IELTS Writing Task 1 vs. Writing Task 2: Differences and Comparison

IELTS Writing Task 1 vs. Writing Task 2: IELTS Writing section is often considered the challenging component of the exam. It requires candidates to complete two separate tasks. IELTS Writing Task 1 vs. Writing Task 2 within a total time limit of 60 minutes. 

While both tasks test your writing proficiency in English, they are vastly different in their format, purpose, length and most importantly, their contribution to your final score. Having understanding of these distinctions is the important for effective preparation and strategic time allocation in the exam hall.

IELTS Writing Task 1 vs. Writing Task 2 Overview 

IELTS Structure for the Writing module is consistent across both the Academic and General Training versions of the test. You are given a total of 60 minutes to complete two tasks, and you must manage your time efficiently as there is no separate allocation for each.

IELTS Writing Task 1 vs. Writing Task 2 Key Differences

Below is the difference in the IELTS Writing Comparison showing why you should approach each task with a unique strategy.

1. Task Type and Content

The most significant distinction lies in what you are asked to write about.

IELTS Writing Task 1: The purpose is purely descriptive and analytical.

Academic: You act as a data analyst, summarizing a graph, table, chart, map, or process diagram. Your goal is to report the main features, trends and key comparisons accurately and objectively.

General Training: You act as a correspondent, writing a letter or informa to request information or explain a situation.

IELTS Writing Task 2: This is an argumentative or discursive essay.

Both Academic and General Training: You must present a coherent argument in response to a prompt. This may involve agreeing or disagreeing with a statement, discussing two viewpoints, analyzing causes and effects or proposing a problem and solution.

Time Allocation (20 Minutes vs 40 Minutes)

The total time for the writing section is one hour and your time management directly impacts your score.

• Task 1: It is strongly recommended to spend no more than 20 Minutes on this task. Since it is worth less in the final scoring, spending too much time here can hurt your performance on Task 2.

• Task 2: You should dedicate the remaining, longer duration of 40 Minutes to this essay. The added time is necessary to plan, write, and review a more complex and structured argument.

Word Count IELTS (150 Words vs 250 Words)

The minimum word requirements are non-negotiable and reflect the depth of development expected for each task. In task 1 Word Count you must write at least 150 Words.

Failure to meet this minimum will result in a penalty for Task Achievement or Task Response . In task 2 Word Count you must write at least 250 Words. 

A word count below this minimum will negatively affect your score as it suggests you have not developed your arguments with sufficient examples and details.

Weighting and Scoring

Understanding the Weighting and Scoring is key to prioritizing your effort.

Task 2 is Critical: Task 2 contributes twice as much as Task 1 to your overall Writing band score.

Task 2 accounts for approximately 66% (2/3) of the score.

Task 1 accounts for approximately 33% (1/3) of the score.

This is why experienced candidates always prioritize the 40-minute essay, a high score in Task 2 can significantly compensate for a slightly lower score in Task 1, but not the other way around.

IELTS Writing Assessment Criteria (Scoring)

While the task format differs, both Task 1 and Task 2 are assessed by the examiner using the same four criteria with a slight name variation:

Each criterion contributes 25% to the band score for that specific task.