them from the word count. By writing more than the required number of words, you can be on the safe side.
Do not write a lengthy essay. Even if you manage to finish writing it within the allotted time, chances are you will make more mistakes. And when you make more mistakes, your score will suffer.
