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IELTS Writing Band Score Calculator

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Updated on Sep 29, 2024, 15:02

The IELTS Writing test is one of the most challenging sections of the IELTS! Like all modules, the IELTS Writing Band Score ranges between 0 and 9, contributing to the overall score. 
 

The IELTS Writing band descriptors are very similar to the speaking band descriptors. This page will explore the IELTS Writing Band Score in detail. Let’s start.

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1. IELTS Writing Band Score Calculator

IELTS Writing has two tasks: Task 1 and Task 2. The tasks differ slightly depending on whether you take the Academic or General Training tests. 

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2. What Does Your IELTS Writing Band Score Mean?

Most universities demand a score of 6 and above during admissions. To improve your overall band score, it’s important to pay attention to individual band scores. Here’s what each of your IELTS Writing Band Scores means.

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IELTS Writing Band Score Calculator

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IELTS Writing has two tasks: Task 1 and Task 2. The tasks differ slightly depending on whether you take the Academic or General Training tests. 

 

Both tasks are scored based on the following parameters. These band descriptors adds 25% to your overall IELTS Writing Band Score.

 

IELTS Writing Band Descriptors


 

Task achievement (for Writing Task 1) or Task response (for Writing Task 2): 

 

  • Task Achievement in Writing Task 1 is based on how accurately you answer the questions. 
  • Task Response in Writing Task 2 (the essay task) is about how well you frame your essay, how clearly you express your opinions, and how well your arguments are supported. 

 

Coherence and cohesion: 

 

  • Coherence evaluates how logical your arguments are and how well-sequenced they are. 
  • Cohesion, however, evaluates how well you link the words together using conjunctions and other transitional phrases. 

 

Lexical resource: 

 

  • Evaluate your vocabulary range, including idioms, synonyms, and phrasal verbs.
  • Evaluate if you’re using the right words in the proper context.
     

Grammatical range and accuracy: 

 

  • Check if you follow basic grammar rules, such as accurately using simple and complex sentences, verbs and tenses.
  • Check if your sentences are accurate and if they read right in terms of language.

 

2.

What Does Your IELTS Writing Band Score Mean?

Most universities demand a score of 6 and above during admissions. To improve your overall band score, it’s important to pay attention to individual band scores. 

 

Here’s what each of your IELTS Writing Band Scores means according to the IELTS band chart for Academic. Understanding the IELTS marking criteria writing can significantly boost your performance. For a detailed breakdown, refer to the IELTS writing band score chart.

 

 

Band 9

Criterion Description
Task Achievement All requirements fully and appropriately satisfied.
Coherence and Cohesion The message is fully clear and effortless to follow. Minimal lapses.
Lexical Resource Full flexibility and precise use of wide vocabulary. Few errors minimal impact.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy A wide range of structures are used flexibly and accurately. Minor errors are extremely rare.

 

 

Band 8

Criterion Description
Task Achievement All requirements fully and appropriately satisfied.
Coherence and Cohesion Fluent expression of thoughts. Ideas are logically sequenced, with occasional lapses.
Lexical Resource Wide resource fluently used minor errors.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy A wide range of structures are used accurately. Occasional errors, minimal impact.

 

 

Band 7

Criterion Description
Task Achievement All requirements are covered with some occasional lapses.
Coherence and Cohesion Ideas are presented clearly and are logically sequenced, with occasional lapses.
Lexical Resource Wide resource used fluently, occasional errors, minimal impact.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy A wide range of structures are used flexibly and accurately. Occasional errors, minimal impact.

 

 

Band 6

Criterion Description
Task Achievement Requirements covered, some lapses.
Coherence and Cohesion Ideas are logically organised, with some lapses.
Lexical Resource Sufficient Vocabulary range, occasional errors, minimal impact.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy A variety of structures are used with some flexibility. Occasional errors, minimal impact.

 

 

Band 5

Criterion Description
Task Achievement Content barely relates to the task.
Coherence and Cohesion Sentences are not interlinked, and it is hard to relate to the ideas.
Lexical Resource Vocabulary is inadequate, leading to repetitive usage. Inappropriate word choice is found.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy Limited evidence of sentence forms. Predominantly faulty grammar and punctuation.

