TIPS TO GET 7 BAND IN IELTS WRITING
Achieving a band 7 in the IELTS Writing section requires a combination of skills in task achievement, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, and grammatical range and accuracy. Here’s a detailed guide to help you reach that goal:
1. Understand the IELTS Writing Task Structure
The IELTS Writing section consists of two tasks:
Task 1: A data-based task where you need to describe, summarize, or explain visual information (graphs, charts, tables, etc.).
Task 2: An essay where you discuss an argument, provide solutions, or evaluate an issue.
TIPS TO GET 7 BAND IN IELTS WRITING
Band 7 Criteria for Writing:
Task Achievement (TA): Answering the question completely, with relevant and fully developed ideas.
Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Logical flow of ideas with clear paragraphing and cohesive devices.
Lexical Resource (LR): A wide range of vocabulary with flexibility, precision, and some less common words.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Use of complex sentences and correct grammar with minimal mistakes.
2. Effective Time Management
– IELTS Writing is a timed test, so you need to manage your time well:
– Spend 20 minutes on Task 1 and 40 minutes on Task 2.
– Allocate about 5 minutes in each task for planning and 5 minutes for proofreading at the end.
TIPS TO GET 7 BAND IN IELTS WRITING
3. Planning Your Answer
Before writing, always plan your response:
Task 1: Analyze the data carefully. Identify key trends, comparisons, and patterns. Think about how to group the information logically.
Task 2: Break down the question into parts, and decide what your main argument will be. Write a clear thesis statement and plan how you will organize your paragraphs.
Planning ensures that your ideas are organized, which helps in both coherence and task achievement.
TIPS TO GET 7 BAND IN IELTS WRITING
4. Focus on Task Achievement (TA)
For Task 1: Make sure you cover all aspects of the data presented. Do not include irrelevant details. Write an introduction, followed by a summary of the key features, and make comparisons if necessary.
For Task 2: Directly answer the question, stay on topic, and develop your arguments logically. Avoid generalizations; instead, support your points with specific examples and explanations.
Common mistakes in TA:
– Not fully addressing all parts of the question.
– Giving an opinion without elaborating on why you hold that opinion.
5. Coherence and Cohesion (CC)
– Use clear paragraphing: introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
– Start each paragraph with a topic sentence to introduce the main idea. Follow it with supporting sentences and explanations.
– Use a range of cohesive devices (linking words) like however, in addition, for example, therefore, etc., but don’t overuse them. The key is to maintain a natural flow.
TIPS TO GET 7 BAND IN IELTS WRITING
Examples of cohesive devices:
Cause and effect: because, therefore, due to, as a result
Comparison: similarly, likewise, on the other hand
Contrast: however, although, in contrast, while
Example: for example, for instance, such as
6. Lexical Resource (LR)
Use a wide range of vocabulary. Instead of repeating the same words, try to vary your language.
Avoid informal language and contractions like won’t or can’t.
Show accuracy and flexibility in using different expressions and terminology. For instance, instead of repeating important, you can use words like crucial, essential, significant.
TIPS TO GET 7 BAND IN IELTS WRITING
Tips for improving LR:
Task 1: Use specific vocabulary related to graphs, data, and comparisons (e.g., “increase,” “fluctuate,” “significantly,” “in contrast”).
Task 2: Use academic and formal language, and avoid slang.
7. Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA)
– Aim for a variety of sentence structures: simple, compound, and complex sentences.
– Use passive voice where appropriate (e.g., The data was collected).
– Avoid basic grammatical errors. Focus on subject-verb agreement, correct tenses, articles, and prepositions.
TIPS TO GET 7 BAND IN IELTS WRITING
Common mistakes in GRA:
– Incorrect word order in complex sentences.
– Frequent errors with verb tenses or subject-verb agreement.
– Inconsistent use of articles (“a,” “an,” “the”).
8. Task-Specific Tips
Task 1 Tips:
– Always start with an overview: This should be a general summary of the key trends, not a detailed description.
– Avoid giving opinions—just focus on describing the data.
– Ensure you’re accurate in your descriptions, including the correct use of figures and percentages.
TIPS TO GET 7 BAND IN IELTS WRITING
Task 2 Tips:
– Make sure to address all parts of the question (e.g., advantages and disadvantages, causes and solutions).
– Balance your essay: If it’s a discussion, consider both sides before giving your opinion in the conclusion.
– Link your ideas logically: Start with your introduction, followed by the body, and end with a concise conclusion.
– Do not rush: A rushed answer may lack clarity and coherence, which affects your band score.
9. Practice Writing
– Write essays regularly on a variety of topics.
– Analyze sample Band 7 answers to understand the quality of writing expected.
– Seek feedback from an IELTS instructor or a peer who can point out weaknesses and areas of improvement.
TIPS TO GET 7 BAND IN IELTS WRITING
10. Proofreading
– Reserve the last 5 minutes to proofread your writing.
– Check for spelling mistakes, grammar errors, and punctuation mistakes.
– Ensure that you’ve answered the question fully and that your ideas flow logically.
Achieving a Band 7 in the IELTS Writing section is possible with consistent practice and a strong understanding of the test criteria. By focusing on task achievement, coherence, vocabulary, and grammar, and by avoiding common mistakes, you can significantly improve your chances of getting a Band 7. Remember, practice and feedback are essential for improvement, so keep writing, reviewing, and refining your skills.
TIPS TO GET 7 BAND IN IELTS WRITING
