Don’t spend more than 20 mins on task 1. Keep checking the time so you don’t make this mistake. You need 40 mins for task 2.
Always write over 150 words for task 1 and over 250 words for task 2. See this lesson about the recommended word count.
Don’t count the number of words, count the lines and estimate your word count.
You can plan your essay on the question paper. No extra paper is given for planning. The examiner will not look at your planning, only at your essay.
Always write a clear overview for task 1 academic. See here about the conclusion/overview issue.
Always write your conclusion for task 2. Never miss it out. If you only have 3 mins left, use it to write your conclusion.
Always organise your writing for both tasks into body paragraphs. Check your spelling. You can use either American or British spelling.