IELTS 5 to 6

Why Do My IELTS Essays Always Get Band 6?

Introduction

You’ve practiced. You’ve watched videos. You’ve memorized templates.
But no matter how hard you try, your score stays stuck at Band 6.

If that sounds familiar, this page will explain why — with real reasons, not guesswork. And more importantly, it shows what to do next to finally move up.

Explore more:

  • [Why You’re Stuck at Band 6.5 — And How to Break It]
  • [Band 7 Essay Structures That Work Every Time]
  • [IELTS Writing Sample Essays with Feedback]

Common Reasons Students Get Band 6 in Task 2

1. You Don’t Answer the Task Clearly

Many students miss the core of the question. You might write about the topic — but not answer what the question actually asks.
This causes a low score for Task Response.

Fix it: Write a clear thesis.
Example:
This essay will argue that governments should invest more in public transport because it reduces pollution and improves urban life.

2. You Use Vague or Overused Language

Words like “nowadays,” “many reasons,” or “important issues” weaken your writing.
Band 6 vocabulary is general, not precise.

Fix it: Use topic-specific language.
Example:
❌ “Nowadays, pollution is a big problem.”
✅ “Air pollution from urban traffic contributes significantly to respiratory illnesses.”

3. Your Paragraphs Don’t Develop an Idea

Band 6 writing often lists points without expanding them.
One idea per paragraph, explained clearly and fully, is key.

Fix it: Use this pattern — Reason → Explanation → Example → Impact.

4. Your Grammar is Repetitive or Uncontrolled

At Band 6, students tend to repeat basic sentence patterns.
Or they attempt complex structures — and make too many errors.

Fix it: Use varied sentence types with control.
Add relative clauses, conditionals, and cause-effect structures.

What a Band 7 Essay Does Differently

  • Answers the question directly and fully
  • Uses logical paragraphing and clear topic sentences
  • Employs precise vocabulary linked to the topic
  • Demonstrates flexible grammar control, not just complexity
  • Has a clear opinion when needed, not hedged or vague

Grammar Point: Use Tag Questions to Show Control

Example:
“Most students struggle with structure, don’t they?”
This adds rhythm and control — and demonstrates grammar for cohesion.

Vocabulary Upgrade (5 Words)

  1. Undermine – to weaken
    “Failing to plan can undermine the strength of an argument.”
  2. Implement – to put into effect
    “Governments should implement stricter traffic regulations.”
  3. Sustainable – able to continue long-term
    “Public transport offers a sustainable solution to traffic congestion.”
  4. Cohesion – how ideas stick together
    “Cohesion is crucial for clarity in IELTS essays.”
  5. Advocate – to support or argue for
    “Many experts advocate investment in preventive healthcare.”

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Footer CTA

If you’re stuck at Band 6, it’s not because you can’t write.
It’s because you haven’t been shown the system IELTS actually rewards.

Download the free Band 7 Essay Toolkit — and learn how to transform your essays into high-band responses.

[Download the Free Toolkit]