How is IELTS Writing scored, and how can I raise my writing band from 6 to 7?
Each task is marked against four criteria, with Task 2 worth twice as much as Task 1. Moving from 6 to 7 usually means removing persistent limitations rather than adding rare vocabulary: cover every part of the task with a clear overview or position, replace mechanical linking with logical order
Each task is marked against four criteria, with Task 2 worth twice as much as Task 1. Moving from 6 to 7 usually means removing persistent limitations rather than adding rare vocabulary: cover every part of the task with a clear overview or position, replace mechanical linking with logical order and reference, and reduce errors until error-free sentences are frequent.
To find your limiting criterion, mark your own answer against two descriptor levels at the same time. If two criteria sit at 6 while the others reach 7, the average stays at 6.5, so fix the weakest criterion first and leave the stronger ones alone.
IELTS Writing Band Descriptors and How to Raise Your Score →