Complete guide · Academic & General Training
IELTS Writing A → Z
Everything you need for Task 1 and Task 2: task types, how to recognise them, time frames, band criteria, paragraph plans, language by band, how the score is calculated, 20+ sample prompts with figures, band templates with practice, and games.
| Task 1 · Academic | Task 1 · General | Task 2 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suggested time | 20 minutes | 20 minutes | 40 minutes |
| Minimum words | 150 words | 150 words | 250 words |
| Input | Chart, table, process, map | A situation + 3 bullet points | A statement / social issue |
| Output | An objective report | A letter | An argumentative essay |
| Personal opinion | No | Yes (depending on purpose) | Required when asked |
| Score weighting | 1 part | 2 parts (double Task 1) | |
Total time: 60 minutes for both tasks. You manage your own time — give Task 2 a full 40 minutes because it carries double weight.
Task Types
Knowing which type you are writing decides your structure and language.
📈 Line graph
Data changing over several points in time. Focus: trends.📊 Bar chart
Compares groups; may or may not include time.🥧 Pie chart
Percentages of a whole; usually 1–3 charts.🧮 Table
Lots of numbers — you must select the key figures.🔀 Mixed / Multiple
Two visuals combined (line + bar, pie + table…). Link them together.⚙️ Process
A natural cycle or a man-made production process. Use the passive.🗺️ Map
Changes to a place over time, or two proposed sites compared.🏛️ Formal letter
To a stranger / organisation: a company, manager, city council. Dear Sir or Madam, … Yours faithfully.🤝 Semi-formal letter
To someone you know by name but not closely: neighbour, colleague, teacher. Dear Mr Brown, … Yours sincerely / Kind regards.💌 Informal letter
To a friend or relative. Dear Anna, … Best wishes / Love.Common letter purposes
1 · Opinion (Agree / Disagree)
State your view on a statement and support it throughout.2 · Discussion (+ opinion)
Discuss both views, then give your own opinion.3 · Advantages / Disadvantages
Pros and cons; the Do the advantages outweigh…? variant needs a clear judgement.4 · Problem / Cause – Solution
Explain the causes or problems, then propose solutions.5 · Two-part / Direct questions
Two separate questions — answer both, one body paragraph each.6 · Positive / Negative development
Is this trend positive or negative? (essentially an opinion essay).Task 2 is the same in Academic and General Training; GT topics tend to be closer to everyday life.
How to Recognise the Task
Read the keywords to identify the type and the tone instantly.
| Type | Keywords in the prompt | Example prompt |
|---|---|---|
| Line | The graph / line graph shows…, years on the x-axis | The graph shows the percentage of households with internet access in three countries from 2000 to 2020. |
| Bar | The bar chart compares…, grouped bars | The chart compares the average weekly hours spent on four leisure activities by three age groups in 2025. |
| Pie | The pie charts show the proportion / percentage… | The pie charts show the sources of electricity in Country X in 1990 and 2020. |
| Table | The table gives information / shows data… | The table shows public transport use and commuting times in four cities in 2024. |
| Mixed | The chart and table…, The graph and pie chart… | The line graph and pie chart give information about tourism spending and visitor types. |
| Process | The diagram shows how… is produced / the life cycle of… | The diagram shows how glass bottles are recycled. |
| Map | The maps show changes / two possible sites… | The maps show the centre of Greenfield in 2000 and today. |
💡 10-second check: look at the x-axis (years → trends), the unit (%, millions, hours) and count the time points.
| Signal in the prompt | → Tone | Example prompt |
|---|---|---|
| Write to the manager / company / council / editor | Formal | You recently bought a coffee machine online, but it stopped working after a week. Write a letter to the company. In your letter: describe the problem · explain what you have done · say what you want them to do. |
| Write to your neighbour / landlord / teacher / colleague | Semi-formal | Your neighbour's dog barks late at night. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter: explain the situation · describe how it affects you · suggest a solution. |
| Write to a friend / your cousin | Informal | A friend has invited you to their wedding, but you cannot attend. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter: thank them · explain why you cannot come · suggest another time to meet. |
💡 The prompt always says Begin your letter: Dear …, — choose the matching sign-off. Three bullet points = three compulsory body paragraphs.
