The writing habits that separate band 6 from band 7

After grading hundreds of IELTS mock exams, we can usually predict a writing band score from the first paragraph. Not because of fancy words — because of habits.

1. Answer the actual question. Band 6 essays answer a nearby question, eloquently. Read the prompt twice; underline the two things it asks for.
2. One idea per paragraph, developed. Three fully-developed ideas beat five gestures towards ideas.
3. Signpost like a tour guide. "Firstly", "however", "as a result" — examiners reward text they never have to re-read.
4. Count your words before your examiner does. Under 250 means an automatic penalty. Write to 270 and stop.

None of this is glamorous, which is precisely why most candidates skip it. The ones who don't, get their 7.