https://bcfeducation.com/ielts-band-7-9-word-lists-for-success/✍️ IELTS Academic Writing – Complete Guide
⏱ Time Management
Task 1: 20 minutes (150 words)
Task 2: 40 minutes (250+ words) → more important
📊 Academic Writing Task 1
What you may get
Line graph | Bar chart | Pie chart | Table
Map
Process diagram
🔹 Band 7–9 Structure
Paragraph 1 – Introduction
Paraphrase the question (1 sentence)
Paragraph 2 – Overview (VERY IMPORTANT)
Biggest trends
Highest / lowest
Overall changes
❌ No numbers here
Paragraph 3 – Body 1
Specific data
Comparisons
Paragraph 4 – Body 2
Remaining details
📌 Useful Academic Vocabulary
Increase: rose sharply, climbed steadily
Decrease: declined gradually, fell dramatically
Stability: remained constant, showed little change
Comparison: in contrast, whereas, similarly
📝 Academic Writing Task 2 (Essay)
Common Question Types
Opinion (Agree / Disagree)
Discuss both views
Problem – Solution
Advantages – Disadvantages
🏗 Band 7–9 Essay Structure
Introduction
Paraphrase the topic
Clear thesis statement
Body Paragraph 1
Topic sentence
Explanation
Example
Body Paragraph 2
Topic sentence
Explanation
Example
Conclusion
Restate your opinion
Summarize key points
🔑 High-Scoring Linking Words
Furthermore, Moreover
However, On the other hand
As a result, Therefore
In conclusion, To sum up
🚫 Common Academic Mistakes
Informal words (kids, a lot, stuff)
Memorized answers
Weak conclusion
No clear opinion
🎯 Band 7+ Writing Formula
✔ Clear structure
✔ Logical ideas
✔ Accurate grammar
✔ Relevant examples
✔ Formal academic tone
IELTS Academic Writing Task 2
Question:
Some people believe that universities should focus only on academic subjects, while others think that practical skills are equally important. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Band 7–8 Sample Essay
Many people argue that the primary role of universities is to provide students with academic knowledge, whereas others believe that practical skills should also be given equal importance. This essay will discuss both perspectives before explaining why a balanced approach is more beneficial.
On the one hand, supporters of academic-focused education claim that universities are centres of theoretical learning and research. Subjects such as mathematics, physics, and philosophy require deep intellectual understanding, which can only be developed through rigorous academic study. Furthermore, strong theoretical foundations enable students to adapt to different professional fields in the future, especially in rapidly changing industries.
On the other hand, opponents argue that practical skills are essential for students to succeed in the modern job market. Employers often seek graduates who not only possess academic qualifications but can also apply their knowledge in real-world situations. For example, skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are highly valued across most professions. Without such abilities, graduates may struggle to secure employment despite having strong academic backgrounds.
In my opinion, universities should combine academic education with practical training. While theoretical knowledge forms the basis of higher education, practical skills help students become more confident and job-ready. Therefore, integrating internships, workshops, and project-based learning into university programs would prepare students more effectively for their future careers.
In conclusion, although academic subjects are fundamental to university education, practical skills are equally important. A balanced curriculum that includes both aspects is the most effective way to meet the demands of students and employers alike.
📘 100 IELTS Academic Vocabulary Words
🔹 General Academic Vocabulary (1–25)
Analyze
Approach
Assess
Assume
Benefit
Concept
Consist
Context
Contrast
Data
Define
Distribute
Establish
Evidence
Factor
Function
Identify
Indicate
Method
Occur
Principle
Process
Research
Respond
Significant
🔹 IELTS Writing Task 2 Vocabulary (26–50)
Advocate
Consequence
Controversial
Crucial
Debate
Demonstrate
Emphasize
Exceed
Impact
Implication
Incentive
Inevitably
Justify
Notion
Perspective
Prioritize
Proportion
Relevant
Restrict
Sustain
Trend
Valid
Widespread
Allocate
Decline
🔹 IELTS Academic Reading Vocabulary (51–75)
Abstract
Accurate
Category
Cite
Coherent
Compile
Complex
Comprehensive
Derive
Dimension
Distinct
Estimate
Explicit
Framework
Hypothesis
Illustrate
Interpret
Interval
Layer
Modify
Objective
Precise
Publish
Sequence
Stable
🔹 Advanced / Band 8–9 Vocabulary (76–100)
Albeit
Apparent
Arbitrary
Cope
Disparity
Emerge
Enhance
Feasible
Fluctuate
Inherent
Integrate
Magnitude
Negligible
Obsolete
Paradigm
Predominant
Robust
Scarce
Simultaneously
Substantial
Transform
Underlying
Unprecedented
Viable
Yield
✅ How to Use These Words Effectively
Use accuracy over quantity
Avoid memorizing blindly—practice in sentences
Use advanced words only where natural
Combine with clear grammar and coherence
Other Useful Official websites:
Official Ielts Website
British Council Website for IELTS
https://www.ielts.britishcouncil.org/
Book your IELTS TEST now!!
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