Do’s and Don’ts for IELTS Writing Task 2
Do’s and Don’ts for IELTS Writing Task 2
Writing is not something like a gifted quality. The majority of the good writers are people who have got themselves trained on how to write effectively. If you are going to take IELTS, then a writing test is going to be more difficult for you. You will have to show your writing skills to get through it. Writing Task 2 is different — if you fail to understand the question, and go off on the wrong track, you could score no marks at all. And that could mean missing the band score you need.
You need to write at least 250 words and justify your opinion with arguments, discussion, examples, problem outlining, proposing possible solutions, and supporting your position. You will have approximately 40 minutes to finish your Essay Writing. IELTS Writing Task 2 carries more weights than Writing Task 1.
Do’s for IELTS writing task 2
– analyse the topic
– Understand more about the topic. You need to know what the examiner has asked you to do and answer accordingly.
– You will have to answer the question (or all the parts of the question)
– It is wise to spend at least a few minutes in planning how to begin or how to structure your answer.
– It will make good impression if you can paraphrase the task.
– Present the aim of the topic or the essential idea of the topic given to you in the first few sentences.
– Make sure you divide the essay in smaller paragraphs. Usually, four-five small paragraphs look good or create a good impression on the examiner.
– Try to begin each paragraph with the sentence that reflects the given topic.
– Provide reasons if the examiner has asked you to.
– Summarize the points in a more effective way.
– Try to provide the best and the most suitable conclusion.
– It is good to present your opinion in a more formal style (for example, “In my opinion” or “I believe” or “I agree that” etc)
– Make use of formal vocabulary. Make use of simple and easy-to-understand words.
– Make use of passive voice (for instance, the work will be completed on ………).
– Make use of correct words which represent distinct ideas.
– Use formal words that can link sentences in the right way.
– Make use of different types of sentences.
– Use simple to complex sentences.
– Proofread before submitting the answer (Check spellings, look for errors, check grammar, check words you have used etc).
– You will have to limit the answer to 250 words.
Don’ts for IELTS Writing Task 2
– DON’T use contractions (e.g. I don’t –> I do not).
– avoid being personal (e.g. I, me. my).
– DON’T use emotive language (e.g. disgusting, fabulous).
– DON’T use only personal examples.
– DON’T use colloquial expressions (e.g. I had a great time).
– avoid simple vocabulary (e.g. say, think, bad) and basic linking words (e.g. and. but, also).
– DON’T repeat the same vocabulary throughout your essay.
– DON’T write simple sentences (e.g. Everyone thinks it’s true. I disagree.).
– DON’T use overgeneralizations (e.g. everyone, always, never, all).
– DON’T copy the task in your introduction.
– DON’T forget to answer ALL parts of the task.
– DON’T write less than 250 words.
– DON’T forget to summarise and conclude your essay in the last paragraph.
– DON’T use examples or arguments unrelated to the topic.
– Use ‘lazy’ expressions (“and so on”, “etc”).
These tips are not exhaustive but will give you some important points on how to pass the IELTS Writing test with a high Band Score.
