These 7 IELTS writing strategies target exactly the decisions that separate a Band 6 essay from a Band 7+ one. Each tip is linked to specific assessment criteria so you know exactly why it matters and how to apply it on test day. If you are serious about reaching Band 7 in IELTS Writing, this is the playbook.
What the task looks like
IELTS Writing Task 2 presents a short prompt asking you to discuss a topic. You may be asked to agree or disagree, discuss both views, outline advantages and disadvantages, or suggest causes and solutions. You should write at least 250 words. Responses below this limit receive a penalty for Task Achievement. You have 40 minutes, so planning, writing, and proofreading must fit inside that window.
The 4-paragraph structure that works every time
A clear structure keeps your ideas organised and helps the examiner follow your argument. Use one paragraph for each main function: introduce, develop your first idea, develop your second idea, and conclude.
Introduction
Paraphrase the prompt in your own words and state your position or the main focus of the essay in one clear sentence.
Body paragraph 1
Introduce your first main idea, explain why it matters, and support it with a specific example.
Body paragraph 2
Introduce your second main idea, explain it clearly, and add a realistic example or consequence.
Conclusion
Summarise your position and the two main points. Do not introduce new ideas here.
How examiners score your essay
Your Task 2 band is an average of four equally weighted criteria. Improving one criterion by a full band raises your overall writing score by 0.25 — so balance matters.
Task Response
Answer every part of the prompt, take a clear position, and support your ideas with explanation and examples.
Coherence & Cohesion
Organise your essay logically. Use paragraphs, pronouns, and a small set of linking words naturally.
Lexical Resource
Use vocabulary accurately and appropriately. A range of words is good; misused complex words hurt your score.
Grammatical Range & Accuracy
Mix simple and complex sentences. Accuracy is more important than complexity — errors reduce your band.
Mistakes that keep you at Band 6
Most candidates already know grammar and vocabulary. What separates Band 6 from Band 7 is avoiding these four patterns.
Memorised templates
Examiners recognise generic phrases like 'With the development of society' or 'This essay will discuss both views.' These signal that you have not engaged with the specific prompt.
No clear position
Sitting on the fence or changing your position halfway through the essay weakens Task Response. State your view clearly in the introduction and return to it in the conclusion.
Under-developed ideas
A paragraph that only states an idea without explaining or exemplifying it is incomplete. Every main idea needs an explanation and a specific example.
Over-complex sentences
Long, ambitious sentences with multiple errors score lower than shorter, accurate sentences. Write at the level you can control.
Band 8 sample introduction
Below is a real Task 2 prompt with a Band 8-level introduction. The annotations explain why it satisfies Task Response, Coherence, and Lexical Resource.
Prompt
In many countries, traditional foods are being replaced by international fast food. This is causing an increase in health problems. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Essay
It is often argued that the global rise of fast food is responsible for growing health problems because it is replacing traditional diets. I strongly agree with this view, as fast food is typically high in salt, sugar and unhealthy fats, and its convenience encourages people to eat it regularly.
Why this works
This introduction paraphrases the prompt without copying it, states a clear position ('strongly agree'), and previews the two main reasons that will be developed in the body paragraphs.