From Band 6 to Band 7 in Writing: what actually changes
The difference between Band 6 and Band 7 Writing, criterion by criterion, with examples of how to make each change.
By IELTSora teaching team · Updated · 2 min read
The gap in one sentence
Band 6 writing communicates clearly but with some weaknesses in development, linking or accuracy. Band 7 writing presents a clear position throughout, develops and supports ideas, uses linking flexibly, and produces frequent error-free sentences.
Criterion by criterion
- Task Response: extend each main idea with a reason and a specific example, rather than adding more ideas.
- Coherence and Cohesion: one clear topic per paragraph; fewer, better-chosen linking words; use reference words like "this trend".
- Lexical Resource: precise topic words and natural collocations, with few word-form errors.
- Grammar: a mix of complex sentences, with most sentences error-free.
One paragraph, two bands
Band 6 → Band 7
Band 6: Online learning is good. It is cheap and flexible. Also many people can study. So it is very useful.
Band 7: Online learning makes education accessible to people who could not otherwise attend classes. A parent working full-time, for example, can complete a course in the evenings, which would be impossible with a fixed timetable.
How to practise
Rewrite one of your own Band 6 paragraphs, focusing on one criterion at a time. Then compare the two versions using the criteria checklist in the Writing workspace.
What doesn't help
Some popular advice wastes time at this level:
- Writing much longer essays: 270–300 words is enough; more words mean more chances for errors.
- Memorising rare words: if they don't fit naturally, they lower Lexical Resource.
- Adding a fifth paragraph of extra ideas: development beats quantity.
- Using complex grammar everywhere: accuracy matters as much as range.