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Not getting Band 7 in IELTS Writing?

· 6 min read
Gati
Gati
Content team @ EssayChecker

How to Overcome IELTS Writing Task 2 Band 7 Barrier

For many IELTS test-takers, achieving Band 7 in Writing feels like hitting a wall. You prepare, practice, and write essays, but when the results arrive, your score is 6.5 again. This frustration is common, especially among students aiming for CLB 9 (Band 7 in IELTS) to meet Canadian immigration requirements.

If you’re stuck at Band 6.5 in IELTS Writing Task 2, this guide will help you understand what’s holding you back and how to finally push your score to Band 7.

Why Students Get Stuck at Band 6.5 in IELTS Writing​

Many test-takers repeat the test multiple times, only to get 6.5 in Writing, while their Listening, Reading, and Speaking scores may already be 7 or higher. So, why is Writing so difficult?

Here are the most common reasons:

  1. Task Response Gaps

    • Essays that partially answer the question.
    • Arguments are not fully developed or supported.

  2. Coherence and Cohesion Issues

    • Overusing linking words (“moreover,” “on the other hand”).
    • Lack of logical flow between ideas.

  3. Grammar Accuracy Problems

    • Frequent small errors with articles, tenses, or subject-verb agreement.
    • Limited sentence variety.

  4. Vocabulary Limitations

    • Repeating the same words instead of using academic vocabulary.
    • Using “memorized” phrases that examiners can easily spot.

  5. Poor Time Management

    • Not leaving time to review and correct mistakes.

To break free from Band 6.5, you need precision, consistency, and examiner-focused writing.

How to Move from Band 6.5 to 7 in IELTS Writing Task 2​

1. Master the IELTS Band Descriptors​

Examiners use four criteria:

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

Action step: Study the official IELTS band descriptors and compare them with your essays. You’ll notice that Band 7 requires clearer development of ideas and fewer grammatical errors.

2. Strengthen Your Essay Structure​

A clear, logical structure is key. At Band 6.5, many essays lack balance.

✅ Use this Band 7-ready structure:

  • Introduction: Paraphrase question + state opinion.
  • Body 1: First main idea + explanation + example.
  • Body 2: Second main idea + explanation + example.
  • Conclusion: Summarize + restate opinion.

This ensures your essay is easy to follow, which examiners reward.

👉 Need more structure guidance? Check out our IELTS Study Planner.

3. Improve Coherence Without Overusing Linkers​

Many students at Band 6.5 use too many connectors (“Firstly, Secondly, Moreover”), which feels mechanical.

Instead:

  • Use pronouns and referencing (e.g., “this trend,” “such a policy”) to connect ideas.
  • Vary transitions naturally: “This suggests,” “In contrast,” “As a result.”

4. Expand Vocabulary Naturally​

To reach Band 7, you must show a range of vocabulary without sounding artificial.

  • Replace simple words: “big problem” → “significant challenge”.
  • Learn topic-specific vocabulary for common IELTS themes (environment, education, health, technology).
  • Avoid overusing “high-level” words incorrectly. Accuracy is better than complexity.

5. Eliminate Recurring Grammar Errors​

Examiners forgive some mistakes, but if errors interfere with meaning, you’re stuck at 6.5.

Common issues:

  • Article misuse (“a society should have equal rights” vs. “society should have equal rights”).
  • Wrong prepositions (“discuss about” → “discuss”).
  • Word form errors (“economy grow” → “economic growth”).

Action step: Review your essays systematically. Tools like EssayChecker can pinpoint grammar mistakes instantly.

6. Write Under Exam Conditions​

At Band 6.5, many students can write well at home but panic under time pressure.

  • Practice full essays in 40 minutes.
  • Always leave 5 minutes to review.
  • Train yourself to write 250+ words consistently.

You can practice mock test under timed conditions here: EssayChecker Mock Test

7. Get Feedback and Revise​

You cannot reach Band 7 by writing in isolation. Feedback is crucial.

The key is writing, getting feedback, and rewriting, not just writing more essays.

Common Mistakes That Keep You at Band 6.5​

  • Memorizing introductions and templates.
  • Writing ideas without supporting examples.
  • Using overly complex sentences that become unclear.
  • Ignoring task words (“discuss both views,” “to what extent do you agree”).
  • Forgetting to check spelling, grammar, and word count.

Study Planner for IELTS Band 7 Success​

If you’re serious about moving from 6.5 to 7, consistency is key. Use a 3-week study planner to build momentum:

  • Week 1: Focus on structure + grammar review.
  • Week 2: Write essays daily + timed practice.
  • Week 3: Mock tests + feedback and revisions.

👉 Download our full IELTS Band 7 Study Planner to stay organized.

FAQs About Moving from Band 6.5 to 7 in IELTS Writing​

1. Why do I always get 6.5 in IELTS Writing?

Because your essays contain recurring weaknesses in grammar, structure, or task response that keep you below Band 7.

2. Is it possible to jump from 6.5 to 7 in one month?

Yes, if you focus on weaknesses, practice under exam conditions, and get targeted feedback.

3. Can I use memorized phrases to boost my score?

No. Examiners can recognize rehearsed sentences, which lowers your score. Use natural, topic-specific vocabulary.

4. How many grammar mistakes are allowed in Band 7?

Some mistakes are fine, but they must not reduce clarity. Band 7 requires “frequent error-free sentences.”

5. Is Band 7 in IELTS Writing enough for Canadian immigration?

Yes. Band 7 equals CLB 9, which helps you get a higher CRS score for Express Entry immigration programs. It is also a requirement to get a PGWP (Post-Graduation Work Permit) for many international students in Canada. (Please check the current rules and requirements.)

6. What’s the best way to practice IELTS Writing Task 2?

Write essays under timed conditions and use tools like EssayChecker for instant feedback. Combine this with a study planner for maximum results.

Final Thoughts​

Getting stuck at Band 6.5 in IELTS Writing is frustrating, but it’s also fixable. By mastering structure, improving vocabulary, reducing grammar errors, and practicing with feedback, you can finally achieve Band 7 (CLB 9).

Remember: it’s not about writing more, it’s about writing smarter.

👉 Start today with the EssayChecker Writing Task 2 tool and follow our study planner to make your next IELTS attempt your last.