IELTS Writing Band Descriptors: An Easy Guide for Students

Introduction

If you’ve ever wondered why your IELTS Writing score doesn’t quite match your expectations, the answer often lies in the band descriptors. These are the official scoring standards examiners use, and understanding them is the secret weapon to boosting your score. Once you know what examiners look for, you can write with purpose and avoid common mistakes.

The 4 IELTS Writing Band Criteria: What Examiners Really Look For

Every IELTS Writing Task 1 and Task 2 essay is judged on four equally weighted criteria:

1. Task Achievement / Task Response – Did you answer the question fully and appropriately?
2. Coherence and Cohesion – Is your writing logically organized and easy to follow?
3. Lexical Resource – Do you use a wide range of vocabulary accurately and naturally?
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy – Do you demonstrate control of grammar and sentence structures?

IELTS Writing Task 2 Band Descriptors Explained

Here’s a simplified table showing the key differences across Bands 5–9 for Task 2:

IELTS Writing Task 1 Band Descriptors Explained

The Key Difference Between an IELTS Writing Band 6 and a Band 7

This is the question most students care about. The leap from Band 6 to Band 7 is about control and clarity:

• Band 6: You answer the question, but ideas may be underdeveloped, vocabulary is adequate but limited, and grammar errors are noticeable.
• Band 7: You answer all parts of the question clearly, ideas are developed and supported, vocabulary is more flexible, and grammar errors are minor rather than distracting.

In short, Band 6 shows competence, but Band 7 shows confidence.

How to Use IELTS Writing Band Descriptors to Improve Your Score

• Self-check: After writing, ask yourself if you’ve met all four criteria.
• Target weak spots: If your grammar is strong but your vocabulary is limited, focus on expanding word choice.
• Practice with purpose: Don’t just write essays—write with the descriptors in mind.
• Get feedback: The easiest way to see how you perform against these descriptors is to get your essay analyzed. Our AI IELTS essay checker provides a detailed breakdown based on all four criteria →.

Conclusion

The IELTS Writing band descriptors aren’t just for examiners; they’re a roadmap for students. By understanding what each band requires, you can write smarter, not harder. And if you want to know exactly where you stand, try our AI essay checker for a personalized breakdown.