Which word counts must I reach in IELTS Writing Task 1 and Task 2?
16 Oct 2026 · Answered by Shairal Pathak · 1 min read
Quick Answer
verified
You should write more than 150 words for IELTS Writing Task 1 and more than 250 words for Task 2, because shorter answers are usually penalised. Counting lines gives a quick estimate of length. Check the official IELTS page for the latest rules.
You should aim to go past the minimum length in both tasks. IELTS Writing Task 1 usually needs more than 150 words and Task 2 needs more than 250 words, and writing less than that is penalised.
Word Count Targets
| Task | Words to write |
|---|---|
| IELTS Writing Task 1 | More than 150 words |
| IELTS Writing Task 2 | More than 250 words |
How to Manage Length in the Exam
- Do not count every word. Count lines and estimate the total instead.
- Use notes on the question paper, because no extra paper is typically given.
- Do not assume that a longer answer scores better. Relevance, coherence and structure matter more.
- Write a clear overview in Task 1 and a conclusion in Task 2.
My Advice
During practice, measure how many lines of your own handwriting make 150 and 250 words so you can estimate quickly on test day. Aim for focused answers rather than padding, and verify the requirements on the official IELTS page before your exam.
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