What does a Band 7 IELTS Writing essay actually need?

Frequent error-free sentences across a range of structures, some less-common vocabulary used naturally, and clear progression with one central topic per paragraph. The bar is consistency: occasional slips are tolerated, but the majority of your sentences need to be clean.

Why am I stuck at Band 6.5 and not reaching Band 7?

Usually grammatical range and lexical precision. A 6.5 writer is understood but relies on simple structures and general words; a 7 writer mixes in complex sentences that stay correct and names things precisely. Target error-free complex sentences, not just more complex ones.

How long does it take to get from 6.5 to 7?

For most candidates a few focused weeks rather than months, if the practice is deliberate. Random writing plateaus. Writing, grading against the rubric, and fixing the single weakest criterion each time is what moves the band.

Is Band 7 hard to get?

It's the level most universities and migration shortlists ask for, so it's where candidates cluster and stall. It's achievable with targeted practice, but it rewards precision over memorised templates and over 'big' words used incorrectly.

🎯 Band 7112 questions

Practice for Band 7.

What Band 7 looks like

A Band 7 essay produces frequent error-free sentences across a range of structures, uses some less-common vocabulary appropriately, and shows clear progression with a central topic in every paragraph. Most universities and skilled-migration shortlists accept Band 7 as evidence of operational English. The questions below are the working middle of the bank, where most candidates spend the bulk of their practice here.

Task 2😷 Urban LifeProblem & solution🔥 Hot

Practice for Band 7.

“Air quality in many major cities is dangerously poor. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“Many workers hide mental-health problems from their employers. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“Many historic cities are damaged by overtourism. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“Some argue that companies should switch to a four-day working week. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Some people argue that climate change is the responsibility of individuals, while others think only governments can solve it. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“In many countries, families are having fewer children than they did in the past. What are the causes, and what effects does this have on society?”

“Some people believe smartphones are damaging social interaction. Do you agree or disagree?”

“Many manufactured food and drink products contain high levels of sugar, which causes many health problems. Sugary products should be made more expensive to encourage people to consume less sugar. Do you agree or disagree?”

“In the future all cars, buses and trucks will be driverless. The only people travelling inside these vehicles will be passengers. Do you think the advantages of driverless vehicles outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Some people think that competition at work, at school and in daily life is a good thing. Others believe that we should try to cooperate more, rather than competing against each other. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.”

“In their advertising, businesses nowadays usually emphasise that their products are new in some way. Why is this? Do you think it is a positive or negative development?”

“Some university students want to learn about other subjects in addition to their main subjects. Others believe it is more important to give all their time and attention to studying for a qualification. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.”

“Some people believe that professionals, such as doctors and engineers, should be required to work in the country where they did their training. Others believe they should be free to work in another country if they wish. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.”

“The maps show the layout of a university campus in 2005 and 2025.”

“Many young people now trust influencers more than traditional advertising. Is this a positive or negative trend?”

“Some believe standardised tests are the fairest way to assess students, while others argue they fail to measure real ability. Discuss both views.”

“Some believe public protests are an essential part of democracy; others say they cause too much disruption. Discuss both views.”

“In many workplaces, older employees now report to younger managers. What problems does this create, and what can be done?”

“Some argue cities should be designed for pedestrians, not cars. To what extent do you agree?”

“Self-driving cars will be common within a decade. What are the advantages and disadvantages?”

“High-rise buildings are the only practical solution to urban housing shortages. To what extent do you agree?”

“Many cities are growing so large that they face serious infrastructure problems. What are the main causes, and what can be done?”

“Some say families should look after elderly relatives, while others believe this is the state's responsibility. Discuss both views.”

“Some argue widespread CCTV cameras make cities safer; others say they invade privacy. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Traditional cuisines are disappearing under the influence of international fast-food chains. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some argue all children should be required to be vaccinated; others believe parents should choose. Discuss both views.”

“Some argue remote work damages team cohesion and company culture. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some argue that reducing meat consumption is essential for the environment. Do you agree, and what can governments do?”

