Understanding the difference between Band 8 and Band 9
Band 9 writers produce virtually error-free English. Grammar, spelling, and punctuation are perfect. There are no noticeable errors that distract the reader.
Unlike Band 8, Band 9 writing feels completely natural. Vocabulary and structures are used appropriately without any sense of trying too hard.
Band 9 fully addresses all parts of the task with complete relevance. Ideas are fully developed with nuanced arguments and examples.
What examiners look for in top-scoring essays
Band 9 writers don't just state opinions—they explore nuances and acknowledge complexity. They show understanding that issues often have multiple perspectives.
"While X is often true, it's worth noting that in certain contexts Y can be equally significant..."
Band 8 might overuse "however," "therefore," "furthermore." Band 9 writers use these sparingly and rely on meaning connections and reference words.
"This approach... Such strategies... These methods... The former... The latter..."
Band 9 writers use collocations and idioms naturally, not artificially. They understand that advanced vocabulary means appropriate vocabulary.
"The ramifications of this decision are far-reaching" (not "effects are wide")
Band 9 writers use complex structures naturally—relative clauses, conditionals, participial phrases—but without errors that Band 8 might make.
"Having considered the various perspectives, it becomes evident that..."
Examples of sophisticated word choices
Structures that demonstrate grammatical range
"Having considered both perspectives, I tend to believe that..."
"Individuals, many of whom have no prior experience, can benefit from..."
"Were governments to prioritize education, the benefits would be substantial."
Deconstruct what makes these essays exceptional
Task Achievement: 9/9
Fully addresses all parts of the task with sophisticated arguments. Position is clear and consistently maintained. Ideas are fully developed.
Coherence & Cohesion: 9/9
Seamless paragraphing and transitions. Cohesive devices used naturally without over-reliance on common connectors.
Lexical Resource: 9/9
Wide range of vocabulary used with full flexibility. Precise word choices, natural collocations, and virtually error-free spelling.
Grammatical Range: 9/9
Wide range of structures with full flexibility and precision. Virtually error-free grammar throughout.
Steps to achieve top marks
Week 1-2
Master all Band 9 vocabulary for your common topics
Week 3-4
Practice complex grammatical structures until natural
Week 5-6
Analyze 5+ Band 9 essays, noting techniques
Week 7-8
Write essays focusing on one criterion at a time
Ongoing
Use AI checker to identify and fix persistent errors
