TOEFL vs IELTS: Mastering Writing Styles in 2025

For students aiming to study or work abroad, English language proficiency tests like TOEFL and IELTS are crucial milestones. However, while both exams assess your ability to write in English, their writing sections require distinct approaches, structures, and skills. Understanding and mastering these differences can mean the difference between a good score and a great one.

In this in-depth guide, we'll break down the TOEFL vs IELTS writing styles and expectations for 2025. We'll cover:

• Task types and formats
• Scoring criteria and what evaluators look for
• Sample responses and model structures for high scores
• Practical tips to switch between TOEFL and IELTS writing styles
• Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
• How Essay Tutor can help accelerate your progress

Whether you're planning to take one or both exams, or are simply deciding which is right for your goals, read on for actionable advice.

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What Are the Key Differences in Writing Tasks Between TOEFL and IELTS?

TOEFL Writing: Digital, Direct, and Analytical

Format: The TOEFL writing test is fully computer-based. You'll type your essays in a digital interface using a standard QWERTY keyboard.

Tasks:

1. Integrated Writing Task (20 minutes): Summarize and synthesize information from a short reading and an audio lecture. You should not include your own opinion.
2. Independent Writing Task (30 minutes): Write an essay expressing and supporting your personal opinion on a given topic, typically framed as "Do you agree or disagree with the following statement...?".

What Makes TOEFL Writing Unique:

• Clarity and directness are prized.
• Responses are typically expected to be structured (often resembling the classic 5-paragraph essay).
• Grading is partially automated (using the e-rater system) alongside human checks, so issues like repetition, length, and ungrammatical phrasing are flagged quickly.
• You must be comfortable typing at a reasonable speed.

IELTS Writing: Handwritten Elegance and Argumentative Depth

Format: IELTS Writing may be handwritten (on paper) or typed (computer-delivered IELTS).

Tasks (Academic IELTS):

1. Task 1 (20 minutes): Describe, summarize, or explain information presented in a graph, table, chart, or diagram. (For General Training IELTS, Task 1 is a letter.)
2. Task 2 (40 minutes): Write an essay responding to a point of view, argument, or problem-often requiring you to discuss both sides, provide your own opinion, or analyze a situation in depth.

What Makes IELTS Writing Unique:

• Human examiners grade your responses, with subjective evaluation of your lexical and grammatical range.
• Essay formats are more flexible: discursive structures and addressing multiple viewpoints are encouraged.
• Clear and logical organization is vital, but variations in paragraphing and approach are welcome if well executed.
• Vocabulary usage, including use of advanced and topic-specific words, is a key factor for higher bands.

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Scoring Criteria: How Are TOEFL and IELTS Writing Marked in 2025?

TOEFL Writing Scoring

• Each essay is graded from 0 to 5, then these are converted into a total writing score out of 30.
• Scoring involves both a human rater and an automated e-rater (AI).
• Key criteria:
  • Task fulfillment (directly answering the prompt)
  • Organization and clarity
  • Use of supporting details and examples
  • Grammatical accuracy
  • Mechanical issues like spelling, punctuation, and length adherence

Important Note: Repetitive, highly formulaic, or too-short responses often receive harsh deductions by the e-rater. Errors that may seem minor to a human can still negatively impact your TOEFL score if caught by the system.

IELTS Writing Scoring

• Two separate tasks, each scored by trained human examiners on a scale of 0-9, then averaged (with Task 2 carrying more weight).
• Four equal criteria:
  1. Task achievement / response: Did you address all aspects?
  2. Coherence and cohesion: How logically and smoothly is your writing organized?
  3. Lexical resource: Breadth and accuracy of vocabulary, plus appropriate word choice.
  4. Grammatical range and accuracy: Avoid basic errors and show flexible sentence structures.
• Final writing band is averaged with reading, listening, and speaking.

IELTS examiners are trained to judge your lexical and grammatical range with some subjectivity, so "showing off" complex vocabulary or grammar can boost, but errors from risk-taking can also hurt.

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Typical Task Styles, with Model Structures & Sample Responses

Let's look at how TOEFL and IELTS writing styles differ in practice.

TOEFL Integrated Writing: Summarize, Don't Argue

Prompt:
Read a short passage on an academic topic, then listen to a lecture on the same topic with contrasting information. Summarize the main points in the lecture and explain how they challenge points in the reading.

Recommended Structure:

1. Introduction: Summarize topic and overall relationship between lecture and reading.
2. Body Paragraph 1: First main point-how lecture contradicts or supports the reading.
3. Body Paragraph 2: Second main point, with details.
4. (Optional) Third body paragraph: Third main point.
5. Conclusion: Short summary or restatement.

