Every IELTS Writing Task 2 essay is marked on four criteria, and each one counts for 25% of the band. Here is what examiners look for in each one, in plain English, and what changes between band 6, 7 and 8.
1. Task Response
Did you answer the question the examiner asked?
- Band 6: answers all parts of the question, but some parts get more attention than others. Your position is clear but may not stay clear all the way through. Some ideas are not fully developed.
- Band 7: answers all parts. Your position is clear throughout. Main ideas are extended and supported, though some may be too general.
- Band 8: answers all parts fully, with well-developed ideas and relevant, specific support.
Common mistake: writing about the general topic instead of the exact question. If the question asks "To what extent do you agree?", say how much you agree in the introduction and keep that position to the end.
2. Coherence and Cohesion
Is your essay easy to follow?
- Band 6: organised with an overall progression, but linking can be mechanical (for example "Firstly… Secondly… Moreover…" in every paragraph). Paragraphs are not always logical.
- Band 7: ideas are logically organised and progress clearly. Paragraphs are generally used well to support the flow. Linking words are used well, with some over- or under-use.
- Band 8: sequencing is logical throughout, linking is natural, and paragraphing is used well.
Common mistake: starting every sentence with a linking word. Examiners prefer referencing (this, these, such) and natural connections over "Furthermore" everywhere.
3. Lexical Resource (vocabulary)
Do you use a good range of words accurately?
- Band 6: enough vocabulary for the task. You try some less common words, but with some mistakes in word choice, spelling or word formation. Mistakes do not stop the reader understanding.
- Band 7: enough range to be flexible and precise. You use some less common words and collocations (natural word partners), with awareness of style. Occasional mistakes.
- Band 8: a wide range used fluently and precisely, with only occasional mistakes in word choice or collocation.
Common mistake: memorised "advanced" phrases that do not fit. A natural, accurate word is better than a rare word used wrongly.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy
Do you use a mix of sentence types, with few errors?
- Band 6: a mix of simple and complex sentences, with some errors that rarely make the meaning unclear.
- Band 7: a variety of complex structures. Many sentences have no errors at all. Good control of grammar and punctuation, with a few errors.
- Band 8: a wide range of structures. Most sentences have no errors, and mistakes are only occasional.
Common mistake: long, complicated sentences full of errors. Band 7 needs many error-free sentences, so accuracy matters as much as complexity.
Other rules that affect your band
- Write at least 250 words. Essays under 250 words can lose marks.
- Spend about 40 minutes on Task 2. Task 2 counts for about twice as much as Task 1 in your Writing band.
- Write in full paragraphs. Bullet points and notes are not accepted as an essay.
- Stay on topic. Memorised paragraphs that do not answer the question are marked down.
Find out which criterion is holding you back
Most students have one criterion that is half a band or more below the others. The free BandIQ Writing Band Check gives you an estimated band for each of the four criteria, rewrites your weakest sentences, and tells you what to practise next.
Frequently asked questions
How is IELTS Writing Task 2 marked?
Examiners mark it on four criteria: Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Each counts for 25% of the Task 2 band.
What is the difference between band 6 and band 7 in Task 2?
At band 7 your position is clear throughout and your main ideas are extended and supported, your ideas progress clearly, you use some less common vocabulary with only occasional errors, and many of your sentences are error-free.
Do I lose marks for writing under 250 words?
Yes, essays under 250 words can lose marks, so aim for 260 to 300 words.
Does Task 2 count more than Task 1?
Yes. Task 2 counts for about twice as much as Task 1 in your Writing band.
Can I check my Task 2 band online for free?
Yes. The BandIQ Writing Band Check gives a free AI estimate for each criterion. It is a practice estimate, not an official IELTS score.