Task 2 carries more marks. Spend more time on it. Twenty minutes on task 1 and 40 minutes on task 2 would be a good balance.
Since task 2 is more important, it may be a good idea to do task 2 first and task 1 later. However, make sure you write for each task in the allotted area since the answer sheet has separate areas designated for each task.
For both writing tasks, it is a good idea to jot down your ideas on the question sheet so that you know the outline of what you will be writing. It may take 2 or 3 minutes but the time spent is worth it.
Writing task 1 requires you to describe a graph/table/diagram in AT LEAST 150 words. I had practised on a lot of graphs but the task we had was to describe the data in a table! So practise describing all kinds of graphs/tables. See how much of your writing is 150 words. If you write less that 150 words, you lose marks. If you write more, you are likely to make more mistakes. Try and stick to around 150 words.
For task 1, first spend some time looking at the graph/table and understanding the information given. Don't start writing immediately. Make sure you know what each axis of the graph represents and in what units. The following structure is suggested for writing:
- A sentence describing what the graph/table shows.
- Another sentence describing the broad/important trends shown.
- Description of the data. It may not be possible to describe all the data as there may be too much data presented. Describe the relevant and most important parts. If there is more than one graph / chart, describe any comparisons or trends that can be made out.
- A concluding sentence which sums up the data/trends.
Practise using a variety of phrases to avoid being repetitive.
The best practice for task 2, which asks you to present an argument, is to read newspaper editorials and magazine articles on current topics. This will help you develop your ideas.
A suggested structure for writing is:
- Introduce the topic and state your stand, whether you agree or disagree.
- Give arguments in support of your viewpoint supported by relevant examples.
- State the contrary viewpoint and give reasons why you don't agree with it.
- Conclude with a short concluding paragraph.
If there is time left at the end, revise your answers and correct any spelling or grammatical mistakes.
WRITING TIPS:
The writing part has two tasks: minor & major.
The minor task should be done in 20-25 minutes. Usually three things asked in the minor task;
- Object (e.g. a cycle is shown & various parts are labeled)
- Process (e.g. the various ways in which solar energy is used)
- Data; (graphs of all types e.g. line graph, bar graph, pie charts, tables, etc.)
For data one has to write;
- Introduction (what it is about do not copy the question what. Use your imagination & write in your own words what the data is about)
- Then in the next Para write three things, this is very important.The three things are General trend, Comparisons, differences.
- In the last Para write conclusion.
Use pencil to write and take with you a new good quality eraser and sharpener. Write at least twenty words more than required. This way examiner gets an idea that you are confident and can write properly.
This post is not only for the IELTS students but also for the technical writers. Previous time I have suggested some websites for vocabulary.