Sample (Excerpt):

The lecturer casts doubt on the main points made in the reading passage, arguing that group projects do not always increase creativity or speed. Firstly, the lecture states that some members may "free-ride", doing less work but sharing credit, which contradicts the reading's claim that teams are more efficient...

Tips:

• Use clear, neutral language with academic connectors ("however", "on the other hand", "contradicts", "supports").
• DO NOT include personal opinions.
• Stay within the recommended word count (150-225 words).

TOEFL Independent Writing: Opinion-based and Direct

Prompt:
Do you agree or disagree: "Always telling the truth is the most important consideration in any relationship"? Support your answer with specific reasons and examples.

Recommended Structure:

1. Introduction: Restate the question and present your thesis (do you agree or disagree?).
2. Body Paragraph 1: First main reason with supporting details/examples.
3. Body Paragraph 2: Second reason, with elaboration.
4. (Optional) Body Paragraph 3: Counterpoint or additional supporting reason.
5. Conclusion: Restate thesis and main reasons.

Sample (Excerpt):

In my opinion, always telling the truth is vital in relationships because it builds trust and credibility. For example, if someone discovers even a small lie, it can undermine years of trust. Although "white lies" may seem harmless, they can grow into larger issues...

Tips:

• Maintain the 5-paragraph format unless your arguments better fit a different logical plan.
• Make your opinion clear from the start.
• Use examples, but keep them focused and relevant.

IELTS Academic Writing Task 2: Discursive Depth and Range

Prompt:
"Many people believe that social networking sites have a negative effect on both individuals and society. To what extent do you agree or disagree?"

Recommended Structure:

• Introduction: Paraphrase the question and state your viewpoint. In IELTS, partial agreement (i.e., "I agree for individuals but not for society") is acceptable if well argued.
• Body Paragraph 1: Discuss one aspect (e.g., impact on individuals).
• Body Paragraph 2: Discuss the other aspect (e.g., impact on society), or provide arguments from the opposite perspective if needed.
• (Optional) Body Paragraph 3: Present your opinion with nuanced arguments.
• Conclusion: Summarize your position.

Sample (Excerpt):

While many argue that social media mainly creates disadvantages, I believe that it offers key benefits to individuals by increasing connectivity and information flow, though its influence on society at large is more ambiguous. Individuals can easily keep in contact with family abroad, but as communities spend less time together offline, social ties may weaken...

Tips:

• Go beyond the basic structure if you can add nuanced analysis or balanced viewpoints.
• Use a more "academic" and formal tone, with smooth transitions.
• Show a range of vocabulary and grammatical constructions.
• Practice paraphrasing the question without repeating key words.

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Description and Analysis

Prompt:
Summarize the information below, describing the main trends in a graph showing the number of international students in three countries over a 10-year period.

Recommended Structure:

• Introduction: Paraphrase the visual prompt.
• Overview: Summarize the main trends.
• Body Paragraphs: Group and describe specific details.
• Conclusion: (Optional-depends on space).

Sample:

The chart illustrates the number of international students in Australia, the UK, and Canada between 2015 and 2025. Overall, Australia saw the most significant rise, while Canada's numbers remained relatively stable...

Tips:

• Avoid analysis, opinion, or recommendations-describe objectively.
• Use data grouping and comparisons ("whereas", "in contrast").
• Practise writing within the 20-minute time limit and within the lines for paper-based tests.

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TOEFL vs IELTS Writing: Key Skills and Preparation Tips

Typing vs Handwriting

• TOEFL: Requires fast, accurate typing. Practice on a QWERTY keyboard, build speed.
• IELTS: Often handwritten (unless computer-based version chosen). Practice neat, legible handwriting, staying within line boundaries. Ensure speed and clarity for a 250-300 word essay.

Summarizing & Paraphrasing

• TOEFL: Integrated task demands tight summaries and precise referencing of both reading/audio sources.
• IELTS: Task 1 is pure summarization; Task 2 expects you to paraphrase statements and vary your language.

Expressiveness vs Directness

• TOEFL: Favors straightforward, explicit thesis statements and reasons. Middle-of-the-road formality: not as discursive as IELTS.
• IELTS: Allows for more nuanced and discursive argumentation. Higher bands require sophistication in argument structure, lexical resource, and flexibility in format.

Practice Typing and Summarizing (TOEFL) / Practice Handwriting and Multiple Essay Structures (IELTS)

If you're used to IELTS but now preparing for TOEFL:

• Practice summarizing written and spoken sources.
• Time yourself while typing essays to avoid running short on words.
• Focus on directly answering prompts in the first sentence.

