W08: Writing IELTS on computer: typing, no spellcheck, word counter

In Bangladesh, IELTS is now on computer. According to IDP Bangladesh, the paper-based test ended after 31 January 2026. That means you'll type your essays, not handwrite them. For students who write everything by hand at school and university, this is a big change. This lesson helps you get ready.

Why this matters

Typing changes how you write. Some students type faster than they write, which is great. Others are slow typists, or rely on autocorrect without realising it. If you only practise on paper, the computer test can feel strange and slow, and your score can suffer.

What's on the screen

• The task is shown on one part of the screen. You type your answer in a box.
• A word counter shows how many words you've written.
• A timer shows the time left.
• Basic editing is possible. Check exactly which tools are available in the official familiarisation test.
• You can usually move between Task 1 and Task 2.

What's not there

• No spellcheck. No red underlines.
• No grammar check.
• No autocorrect.

This is the big one. Many of us type on phones where autocorrect fixes our spelling silently. On the test computer, every spelling mistake stays. And spelling counts in your vocabulary score.

How to prepare

1. Practise typing your essays. At least half of your practice essays should be typed on a laptop.
2. Turn off spellcheck when you practise. In Word or Google Docs, you can turn off spelling suggestions. Practise with them off.
3. Learn to type without looking at the keys. You don't need to be very fast. But looking up and down wastes time and breaks your thinking.
4. Plan on paper first. You're usually given paper for notes. Use it to plan before typing.
5. Leave a blank line between paragraphs. It makes your structure clear to the examiner.

A note about the "Writing on Paper" option

The official IELTS website says a "Writing on Paper" option inside the computer test was planned from mid-2026 in selected countries, where you'd see the task on screen but handwrite your answer. It is not available for IELTS for UKVI. Check with British Council or IDP Bangladesh whether it's offered at your centre before you rely on it.

Good news about typing

• Editing is easier. You can fix a sentence without crossing out.
• Your writing is always clear to read.
• The word counter means no manual counting.

Try it yourself

Type this sentence without looking at the keyboard, then check for mistakes:

"The government should invest more in public transport because it reduces traffic and pollution in large cities."

How many typing mistakes did you make? How long did it take?

Honest note

On-screen tools and options can change, and centres may differ. Always do the official IELTS computer familiarisation test before your exam, and read your test centre's instructions.

Your task today

Type a full Task 2 essay on a laptop with spellcheck turned off. Then turn spellcheck on and count how many errors it finds.