What Are Some Tips For Writing Perfect IELTS Essays

Crafting the perfect IELTS essay can be an extremely daunting task, especially for test takers. If you are someone preparing for the IELTS exam, then I’m sure you’re already aware of this. I can assure you, that there is no need to fret, I will assist you in preparing for your exam properly.

My practical ways will ensure that your essay scoring will drastically improve, especially if you set your targets to Band 7, 8 or even 9, but even if your set targets are lower, my methods will guarantee you a solid high-scoring essay and to achieve that help is just a guide away.

What Are Some Tips For Writing Perfect IELTS Essays?

When attempting perfecting your english essay writing, things that need to be prioritized are structure, vocabulary, grammar, and of course clarity. Given below are the most effective tips to boost your essay scores.

Understanding the IELTS Essay Format

First things first – comprehension of the IELTS Writing Task 2 format is key to scoring high.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Overview

• In the description of the task, you will specifically be asked for a formal essay which should be no less than 250 words.
• You have 40 minutes to complete it.
• The essay is scored based on Task Response, Coherence & Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range & Accuracy.

Common IELTS Essay Types

The most common 5 types of IELTS essays include the following:

1. Opinion (Agree/Disagree) Essays

Here, you will be provided with a statement and asked if you agree or disagree with it. You should have an opinion on the matter and the ability to argue it using logical arguments and citations. You may agree with it, disagree with it, or adopt a moderate position towards it. Regardless of which position you choose, ensure that you write the rest of the essay from that standpoint.

Example Question:

\”Issues arise in society due to social media. Do you agree or disagree?\”

How to Approach It:

• Introduction: Restate the question in different terms and mention your opinion explicitly.
• Body Paragraph 1: Give your first reason supported by an explanation and an example.
• Body Paragraph 2: Give your second reason supported by an explanation and an example.
• Conclusion: Restate everything you’ve written so far using different words.

Example Argument:

Inexcessive use of social media could lead to anxiety and depression, which poses to have a harmful impact on one\’s mental health. Harvard University conducted a study that illustrates the negative impact of social media, claiming users who engage with it for plus three hours report higher levels of stress and loneliness.

2. Discussion Essays

A discussion essay, for instance, is set up in such a manner that you are supposed to view both sides of a topic before articulating your stance. It assesses your skill to analyze both sides of an argument fairly while still being able to take a position on the issue.

Example Question:

Write, for instance, an essay discussing the advantages and disadvantages of social media where some people think it eases communication while the others think it is troublesome. Explain and give your opinion.

How to Approach It:

• Introduction: You begin with giving both views and stating your personal opinion in the introduction.
• Body Paragraph 1: In body one, you analyze the first view and provide supporting arguments.
• Body Paragraph 2: In body two, you consider the second view and put forth the arguments in support of it.
• Conclusion: Finally, you need to summarize both issues and give your opinion one more time in the closing sentence.

Example Argument:

\”Technology has, on one side, advanced the manner of communication and access to information, which has made life easier. Take for example, smartphones. They allow people from various parts of the world to be connected instantly with each other.

On the other hand, it is very easy to become overly reliant on technology and can result in becoming socially detached. Many people nowadays prefer sending and receiving texts rather than talking with people in person which ultimately lowers the amount of human interaction.\”

3. Advantages and Disadvantages Essays

In this type of essay you are expected to address all pros and cons regarding the particular issue. It is necessary to be fair while giving your opinion and justify it with relevant examples.

Example Question:

\”What are the advantages and disadvantages of online learning?\”

How to Approach It:

• Introduction: State what the issue is and that you are going to look at both sides.
• Body Paragraph 1:  List the advantages with appropriate arguments and examples.
• Body Paragraph 2: List the disadvantages with supporting arguments and examples.
• Conclusion: State and explain the key arguments. If asked, state whether the benefits are more than the harms.

Example Argument:

\”Online learning, in this case, can be considered self paced which is beneficial as one does not have to engage in an in-person lecture, which works well for working individuals. On the downside, this methodology lacks interpersonal engagement which is essential for the enhancement of communication skills and networking.\”

4. Problem-Solution Essays

In most problem-solution essays, students explore an issue and offer a number of causes for the issue, as well as propose several suggestions. This can be a challenging type of essay as it requires one to explore a real touch point and be able to offer a solution.

Example Question:

\”What subject areas do you think global warming is mostly incurred from, and how best can it be addressed?\”

How to Approach It:

• Introduction: An overview of the problem at hand.
• Body Paragraph 1: The reasons why the problem exists.
• Body Paragraph 2: The various options of tackling the problem.
• Conclusion: A summary answer to the topic, listing the problem(s) and the answer(s).

Example Argument:

\”Perhaps the most prominent factor contributing to global warming is the large amounts of carbon dioxide emitted from transportation and other industries. This can be addressed by strengthening spending in renewable energy, more specifically putting emphasis on wind and solar energy, rather than heavily relying on fossil fuels.\”

5. Two-Part (Direct Question) Essays

In the case of two-part essays, there is the requirement of answering two, often related, questions. The topics being discussed have to be clearly distinct from one another, allowing the two questions to have been answered independently.

