Rules, comparisons and data

Do words copied from the question count in IELTS Writing?

No. The official Writing band descriptors say 'any copied rubric must be discounted', so sentences lifted from the task do not count towards your answer. Leaning on wording from the question also appears as a weakness in Lexical Resource at bands 4 and 3. IDP advises paraphrasing the question in your introduction instead of copying it.
  • Guide updated · 30 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS
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Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026

What the descriptors say

The Writing band descriptors include 'Any copied rubric must be discounted' under band 1 of Task Achievement and Task Response, for both Task 1 and Task 2. The rubric is the task wording printed in the question.

Copying also shows up in the language criteria, as the table shows.

BandCriterionOfficial wording
4Lexical ResourceThere may be inappropriate use of lexical chunks (e.g. memorised phrases, formulaic language and/or language from the input material)
3Lexical ResourcePossible over-dependence on input material or memorised language
3Grammatical Range and AccuracyErrors predominate (except in memorised phrases or those taken from the input material)
1Task Achievement / Task ResponseAny copied rubric must be discounted

Copying and the word count

ielts.org sets minimums of 150 and 250 words (ielts.org). Because copied rubric is discounted, an introduction that repeats the question does not move you closer to those minimums in the examiner's eyes. IDP India notes that markers count every word you write (IDP India).

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What to do instead

IDP India's advice for both tasks is to paraphrase the question in your introduction, 'expressing the question in your own words' (IDP India). Its Writing tips also list copying vocabulary from the test book as something that hurts Lexical Resource (IDP India).

Using a topic word from the question is not the problem; reproducing whole phrases or sentences is. Plagiarism from another source is treated more seriously still: ielts.org says plagiarised writing is severely penalised.

Frequently asked questions

Can I copy the question as my first sentence?+

You can, but the descriptors say copied rubric is discounted, so it adds nothing to your answer. Paraphrasing it shows vocabulary instead.

Can I reuse key words from the question?+

The descriptors target copied rubric and over-dependence on input material. IDP suggests using synonyms and paraphrase so your answer is in your own words.

Do copied words count towards 250 words?+

The descriptors say copied rubric must be discounted, so do not rely on it to reach the minimum.

Is copying from a memorised model essay allowed?+

No. Plagiarism is severely penalised, and band 0 is used where there is proof an answer was totally memorised.

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Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.

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