| Type | Signal question |
|---|---|
| Opinion | To what extent do you agree or disagree? · Do you agree or disagree? · What is your opinion? |
| Discussion | Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. |
| Adv / Disadv | What are the advantages and disadvantages…? · Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? |
| Problem / Cause – Solution | What problems / causes…? What solutions / measures can be taken? |
| Two-part | Why is this happening? Is this a good thing? (two different questions) |
| Positive / Negative | Is this a positive or negative development? |
💡 Underline the final question before reading the topic — the question decides the type, the topic only decides the content.
Time Frames — Task 1 Academic
Many points · few points · no time · future: each frame decides your tenses and language.
⏱️⏱️⏱️ Many time points (dynamic)
Line graphs, bars/tables over several years. Focus on trends: rise, fall, fluctuate, peak.
Tense: past simple · rose, fell, peaked at, fluctuated.
Example: Households with internet access, 2000–2020 (5 points).
⏱️⏱️ Few time points (2–3)
Two pie charts (1990 & 2020), then & now maps, two-year tables. Focus: compare the change between points.
Tense: past simple / present perfect (maps “today”) · had doubled by, was replaced by, from … to ….
🚫⏱️ No time (static)
A single-year chart, a survey table, a process. Focus: compare and rank (highest, lowest, twice as much) or the stages.
Tense: present simple (process, facts) or past simple if a year is given · the highest, twice as much as, is then washed.
🔮 Future / Projections
The time axis goes beyond the present (2030, 2050). Projected data are often dashed.
Language: is expected / predicted / projected to rise; will reach; is likely to.
| Time frame | Common types | Main tense | Language group | What the overview says |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Many points | Line · Bar · Table over years | Past simple | Trends | Overall trend + standout item |
| Few points | Pie × 2 · Map · 2-year table | Past simple / Present perfect | Comparison + change | The biggest change between points |
| No time | Single-year Bar/Pie · Process · Survey table | Present simple (Past if a year is given) | Comparison, ranking · Passive (process) | Highest/lowest · number of stages, start – end |
| Future | Line/Bar with projections | Future forms | Prediction | Expected trend |
Band Criteria
Four criteria, each worth 25%. Task 1 uses TA, Task 2 uses TR.
The tables below are a teaching summary of the key signals by Thao Ngo IELTS — refer to the official Band Descriptors on ielts.org for exact wording.
| Criterion (25%) | Band 5 | Band 6 | Band 7 | Band 8+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TA – Task Achievement | Mechanical description, lists numbers; no clear overview; details may be missing or wrong. | An overview is present but information selection is not fully appropriate; some irrelevant or missing detail. | Clear overview; key features highlighted; well-chosen supporting figures. | Fully meets requirements; key features skilfully selected and clearly, accurately presented. |
| CC – Coherence & Cohesion | Some organisation but unclear; mechanical or faulty linkers; paragraphing weak. | Coherent with clear progression; linkers used but sometimes repetitive or forced. | Logical development; varied cohesive devices; good referencing (this, these, which). | Cohesion feels natural and unobtrusive; paragraphing is skilful. |
| LR – Lexical Resource | Limited, repetitive vocabulary; spelling/word-formation errors cause strain. | Adequate range for the task; tries less common words with some errors. | Sufficient range and flexibility; uses collocations and less common items; occasional slips. | Wide, precise vocabulary; natural collocations; rare errors. |
| GRA – Grammatical Range & Accuracy | Limited structures; complex sentences rare and often wrong; frequent errors. | Mix of simple and complex sentences; errors present but rarely impede meaning. | A variety of complex structures; most sentences error-free. | Wide range of structures; the majority of sentences are error-free. |
⚠️ Task 1 Academic: no personal opinion and no explanations beyond the data.
