What Happens if My IELTS Task 2 Essay Is Too Long?

·14 min·1 clip

What happens to your IELTS score if your Task 2 essay is 355 words long?

The episode begins with hosts Aubrey Carter and Lindsay McMahon introducing the topic: the impact of writing a long IELTS Task 2 essay on scores. They reference two listener questions posted on their YouTube channel, from Anita Reshmi and Sabina Rasali, who both achieved high scores in listening, reading, and speaking but only a six in writing, with essays around 355 and 341 words respectively. The hosts clarify that there is no official word limit for IELTS essays, debunking a common myth. They explain that long essays affect scores not because examiners count words, but due to the limited time of 40 minutes for Task 2, which leaves insufficient time for brainstorming and proofreading. The hosts detail the recommended timing: 5 minutes for planning, 30 minutes for writing, and 5 minutes for checking. They emphasize that writing extra words increases the likelihood of errors in vocabulary, grammar, and logic, and can lead to repetitive ideas. The episode advises aiming for 250 words for Task 2 and 150 for Task 1, focusing on fully answering the question rather than word count. Throughout, the hosts promote their Three Keys IELTS course for comprehensive preparation. The discussion includes tips for both computer-based and paper-based exams, and concludes by reiterating that knowledge of exam strategies is crucial for achieving a band 7 or higher.

As heard by us

A longer IELTS essay can quietly cost the planning and proofreading a higher score needs.

IELTS Energy turns an overlong Task 2 essay into a practical warning about time. Aubrey Carter and Lindsay McMahon connect an extra 100 words to the planning, brainstorming, and proofreading a 40-minute task still needs.

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Why you'd press play

You want a seven, but your 350-word Task 2 essay is eating the minutes your plan and proofread need.

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