IELTS Writing Grammar
Grammar marks reward two things: range (can you use a variety of structures?) and accuracy (do you make frequent errors?). Most candidates focus on learning fancy structures and forget that accuracy moves the needle faster.
Range vs accuracy
At band 6, a mix of simple and complex forms with some errors is enough. At band 7, you need a variety of complex structures with good control and frequent error-free sentences. Accuracy is usually the faster win.
The five structures worth mastering
Relative clauses (defining and non-defining), conditional sentences (zero, first, second, third), passive voice, participle clauses, and adverbial clauses of time / reason / concession. These five cover 90% of what you need.
Do an error audit
Take your last three essays and count every grammar error by type. Most people find 2–3 error types account for 70% of their mistakes. Fixing those is the fastest way to raise your grammar band.
Complexity without confusion
Do not make every sentence long and complicated. Good writing mixes short, clear sentences with longer, more complex ones. Varying length improves readability and your cohesion mark.
Frequently asked
Do I need to use every tense?
No — Task 2 essays mostly use present simple, present perfect, and past simple. Range is about sentence structures, not verb tenses.
How many errors are acceptable for band 7?
Errors should be rare and not interfere with meaning. If the examiner has to re-read a sentence, that counts against you.
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