IELTS Writing Guide 2025-2026: For Task 1 and 2

The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is taken by over 3 million candidates each year and is one of the most widely taken English proficiency exams around the globe. The writing component is usually considered challenging for most students.

Unlike previous years, as we move into 2026, candidates applying for IELTS Writing must clearly distinguish between the Academic and General Training modules to succeed. Whether you need to describe a complex graph for university or write a formal letter for migration, this guide covers both paths.

The First Step: IELTS Academic vs. IELTS General Training

Before starting your preparation, you must confirm which module you are taking. The IELTS Writing test format differs significantly between the two.

Part 1: IELTS Task 1 (The Differences)

Option A: Academic Task 1 (Data Interpretation)

The IELTS Academic Writing task 1 is for students applying to universities.

You are required to write at least 150 words describing visual information. You must not give your opinion; you must report the facts presented.

Common Visuals:

• Graphs (Bar, Line, Pie): Comparing trends and data.
• Process Diagrams: How something works (e.g., how cement is made).
• Maps: Changes to a location over time (e.g., past vs. present).

Option B: General Training Task 1 (Letter Writing)

The IELTS General Training Writing Task 1 is for migration and work visas, and the task is completely different. You must write a letter of at least 150 words. The tone depends entirely on the recipient.

Sample Letter (General Training Task 1)

Here is an example of a formal IELTS Writing sample letter for General Training Task 1:

Subject: Complaint About Faulty Product

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to express dissatisfaction with the purchase of a laptop from your store on 10th June 2025. The laptop has been malfunctioning right from the day it was bought.

First and foremost, the battery runs out within an hour while fully charged. The operating system crashes quite frequently, and at times, I lose very important work. All these problems still exist even after going through the troubleshooting steps in the manual.

I humbly request a full refund or a replacement for this laptop. For your convenience, I've attached a copy of the receipt.

Yours faithfully,

Ian Bell

Part 2: IELTS Task 2 (Essay Writing)

As an IELTS Writing test taker, you should note that this is also crucial for both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. This task is often the "missing link" in student preparation. Since it carries double the marks of Task 1, it requires significant focus. You must write at least 250 words.

Common Essay Topics in 2025-2026:

1. Opinion Essay: Do you agree or disagree?
2. Discussion Essay: Discuss both views and give your opinion.
3. Advantages & Disadvantages: Weigh the pros and cons.
4. Problem & Solution: Suggest fixes for a global or social issue (e.g., Environment, Traffic).
5. Direct Question: Two specific questions you must answer.

Sample Structure:

• Introduction: Paraphrase the prompt + Thesis statement.
• Body Paragraph 1: Main idea + Explanation + Example.
• Body Paragraph 2: Contrast or Second idea + Explanation + Example.
• Conclusion: Summary of main points.

Essential IELTS Writing Structures

To ensure coherence—a key marking criterion—follow these standard protocols.

IELTS General Letter Structure (Task 1)

• Salutation: "Dear Sir/Madam," (Formal) or "Dear [Name]," (Informal).
• Opening: State the purpose ("I am writing to...").
• Body Paragraph 1: Details of the situation.
• Body Paragraph 2: Explanation or Request.
• Closing: "Yours faithfully," (Formal) or "Best regards," (Informal).

IELTS Academic Report Structure (Task 1)

• Introduction: Paraphrase the question (e.g., "The chart illustrates...").
• Overview (Vital): Summarise the main trends or differences without specific data numbers.
• Body Paragraph 1: Detailed analysis of specific features (citing numbers/data).
• Body Paragraph 2: Detailed analysis of remaining features.

IELTS Essay Structure (Task 2)

• Introduction: Paraphrase the topic + Thesis statement (your opinion/plan).
• Body Paragraph 1: Main Idea 1 + Explanation + Example.
• Body Paragraph 2: Main Idea 2 + Explanation + Example.
• Conclusion: Summary of main points + Final thought.

Trending Topics for 2025-2026

Below are some of the top trending topics for IELTS Writing tasks for 2025-2026.

Strategic Update: IELTS One Skill Retake

If you do not perform well in the Writing section on your first attempt, you no longer need to retake the entire exam. Currently, eligible candidates who take the test on a computer can retake just the Writing section within 60 days of their original test. This is a massive strategic advantage for students who struggle specifically with writing.

IELTS Writing: Examiners' Scoring Criteria

Your score is determined by four key pillars. Neglecting any one of them will lower your band score.

1. Task Achievement/Response: Did you answer the specific question asked?
2. Coherence & Cohesion: Is your writing logical? Do you use paragraphing and linking words effectively?
3. Lexical Resource: Are you using a wide range of vocabulary accurately?
4. Grammatical Range & Accuracy: Are your sentences varied (simple and complex) and error-free?

IELTS Writing: Tips and Strategies:

To ace the test, combine these strategies with your practice routine:

1. Do Not Use Contractions (Academic & Formal): In Academic essays and Formal letters, do not use "can't" or "don't". Write "cannot" and "do not". Contractions are only allowed in Informal letters.
2. Practice Frequently: The finest approach is constant practice. Establish a routine of reading newspapers and magazines to improve your vocabulary.
3. Make Use of a Dictionary: When preparing, use a dictionary for new terminologies to expand your lexical resource (vocabulary).
4. Examine Your Grammar: Grammatical Range and Accuracy is 25% of your score. Avoid simple errors in subject-verb agreement.
5. Avoid Spelling Errors: You will receive a penalty for spelling errors. Proofread your work for at least 2 minutes at the end.
6. Maintain the Tone: Adjust your vocabulary based on the task. Use simpler language for informal letters, but stick to professional terminology for Academic Task 1 and Task 2 Essays.

Achieving a high score on the IELTS General Training test would require performing effectively in the IELTS Letter Writing Questions. Knowing some of the common topics of letters will help in preparation and give one confidence in the test, regardless of the subject. The correct format, with a clear opening, clearly developed body paragraphs, and a concise closing, gives clarity and coherence to your writing.

Ready to excel in the writing section of your IELTS exam? Contact AECC today for expert guidance and resources on mastering the IELTS Letter Writing Task and achieving your dream score!