Do's and Don'ts in IELTS Writing Task 2

DO

DON’T

• analyse the topic
• respond to all parts of the prompt fully.
• spend the first five minutes planning your essay
• in the introduction: Paraphrase the task and state the aim of vour essav in a thesis statement
• divide your essay into paragraphs (min. four: introduction, two main body paragraphs, conclusion)
• start each paragraph with a topic sentence
• provide a reason and an example for each of your arguments
• summarise the points made in the essay in the conclusion
• if appropriate, state your opinion in formal style (e.g. It is my firm belief that)
• use formal vocabulary (ex: keep --> - maintain: make sure --> ensure) TIP: words that sound or look more French, Spanish, Italian or Portuguese will usually be more formal.
• use passive voice to sound more formal and objective (e.g. The film will be shown...)
• avoid repetition by using synonyms (e.a. important = vital = essential = crucial)
• use formal linking words (e.g. despite, nevertheless, furthermore)
• use complex sentences
• proofread your work to avoid simple mistakes
• make sure you’ve written at least 250 words

• DON’T use contractions (e.g. I don't --> I do not)
• avoid being personal (e.g. I, me. my)
• DON’T use emotive language (e.g. disgusting, fabulous)
• DON’T use only personal examples
• DON’T use colloquial expressions (e.g. I had great time)
• avoid simple vocabulary (e.g. say, think, bad) and basic linking words (e.g. and. but, also)
• DON’T repeat the same vocabulary throughout your essay
• DON’T write simple sentences (e.g. Everyone thinks it's true. I disagree.)
• DON’T use overgeneralisations (e.g. everyone, always, never, all)
• DON’T copy the task in your introduction
• DON'T forget to answer ALL parts of the task
• DON’T write less than 250 words
• DON’T forget to summarise and conclude your essay in the last paragraph
• DON’T use examples or arguments unrelated to the topic