Writing Test Hints ... write directly on the given topic. Once you have accurately determined what the topic and the topic question is, keep to the topic throughout the entire piece of writing. ... write for the intended reader. This means you should write your answer in a formal academic style. For instance, if you are asked to write for a university lecturer, your answer must be written in the formal style expected. It is inappropriate to write in note form in the IELTS test (unless specifical