⚛️Success in the IELTS Writing test depends on understanding what sets apart the different band scores.      

Whether you're aiming for Band 6, 7, or higher, knowing how examiners evaluate your writing is essential for improvement. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between band scores, focusing on the four writing criteria: Task Achievement/Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy.

Plus, learn how to take your skills to the next level with Atomic IELTS and our free Atomic IELTS Writing Strategy Masterclass. 

⚛️ What Are the IELTS Writing Band Descriptors?

The IELTS Writing test is scored based on four equally weighted criteria:

1. Task Achievement/Task Response: How well do you address the question and develop ideas?

2. Coherence and Cohesion: Is your writing logically organised and well-connected?

3. Lexical Resource: Do you use a wide range of vocabulary appropriately?

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Is your grammar varied and accurate?

Each of these is scored from Band 0 to Band 9, and your overall writing band score is an average of the four.

⚛️ Breaking Down the Band Scores

Band 5: Limited Development

At Band 5, your writing:

• Only partially addresses the task (Task Achievement).

• Lacks logical organisation, with repetitive or overused linking words (Coherence and Cohesion).

• Uses basic vocabulary with errors and limited range (Lexical Resource).

• Shows frequent grammatical mistakes (Grammatical Range and Accuracy).

Example:
"Many people like technology. It is very helpful. But it also has bad things. For example, people use their phones too much."

Band 6: Basic but Clear

At Band 6, your writing:

• Addresses all parts of the task but may lack detailed development.

• Demonstrates some organisation, though connections might not always be smooth.

• Uses a mix of simple and some less common vocabulary with occasional errors.

• Displays basic grammatical variety with errors that may affect meaning.

Example:
"Technology is helpful for communication because it allows people to connect instantly. However, excessive use of mobile phones can lead to problems such as addiction and reduced social interaction."

Band 7: Well-developed and Clear

At Band 7, your writing:

• Fully addresses the task with relevant and well-supported ideas.

• Maintains logical organisation, using cohesive devices effectively.

• Demonstrates a range of vocabulary with occasional minor errors.

• Uses a variety of grammatical structures with generally high accuracy.

Example:
"Technology has revolutionised communication by enabling instant global connections. Despite these benefits, overuse of devices like smartphones can lead to negative consequences, such as addiction and reduced face-to-face interaction. To mitigate this, individuals should balance their time between technology and in-person activities."

Band 8: Sophisticated and Effortless

At Band 8, your writing:

• Addresses all aspects of the task with depth and precision.

• Is logically organised, with seamless flow and appropriate paragraphing.

• Uses a wide range of vocabulary naturally and accurately.

• Displays a high degree of grammatical control with rare errors.

Example:
"While technology has undoubtedly transformed the way we communicate, it has also introduced challenges such as screen addiction and reduced interpersonal connections. To address these issues, individuals must cultivate mindful technology use, striking a balance between digital and in-person interactions. Governments and educators also play a pivotal role in promoting awareness of these challenges."

⚛️ How to Improve Your IELTS Writing Band Score 

1. • Analyse the question carefully
     Ensure you fully understand the task requirements and address all parts of the question.

   • Focus on structure
     Use clear introductions, topic sentences, and conclusions. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea.

   • Expand your vocabulary
     Learn topic-specific words and practise using synonyms accurately to avoid repetition.

   • Improve your grammar
     Work on a variety of sentence structures, such as complex and compound sentences, while reducing errors.

   • Practise time management
     Spend around 20 minutes on Task 1 and 40 minutes on Task 2, leaving time to proofread.

⚛️ Learn More with the Atomic IELTS Writing Strategy Course  

Understanding band scores is just the beginning. To excel in IELTS Writing, you need the right strategies. Our Atomic IELTS Writing Strategy Course is designed to help students learn:

• How to meet the band descriptors for Band 7 and above.

• Advanced techniques for developing ideas and structuring your writing.

• Common mistakes to avoid in Task 1 and Task 2.