IELTS Writing Band Descriptors 2026: Task 1 & Task 2 (Band 5-9)
Full Band 5–9 breakdown for all 4 marking criteria — Task Response, Coherence, Vocabulary, Grammar. See exactly what separates Band 6 from Band 7 in IELTS Writing.
Try Pro FREE for 3 days
Examiner-grade AI feedback in 60 seconds · Cancel anytime
Task Response
- Addresses all parts of the task
- Presents a clear position throughout the response
- Presents, extends, and supports main ideas (but may over-generalise or lack focus)
Coherence & Cohesion
- Logically organises information and ideas; clear progression throughout
- Uses a range of cohesive devices appropriately although there may be some under/over-use
- Presents a clear central topic within each paragraph
Lexical Resource
- Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow some flexibility and precision
- Uses less common lexical items with some awareness of style and collocation
- May produce occasional errors in word choice, spelling and/or word formation
Grammar & Accuracy
- Uses a variety of complex structures
- Produces frequent error-free sentences
- Has good control of grammar and punctuation but may make a few errors
These are simplified summaries of the IELTS Writing Task 2 band descriptors. For official descriptors, refer to the IELTS website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to practice with AI feedback?
Get instant band scores and corrections on your writing and speaking.
Try Pro FREE for 3 days
Examiner-grade AI feedback in 60 seconds · Cancel anytime
Try More Tools
Learn with Guides
IELTS New Rules 2026: Every Confirmed Change for May 2026
The complete IELTS rules reference for 2026 — pen-only paper test, video-call Speaking, template penalty cap, computer-delivered shift, One Skill Retake eligibility.
Official IELTS Band Descriptors 2026 (British Council & IDP)
The official 2026 IELTS band descriptors for Writing Task 1, Writing Task 2, Speaking, Listening, and Reading — Bands 5-9, all four criteria, consolidated reference.
More IELTS Tools
IELTS is a registered trademark of University of Cambridge ESOL, the British Council, and IDP Education Australia. This website is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any of these organizations. Scoring tables shown are approximate and may vary by test version.