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10 Important Steps To Pass IELTS Writing IELTS

Published

1 year ago

October 25, 2024

Editor

Whether you take the general training or academic IELTS test, adequate preparation is required to achieve a high score. The IELTS writing test is divided into two sections: Task 1 is in a red answer booklet and Task 2 is in a black answer booklet, and both must be completed within 60 minutes.

To ensure fairness and accuracy while grading IELTS writing tasks, the exam body has assigned at least two seasoned IELTS examiners to review your script.

The criteria that examiners look out for are coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, grammatical range, and accuracy, and each of these criteria is worth 25 percent of your total score for the essay writing task. Both of your writing tasks are used to calculate your overall writing band score.

Plan your time

You have 60 minutes to complete two tasks, as Task 1 takes 20 minutes and Task 2 is allocated 40 minutes. Task 2 carries more marks, so devote more time to planning and writing it.

You should spend 5-10 minutes reading the essay question and planning your response. Spend 15 to 20 minutes composing your first draft and another 10 minutes revising and editing your essay. This simple plan will help you manage your time effectively in the IELTS writing test.

Read the question carefully

Before you start writing, take a moment to read the question thoroughly. Once you understand the question, ensure you answer all aspects of the task correctly. Task 1 mainly requires you to describe data or processes, while Task 2 asks for your opinion or arguments. Read carefully and identify the core elements of each task so you do not misinterpret the questions.

Highlight the issues to address

To stay focused on the task, look for trends, comparisons, or specific details to describe the key points or issues you need to cover in Task 1. In Task 2, identify the viewpoints, arguments, or examples you’ll need to include in your essay.

Draft your answers

Make a quick plan or outline before you start writing. Choose a pattern in which you show the data, trends, or steps for Task 1. Outline your primary contention, illustrative evidence, and examples in Task 2. Writing down your responses in advance helps you arrange your ideas and guarantees that they make sense. Remember the general rule of ease: the introduction, body, and conclusion, and ensure you write above the required number of words.

Show off your vocabulary

Having a wide vocabulary is crucial to getting a good band score. To show that you are proficient in the language, use exact and varied words, but stay away from words that are too complicated or unusual. To successfully communicate your ideas, use synonyms and phrases appropriate for the situation rather than repeating the same words.

Use a mix of sentence structures

Use a range of sentence constructions because IELTS examiners evaluate your level of grammar knowledge. You may prove your proficiency with various grammatical forms by using basic, compound, and complex sentences. The variety not only makes your writing better but also shows that you can express yourself clearly and concisely.

Perfect your punctuation

Good use of punctuation like colons, semicolons, commas, and periods correctly is a key component of clear writing that will help your writing flow naturally and prevent misunderstandings. Take extra care when writing complex sentences and lists, making sure your punctuation is correct to enhance the readability of your work.

Know when to use formal language

Avoid the use of slang, contractions (e.g., “won’t,” “can’t”), and overly casual expressions, and ensure that your tone should be formal and academic in answering both tasks. But it’s important to strike a balance; avoid using too complicated vocabulary in your writing simply to make it seem formal. Keep your language simple, clear, and appropriate for the task.

Edit your essay

After writing, pause to check your work for mistakes or areas that need improvement and check the coherence, clarity, and relevancy. Ensure that your thoughts are coherent and that every aspect of the question has been answered.

Proofread your essay

The proofreading stage is the last one. Make sure your essay is free of spelling, grammar, and inappropriatephrasing flaws. Your writing will be polished and professional if you proofread it. A comprehensive assessment can significantly impact your final band score because minor mistakes can reduce your overall score.
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JAPA: Top Six Countries To Obtain Easiest Citizenship

Published

1 day ago

December 30, 2025

Editor

As a Nigerian considering relocation plans, interest in countries with clear and less complicated citizenship pathways is a smart way to not just guarantee greener pastures, but also provide you with the opportunity to feel more at home in a foreign land. While some of the programmes are ancestry-based, others allow Nigerians with such a link to try other means.

Contents
1. Dominica
2. Ireland
3. Turkey
4. Portugal
5. Vanuatu
6. Italy
Though rules vary widely across borders, some nations stand out for offering citizenship through investment or family ties with fewer hurdles and faster processing timelines.

Below are the top six countries with the easiest citizenship:

1. Dominica
Dominica operates a citizenship-by-investment programme that allows applicants to qualify through a contribution to the government’s Economic Diversification Fund or by investing in approved real estate. Processing typically takes a few months. Citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including the Schengen Zone. There is no residency requirement, and dual citizenship is permitted.

2. Ireland
Ireland provides a clear citizenship pathway for individuals with Irish ancestry. Those with an Irish-born parent qualify automatically, while people with an Irish-born grandparent can apply through the Foreign Births Register. An Irish passport grants full European Union rights, including freedom of movement across EU countries. Dual citizenship is allowed, and there is no language requirement for applicants applying by descent.

3. Turkey
Turkey offers a fast-track citizenship option through investment. Foreign nationals who purchase qualifying real estate valued at a minimum of $400,000 can obtain citizenship within a few months. The programme does not require residency or renunciation of an existing nationality. Turkish passport holders have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to several countries, with ongoing efforts to expand travel agreements.

