Rules, comparisons and data

Does punctuation count in IELTS Writing?

Yes. Punctuation is assessed under Grammatical Range and Accuracy, one of the four Writing criteria. The official criteria list 'the accurate and appropriate use of punctuation', and the band descriptors describe it at every level, from punctuation used appropriately throughout at band 9 to punctuation that is often faulty at band 4. IDP says the cost depends on how far errors affect understanding.
  • Guide updated · 30 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS
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Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026

Where punctuation is marked

The Writing key assessment criteria say Grammatical Range and Accuracy assesses the range and accuracy of structures, 'the density and communicative effect of grammatical errors' and 'the accurate and appropriate use of punctuation'. It is one of four equally weighted criteria in each task (ielts.org).

Punctuation band by band

From the Writing band descriptors. The wording is the same for Task 1 and Task 2.

BandPunctuation wording
9Punctuation and grammar are used appropriately throughout
8The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is well managed
7Grammar and punctuation are generally well controlled, and error-free sentences are frequent
6Errors in grammar and punctuation occur, but rarely impede communication
5Punctuation may be faulty
4Punctuation is often faulty or inadequate

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How much one error matters

IDP's Writing FAQ: 'If the error makes your writing hard to understand, it can reduce your score. If the error has a little effect on understanding, it will not impact your score as much' (IDP). If you write in capital letters, IDP adds, make sure your punctuation shows where sentences start and finish.

Punctuation is one part of one criterion; range of structures and grammatical accuracy share that criterion. See our guide on capital letters in IELTS.

Frequently asked questions

Will one missing comma lower my band?+

Unlikely on its own. The descriptors judge the pattern of errors and their effect on communication.

Is punctuation part of Lexical Resource?+

No. It is assessed under Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Spelling sits under Lexical Resource.

Does punctuation matter in Speaking?+

No. The Speaking criteria are Fluency and Coherence, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy, and Pronunciation.

Are run-on sentences penalised?+

The descriptors do not name them, but sentences joined without correct punctuation count as punctuation and grammar errors.

Keep reading

Related

Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.

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