How to Calculate Your IELTS Writing Band Score?
Are you taking the IELTS test soon? If so, you need to know how to calculate your IELTS writing band score (General Training and Academic). This can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to the IELTS test. But don't worry, you're not alone, we're here to help.
In this article, We will explain the IELTS writing test in simple terms, and we will also provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to calculate your band score using the KP IELTS Lab writing band score calculator and calculation Formula.
IELTS Writing Band Score Calculator
To Use Our IELTS Writing Band Score Calculator:
1. First, select which module you are taking - General Training (GT) or Academic (AC).
2. Then select Writing Task 1 and enter the correct answers to all 4 writing criteria - TA, CC, LR and GRA.
3. Finally, select Writing Task 2 and enter the correct answers to all 4 writing criteria - TR, CC, LR and GRA.
The calculator will then automatically calculate your writing band score.
Writing Score Calculator
IELTS Nine Band Scale
Here is the Nine Band Scale for IELTS Provided by IELTS.ORG:
[Please note that the two IELTS writing tests (General and Academic) have different task types. In the Academic version, you'll be required to write an essay, while the General Training version may include letter writing or essay tasks. Both versions are scored based on the same four criteria: Task Achievement/Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range & Accuracy. It's essential to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of each version and practice accordingly to excel in the writing component.]
What is the IELTS Writing Test?
The IELTS Writing Test is a component of the IELTS exam, available in two modules: Academic and General Training. The Writing component of the IELTS test assesses your ability to express ideas effectively in written English. It consists of two tasks (Tasks 1 & Tasks 2) and is available in both the Academic and General Training module of the test. The Academic module is designed for students who are applying for university or other academic programs, while the General Training module is designed for students who are applying for jobs or other non-academic purposes. The two modules have different task requirements and are scored on different scales.
Let's Explore the Key Details About the IELTS Writing Test:
✦ Academic Writing Task 1:
In the Academic module, Task 1 requires you to interpret and summarize information presented in visual formats, such as graphs, charts, tables, or diagrams. You might be asked to describe trends, compare data, or present processes. The purpose of this task is to evaluate your ability to analyze and convey information accurately. You will need to write at least 150 words for this task.
✦ Academic Writing Task 2:
Task 2 in the Academic module involves essay writing. You are presented with a prompt or question on a specific topic. You must provide a well-structured and coherent essay presenting your perspective or argument, supported by relevant examples and evidence. This task assesses your ability to develop and articulate ideas effectively in a formal written format. You will need to write at least 250 words for this task.
✦ General Training Writing Task 1:
In the General Training module, Task 1 requires candidates to write a letter in response to a given situation. The letter might be formal, semi-formal, or informal, depending on the context. It could involve requesting information, expressing gratitude, or making a complaint. The focus is on assessing your ability to communicate effectively in everyday situations.
✦ General Training Writing Task 2:
Task 2 in the General Training module is similar to Task 2 in the Academic version. Candidates are presented with a prompt or question on a specific topic and must write an essay expressing their viewpoint, providing arguments and examples to support their ideas. The goal is to assess your ability to communicate clearly and coherently in common social or workplace scenarios. You will need to write at least 250 words for this task.
✦ Timing:
The IELTS Writing Test is a 60-minute test that assesses your ability to write in English. You have a total of 60 minutes to complete both tasks, task 1 and task 2. It is recommended to spend around 20 minutes on Task 1 and approximately 40 minutes on Task 2.
✦ Scoring:
The Writing component is scored on a band scale from 0 to 9. Examiners evaluate your performance based on various criteria, including Task Achievement (TA)/Task Response (TR), Coherence and Cohesion (CC), Lexical Resource (LR), and Grammatical Range & Accuracy (GRA).
IELTS Writing Band Descriptors
Your Writing Task 1 and Task 2 Academic and General Training Tests will be Assessed on Four Criteria and Each Task is Worth 25% of Your Overall Score:
1. Task Achievement (Writing Task 1 Only): Does your writing address the specific task requirements?
Task Response (Writing Task 2 Only): Does your writing address the specific task requirements?
