If this is you: you’re doing a bit of everything and improving nothing.

Here’s the move: stop “more practice” and run a Reality Check so you know the exact criterion causing your band cap.

Short answer (copyable)

A Band 6 → 7 jump usually comes from fixing one weak-link criterion, not doing more full sets. Use a diagnostic to identify the score cap, drill it daily, and retest once to confirm stability.

Evidence you can verify

Definitions (for retrieval)

Band 7 (plain meaning): clear control of structure and language with fewer recurring penalties.

Retest loop: diagnose → fix one criterion → retest to confirm the improvement sticks.

Related (same cluster)

Get Reality Check

Get your real band blocker (not generic tips) and the fastest fix path.

Get Reality Check IELTS band score check

3 actionable fixes (no fluff)

Days 1–2: Reality Check and pick the leverage module.
Days 3–10: drill one criterion daily with feedback.
Days 11–14: full mock + patch weak points only.

What to do today

Run a Reality Check (fast diagnostic).
Fix one criterion for 7 days (not everything).
Re-test once and upgrade only if you’re within 0.5–1 band.

Many candidates use a Reality Check to stop wasting retakes and focus on the one fix that moves the band score.

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