How can I deal with the lack of ideas when writing IELTS writi | My IELTS materials!

How can I deal with the lack of ideas when writing IELTS writing?

It sounds like you are over-complicating IELTS writing. It’s probably easier if we look at an example together. The IELTS questions pretty much cover the same topics so let’s look at this one as it’s very simple.

So, all you have to do is read the question and think, do I agree or not? In this case I agree. Don’t try to balance your position unless your English is a very high level; it is much more difficult.

Essay structure.

Introduce the debate and state your opinion. Keep this concise. No one cares about the introduction. 30/40 words is fine.

Two body paragraphs of equal length. In each oe, add one idea and support it with a real-life example. So, for example, you could say

“Firstly, people today are living a more sedentary lifestyle. Due to the covid-19 pandemic, more and more people are being encouraged to work on computers at home. This has led to people sitting for long periods of time and not moving. I am in this situation and I have taken up running to counterbalance this lack of movement. I used to watch what I ate and I walked to most places but since I started running every day, I’ve lost 5 kilos. This shows that exercising daily is the best way improve your health” (95 words)

Makes sure that both your body paragraphs are a similar length.

Add a short conclusion and then edit your work; reread it and look for mistakes.

Two ideas shouldn’t be too difficult for you. If you really are struggling, start reading the news and you will get ideas there.

So, don’t overthink IELTS writing. Personalise your examples or invent them about friends or your country.

Dave Sale - IELTS Writing and Speaking Tutor at British Council! All Rights reserved.

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