2. Coherence and Cohesion: Is your writing well-organized and easy to follow?
3. Lexical Resource: Do you use a range of vocabulary and grammar accurately?
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Is your writing free of errors in grammar and accuracy?
- Download IELTS Writing Key Assessment Criteria (PDF, 174KB)
- Download IELTS Writing Task 1 Band Descriptors (PDF, 168KB)
- Download IELTS Writing Task 2 Band Descriptors (PDF, 168KB)
How is the IELTS Writing Test Score Calculated?
The IELTS Writing band score is also calculated on a scale of 0 to 9, with 0 being the lowest and 9 being the highest. The band score reflects your writing abilities, with 0 indicating very limited proficiency and 9 representing an expert level.
Writing Task 1 Calculation
For Example: Given below are the band scores of your IELTS Writing Task 1.
| Writing Task 1 | Band Score |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement | 6 |
| Lexical Resource | 7 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 6 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 7 |
[Note: These grading factors are the same for IELTS Academic and General Training modules, and half (.5) band scores are NOT awarded in any of the 4 criteria.]
We know that Task 1 has a single weightage of the score and contributes 33% of your total band score in the writing section. The arithmetic mean of scores can be calculated as follows:
➤ Writing task 1 band score = Sum of writing criteria scores ÷ 4
➤ Writing task 1 band score = 6 + 7 + 6 + 7 = 26 ÷ 4 = 6.5
Writing Task 2 Calculation
For Example: Given below are the band scores of your IELTS Writing Task 2.
| Writing Task 1 | Band Score |
|---|---|
| Task Response | 7 |
| Lexical Resource | 8 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 8 |
[Note: These grading factors are the same for IELTS Academic and General Training modules, and half band scores are NOT awarded in any of the 4 criteria.]
We also know that Task 2 has double the weightage of the score and contributes 66% of your total band score in the writing section. The arithmetic mean of scores can be calculated as follows:
➤ Writing task 2 band score = Sum of writing criteria scores ÷ 4
➤ Writing task 2 band score = 7 + 8 + 7 + 8 = 30 ÷ 4 = 7.5
Overall IELTS Writing Band Score Calculation
Below is the overall band score for your IELTS Writing as per the example above.
| Writing Task | Band Score |
|---|---|
| Task 1 | 6.5 |
| Task 2 | 7.5 |
| Task 2 | 7.5 |
As mentioned earlier, the Task 2 score has double weightage and contributes to 66% of your total band score in the writing section. The arithmetic mean of scores can be calculated as follows:
➤ Overall writing band score = Task 1 + Task 2 + Task 2 ÷ 3
➤ Overall writing band score = 6.5 + 7.5 + 7.5 = 21.5 ÷ 3 = 7.166
Finally, The overall writing band score is 7. Since the average score comes in at 7.166, that's a difference of 0.334 from 7.5. But the difference with 7.0 is 0.166, so your score would be 7.0. Note that your band score will be rounded to the nearest .5 or whole score.
[Note: It is not confirmed by IELTS.ORG whether the band scores are rounded up or down to the nearest number, as IELTS has not disclosed its calculation method. However, according to the information obtained from many sources, band scores are rounded up or down to the nearest number.]
Your overall band score is calculated by averaging your scores on the four sections (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) of the IELTS test. For example, if you score 7, 6, 8, and 7 on the four sections, your overall band score will be 7.
Calculate Your Writing Score Using Our Calculator
To calculate your IELTS Writing band score, you can use our free IELTS Writing band score calculator. First, select which module you are taking - General Training (GT) or Academic (AC). Then select Writing Task 1 and enter the correct answers to all 4 writing criteria - TA, CC, LR and GRA. Then select Writing Task 2 and enter the correct answers to all 4 writing criteria - TR, CC, LR and GRA in the below box. Then click the button "CALCULATE" and the calculator will calculate your writing score and show your writing band score. To do this, simply use the IELTS Writing score calculator above.
