How this test is marked
IELTS Writing is marked by an examiner on four equally weighted criteria. This practice test has no automatic score, so write your answer under timed conditions and then check it against the notes below.
- Task achievement or response. Answer every part of the task, with an overview in Task 1 and a clear position in Task 2.
- Coherence and cohesion. Organise ideas in clear paragraphs and link them with a range of devices, without overusing them.
- Lexical resource. Use precise, natural vocabulary and avoid repeating the same words.
- Grammatical range and accuracy. Use a mix of sentence structures and keep errors under control.
Notes for each question
Question 1: The table shows the percentage of total retail sales made online and in shops in one country in 2015, 2017, 20…
Begin with an overview: online sales rose steadily every period while shop sales fell by the same amount, and shops still held the larger share in 2023. Then describe the trend in stages, for example the slow rise to 2019 and the faster rise to 2021, and quote key figures (12% to 44% online). Note that the two columns always add up to 100, so the changes mirror each other. Avoid explaining causes.
Question 2: Some people think that working from home is better for employees and employers. Others believe that employees …
Give each view its own paragraph. For home working, mention flexibility, no commute and lower office costs. For the office, mention teamwork, mentoring and clearer boundaries between work and home. State your own opinion in the introduction and conclusion and support it with a specific example. A balanced view such as a hybrid model is acceptable if you explain why.