📊 IELTS Writing Task 2 Band Descriptors Explained in Detail

Scoring well in the IELTS Writing Task 2 requires more than just answering the question — it requires meeting specific criteria set by the official band descriptors. These descriptors are used by examiners to assess your performance across four key areas. Understanding them is essential for anyone aiming to achieve Band 7 or above.

In this guide, we break down each IELTS writing band descriptor and explain how you can meet the requirements through structure, vocabulary, grammar, and logic. Whether you're preparing for the academic or general IELTS, these scoring principles apply.

🔍 What Are IELTS Writing Band Descriptors?

IELTS Writing Task 2 is scored based on four official criteria. Each criterion is worth 25% of your total writing score. The final band score is the average of these four.

• Task Response
• Coherence and Cohesion
• Lexical Resource
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy

Each is scored from Band 0 to Band 9, and each level has specific characteristics examiners look for. Let's go through each one.

🧩 1. Task Response

This criterion checks how well you have answered the question and developed your argument. It includes:

• Relevance: Did you address the task directly?
• Position: Did you clearly state your opinion (if required)?
• Development: Are your ideas well-supported and explained?
• Length: Is your response at least 250 words?

Band 7+ Tips:

• Present a clear thesis in the introduction
• Stick to the question — avoid going off-topic
• Support each idea with examples or explanations
• Address all parts of the question — e.g., both views, advantages/disadvantages, etc.

🔗 2. Coherence and Cohesion

This refers to how logically ideas are connected and how well you use linking devices to guide the reader through your writing.

Coherence is about logical flow and clarity. Cohesion is about grammar and vocabulary that connect your sentences smoothly.

Band 7+ Tips:

• Use paragraphs properly (1 idea = 1 paragraph)
• Begin paragraphs with topic sentences
• Use connectors: however, moreover, in contrast, therefore, etc.
• Maintain a logical order: introduction → body → conclusion
• Avoid overusing linking words

🧠 3. Lexical Resource (Vocabulary)

This assesses your range and accuracy of vocabulary:

• Using less common and academic vocabulary appropriately
• Paraphrasing the question and avoiding repetition
• Collocations (e.g., “global crisis,” “widespread issue”)
• Spelling and word form accuracy

Band 7+ Tips:

• Use synonyms where appropriate (e.g., “solution” → “measure,” “intervention”)
• Don’t use words you’re unsure of — clarity is more important
• Practice topic-based vocabulary (e.g., education, environment, technology)
• Avoid slang and contractions

🛠️ 4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy

This criterion assesses:

• The variety of sentence structures you use
• Use of complex and compound sentences
• Grammar accuracy (tenses, articles, prepositions, etc.)
• Punctuation

Band 7+ Tips:

• Use a mix of simple, compound, and complex sentences
• Review common grammar mistakes (e.g., subject-verb agreement)
• Use passive voice when appropriate (e.g., “It is believed that…”)
• Proofread to catch avoidable grammar slips

📈 How Is the Final Band Score Calculated?

Each criterion receives a band score, and the average of the four is your final Writing Task 2 score.

Example:

• Task Response: 7
• Coherence and Cohesion: 6.5
• Lexical Resource: 7
• Grammar: 6.5
• Final Score: (7 + 6.5 + 7 + 6.5) / 4 = 6.75 → Band 7

📝 How to Practice With Band Descriptors

You should regularly evaluate your essays using the four band descriptor categories. This will help you identify weak areas and improve them systematically.

• After writing, ask: Did I answer all parts of the question?
• Did I use clear paragraphs with logical transitions?
• Did I use precise and appropriate vocabulary?
• Were my sentences grammatically correct and varied?

⚠️ Common Mistakes Students Make

• Writing too few words (under 250)
• Repetition of ideas and words
• Paragraphs with no topic sentence
• Using informal language (e.g., "kids", "stuff")
• Writing without a clear opinion or conclusion

🧪 Practice Prompts for Self-Assessment

• Some people think that governments should focus on reducing environmental pollution. Others believe it should be individuals' responsibility. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• More and more people are choosing to work from home. Is this a positive or negative development?
• In many countries, people are choosing not to have children. What are the causes and effects of this trend?

Use these prompts to write your own essays and analyze them using the descriptors to get closer to your target band score.

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IELTS Band Score