IELTS Writing Task 1 band 8 sample answers
Task 1 is a short report on a chart (Academic) or a letter (General Training). These model answers show a clear overview, accurate data selection or a fully covered letter, at around 180 words.
Renewable energy adoption
Academic · Chart reportCity population growth
Academic · Chart reportHousehold spending breakdown
Academic · Chart reportPublic transport usage by mode
Academic · Chart reportUniversity degree completion by field
General Training · LetterUtility billing complaint
General Training · LetterFlexible working request
General Training · LetterHousewarming invitation
General Training · LetterApology for missing an event
General Training · LetterRecommending a local gym
Want the marking criteria behind these answers? Read IELTS Writing band descriptors explained.
Frequently asked questions
How many words should an IELTS Writing answer have?
Write at least 150 words for Task 1 and at least 250 words for Task 2. Strong answers are usually a little longer, around 170 to 200 words for Task 1 and 270 to 320 for Task 2.
Does Task 2 count more than Task 1?
Yes. Task 2 carries about twice the weight of Task 1 in the Writing band score, so spend roughly 40 minutes on Task 2 and 20 minutes on Task 1.
Are these official IELTS band 8 answers?
No. They are original model answers written to the published band 8 descriptors by IELTS A. They show the standard to aim for, but they are not official examples and do not guarantee a score.
Model answers on this site are original, written to the band 8 descriptors by IELTS A. They are not official IELTS material and do not guarantee a score. IELTS A is not affiliated with IELTS, the British Council, IDP or Cambridge.