IELTS Writing module is a subjective test module with which majority of students have to fight to attain a high band score. This is the module which can lower down the overall band score of the IELTS Test.

Still, students can attain a good score keeping certain things in mind. There are basically two tasks to be completed within 60 minutes. Both of the writing questions are marked out of 9 as per the following criteria:

• Task Achievement / Response
• Coherence and cohesion
• Lexical Resource
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy

In both the tasks, all the criterions are given equal weightage

1. Task Response

For Task 1

1. Introductory sentence
2. Summarize the main patterns and trends
3. Compare data or describe changes as appropriate
4. Finish with a concluding statement
5. Describe each stage in a process

For Task 2

1. Have you followed each of the instructions (usually four)?
2. Introduce the topic or argument appropriately
3. Discuss and express a variety of relevant ideas
4. Endorse arguments with examples, give reasons for any opinions
5. Wind up with a conclusion that sums up what has been said

2. Coherence and Cohesion

• Organize the argument or information logically
• Write well-ordered and clear paragraphs
• Use connecting words or phrases and reference points, such as pronouns or determiners (this, these), effectively 

3. Lexical Resource

• In both the tasks, use a range of relevant vocabulary and lexis (phrases, collocations, fixed expressions) that too accurately and appropriately
• Use adjective + noun and verb + adverb collocations to specify all the trends and changes over time, or to compare data, for task 1
• Use a range of appropriate vocabulary, for processes
• Use a range of lexis to discuss the given topic, for task 2

4. Grammatical range and accuracy

• Use a range of grammatical structures and tenses accurately and effectively
• Use prepositions and articles rightly

So, to do well, you have to:

• Keep track of the improvement you have made via refining your grammatical skills and enriching vocabulary.
• Keep practicing and improving your speed.

Along with these criterions, there are certain things to be kept in mind while attempting both the tasks in an IELTS Exam which are as follows:

• Before writing the task, plan the structure.
• Do Task 2 first because it is worth more marks and is easier as well.
• Avoid wasting much time on Task 1. Learn all the writing structure for each type of Task 1 in the real IELTS writing test, you just have to apply that structure to new data and suitable verb tenses. Read sample Task 2 solutions and keep track of the ones having a good structure to gather a wide range of academic structures for Task 1. Some structures meant to be used in Task 1 might be used in Task 2 as well.
• Completing both the given tasks should be your ultimate goal. As if you don’t do so, you will be penalized with less than the desired band score in the IELTS Test. Practice completing both the tasks within the specified time under your IELTS training sessions.
• Enrich as well as enhance your vocabulary. You can refer any good dictionary if you have to.
• Avoid all informal ways of writing. I mean you can use first & second pronouns or possessive nouns “I, you, your, me & my” only in conclusion as in this part of your writing, you are going to state your opinion.
• There should be minimum 2 & maximum 3 body paragraphs. Each body paragraph must include in the hierarchy: A topic sentence, the supporting sentences & the development sentences. You are advised to put the topic sentence at the beginning of each body paragraph. Don’t be creative in this case.

Thus if you follow all the above mentioned tips & tricks, you can easily attain the desired band upgrading your current band score. Don’t panic if you initially don’t attain the desired band score initially while practicing. Be patient & keep improving. Practice is the only key criterion to nail it!