Recommended length of an essay

Most of time, instructions of IELTS writing task 2 includes "Write at least 250 words" as the last line. So while writing an essay for IELTS writing task 2, you should try to write more than 250 words.

Writing a short essay

Though there is no penalty for writing less words, writing a short essay may reduce score.

Writing a very long essay

You should try to write around 270-290 words. Though there is no upper limit on number of words, it is recommended not to write too much. You should focus on writing which answers required questions and addresses all required four criteria with good English. There is no higher scoring for longer essay. Also, if you write extra information which is not relevant to the question asked in the essay, it will lower your score.