IELTS Writing 7.5

So, after getting the required IELTS score for PLAB in my first attempt, I got to know that I needed an even higher score to apply for Foundation Programme in the UK, 7.5 in each module. I tried to apply for a recheck as I just needed a 0.5 increase in writing but turned out I was late! So, luck had me attempting the test again and voila I got 7.5 😊

How I got 7.5 while scoring a 7 is a nightmare for many, is a question that is being asked by almost everyone who gets to know my score. Hence, I thought of writing about it as well. Even though it is a difficult task to summarise it, I will try my best.

Initially, I got confused by so many sources available. I consulted many, both free and paid but was never fully satisfied. It really all added to my confusion, believe me! So, I sat down one day and devised my own strategy. I picked up what I thought was suitable from a lot of suggestions that I received and after consulting some well reputed English language and IELTS coaches, made my own plan, which I think is the best solution as everything doesn’t work for everyone. I strongly believe that writing is highly subjective, there is no right or wrong, and that customised plans work wonders!

Firstly, good knowledge of the basics is a must.  You cannot score a 7 if your writing has a lot of grammar/spelling mistakes. IELTS is a TEST of the level you are at and not a language course that will teach you English. In addition, like every test, there are some strategies and techniques that you have to learn for IELTS. I highly recommend that those who are struggling to get a high band, consult someone who is familiar with the IELTS test, to get their writing reviewed and find out the exact area where they lack. The only way to improve is to know your mistakes. I also advise you to give proper time and attention to your preparation, and not just keep booking tests one after the other.

As I already got a 7 on my first attempt, I was quite confident to score 7.5 this time. However, I didn’t take it easy and put in all my effort to make sure that I don’t fall short. The conclusion I reached was that there actually is no such thing as “different types of task 2”, every task needs you to discuss an issue and reach a conclusion, that essentially is your opinion. So, all that fuss of whether to give your opinion or not, whether to discuss one view or both is pointless! A good essay, with strong arguments that prove your stance, is all that is required.

Since last year, I have been guiding many IELTS aspirants and with everyone, I use a different strategy. As we are all different, at different levels of the language, having different preferences and writing style, we need to have a customised plan. Some general tips definitely work for everyone but not all can benefit from just these tips. Forcing a certain style of writing onto someone never works!

I definitely think that one can achieve the required score without opting for professional services, depending on how much time they have and at what level of the language they are. Even then they would need someone to pinpoint their mistakes, then if they have enough time and knowledge, they can surely work on it by themselves. Otherwise, if someone is doubtful of their language skills and is unable to get the target score despite working hard on their own, there is no harm in consulting an experienced person. The time and money spent on repeated attempts are better invested in learning and actually preparing for the test