I heard it, but how many words do I write?
Keep to the word limit and make sure your answer fits the gap.
2 min read · Updated 9/8/2026
The key idea
Don't go over the maximum given in the instructions. ONE WORD ONLY means one word, and NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS means at most two words.
Don't repeat in your answer a word that is already in the sentence. When you put in your answer, check that the whole sentence comes out correctly.
The IELTS instructions may state separately whether words and numbers are allowed. Don't automatically carry a rule that works in one task over to the next group of questions.
See an example
Sample audio: You'll need comfortable shoes for the walk.
Question: Wear comfortable ___ .
Instruction: ONE WORD ONLY.
Answer: shoes. Comfortable shoes is two words, and comfortable is already in the question.
Now you try
Listening practice
Computer narration for practice. Listen first, then open the transcript.
Listen to the audio. Write ONE WORD ONLY in each gap.
- Bring a water ___ .
- Wear a ___ .
After writing your answers, read the questions as full sentences.
A personal draft. It is not saved when you leave or automatically graded.
Show transcript
Show transcript
For the walk, bring a water bottle. It will be sunny, so wear a hat. You do not need to bring any food.
Reveal the answer and explanation
Answer and explanation
- bottle — water is already given in the question.
- hat — it is advised for sunny weather.
If you write water bottle in the first gap, you both go over the limit and end up with “water water bottle”. Hearing the right information is not enough; you also have to write it down according to the instructions.
How do I follow the route when listening to directions?
Official sources for this topic
IELTS · Listening