This topic applies to both IELTS writing tasks (task 1 and task 2) for academic as well as general IELTS.

In today's IELTS playlist, you will learn how to use tenses correctly in your writing tasks.

Many errors in writing are to do with verb tenses. You must think critically about what tense to use in a sentence. When in doubt, go with the simpler tense.

Another tip: try not to change tenses within a paragraph (sometimes you must though), and definitely do not change tenses in the same sentence!


Click on the playlist below to start learning NOW!



As always, if you have any questions about this topic feel free to ask in the comments below or email us on [email protected]

Best of luck.

  1. Tushar Kumar 5 years ago

    Hi I have heard that our writing 2 task should be in past tense form please guide me regarding this as I am confused

    • Author
      IELTS Online Practice 5 years ago

      Dear Tushar,

      Your information is incorrect. There is no such rule about writing your essay in past tense. In fact, you need to showcase a range of grammatical structures including the use of variety of tenses.

      Hope this helps.

  2. Anonymous 4 years ago

    Hi Atul

    with regards to task 2, I’m unable to extend my body paragraphs or otherwise I always go off topic, please help me how to tackle with this issue, My exam is coming soon. I would be thankful for your valuable suggestion.


  3. Anonymous 4 years ago

    is there any specific tense in which writing task should be written

    • Author
      IELTS Online Practice 4 years ago

      You should use a variety of tenses to showcase the range of your English language skills.

      Try to use some conditional tenses eg. If it had rained the farmers would have made more profit.

      This will show that you are good at complex grammar.


  4. Jb 4 years ago

    Could you check and correct my writing sample for task 2? I need to get atleast an 8 band..plss..also include some feedback.. Thanks ! How can i send it to you Sir?

    • Author
      IELTS Online Practice 4 years ago

      I have emailed you the details.


      • Jb 4 years ago

        Got it! Thanks

      • Anonymous 4 years ago

        I have sent it Sir.. thanks a lot

  5. Anonymous 4 years ago

    Ive sent my piece. But it bounced back. ????

    • Author
      IELTS Online Practice 4 years ago

      Please try again. Type out your answer in the email if possible to avoid getting blocked by spam filters.

      • Anonymous 4 years ago

        Is it the same email Sir? TY

      • Anonymous 4 years ago

        do u provide multiple free assessments or just one?

  6. Anonymous 4 years ago

    Here is the writing task:
    Some people think that the government should pay one of the parents of very young children to stay at home to look after their children.
    What do you think would be the advantages and disadvantages of this policy?
    Write at least 250 word.

    Raising a child is a struggle these days. Raising children with only one supporting all the finances, on the other hand, is even more a struggle. If the government extends a hand financially to a parent at home while the other is working, it would be a welcome aid many family would be thankful for.
    If the government then offers help, there would be a collective growth of a ‘ sound ‘ family as the burden of paying huge expenses such as house bills is going to be trimmed down which eventually entails being able to comfortably buy the needed things for the young.
    Furthermore, they would have the best of time in rearing the child and seeing his overall potential, where their worries of allocating quality time for him has already been sufficed, if not answered before hand.
    The bad thing; however, is some working parents would probably not show so much of their hardwork, that is , instead of working hard for their family, they would likely be satisfied with how much they get in a day from actually being capable of getting more. Not that they would render extra hours if there’s none as it does not hurt to get a little bit more and have something in the future, which is always a good thing. Moreover, they would be less driven and might become complacent because again the importance of having to work hard is beyond them.
    In conclusion, while the policy may bring much of relief to some families, it is still, nevertheless, has its loopholes. But it, for sure, would somehow change a thing or two to a family,

    • Author
      IELTS Online Practice 4 years ago

      I have sent you the feedback. Please check your email for detailed suggestions.

      Task Achievement: 7
      Cohesion & Coherence: 5
      Lexical Resources: 5
      Grammar: 5

      Overall Task Score: 5.5

      You may need to practice more if you wish to achieve Band 7 or more in each section consistently.

  7. Anonymous 4 years ago

    That was underwhelming! Hehe .. like really? Im starting to doubt your competence as an ielts teacher.

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