If you're used to TOEFL but now taking IELTS:

• Practice writing longform essays by hand, focusing on handwriting neatness and speed.
• Develop a discursive argument-learn to weigh both sides and express nuanced opinions.
• Expand your use of linkers, synonyms, and advanced vocabulary. Review marking criteria especially for "Lexical Resource" and "Coherence and Cohesion."

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Common Writing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

For TOEFL

• Too short or incomplete essays: The AI will penalize brevity harshly.
• Formulaic, repetitive wording: The e-rater flags repetition and lack of paraphrasing.
• Straying from the prompt: Especially on the integrated task, never give personal opinions.

For IELTS

• Writing off topic or only repeating the prompt: Examiners want original paraphrasing and direct response.
• Overly rigid structure: Higher bands welcome varied essay organization if ideas remain clear.
• Inaccurate or unnatural vocabulary: Using memorized "fancy" words incorrectly can lower your score.
• Inadequate development of both sides: For discussion or "to what extent" essays, develop each point sufficiently.
• Poor handwriting (paper-based): Illegible writing leads to misinterpretation and potential point loss.

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How to Switch Between TOEFL and IELTS Writing Styles

Key Transition Strategies

• Adapt your introduction: On TOEFL, directly state your opinion. On IELTS, include some background/context with more nuanced paraphrasing.
• Modify your conclusion: TOEFL is more mechanical ("In conclusion, I believe..."). IELTS can recap and offer a final reflection.
• Pay attention to length: IELTS essays over 300 words can become unfocused. TOEFL expects you to reach the word minimum for both tasks.
• Vary your use of examples: TOEFL likes specific, real-world or academic examples; IELTS allows broader societal observations or personal experiences, acknowledging general trends.
• Be flexible: TOEFL expects direct, brief, and formulaic answers; IELTS rewards originality, fluency, and discursive reasoning.

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Model Side-by-Side Comparison Table

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Using Essay Tutor to Rapidly Improve Both TOEFL and IELTS Writing

Navigating the unique requirements of both TOEFL and IELTS writing can feel overwhelming. That's where tools like Essay Tutor (study.essaytutor.app) make a measurable difference.

• Automatic, exam-style prompts: Get instant practice in both TOEFL and IELTS formats.
• Grammar and syntax corrections: See where your sentences lack fluency or accuracy, crucial for both scoring systems.
• Word and phrase enhancement: Elevate your lexical range for IELTS, refine awkward or repetitive phrasing for TOEFL.
• Score estimation: Get realistic feedback aligned with each test's marking scheme.
• Targeted feedback: Instantly see if you're too formulaic for IELTS, or if you've strayed off-topic for TOEFL.
• Flexible with task types: Switch between integrated, independent, discursive, opinion, and graph description essays, depending on your focus.

For students preparing for high-stakes exams in 2025, spending time on focused, feedback-driven practice is far more effective than rote learning or passive reading.

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FAQs: TOEFL vs IELTS Writing

Should I Take TOEFL or IELTS?

Consider:

• Which test is accepted at your universities/jobs.
• Your comfort with typing vs handwriting.
• Your ability to quickly summarize and synthesize (TOEFL) or argue deeply and flexibly (IELTS).

How Can I Prepare for Both TOEFL and IELTS Writing?

Switch your practice mode:

• For TOEFL, hone concise summaries. Practice typing for speed and accuracy.
• For IELTS, build your argument flexibility and your formal vocabulary range. Practice writing by hand under time limits.

What Are Common TOEFL Writing Mistakes?

• Failing to fully summarize both reading/listening sources.
• Expressing your opinion in the integrated task.
• Answering with a "template" and little substance.

What Are Common IELTS Writing Mistakes?

• Not responding directly or fully to all parts of the question.
• Repeating the question verbatim.
• Using memorized big words incorrectly for lexical resource.
• Lack of logical links between ideas.

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Conclusion: Your Roadmap to Writing Success in 2025

Understanding the fundamental differences between TOEFL and IELTS writing-from structure and content to scoring and style-can help you tailor your preparation efficiently and score higher on test day.

• TOEFL values clarity, directness, logical structure, and error-free digital writing.
• IELTS prizes formal, nuanced argumentation, flexibility in structure, and lexical richness, often in handwriting.
• Both require you to address prompts fully, organize logically, and avoid mechanical mistakes.

If you're preparing for either exam-or both-make sure you practice the right writing style and approach for each. Use modern tools like Essay Tutor to get immediate, actionable feedback. Every well-practiced essay brings you closer to your goals.

Ready to boost your practice and see real results?
Visit Essay Tutor today-get tailored, exam-like writing tasks, instant feedback, and expert suggestions for both TOEFL and IELTS essays.
Happy writing, and good luck on your journey to English mastery!