IELTS Grammatical Range and Accuracy Band 7
Build sentence variety through meaningful relationships while keeping errors from becoming systematic or disruptive.
Quick answer
For Band 7 grammatical range and accuracy, IELTS expects a variety of complex structures, frequent error-free sentences, and generally good control of grammar and punctuation. Complexity should express real relationships such as cause, contrast, condition, and qualification. Writing one extremely long sentence with several uncontrolled clauses does not demonstrate useful range and can reduce accuracy.
Range means purposeful variety
A paragraph made entirely of short simple sentences can be accurate but may not show enough range. You can vary structure by using subordinate clauses, relative clauses, conditionals, passives, and controlled noun phrases when they suit the idea.
Do not treat structure types as boxes to tick. A conditional belongs where one outcome depends on another. A relative clause is useful when adding information about a specific noun. Meaning should choose the grammar, not the other way around.
Fix repeated errors before adding more complexity
Systematic errors—such as repeatedly missing third-person agreement or misusing articles—show less control than an occasional slip. Keep an error log from your own essays and identify patterns that appear across several drafts.
During the final review, inspect sentence boundaries, subject–verb agreement, articles, and verb forms first. These checks are more reliable than trying to rewrite every simple sentence under exam pressure.
Worked examples
Before-and-after IELTS Writing fixes
Weak direction
Although public transport is cheaper, but many commuters still drive.
Stronger direction
Although public transport is cheaper, many commuters still drive when services are unreliable.
Weak direction
The number of private cars are increasing, which cause more pollution.
Stronger direction
The number of private cars is increasing, which causes higher levels of roadside pollution.
Weak direction
Government build more houses, poor people can live better and it will solve everything.
Stronger direction
If local governments build more affordable homes near transport links, lower-income workers may gain access to stable housing without facing longer commutes.
Weak direction
Online classes are flexible, students can study at night, this is useful for workers.
Stronger direction
Because online classes are flexible, students can study at night. This option is particularly useful for people who work during the day.
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Self-check before you submit
- Do I use both simple and complex sentences accurately?
- Does each subordinate clause express a clear relationship?
- Have I checked subject–verb agreement and verb forms?
- Are sentence boundaries and punctuation clear?
- Which error pattern has repeated across my recent essays?
Frequently asked questions
How many complex sentences do I need for Band 7?
IELTS does not publish a required number. Use a variety across the essay and focus on control. Frequent error-free sentences matter alongside range.
Can simple sentences appear in a Band 7 essay?
Yes. Simple sentences can state key claims clearly. The essay as a whole should also show controlled complex structures where the ideas require them.
Continue with a related fix
IELTS Lexical Resource Band 7 Examples
Improve flexibility and precision without forcing rare words that damage clarity or collocation.
IELTS Task 2 Conclusion Mistakes and Corrections
End with a clear, consistent answer instead of introducing evidence, changing position, or repeating the introduction word for word.