9 things you should know for scoring 8+ in IELTS General task 1
In IELTS writing there are two tasks which are to be solved by the candidate. Task 2 is an essay for both Academic and General Training candidates but task 1 is a letter for general training candidates and for academic candidates it is a report. Task 2 have more value than task 1 but we cannot underestimate it and should write it in a proper way so here are 9 things you should know for scoring 8+ in IELTS General task 1(letters)
1. Answer the whole question
Letter in IELTS writing task 1 usually have 3 bullet points and it is mandatory to answer all of them. Your scores will be deducted under task achievement criteria if you don’t attempt all three.
2. Make a balance between formal and informal
You have to select the style by reading the question carefully as if you are writing to someone you know like friends or family members you should informal style but if you if you write to someone you don’t know than your letter has to be written in a more formal style. Most of the students find difficult to identify where they should reply in formal and where in informal language. Try to know the difference in your practice sessions.
3. Think about the purpose of the letter
IELTS letters have limited purpose and can be categorized under the following categories.
– Letters of complaint
– Letters making a request
– Letters asking for an explanation
– Apology letters
– Application letters
– Letters making a suggestion
There is different language used for each type of letter so make sure you use it affectively.
4. Use multi structured sentences and paragraphs
Avoid long and complex sentences as more lengthy your sentence will be the chances of committing grammatical mistakes will increase. The grammatical accuracy is very important to score a good band score. It does not mean that you start using only simple and very short sentences. Use variety of sentences structures with various lengths so that the examiner can judge your good hand in grammar.
5. Start a letter efficiently
The good and affective starting of the letter is very important to get good scores for this you can follow some tips. In the starting of a formal letters, tell the reason for writing the letter. You can use a common phrase ‘I’m writing to…’. This helps the reader to know and understand the purpose of writing the letter.
In informal letters the closeness and familiarity with the person addressed decides how to start the letter, sentences should be short and simple. You can start the letter by simply talking a little about the relationship you have with the recipient of the letter or asking him about his health. You can say ‘I was delighted to find your letter in my mailbox’ or ‘I hope you receive this letter in the pink of your health ’.
6. Ending a letter also matters
There are many ways to end letters. In formal letters asking for more information, you can write:
‘Quick and positive respond will be highly appreciated.’
In a letter to a friend, you might write:
‘I hope to see you soon. Pay my regards to your parents.’
7. Stick to word limit
IELTS Writing task 1 should have at least 150 words. If you write less than it, your scores will be deducted. You should know the ideal word limit for completing the task.
8. Check your spelling and punctuation
Spelling and punctuation errors are penalized in writing tasks so you should keep an eye on them. It is strictly recommended to do proof reading at the end of the test so that you can identify and correct the mistakes.
9. Learn letter writing phrases
Learn some letter writing phrases to make your letter impressive.
Thank You 🙂
