Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
The rule, source by source
Every official source reads the same way. The difference is only how much detail each gives.
| Source | What it says |
|---|---|
| ielts.org Academic Writing | You must write your answers using full sentences and must not write them as notes or bullet points; you will be penalised if your answer is not a whole piece of connected text |
| ielts.org General Training Writing | You must not write your answers as notes or bullet points; same penalty wording |
| Writing key assessment criteria | Scripts may be penalised if not written as full, connected text, e.g. using bullet points in any part of the response, or note form |
| IDP Writing FAQ | It is not a good idea to use numbered lists; use full sentences, connecting words and paragraphs |
Why it matters for your band
Bullets remove the linking that Coherence and Cohesion rewards. That criterion assesses paragraphing, logical sequencing and discourse markers such as 'First of all' and 'as a result' (key assessment criteria). The band descriptors also mark down an inappropriate format: 'The format may be inappropriate' is a bolded, rating-limiting feature at band 4 (band descriptors).
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The General Training letter bullets
In General Training Task 1, the task tells you what to include 'in the form of three bullet points' (ielts.org). You answer each point in full sentences inside the letter. Task Achievement checks that you 'fully address the three bullet-pointed requirements' (key assessment criteria), and band 4 describes a letter where not all of them are presented.
You can still plan in note form. On computer you may use the note-taking tool, and examiners do not see those notes, per ielts.org.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use bullet points just for my conclusion?+
No. The key assessment criteria say bullet points in any part of the response are not appropriate.
Can I number my reasons 1, 2, 3?+
IDP advises against numbered lists. Use paragraphs and linking words such as firstly and secondly inside sentences instead.
Can I use headings in IELTS Writing?+
The official pages do not mention headings. They require full, connected text in sentences and paragraphs, so keep the answer in that form.
Can I plan in bullet points?+
Yes. Planning notes are fine; on computer the note-taking tool is not seen by the examiner. Only the answer itself must be connected text.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS Writing test format
- Do paragraphs matter in IELTS Writing?
- IELTS General Training letter samples
- All 3112 guides
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