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How to Score Band 7 and Above in IELTS Writing Task 2 — A Complete Step-by-Step Guide Book a personal IELTS Writing evaluation with Shane Jordan — former British Council examiner and IDP certified trainer.👉 Schedule Your Assessment Why IELTS Writing Task 2 Feels So Tough Every IELTS candidate has the same love-hate relationship with Writing Task 2. It looks harmless — 250 words, 40 minutes — but most people walk out wondering what just happened. The truth? Writing Task 2 is less about fancy grammar and more about logic, planning, and clarity. Once you understand what the examiners actually reward, the path to Band 7 and above becomes much simpler. Step 1: Know What Examiners Score IELTS examiners use four criteria. Each carries equal weight. Criterion What It Means How to Impress Task Response You answered the question fully. Develop clear main ideas with evidence. Coherence & Cohesion Your essay flows logically. Use paragraphs, linking words, and topic sentences. Lexical Resource Your vocabulary range and precision. Use topic-specific words and collocations accurately. Grammar Range & Accuracy Your sentence variety and correctness. Mix complex and simple sentences; keep errors rare. (ALT Image: “IELTS Writing Task 2 band descriptors chart simplified”) Reference: IELTS Band Descriptors for Writing Step 2: Analyse Before You Write Spend the first 2 minutes understanding the question. Ask yourself: This single habit prevents off-topic answers — the biggest reason for scores stuck at 6.5. Step 3: Plan Like a Pro (3-5 Minutes Max) Write a quick skeleton plan: It might look like this: “I strongly agree that governments should invest more in public transport because it reduces pollution and improves urban life.” Now you already know your structure before writing a single sentence. Reference: IDP IELTS Tips on Planning Your Essay Step 4: Write Using This Proven Structure Introduction (2-3 Sentences) Example:“In recent years, urban traffic congestion has become a major concern. This essay agrees that governments should prioritise public transport to tackle this growing issue.” Body Paragraph 1 Body Paragraph 2 Conclusion Step 5: Write for Clarity — Not Complexity Band 7 writers sound confident because their ideas are organised, not because they use rare words. ✅ Use linking words naturally: However, In addition, As a result.❌ Avoid memorised phrases: It cannot be denied that … ✅ Use precise vocabulary: renewable energy, urban infrastructure, job satisfaction.❌ Avoid general fillers: a lot of, good, bad, many things. Step 6: Master the Five Essay Types Essay Type What It Asks What to Do Opinion (Agree/Disagree) “Do you agree or disagree?” Pick a side and justify with two reasons. Discussion (Both views) “Discuss both views and give your opinion.” Present both sides fairly before stating your own view. Advantages/Disadvantages “What are the advantages and disadvantages of …?” Cover both, then weigh them in your conclusion. Problem/Solution “What problems does this cause and how can they be solved?” Identify causes, then offer practical solutions. Two-Part (Double Question) Two questions in one prompt. Answer each clearly in separate paragraphs. Reference: British Council – Writing Task 2 Tips Step 7: Review Like an Examiner In your last five minutes: What Band 7 and Above Really Looks Like Band Level Key Positive Features Band 7 Presents a clear position; logically organised; uses a range of vocabulary and complex structures with occasional errors. Band 8 Fully addresses all parts of the task; cohesive and fluent; wide vocabulary and grammatical control with only minor errors. Band 9 Exceptionally clear, precise and coherent; no noticeable errors; natural use of idiomatic language and style. Reference: IELTS Writing Band Descriptors PDF Support Tools and Learning Resources Here’s a curated list of trustworthy sites that genuinely help you refine your writing: 🧠 Learn How to Paraphrase ✍️ Practise Summarising and Structuring 📚 Official IELTS Guidance Consistency Beats Luck The jump from 6.5 to 7 is usually one thing — consistency.If you plan properly, answer every part of the question, and develop each idea logically, you’ll hit Band 7 and above faster than you think. Practice with purpose, use the resources above, and get expert feedback whenever possible — it’s the surest way to write like someone who belongs in a university abroad or a skilled-migration shortlist. Ready to know your Writing band level?Book a personal IELTS Writing evaluation with Shane Jordan — former British Council examiner and IDP certified trainer.👉 Schedule Your Assessment