IELTS Writing Practice Tests

IELTS Writing Practice

Practice makes perfect when it comes to IELTS Writing. Luckily, we have a huge selection of IELTS Writing practice questions for you on this site.

There are two tasks in the Writing section of IELTS: Task 1 requires you to write 150 words describing a diagram or set of data; Task 2 is a discursive essay of 250 words. You must complete both tasks in one hour and you will be give a score of 0-9 on these four attributes: Task Achievement, Coherence and Cohesion, Grammar, and Vocabulary.

Each of these IELTS writing practice questions comes with a Band 8 or 9 model answer and my explanation of how it achieves that score. Time to get started!

Full list of IELTS Writing practice questions and sample answers
IELTS Writing Task 1: Process
The diagram shows how electricity is generated by a hydroelectric dam.

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IELTS Writing Task 1: Line Graph
The diagram shows the consumption of renewable energy in the USA from 1949-2008.

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IELTS Writing Task 1: Bar Chart
The bar chart shows the relative electricity consumption and cost per year of various household devices.

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IELTS Writing Task 1: Diagram
The diagram shows the skeletal systems of two ancestors of modern human beings.

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IELTS Writing Task 1: Cycle
The diagram below illustrates the carbon cycle in nature.

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IELTS Writing Task 1: Process (Extra Hard!)
The illustration below shows the process of tying a bow tie.

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IELTS Writing Task 1: Map
The diagram shows proposed changes to Foster Road.

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IELTS Writing Task 1: Natural Process
The diagram shows the growth cycle of a volcanic island.

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IELTS Writing Task 1: Table
The table below shows the primary funding sources of international students in the US.

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IELTS Writing Task 2: Opinion Essay
Space exploration is much too expensive and the money should be spent on more important things. What is your opinion?

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IELTS Writing Task 2: Argument Essay
It is sometimes argued that too many students go to university, while others claim that a university education should be a universal right. Discuss both sides of the argument and give your own opinion.

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IELTS Writing Task 2: Problem/Solution Essay
The internet has transformed the way information is shared and consumed, but it has also created problems that did not exist before. What are the most serious problems associated with the internet and what solutions can you suggest?

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IELTS Writing Task 2: Two-part Question
The United Nations recently celebrated its 70th anniversary. What benefits has it brought during this time? Do you think the UN will last another 70 years?

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IELTS Writing Task 2: Discuss Both Views
The free movement of goods across national borders has long been a controversial issue. Some people argue that it is necessary for economic growth, while others claim that it damages local industries. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

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IELTS Writing Task 2: Positive or Negative
In many developed countries, life expectancy is rising while birthrates are falling. As a result, the elderly will make up a much larger proportion of the population in future. Is this a positive or negative development?

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Download a practice version of the IELTS Writing answer sheet

IELTS Writing Answer Sheet Practice VersionIn the IELTS Writing test, you will need to write your answers on paper by hand. It's a good idea to practice this several times before taking the actual test. My practice version of the official IELTS Writing answer sheet includes double-spaced lines for easier editing and correction, plus a space for teacher feedback at the end. Download it from here.