The Academic Version of the Writing Test in IELTS is slightly different from the General Training version.
Both have two tasks with the second task (Task 2) being an essay for both versions.
Task 1: Minimum 150 words
Task 2: Minimum 250 words
Time: 60 minutes
IELTS Academic Writing Test
The Writing component of Academic Version of IELTS includes two tasks. Topics are suitable for candidates entering undergraduate and postgraduate studies or seeking professional registration.
Task 1
You will be presented with a graph, table, chart or diagram and asked to describe, summarise or explain the information in your own words. You may be asked to describe and explain data, describe the stages of a process, how something works or describe an object or event. See our Academic Writing Task 1 Describing Trends Vocabulary.
Task 2
You will be asked to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument or problem. Responses to both tasks must be in a formal style.
IELTS General Training
The Writing component of the IELTS General Training Test includes two tasks which are based on topics of general interest.
Task 1
You will be presented with a situation and asked to write a letter requesting information, or explaining the situation. The letter may be personal, semi-formal or formal in style.
Task 2
You will be asked to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument or problem. The essay can be slightly more personal in style than the Academic Writing Task 2 essay.