“A university degree no longer guarantees a good job. Do you agree, and what should young people do instead?”

“Many believe that schools should focus more on life skills such as cooking, budgeting, and basic law. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some argue that cities need more parks and green spaces, even if that means less housing. Do you agree or disagree?”

“In modern cities, many people feel isolated despite being surrounded by others. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“International travel has many cultural benefits, but its environmental cost is enormous. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Some say workers should specialise in one career for life; others believe people should change careers several times. Discuss both views.”

“News programmes increasingly resemble entertainment. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Some people believe that children should start formal education as early as possible. Others think they should not begin until at least age seven. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.”

“People spend less time with extended family. Why is this happening, and is it a positive or negative change?”

“Some argue people should work for themselves rather than for large companies. Do you agree?”

“Some say travel is more rewarding when you are young, while others believe older people benefit more. Discuss both views.”

“Some cities are encouraging more 24-hour businesses and activities. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Streaming services have changed how musicians earn money. Has this been good or bad for the music industry?”

“Some countries impose strict term limits on political leaders, while others allow them to remain in office indefinitely. Discuss both views.”

“Some argue testing products on animals is necessary, while others believe it is unethical. Discuss both views.”

“Traditional gender roles are changing rapidly. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Some say unpaid internships exploit young workers; others see them as a chance to gain experience. Discuss both views.”

“Some governments require workers to take a minimum amount of annual leave. To what extent do you agree with this policy?”

“Some companies are exploring drone delivery for online shopping. What are the advantages and disadvantages?”

“Some parents choose private education for their children, while others prefer public schools. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Many fish stocks around the world are collapsing because of overfishing. What are the main causes, and what can be done?”

“Some argue that fathers should share childcare equally with mothers. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some say formal education is the best preparation for work, while others believe real-world experience matters more. Discuss both views.”

“Some argue history should be compulsory in school, while others say students should focus on practical subjects like science. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Many regions face severe water shortages. What are the main causes, and what can be done about it?”

“Some people argue zoos play a vital role in protecting endangered species; others believe they are cruel and unnecessary. Discuss both views.”

“The world's growing population is putting pressure on natural resources. What are the main causes, and what solutions can you suggest?”

“The rapid replacement of electronic devices creates huge amounts of e-waste. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“Some predict cash will disappear entirely within a generation. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Many manufacturing jobs are disappearing because of automation. What are the consequences for society, and what can be done?”

“Some argue that multicultural societies are stronger; others say cultural differences cause conflict. Discuss both views.”

“Some governments censor films and books that they consider offensive. Is this ever justified?”

“Some say young people should be required to do volunteer work in their community. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some believe governments should spend more on preventing illness than on treating it. To what extent do you agree?”

“Foreign companies investing in developing countries bring jobs but also drive out local businesses. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Some believe the death penalty deters serious crime, while others see it as inhumane. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“In some countries, an increasing number of mothers return to work soon after having a child. Is this a positive or negative trend?”

“Some say historic buildings should be preserved at all costs; others argue cities need modern development. Discuss both views.”

“Some say tourists should make an effort to learn the language of countries they visit. To what extent do you agree?”

“Budget airlines have made travel cheap for millions but also worsen climate change. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

“More young people are moving to cities, leaving rural areas with ageing populations. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“Tech companies collect vast amounts of personal data. Some say this is dangerous; others say users gain useful services in return. Discuss both views.”

“Some argue tourists should be required to learn about local customs before visiting a country. To what extent do you agree?”

“Many governments are raising the retirement age as populations live longer. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Some say governments should fund the arts; others think public money should be spent on more essential services. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Some countries require all citizens to vote in elections. Do you think this is a good policy?”

“Some say healthcare should be entirely free; others believe individuals are responsible for their own health. Discuss both views.”

“Some people prefer traditional or alternative medicine over conventional treatment. What are the reasons for this, and is it a positive or negative trend?”

“Modern life is destroying traditional cultures. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some people think the global spread of English damages other languages. Others see it as a positive force for communication. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Some say parents should be legally responsible for their children's behaviour. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”