Example Question:

\”What is the reason fast food is preferred by many people? Also explain its impact on health.\”

How to Approach It:

• Introduction: Address the issue and say why you will address both questions.
• Body Paragraph 1: Explain the reasons as to why people prefer fast food.
• Body Paragraph 2: Discuss what the impacts of fast food are on an individuals health.
• Conclusion: Restate both answers.

Example Argument:

How to Analyze an IELTS Essay Question

The way to achieve a perfect IELTS essay is to break down and understand the question properly. Here is how to go about it:

1. Identify the Topic

When reading the question, it is imperative to pay special attention to the keywords as they inform you about the central idea.

Example:

\”To what extent do you agree or disagree with the statement that online education is superior to classroom learning?\”

Keywords: Online education and traditional classroom learning.

2. Identify the Task

In this step, analyze the question and find out what it is trying to test.

• Agree/Disagree?
• Discuss both views?
• Give reasons and solutions?

3. Avoid Off-Topic Writing

Make it a point to discuss every point that is relevant to the essay topic given to you.

Structuring the Perfect IELTS Essay

Your essay has better chances of convincing the examiner if it is properly organized. During your test, make sure to use the following framework:

1. Introduction

• Here, your job is to paraphrase the question given to you at the very beginning of your essay in very simple words.
• Make sure to include a clear thesis statement (your opinion) and tell us what your essay will be about.

2. Body Paragraph 1

• This is the place where you write the topic a sentence (first main point).
• Include the explanation and example that are relevant to your point.
• Finally, link everything back to the main question.

3. Body Paragraph 2

• Make sure to include a topic sentence (second main point) straight to explain the example provided.
• Finally, explain the main question again for clarity.

4. Conclusion

• Summarize your main ideas.
• Restate your opinion (if required).

How to Write a Strong IELTS Essay Introduction

Be clear and straight to the point while penning down the introduction.

1. Paraphrase the Question

The initial attempt to answer the question verbatim has to be avoided. Always opt for an original articulation of the matter at hand.

Example:
❌ Some citizens are of the opinion that the state should allocate resources to investigating outer space.
✅ Many people feel that money set aside for the public good ought to be directed to outer space research.

2. Write a Thesis Statement

With the aid of the example given, explain to the examiner where you stand.

Example:

\”Although the exploration of space bears certain advantages, I feel that there should be greater emphasis on dealing with issues confronting planet Earth such as education and poverty.\”

3. Outline the Main Points

Explain to the reader what they can expect to come across in the content of your essay.

Writing Effective Body Paragraphs

1. Use a Clear Topic Sentence

Each and every paragraph needs to commence with a relevant and broad statement.

Example:

2. Support with an Explanation and Example

Clarify your argument, then give a case to support.

Example:

“In a classroom, pupils learn how to communicate by talking to other students and teachers. For instance, a research from Harvard University indicated that students who participated in the real-life classes performed better in problem-solving activities when compared to their contemporaries in virtual classes.”

3. Use Linking Words

To construct one solid essay, ensure to use connecting words such as:

• For example, In contrast, On the contrary, In addition, Consequently.

How to Write a Strong IELTS Essay Conclusion

It should be precise and to the point.

1. Summarize Your Main Ideas

Avoid fresh arguments here.

Example:

“To conclude, although online learning is very convenient, conventional education is more beneficial as it allows greater scope for face to face interaction and practical exposure.”

2. Restate Your Opinion (If Required)

Say it in a final way.

Example:

“Therefore, I have no doubt that traditional classroom education is the most effective way for students to learn.”

Grammar and Vocabulary Tips for a High IELTS Score

1. Use a Mix of Sentence Structures

• Simple Sentence:  The internet is a common place for education these days.
• Compound Sentence: The internet is a common place for education these days, although it has its shortcomings.
• Complex Sentence: Many students flock to the internet for education, however, there is plenty of them who would turn to a classroom instead.

2. Avoid Common Grammar Mistakes

• Incorrect subject and verb agreement.
• Wrong tense usage.
• Incorrect comma placements

3. Use High-Scoring Vocabulary

Instead of simple words, use academic words:

• Bad → Negative impact
• Good → Beneficial
• Many → Numerous

Time Management Tips for IELTS Essay Writing

• Allocate 5 minutes for the essay plan.
• Allocate 30 minutes for the actual write-up.
• Allocate the last 5 minutes for grammar and spelling revisions.

Common IELTS Essay Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

❌ Writing Off-Topic

✔ Read the question carefully before writing.

❌ Overcomplicating Sentences

✔ Use clear and direct language.

❌ Poor Time Management

✔ Practice writing under timed conditions.

My Opinion

For me, practice, structural organization, and time allocation are the key ingredients to writing a superb IELTS composition. When I started, forming coherent essays was an uphill task, so I watched videos on the types of essays, mastered brainstorming, time management, and my writing skills grew by leaps and bounds.

Adopting these strategies will boost your confidence while enhancing your writing fluency and accuracy. Focus, practice, and believe that it is possible to score a high band!🚀

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