Deleting Words in IELTS Writing

The IELTS Writing section comprises two parts including task 1 and task 2. Candidates need to be proficient in their grammar, style and language usage for proving their proficiency in the English language skills in IELTS Exam. The IELTS Writing section includes Academic Writing and general writing sections with task 1 and task 2 for both sections. IELTS Writing Task 1 includes infographic related questions which candidates need to interpret and write their response and letter writing in formal, semi-formal or informal pattern. IELTS Writing Task 2 includes essay writing based on a given topic which candidates need to endure a particular structure. However, candidates need to know whether it is possible to insert or delete words in the IELTS Writing section which the article would address.

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Is it Possible to Delete Words in IELTS Writing? 

Deleting words is absolutely normal within the IELTS Writing section. One can simply use a dense line to strike a word signifying that it has been removed. For the purpose of proofreading or editing the written document in IELTS General writing task 1 and task 2 or Academic Writing task 1 and task 2 sections, one can choose to delete a word. However, striking out the word you need to be removed should be understood clearly by the examiner thereby making sense out of the written sentence.

Using Ʌ to Insert New Words 

Candidates appearing in the IELTS exam and attempting the IELTS writing section can significantly also insert new words. It is acceptable to insert new words as it is acceptable to delete the words. Using a Ʌ for inserting a new word can be made ensuring that one is able to make a significant statement or sentence by inserting the word. However, whether they are attempting IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 and 2 or IELTS General Writing task 1 and 2, the use of the Ʌ should not be made frequently. It is suggested that candidates keep their answers neat and clear.

Avoid Messy Answers in IELTS Writing 

While deleting a word by drawing a line on it or inserting a word using Ʌ is acceptable in the IELTS Writing, it is essential for candidates to understand that they do not make their answer sheet messy. While writing in a clear and concise manner with least editing made would fetch them higher IELTS Band Score, making it messy might affect their band score in the exam. Examiners need to be provided with responses which are easy to understand which is not possible when too much proofreading is done.

Deleting a Word After Time Limit has Expired 

Candidates need to be aware that the IELTS writing section allows 60 minutes for the candidates to write their response. This includes 20 minutes for both IELTS General Writing Task 1 and IELTS General Writing task 2. Further, 40 minutes are provided for IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 and task 2. Candidates can only make changes within the stipulated time and no changes are allowed after time has expired.

Tips for Deleting or Inserting Words in IELTS Writing 

Candidates need to consider the time limitation while attempting the IELTS Writing section. Considering the need for deleting or inserting words for fixing errors, the following IELTS Preparation tips can be considered useful for the candidates:

• Do not spend too much time fixing or deleting errors
• Do not hesitate to make changes if considered absolutely necessary
• Spend enough time in preparing the answers before writing to avoid any kind of mistakes
• One might make use of a pencil to write the IELTS exam and avoid striking the errors
• Candidates need to ensure that they have made use of IELTS writing practice papers well enough to develop their writing skills hence, avoiding frequent errors and mistakes