IELTS Writing Task 1 vs Task 2: time, word count and marking
How the two IELTS Writing tasks differ in time, length, format and weight — and how to split your 60 minutes.
By FR-Solutions ·
The IELTS Writing test takes 60 minutes and has two tasks. They are marked on the same four criteria, but they are not worth the same.
At a glance
| Task 1 | Task 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Suggested time | about 20 minutes | about 40 minutes |
| Minimum length | 150 words | 250 words |
| Academic | describe a graph, chart, table, map or process | essay |
| General Training | write a letter | essay |
| Weight in the Writing band | one third | two thirds |
How the tasks are marked
Both tasks are marked on four criteria of equal weight:
- Task achievement (Task 1) or Task response (Task 2) — did you do what the task asked?
- Coherence and cohesion — is it organised and easy to follow?
- Lexical resource — range and accuracy of vocabulary.
- Grammatical range and accuracy — range and accuracy of grammar.
Because Task 2 counts twice as much, your Writing band is roughly (Task 1 + 2 × Task 2) ÷ 3, rounded to the nearest half band.
How to split your time
- Task 1 (20 minutes): 3 minutes to read the task and find the main features, 15 minutes to write, 2 minutes to check.
- Task 2 (40 minutes): 5 minutes to analyse the question and plan, 30 minutes to write, 5 minutes to check.
Many candidates start with Task 2 because it carries more weight. Whatever order you choose, keep to the time — an unfinished Task 2 costs more than a short Task 1.
Practise both under exam timing
The IELTS Writing app has a 60-minute full test and separate 20- and 40-minute modes, with a live word counter and examiner-style self-assessment after each attempt.