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IELTS Band Descriptors Explained Simply
Examiners score IELTS Writing and Speaking on four criteria each, worth 25% apiece. This page explains, in plain English, what band 6 and band 7 look like for each criterion, so you can see exactly what to improve.
Writing: the four criteria
Each criterion is worth 25% of your Writing score.
| Criterion | Band 6 (simplified) | Band 7 (simplified) |
|---|---|---|
| Task Response / Achievement | Answers the question, but some ideas are not fully developed or the position is unclear in places. | Answers all parts with a clear position throughout; main ideas are extended and supported. |
| Coherence & Cohesion | Organised, but linking can be mechanical or overused. | Logical progression, clear paragraphs, a range of linking used appropriately. |
| Lexical Resource | Enough vocabulary for the task; some errors in word choice or spelling. | Some less common words with awareness of style and collocation; occasional errors. |
| Grammar Range & Accuracy | Mix of simple and complex sentences; errors are noticeable but rarely block meaning. | A variety of complex structures; many error-free sentences. |
Speaking: the four criteria
| Criterion | Band 6 (simplified) | Band 7 (simplified) |
|---|---|---|
| Fluency & Coherence | Willing to speak at length, but some repetition, self-correction or hesitation. | Speaks at length without noticeable effort; some hesitation to search for ideas, not words. |
| Lexical Resource | Wide enough vocabulary to discuss topics; some inappropriate choices. | Uses vocabulary flexibly, including some less common words and idioms. |
| Grammar Range & Accuracy | Mix of simple and complex forms with frequent mistakes in complex ones. | Range of complex structures used with some flexibility; frequent error-free sentences. |
| Pronunciation | Generally understood; some mispronunciation reduces clarity at times. | Easy to understand throughout; uses features like stress and intonation effectively. |
This is a simplified summary to help you understand the jump from 6 to 7. Read the official public band descriptors on ielts.org.
How to use the descriptors
- Find the criterion that holds you back. Most 6.5 essays fail on Task Response (ideas not developed) or Grammar accuracy, not vocabulary.
- Your overall band is the average. One weak criterion can pull the whole skill down by 0.5.
- Get marked against the criteria. Ask for feedback per criterion, not just a band.
See how bands are averaged in IELTS band scores explained, or try the band calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What are IELTS band descriptors?
The public criteria examiners use to score Writing and Speaking. Each skill has four criteria, each worth 25%.
What is the difference between band 6 and band 7 in Writing?
Mainly development and control: at 7, ideas are clearly extended and supported, linking is natural, and many sentences are error-free.
Where can I find the official descriptors?
IELTS publishes the public band descriptors on its official website, ielts.org.