Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Band 8 wording on errors
From the ielts.org Writing band descriptors, Task 1 and Task 2.
| Criterion | Band 8 wording |
|---|---|
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | A wide range of structures is flexibly and accurately used. The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is well managed. Occasional, non-systematic errors and inappropriacies occur, but have minimal impact on communication. |
| Lexical Resource | Skilful use of uncommon and/or idiomatic items when appropriate, despite occasional inaccuracies in word choice and collocation. Occasional errors in spelling and/or word formation may occur, but have minimal impact. |
| Coherence and Cohesion | Information and ideas are logically sequenced, and cohesion is well managed. Occasional lapses in coherence or cohesion may occur. |
What 'non-systematic' means here
The descriptor separates occasional slips from errors that repeat. At band 8 errors are 'non-systematic', so a mistake that recurs through the essay, such as the same article or tense problem, does not fit band 8 grammar.
At band 7, by contrast, 'a few errors in grammar may persist' and error-free sentences are 'frequent' rather than the majority. At band 9, minor errors are 'extremely rare' (descriptors).
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Accuracy is not the whole band
Band 8 also needs range: 'a wide range of structures' and 'a wide resource' of vocabulary used fluently and flexibly. In Task 2 the prompt must be 'appropriately and sufficiently addressed' with a clear, well-developed position.
The script must fully fit the positive features of band 8 in each criterion. ielts.org's key assessment criteria list the density and communicative effect of errors as part of both Lexical Resource and Grammatical Range and Accuracy.
Frequently asked questions
Can a band 8 essay have grammar mistakes?+
Yes. The descriptor allows occasional, non-systematic errors with minimal impact, as long as most sentences are error-free.
What is a systematic error?+
One that repeats in a pattern. The band 8 descriptor allows only non-systematic errors.
How is band 8 different from band 7 on accuracy?+
At band 8 the majority of sentences are error-free; at band 7 error-free sentences are frequent and a few errors may persist.
Does band 9 allow any errors?+
Minor errors that are extremely rare and have minimal impact.
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