Writing tips for IELTS General module

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Yesterday I received an email from a loyal visitor of IELTS-blog
(hi, Ankur!) and it made me sit down and finally write some tips for IELTS Writing test.

Right now I am working on a book that will include everything you
need to know to ACE The IELTS. But I know that you can’t wait and you’ve got to study RIGHT NOW, so here’s some tips to keep you working .

As you know there are 2 parts, Writing 1 and Writing 2.

In Writing 1 you receive a “scenario” and you have to write a letter. Not many people know that there are 4 types of letters in IELTS:

Complaint / Request (of information) letter

Formal business letter

Job application letter

Personal letter

In any letter you write IELTS examiners are looking for these
3 important components: structure, vocabulary and fluency of language.

Structure means that your letter must have paragraphs, at least 3 of them. Every paragraph has its job.

First one must define the purpose of your letter in one – two sentences.

Second one must explain more about why you are writing this letter.

Third must say what kind of answer you expect.

Vocabulary means that you better use some “smart” words. In case you are writing Complaint, Business or Job application letter you must use formal language, but not for Personal letter.

Fluency of language means phrases people usually use in letters. The best advice I can give you here is to read every IELTS Sample Letter you can get. This way you develop proper language for any type of letter.

You can find some examples in the right side-bar of IELTS-blog, under “Writing Practice” (or Click Here) and I will continue to add more links to sample letters there.