Difference Between Band 6 and Band 8 in IELTS Writing Task 2

Achieving a Band 8 in the IELTS Writing Task 2 requires more than just basic writing skills. Many test-takers get stuck at Band 6 due to common mistakes in structure, vocabulary, and coherence. This guide breaks down the major differences between a Band 6 and Band 8 essay and provides strategies to help you improve your IELTS band score.

What are the IELTS Writing Task 2 Band Descriptors?

1. Task Response – How well do you address the question and support your argument?
2. Coherence and Cohesion – Is your essay logically structured and easy to follow?
3. Lexical Resource – Do you use a wide range of vocabulary accurately?
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy – Are your sentences grammatically correct and varied?

Each of these categories is equally important and contributes to your overall band score. To achieve a Band 8, you must excel in all four areas, demonstrating clear argumentation, logical organization, and precise language use.

Key Differences Between Band 6 and Band 8 Essays

Here are the key differences between band 6 and band 8 essays: 

1. Task Response

• Band 6: The essay answers the question but may not cover all aspects. Arguments lack depth, and ideas are sometimes underdeveloped. There may be some irrelevant information, and the conclusion may not effectively summarize the main points.

• Band 8: The essay fully answers the question, presents a clear stance, and develops ideas with strong supporting examples. It avoids unnecessary information and maintains a clear focus on the topic throughout.

2. Coherence and Cohesion

• Band 6: Ideas are arranged logically, but the flow is sometimes unclear. Linking words are overused or misused. Paragraphs may not always be well-developed, and some sentences might not connect smoothly.

• Band 8: The essay has a clear structure with well-connected ideas. Cohesive devices are used naturally and effectively. Each paragraph is fully developed with logical sequencing of ideas and appropriate transitions between them.

3. Lexical Resource

• Band 6: Uses a limited IELTS Vocabulary with frequent repetition and occasional word choice errors. Synonyms are sometimes used incorrectly, and there may be reliance on basic words and phrases.

• Band 8: Demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary with precise and varied word usage, including collocations and synonyms. The choice of words enhances clarity, and idiomatic expressions are used appropriately.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy

• Band 6: Sentences contain grammatical errors, and complex structures are attempted but often incorrect. There may be issues with subject-verb agreement, tense consistency, and punctuation errors that affect readability.

• Band 8: Uses a mix of complex and simple sentences with high grammatical accuracy and minimal errors. There is effective use of conditionals, passive voice, and other advanced grammatical structures.

How to Improve from Band 6 to Band 8?

Here are some tips to improve from band 6 to band 8: 

1. Fully Address the Question

Ensure your essay directly answers all parts of the prompt. Take a clear position and support it with strong examples. Misinterpreting the question is a common issue for Band 6 writers, so always analyze the prompt carefully before writing.

2. Organize Your Ideas Clearly

Use a structured approach:

• Introduction: Paraphrase the question and state your opinion.
• Body Paragraphs: Present main ideas with explanations and examples.
• Conclusion: Summarize key points and restate your opinion.

Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, and the development should be logical. Using topic sentences and concluding sentences in each paragraph will make your essay more cohesive.

3. Expand Your Vocabulary

• Learn topic-specific vocabulary related to common IELTS themes like environment, technology, and education.
• Use synonyms to avoid repetition, but ensure they are contextually appropriate.
• Master collocations and idiomatic expressions for more natural writing.

For example, instead of writing "the government should make rules," a Band 8 writer would say "the government should implement stringent regulations."

4. Improve Your Grammar and Sentence Structures

• Use a mix of simple, compound, and complex sentences.
• Reduce grammatical mistakes through regular practice and feedback.
• Pay attention to punctuation, especially comma usage and apostrophes.
• Learn how to use conditional sentences and passive voice effectively.

For instance, a Band 6 writer might write: "People should try to reduce pollution." A Band 8 writer would refine this to: "Individuals and authorities should collaborate to mitigate environmental pollution."

5. Practice Writing and Get Feedback

• Write essays regularly and analyze your mistakes.
• Use sample Band 8 essays as references.
• Get feedback from teachers or IELTS experts.
• Time yourself to improve efficiency under exam conditions.

6. Use Strong Examples and Explanations

• Support your arguments with real-world examples or hypothetical scenarios.
• Explain how your examples relate to the main idea.
• Avoid vague statements and be specific in your explanations.

For example, instead of saying, "Technology has changed education," a Band 8 response would state, "The advent of digital learning platforms such as Coursera and Khan Academy has revolutionized education by making quality learning accessible to students worldwide."

Sample Comparison: Band 6 vs. Band 8 Response

Essay Prompt: Some people think that international tourism is beneficial, while others believe it creates problems for local communities. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Band 6 Response: 

International tourism is growing fast, and some people think it is good for countries, while others believe it causes issues for local people. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.

On the one hand, tourism brings economic benefits. Tourists spend money on hotels, food, and attractions, which helps businesses and creates jobs. For example, many countries like Thailand depend on tourism for their economy. Additionally, it promotes cultural exchange, as visitors learn about new traditions and lifestyles.

On the other hand, tourism can also create problems. Large numbers of visitors can cause overcrowding, making life difficult for locals. For example, famous places like Venice suffer from too many tourists, leading to pollution and damage to historic sites. Moreover, tourism can increase the cost of living because businesses raise prices for tourists, making it harder for locals to afford things.

In my opinion, international tourism has both benefits and drawbacks. However, if managed properly, the benefits can outweigh the problems. Governments should control tourist numbers and protect local communities while still allowing tourism to grow.

Band 8 Response:  

International tourism has become a key driver of economic growth, yet opinions remain divided on whether it is beneficial or harmful to local communities. While some argue that it boosts economies and fosters cultural exchange, others highlight its negative impact on the environment and local lifestyles. This essay will explore both perspectives before presenting my own view.

On the one hand, tourism is a vital source of income for many countries. It generates employment, supports local businesses, and stimulates infrastructure development. For instance, in destinations such as Thailand and Bali, the tourism sector sustains millions of jobs, from hotel staff to street vendors. Additionally, tourism enhances cultural understanding, as visitors engage with local traditions, cuisine, and history, promoting global awareness and appreciation.

On the other hand, excessive tourism can disrupt local communities. Overcrowding in popular tourist hotspots leads to environmental degradation, traffic congestion, and rising property prices. Venice, for example, has struggled with mass tourism, where an influx of visitors has strained resources and displaced local residents. Furthermore, the commercialization of culture for tourists sometimes results in the loss of authenticity, reducing the unique charm of many destinations.

In my view, while tourism undeniably offers economic and cultural benefits, it must be carefully regulated to minimize its adverse effects. Governments should implement sustainable tourism policies, such as limiting visitor numbers in fragile areas and investing in eco-friendly infrastructure. By balancing growth with conservation, international tourism can be a force for good without compromising local communities' well-being.

To summarize, moving from Band 6 to Band 8 in IELTS Writing Task 2 is achievable with consistent practice and the right strategies. Focus on improving task response, coherence, vocabulary, and grammar to enhance your writing quality. With dedication, structured practice, and expert feedback, you can significantly boost your IELTS Writing score and achieve your desired band!

Also Check:

• What is a Good Score in IELTS?
• IELTS Books to Use During IELTS Preparation in 2025
• How to Structure an IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay for Band 8+
• Recent IELTS Topics in Writing Task 2 for 2025
• Common IELTS Essay Topics for Writing Task 2