| Criterion (25%) | Band 5 | Band 6 | Band 7 | Band 8+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TA – Task Achievement | A bullet point is missed or unclear; purpose unclear; inconsistent tone. | All three bullets covered but some are under-developed; tone occasionally slips. | All three bullets extended; clear purpose; consistent, appropriate tone. | All bullets fully developed; very clear purpose; precise tone throughout. |
| CC – Coherence & Cohesion | Some organisation but unclear; mechanical or faulty linkers; paragraphing weak. | Coherent with clear progression; linkers used but sometimes repetitive or forced. | Logical development; varied cohesive devices; good referencing (this, these, which). | Cohesion feels natural and unobtrusive; paragraphing is skilful. |
| LR – Lexical Resource | Limited, repetitive vocabulary; spelling/word-formation errors cause strain. | Adequate range for the task; tries less common words with some errors. | Sufficient range and flexibility; uses collocations and less common items; occasional slips. | Wide, precise vocabulary; natural collocations; rare errors. |
| GRA – Grammatical Range & Accuracy | Limited structures; complex sentences rare and often wrong; frequent errors. | Mix of simple and complex sentences; errors present but rarely impede meaning. | A variety of complex structures; most sentences error-free. | Wide range of structures; the majority of sentences are error-free. |
⚠️ The wrong tone (e.g. chatty with a company) loses marks in TA and LR.
| Criterion (25%) | Band 5 | Band 6 | Band 7 | Band 8+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TR – Task Response | Only partly answers the question; position unclear; ideas limited. | Addresses all parts; a position is given but conclusions may be unclear; uneven development. | Addresses all parts; clear position throughout; main ideas extended and supported. | Fully and deeply answers the question; well-developed argument; relevant examples. |
| CC – Coherence & Cohesion | Some organisation but unclear; mechanical or faulty linkers; paragraphing weak. | Coherent with clear progression; linkers used but sometimes repetitive or forced. | Logical development; varied cohesive devices; good referencing (this, these, which). | Cohesion feels natural and unobtrusive; paragraphing is skilful. |
| LR – Lexical Resource | Limited, repetitive vocabulary; spelling/word-formation errors cause strain. | Adequate range for the task; tries less common words with some errors. | Sufficient range and flexibility; uses collocations and less common items; occasional slips. | Wide, precise vocabulary; natural collocations; rare errors. |
| GRA – Grammatical Range & Accuracy | Limited structures; complex sentences rare and often wrong; frequent errors. | Mix of simple and complex sentences; errors present but rarely impede meaning. | A variety of complex structures; most sentences error-free. | Wide range of structures; the majority of sentences are error-free. |
⚠️ Under 250 words, off-topic writing or memorised essays are heavily penalised in TR.
Paragraph Plan & Length
A fixed structure secures at least Band 6 for CC from the start.
Paraphrase the prompt: what visual – what it measures – where – when. 1 sentence.
The 2 most striking features (overall trend / highest / biggest change). No figures.
First group of data + comparisons, with specific figures.
Second group of data + comparisons, with specific figures.
Total 160–190 words. No conclusion needed — the overview does that job in Task 1.
Dear Sir or Madam, / Dear Mr Lee, / Dear Tom,
Why you are writing (1–2 sentences).
Answer point 1 with detail.
Answer point 2 with detail.
Answer point 3 with detail.
Expectation of a reply · Yours faithfully / sincerely / Best wishes · Name.
No addresses or date are needed.
Background (paraphrase) + Thesis (direct answer / essay direction).
Topic sentence → explanation → example → link back to thesis.
Same structure, second idea (or the other side).
Restate your position in new words + summarise both main ideas. No new ideas.
Total 260–300 words. A 5-paragraph essay (3 body paragraphs) is also fine, but 4 paragraphs are easier to manage in 40 minutes.