4. Portugal
Portugal’s Golden Visa programme provides a residency-to-citizenship route for foreign investors. After five years of legal residence and meeting programme conditions, applicants may apply for citizenship. Approved investment options include venture capital funds and other qualifying assets. Successful applicants gain an EU passport, access to the Schengen Area, and dual citizenship, subject to passing a basic Portuguese language test.

5. Vanuatu
Vanuatu runs one of the world’s fastest citizenship programmes. Through its Development Support Programme, eligible applicants can receive citizenship in as little as two months after making the required financial contribution. The country offers visa-free access to over 100 destinations and has no tax on global income or capital gains. Residency requirements are minimal.

6. Italy
Italy grants citizenship by descent to individuals with an Italian parent or grandparent, following a 2025 legal update that tightened eligibility rules. Applicants must provide official documents proving a direct family link to an Italian ancestor. Italian citizenship comes with full EU rights, wide visa-free travel, and the ability to pass citizenship to future generations. Dual nationality is allowed, and no language test is required for descent-based applications.
(Tribune)

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Japa: 5 Affordable European Countries Nigerians Can Relocate To

Published

1 day ago

December 30, 2025

Editor

As economic pressures continue to mount, many Nigerians are increasingly exploring relocation as a path toward stability, better opportunities, and an improved quality of life. However, traditional destinations such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States are becoming more difficult to access due to rising living costs and stricter visa policies.

Contents
1. Slovakia
2. Latvia
3. Portugal
4. Hungary
5. Georgia

But beyond these popular options, several lesser-known European countries are emerging as affordable and welcoming alternatives. Offering low tuition fees, flexible visa policies, and a reasonable cost of living, these nations are becoming attractive relocation choices for Nigerians seeking balance and opportunity.

In this article, Tribune Online highlights five budget-friendly countries Nigerians can consider for relocation:

1. Slovakia
Located in Central Europe, Slovakia combines stability, safety, and simplicity; three factors often missing in high-pressure relocation destinations.

Though it may not feature prominently on social media relocation lists, Slovakia’s affordability and accessibility make it a hidden gem. Students enjoy low tuition fees, while residents benefit from proximity to major European cities like Vienna and Prague. For Nigerians seeking structure and affordability, Slovakia provides a peaceful yet practical alternative.

2. Latvia
The Baltic nation of Latvia is fast becoming a preferred destination for international students and skilled professionals. Known for its low living costs and straightforward residence procedures, Latvia offers a convenient entry point into the European Union.

Riga, its capital city, blends historic charm with modern infrastructure, providing an ideal environment for studying, working, or gradually transitioning to other parts of Europe.

3. Portugal
Situated on Europe’s western coast, Portugal is one of the continent’s most liveable and affordable countries. Known for its mild weather, safety, and reasonable living costs, Portugal offers a soft landing for Nigerians looking to relocate without excessive financial strain. The country’s friendly visa policies and welcoming atmosphere make it ideal for students, remote workers, and small business owners. Beyond its scenic beauty, Portugal provides what many Nigerians desire: peace of mind and an easier start abroad.

4. Hungary
Hungary has quietly become a top choice for international students, offering quality education at affordable tuition rates. Living costs are significantly lower than in Western Europe, and cities like Budapest, Szeged, and Debrecen provide vibrant yet budget-friendly environments.

For Nigerians looking to relocate through education, Hungary offers a realistic and sustainable path toward long-term settlement in Europe.

5. Georgia
For Nigerians seeking an easy transition abroad, Georgia presents one of the smoothest relocation routes. The country allows Nigerians to stay visa-free for up to one year, eliminating embassy interviews and lengthy paperwork.

Located between Europe and Asia, Georgia offers a blend of natural beauty and affordability. Rent, transport, and food costs remain moderate, making it an excellent base for digital nomads and young professionals.

As migration trends evolve, success now depends on flexibility and strategic planning. While the dream of relocating abroad remains strong, the path doesn’t always have to lead through the UK or Canada. For Nigerians ready to look beyond the familiar, Europe’s quieter corners still offer accessible and rewarding opportunities.

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Insecurity: US Congressman Riley Moore Reveals Trump’s Mission In Nigeria

Published

2 days ago

December 29, 2025

Editor

US Congressman Riley Moore has dismissed insinuations that President Donald Trump is attempting to bring war to Nigeria.

Moore made the remark in a post on his verified X handle on Monday.

His comments followed a US military airstrike on a terrorist enclave in north-west Nigeria on Christmas Day, reportedly carried out on the directive of President Trump.

“President Trump is not trying to bring war to Nigeria, he’s bringing peace and security to Nigeria and to the thousands of Christians who face horrific violence and death.

“The strikes against ISIS on Christmas, in coordination with the Nigerian government, have given hope to the Christians in Nigeria,” he said.

Recall that the lawmaker had previously stated that President Trump is focused on ending the killing of Christians in Nigeria.

It will be recalled that Moore led a US delegation on a fact-finding mission into alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria some weeks ago.

During his brief stay in the country, Moore travelled to Benue State, where he interfaced with religious and traditional leaders, as well as internally displaced persons.