IELTS guides, sample answers and practice topics

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10 October 20268 min read

Linking Words for IELTS and How to Use Them Correctly

A practical list of IELTS linking words grouped by function, with correct and incorrect examples, punctuation rules and a warning about overusing connectors.

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10 October 20267 min read

How Is IELTS Scored in Speaking and Writing? Criteria, Weighting and Rounding

The short answer first, then the Speaking and Writing criteria tables, how Task 1 and Task 2 combine and how the overall band is rounded.

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9 October 20268 min read

IELTS Writing Task 2 Band Descriptors: What Each Band Looks Like

A plain-English guide to the four Task 2 criteria for bands 5, 6, 7 and 8, with example sentences that show the difference between each level.

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9 October 20267 min read

IELTS Speaking Band Descriptors Explained in Plain English

The IELTS Speaking test is marked on four criteria. Here is what each one means at bands 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, with short examples you can compare with your own answers.

2 October 20266 min read

How to Describe a Graph in IELTS Writing Task 1 (Model Overview + Practice)

A 20-minute method for Task 1, a worked line graph with a model report, advice on choosing numbers and a practice task with a sample answer.

2 October 20266 min read

IELTS Speaking Band 7: What Examiners Look For and 12 Tips

The four Speaking criteria, the real difference between Band 6 and Band 7 and twelve tips you can use today.

2 October 20269 min read

IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Structure: The Band 7+ Template (With Example)

A clear four-paragraph structure for Task 2, with a 40-minute plan, plans for every question type and a full annotated example essay.

2 October 20268 min read

IELTS Band Score Explained: How Writing and Speaking Are Marked

How the overall band is calculated, what examiners look for in Writing and Speaking, and what each band level actually feels like.

2 October 20268 min read

How to Improve IELTS Writing from Band 6 to Band 7: 10 Fixes That Work

Ten practical fixes, with before-and-after examples, that help you move from a Band 6 to a Band 7 in IELTS Writing.

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2 October 20264 min read

How to Pass IELTS Speaking: A Complete Guide to Parts 1, 2 and 3

The three parts of the Speaking test, the marking criteria and 8 practical tips to help you prepare.

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2 October 20266 min read

IELTS in 30 Days: A Daily Study Plan for Writing and Speaking

A four-week plan, a 90-minute daily schedule and an error log: a practical way to raise your Writing and Speaking scores fast.