Language for Tasks 1 & 2 by Band
Same idea — higher band through more precise words and more varied structures.
| Function | Band 5–5.5 | Band 6–6.5 | Band 7–7.5 | Band 8+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Increase | go up, increase | rose significantly, grew steadily | witnessed a steady rise, climbed to | surged, a threefold increase, soared |
| Decrease | go down, decrease | fell slightly, declined gradually | dropped sharply, experienced a decline | plummeted, dwindled, halved |
| Stable / peak | stay the same | remained stable, reached a peak | levelled off, peaked at | plateaued, hit a high of, bottomed out |
| Comparison | bigger than, more than | higher than, compared to | twice as high as, whereas | in stark contrast, respectively, by far the largest |
| Proportion | 50 percent | half, a quarter | accounted for, made up | the overwhelming majority, a negligible proportion |
| Approximation | about | around, nearly | approximately, just under | marginally above, roughly |
| Grammar | Simple S + V sentences | Compound + while | Relative clauses, noun phrases (a rise of 20%) | Participle clauses (rising to…), complex sentences |
| Function | Band 5–5.5 | Band 6–6.5 | Band 7–7.5 | Band 8+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Opening (formal) | I write to complain… | I am writing to complain about… | I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with… | I am writing to draw your attention to a matter that… |
| Opening (informal) | How are you? | I hope you're doing well. | It was great to hear from you! | Sorry it's taken me so long to get back to you — it's been hectic! |
| Request | Please give me… | Could you please…? | I would be grateful if you could… | I would appreciate it if you could arrange… |
| Apology | Sorry for… | I'm really sorry that… | Please accept my apologies for… | I sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused. |
| Closing | Write soon. | I look forward to hearing from you. | I look forward to your prompt reply. | I trust this matter will be resolved promptly. |
| Grammar | Simple sentences | Compound with because/so | Conditionals, polite passive | Mixed conditionals, emphatic structures |
| Function | Band 5–5.5 | Band 6–6.5 | Band 7–7.5 | Band 8+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Giving opinion | I think… | In my opinion,… | I firmly believe that… | I would argue that… / I am inclined to agree that… |
| Adding | and, also | Moreover, In addition | Furthermore, Not only… but also… | Equally important is the fact that… |
| Contrasting | but | However, On the other hand | Nevertheless, Whereas | Admittedly…, yet… / That said,… |
| Cause – effect | because, so | As a result, This leads to | Consequently, This is largely due to | This can be attributed to…, which in turn… |
| Examples | for example | For instance, such as | A case in point is… | This is exemplified by… |
| Hedging | — | may, can | tend to, it is likely that | arguably, to a certain extent |
| Grammar | Mostly simple sentences | Complex with because/although/if | Relative clauses, 2nd conditional, passive | Inversion, reduced clauses, cleft It is… that |
How the Two Tasks Are Scored
Understand the weighting to plan your time and effort.
① Score for each task
Each task is marked on 4 criteria (0–9). Task score = the average of the 4 criteria.
Task = (TA/TR + CC + LR + GRA) ÷ 4
② Writing score
Task 2 carries double the weight of Task 1.
Writing = (Task 1 + 2 × Task 2) ÷ 3
Reported in half bands (…5.5, 6.0, 6.5…).
Example
Task 1: TA 6 · CC 6 · LR 6 · GRA 5 → 5.75. Task 2: TR 7 · CC 6 · LR 6 · GRA 6 → 6.25.
Writing = (5.75 + 2 × 6.25) ÷ 3 = 18.25 ÷ 3 ≈ 6.08 → 6.0
IELTS does not publish the exact rounding rule for Writing. The calculator rounds to the nearest half band (.25 → up to .5; .75 → up to the next whole) — use it as an estimate only.
🧮 Writing score calculator
Task 1
Task 1 score: 6
Task 2
Task 2 score: 6
💡 Strategy: +1 band in Task 2 ≈ +0.67 in Writing; +1 band in Task 1 ≈ only +0.33.