Improve Your IELTS Writing Score
To be adept in the IELTS Writing test, practice is crucial. Familiarize yourself with different essay structures, develop a diverse vocabulary, and practice expressing ideas clearly and concisely. Regularly attempt sample questions and seek feedback to identify areas for improvement.
By mastering the IELTS Writing component, you'll be better equipped to communicate effectively in written English and achieve a higher band score on the test.
Finally, don't forget to take a practice IELTS Reading test. This will give you a good idea of your current level and help you identify areas where you need to improve.
Conclusion
Calculating your IELTS writing band score is now a simple process. By following our step-by-step instructions in this article and understanding the different components of the IELTS test and its scoring system, you'll be equipped to determine your band score with ease.
Empower yourself to improve your IELTS performance and unlock new opportunities on your path to success.
Additional Useful Links:
✦ IELTS Overall Band Score Calculator
✦ IELTS Listening Band Score Calculator
✦ IELTS Reading Band Score Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the IELTS Writing Test?
The IELTS Writing Test is a component of the IELTS exam, available in two modules: Academic and General Training. The Writing component of the IELTS test assesses your ability to express ideas effectively in written English. It consists of two tasks (Tasks 1 & Tasks 2) and is available in both the Academic and General Training module of the test. The Academic module is designed for students who are applying for university or other academic programs, while the General Training module is designed for students who are applying for jobs or other non-academic purposes. The two modules have different task requirements and are scored on different scales.
What is IELTS Academic Writing Task 1?
In the Academic module, Task 1 requires you to interpret and summarize information presented in visual formats, such as graphs, charts, tables, or diagrams. You might be asked to describe trends, compare data, or present processes. The purpose of this task is to evaluate your ability to analyze and convey information accurately. You will need to write at least 150 words for this task.
What is IELTS Academic Writing Task2?
Task 2 in the Academic module involves essay writing. You are presented with a prompt or question on a specific topic. You must provide a well-structured and coherent essay presenting your perspective or argument, supported by relevant examples and evidence. This task assesses your ability to develop and articulate ideas effectively in a formal written format. You will need to write at least 250 words for this task.
What is IELTS General Training Writing Task 1?
In the General Training module, Task 1 requires candidates to write a letter in response to a given situation. The letter might be formal, semi-formal, or informal, depending on the context. It could involve requesting information, expressing gratitude, or making a complaint. The focus is on assessing your ability to communicate effectively in everyday situations.
What is IELTS General Training Writing Task 2?
Task 2 in the General Training module is similar to Task 2 in the Academic version. Candidates are presented with a prompt or question on a specific topic and must write an essay expressing their viewpoint, providing arguments and examples to support their ideas. The goal is to assess your ability to communicate clearly and coherently in common social or workplace scenarios. You will need to write at least 250 words for this task.
How Long Does the IELTS Writing Test Last in Total?
The IELTS Writing Test is a 60-minute test that assesses your ability to write in English. You have a total of 60 minutes to complete both tasks, task 1 and task 2. It is recommended to spend around 20 minutes on Task 1 and approximately 40 minutes on Task 2.
How Do You Calculate Your IELTS Writing Score?
The Writing component is scored on a band scale from 0 to 9. Examiners evaluate your performance based on various criteria, including Task Achievement (TA)/Task Response (TR), Coherence and Cohesion (CC), Lexical Resource (LR), and Grammatical Range & Accuracy (GRA).
How is the IELTS Writing Test Score Calculated?
The IELTS Writing band score is also calculated on a scale of 0 to 9, with 0 being the lowest and 9 being the highest. The band score reflects your writing abilities, with 0 indicating very limited proficiency and 9 representing an expert level.
What Are the Scoring Criteria for IELTS Writing Tasks?
The IELTS Writing Tasks are scored based on four criteria: Task Achievement (Task 1) / Task Response (Task 2), Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. These criteria evaluate how well candidates address the given task, organize their writing, use vocabulary, and employ grammar.