 

 

Band 4

Criterion Description
Task Achievement Content barely relates to the task
Coherence and Cohesion Low relevance or off-topic. No evidence of control of organisational features.
Lexical Resource Vocabulary is extremely limited.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy No evidence of sentence forms.

 

 

Band 3

Criterion Description
Task Achievement Writing fails to communicate any message.
Coherence and Cohesion No rateable language is evident.
Lexical Resource No resource is apparent except for a few isolated words.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy No rateable language is evident.

 

 

Band 2

Criterion Description
Task Achievement The candidate did not attend or attempt the question.
Coherence and Cohesion No rateable language was evident.
Lexical Resource No rateable language is evident.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy No rateable language is evident.

 

 

Band 1

Criterion Description
Task Achievement Responses of 20 words or fewer are rated at Band 1.
Coherence and Cohesion Responses of 20 words or fewer are rated at Band 1.
Lexical Resource Responses of 20 words or fewer are rated at Band 1.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy Responses of 20 words or fewer are rated at Band 1.

 

 

Band 0

Criterion Description
Task Achievement The Candidate did not attempt the question.
Coherence and Cohesion The Candidate did not attempt the question.
Lexical Resource The Candidate did not attempt the question.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy The Candidate did not attempt the question.

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IELTS Important Information

IELTS Accepting Countries

IELTS Accepting Universities

IELTS Test Centre and Dates in India

FAQs

Q. How do you calculate the IELTS Writing band score?

Ans. IELTS Writing Band score is determined by 4 parameters: 

 

  • Lexical Resource
  • Cohesion and Coherence 
  • Task Achievement/Task Response
  • Grammar and Accuracy
     

Each has a weightage of 25%. You are scored on a scale of 0 to 9. The IELTS Writing test consists of two tasks: Task 1 and Task 2. Each correct answer earns one mark, and your combined scores for both tasks determine your overall band score.

Q. What are the different levels of the IELTS Writing band score?

Ans. The IELTS Writing band score ranges from 0 to 9, indicating different writing proficiency levels. A score of 0 suggests that the user did not attend the test, while 9 signifies expert proficiency. Generally, scores of 6.0 and above are acceptable for most universities. Countries like the UK and Canada may even accept 5.5, depending on the university you apply to. 

Q. How can I improve my IELTS Writing band score?

Ans. Enhancing your IELTS Writing band score requires consistent practice and focused preparation. Some things you can practice are:

  • Writing regularly
  • Developing effective writing techniques such as drafting, revising and editing.
  • Seeking feedback on your writing
Q. What are the criteria for assessing the IELTS Writing band score?

Ans. The IELTS Writing test is evaluated based on four criteria: Task Achievement, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Your score is determined by how well you meet these criteria across both Task 1 and Task 2.

Q. What are the various question types used in IELTS Writing?

Ans. The IELTS Writing test includes different question types:
 

  • Task 1 (Academic): Graphs, charts, diagrams, and tables
  • Task 1 (General Training): Letter writing
  • Task 2: Essay writing
Q. Is there a break between tasks in the IELTS Writing test?

Ans. No, the IELTS Writing test has no breaks between tasks. You must complete both tasks in one sitting within the allocated time. The total duration of the writing test is 60 minutes. However, if you practice right, it’s not a challenge to complete the task within the given time. 

Q. Can I make notes or outlines before writing my responses in the IELTS Writing test?

Ans. Yes, you can make notes or outlines before writing your responses. It's advisable to plan your writing to organise your ideas effectively. You can structure your essay into three parts: 

 

  • Introduction
  • Body
  • Conclusion 
Q. How many words should I write for each task in the IELTS Writing test?

Ans. For Task 1, aim for at least 150 words; for Task 2, write at least 250 words. These instructions will be given right above the question. It’s important to meet the minimum word count given in the paper, or else you may lose marks. You can, however, exceed your essay by another 100 words at maximum. Try not to exceed way over the word limit. 

Q. How can I improve my writing speed for the IELTS Writing test?

Ans. To improve your writing speed, practice writing regularly under timed conditions. Focus on developing clear and concise writing and use techniques such as planning and shorthand to increase your speed. You practice commonly asked IELTS Writing topics as well to improve your knowledge.