Sample Prompts
Task 1 Academic with a figure for every type · 4 GT letters · 10 Task 2 prompts.
Practice prompts and data written by Thao Ngo IELTS (countries/cities are fictional). Standard instruction: Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words.
1 · Line graph (many points)
The graph below shows the percentage of households with internet access in three countries between 2000 and 2020.
2 · Bar chart (no time / one year)
The chart below shows the average number of hours per week that three age groups spent on four leisure activities in 2025.
3 · Pie charts (few points)
The pie charts below show the sources used to generate electricity in Country X in 1990 and 2020.
4 · Table (static)
The table below gives information about public transport use and average commuting time in four cities in 2024.
| City | Bus (%) | Metro (%) | Cycling (%) | Average commute (min) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northport | 32 | 41 | 9 | 34 |
| Eastvale | 48 | 12 | 15 | 29 |
| Southbay | 21 | 55 | 4 | 41 |
| Westford | 18 | 0 | 27 | 22 |
5 · Process
The diagram below shows how glass bottles are recycled.
6 · Map (few points)
The maps below show the centre of Greenfield town in 2000 and today.
7 · Line graph with projections
The graph below shows the number of people aged 65 and over in Country Y from 2000, with projections to 2050.
8 · Bar chart over years
The chart below shows the number of full-time and part-time students enrolled in online courses at Lakeside College from 2016 to 2024.
Formal · Complaint
You recently bought a coffee machine from an online shop, but it stopped working after one week. Write a letter. In your letter:
- describe the problem
- explain what you have already done
- say what you want the company to do
Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,
Semi-formal · Request
Your neighbour's dog barks loudly late at night, and it is affecting your sleep. Write a letter. In your letter:
- explain the situation
- describe how it is affecting you
- suggest what your neighbour could do
Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr Collins,
Informal · Apology / Invitation
A close friend has invited you to their wedding, but you cannot attend. Write a letter. In your letter:
- thank your friend for the invitation
- explain why you cannot attend
- suggest another time to meet
Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sam,
Formal · Application
You have seen an advertisement for a part-time job at a local museum. Write a letter. In your letter:
- say which job you are interested in
- describe your relevant experience
- explain when you are available for an interview
Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,
10 practice prompts covering all 6 types. Standard instruction: Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.
- OpinionAc/GT
Some people believe that university education should be free for all students. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
- OpinionAc
Online learning will soon replace traditional classrooms. Do you agree or disagree?
- DiscussionAc
Some people think success in life comes mainly from hard work, while others believe luck and connections matter more. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
- DiscussionAc
Some argue that zoos protect endangered animals, while others think keeping animals in captivity is cruel. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
- Adv / Disadv (outweigh)GT
More and more employees now work from home. Do the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?
- Adv / DisadvAc
Tourists are increasingly visiting remote natural areas such as mountains and deserts. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?
- Problem – SolutionAc/GT
Traffic congestion is becoming a serious problem in many large cities. What problems does it cause, and what solutions can you suggest?
- Cause – SolutionAc
Childhood obesity is rising in many countries. What are the causes of this, and what measures could be taken to tackle it?
- Two-part questionAc
People in many countries are living longer than ever before. Why is this happening? Is it a positive or negative development for society?
- Positive / NegativeGT
Nowadays more young adults choose to live alone rather than with their families. Is this a positive or negative development?
Writing the Introduction – Body 1 – Body 2 – Conclusion
Paragraph formats + colour-coded model answers.
Sample prompt
The graph below shows the percentage of households with internet access in three countries between 2000 and 2020.
Format: The [chart] + illustrates/compares + [what] + [where] + [when]
The line graph illustrates the proportion of homes with an internet connection in Countries A, B and C over a 20-year period starting in 2000.
Format: Overall, + general trend + standout item (no figures)
Overall, internet access rose considerably in all three nations, with Country A experiencing the most dramatic growth and ending the period with the highest figure. By contrast, Country C, which led initially, levelled off in the final five years.
