Why Your IELTS Writing Score is Stuck at 6.5 (And How to Fix It)
It is the most frustrating feeling in the world. You have taken the test three times. You know your English is good. You speak fluently. Yet, every time you open that envelope, you see the same number: Writing 6.5.
You are not alone. Band 6.5 is the "zone of death" for thousands of capable candidates. The good news? The jump to 7.0 is smaller than you think.
The "6.5 Trap" Explained
The difference between 6.5 and 7.0 is often not grammar. It is usually precision.
1. You are "kind of" answering the question.
Band 6 students address the topic. Band 7 students address the implications of the topic.
- Question: "Computers are being used more in education. Is this positive or negative?"
- Band 6 Idea: "Computers are good because they have internet." (Too simple)
- Band 7 Idea: "Computers allow personalized learning paces, which standard classrooms cannot offer." (Precise benefit)
2. You are using "Template Glue".
Examiners hate memorized phrases.
- Avoid: "It is undeniably true that..."
- Use: "It is clear that..."
- Avoid: "Every coin has two sides..."
- Use: "However, there are valid concerns regarding..."
3. Your Vocabulary is "Forced".
Using "myriad" and "plethora" incorrectly will drop you to a 6.0. Using "many" correctly keeps you at a 7.0. Precision beats complexity.
The Action Plan to Hit Band 7.0
- Stop writing full essays for a week. Write only plans. If your plan is vague, your essay will be 6.5.
- Focus on Task Response. Ask yourself "Why?" after every sentence.
- Get detailed feedback. You cannot see your own blind spots.
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