Format: Starting point → comparison → changes 2000–2010
In 2000, 35% of households in Country C were online, compared with 20% in Country A and just 10% in Country B. Over the following decade, the figure for Country C climbed steadily to 66%, while the rate in Country A tripled to 60%.
Format: Changes 2010–2020 → end point → notable feature
Between 2010 and 2015, Country A overtook Country C and went on to reach 85% in 2020, whereas the figure for Country C stabilised at 70% after 2015. Country B, despite starting from the lowest point, saw the fastest relative growth, rising sixfold to 60% by the end of the period.
≈ 170 words · Target band 7.0–7.5
Sample prompt · Formal complaint
You recently bought a coffee machine from an online shop, but it stopped working after one week. Write a letter to the company. In your letter: describe the problem · explain what you have already done · say what you want the company to do.
Format: Dear Sir or Madam, → I am writing to + purpose
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to complain about a coffee machine I purchased from your website on 2 October (order number 58217), which has stopped working after only a week.
At first, the machine worked perfectly. However, last Monday it began making a loud grinding noise, and since then it has failed to heat the water. The display now shows an error code that is not explained anywhere in the instruction manual.
I followed the troubleshooting steps in the manual and cleaned the machine thoroughly, but this made no difference. I also called your customer service line twice, yet on both occasions I was left on hold for over twenty minutes before the call was disconnected.
As the machine is clearly faulty, I would be grateful if you could arrange for a replacement to be delivered as soon as possible. Alternatively, I would accept a full refund, including the delivery charge.
I look forward to your prompt reply.
Yours faithfully,
Linh Tran
≈ 175 words · Target band 7.0+
Sample prompt · Opinion
Some people believe that university education should be free for all students. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Format: Background (paraphrase) + Thesis (clear position + 2 reasons)
It is sometimes argued that higher education should be provided at no cost to every student. While I accept that this policy would place a heavy burden on public finances, I largely agree with it, because it widens access to opportunity and benefits society as a whole.
Format: Topic sentence → Explanation → Example → Concluding sentence
The main reason I support free tuition is that it gives talented students from poorer backgrounds a fair chance. When fees are high, many capable young people choose to start work immediately instead of studying, simply because their families cannot afford the cost. In Germany, for instance, public universities charge little or no tuition, and this has helped students from a wide range of social groups to obtain degrees. Removing financial barriers therefore allows ability, rather than wealth, to determine who studies.
Free university education also brings long-term benefits to the wider economy. Graduates generally earn higher salaries and therefore pay more tax, which can gradually offset the initial investment. Admittedly, governments would need to raise taxes or cut other spending to fund such a scheme, and some students might take their courses less seriously. However, these problems could be reduced by linking free places to minimum academic standards.
Format: In conclusion, + restated position + 2 reasons summarised
In conclusion, although making higher education free is expensive, I believe the advantages outweigh the costs, as it promotes equal opportunity and strengthens the economy in the long run.
≈ 285 words · Target band 7.0–7.5
| Type | Model thesis (last sentence of the introduction) | Body 1 | Body 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Opinion | I largely agree with this view because… | Reason 1 | Reason 2 (+ concession) |
| Discussion | This essay will discuss both views before explaining why I believe… | View A | View B + your opinion |
| Adv / Disadv | Although this trend has some drawbacks, I believe its benefits are more significant. | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Problem – Solution | This essay will examine the main problems and propose some practical solutions. | Problems / causes | Solutions |
| Two-part | This is mainly due to…, and I believe it is largely a positive development. | Answer question 1 | Answer question 2 |
| Positive / Negative | In my view, this is a positive development overall because… | Positive reasons | Negative side + evaluation |
Intro – Overview – Body by Band
Band 5.5 · 6.5 · 7.5 templates with examples and self-checking practice.
Introduction
The [chart] shows [the number of N] in [place] from [year] to [year].
The graph shows the number of households with internet in three countries from 2000 to 2020.
The [chart] illustrates [the proportion of N] in [place] between [year] and [year].
The line graph illustrates the proportion of homes with internet access in three countries between 2000 and 2020.
The [chart] compares [how N changed] across [groups] over a [x]-year period, starting in [year].
The line graph compares how internet access in homes changed across three countries over a 20-year period, starting in 2000.
Overview
Overall, [A] increased and [B] also increased.
Overall, internet access increased in all three countries.
Overall, [all/most] saw an upward trend, and [A] had the highest figure at the end of the period.
Overall, all three countries saw an upward trend, and Country A had the highest figure by 2020.
Overall, the most striking feature is [X], whereas [Y]. It is also noticeable that [Z].
Overall, the most striking feature is the rapid rise in Country A, whereas Country C levelled off. It is also noticeable that Country B grew fastest in relative terms.
Body 1 & Body 2
In [year], [A] was [number]. Then it went up to [number] in [year].
In 2000, Country A was 20%. Then it went up to 85% in 2020.
In [year], [A] stood at [number], compared with [number] for [B]. [A] then rose [adverb] to [number].
In 2000, the figure for Country A stood at 20%, compared with 35% for Country C. It then rose steadily to 85%.
Starting at [number] in [year], [A] [verb + adverb], [participle clause], whereas [B] [verb] to [number].
Starting at 20% in 2000, the figure for Country A climbed rapidly, overtaking Country C before 2015, whereas Country C stabilised at 70%.
✍️ Practice
Opening – body – closing by band
Dear Sir or Madam, I write about my coffee machine. It is broken. Please change it. Thank you.
Short, on-task but simple; little detail.
Dear Sir or Madam, I am writing to complain about [product] I bought on [date]. [Problem + detail]. Could you please [request]?
All points covered, some detail, correct formal tone.
Dear Sir or Madam, I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with [product], which [problem]. I would be grateful if you could [request]. I look forward to your prompt reply.
Complex sentences, precise words, polite and fully developed.
✍️ Practice
Introduction
Nowadays, [topic]. I agree/disagree with this because [reason].
Nowadays, many people think university should be free. I agree with this because it helps poor students.
It is often argued that [paraphrase]. In my opinion, [stance] because [reason 1] and [reason 2].
It is often argued that higher education should cost nothing. In my opinion, this is a good idea because it helps poorer students and benefits the economy.
It is sometimes argued that [paraphrase]. While I accept that [concession], I largely agree/disagree, as [reason 1] and [reason 2].
It is sometimes argued that higher education should be provided at no cost. While I accept that this would be expensive, I largely agree, as it widens access and benefits society.
Body paragraph
Firstly, [idea]. For example, [example].
Firstly, free university helps poor students. For example, my friend could not study because of fees.
The main reason is that [idea]. This is because [explanation]. For instance, [example]. Therefore, [link].
The main reason is that free tuition gives poorer students a chance. This is because high fees stop them from studying. For instance, …
[Topic sentence with key idea]. [Explanation with cause–effect]. A case in point is [specific example]. Consequently, [link back to thesis].
The most compelling argument is that free tuition levels the playing field. When fees are high, … A case in point is Germany, … Consequently, …
Conclusion
In conclusion, I agree that [topic].
In conclusion, I agree that university should be free.
In conclusion, I believe [stance] because [reason 1] and [reason 2].
In conclusion, I believe university should be free because it helps poor students and the economy.
In conclusion, although [concession], I firmly believe [stance], as [summary of reasons].
In conclusion, although free tuition is costly, I firmly believe its benefits outweigh the costs, as it promotes equal opportunity and growth.
✍️ Practice
🖊️ Your turn
Choose a prompt from section f′ and write an introduction using the template for your target band.
0 words
Practice Games
Task 1 by type · GT letters · Task 2 by essay type. Tap to play — works well on phones.
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