How AI Scores IELTS General Training Letters
GT Task 1 · Letter scoring · May 2026
Direct answer
AI scores GT letters on Task Achievement (purpose, tone, bullet coverage, format) plus CC, LR, and GRA—not Task 2 argument logic. BAND9AI checks whether you used the right register (formal vs informal), addressed every bullet with enough detail, and opened/closed appropriately. A polished essay tone on a complaint letter still caps TA. Word count under 150 or over length triggers the same penalties examiners apply.
Task Achievement for letters
Purpose Apologise, request, invite—stated early
Bullets Each prompt point developed, not name-checked
Register Formal / semi-formal / informal consistency
Letter vs Task 2 scoring
| Element | GT letter | Task 2 essay |
|---|---|---|
| Main criterion | Task Achievement | Task Response |
| Structure | Greeting, bullets, close | Intro, body, conclusion |
| Common leak | Wrong tone or missing bullet | Half-answered prompt |
AI limits on GT letters
Models may over-praise creative phrases while missing bullet gaps. Pair with Task 2 scoring guide only for shared CC/LR/GRA habits—not TA rules.
Key takeaways
- Letters need correct tone and every bullet developed.
- Task Achievement caps the band when purpose or register is wrong.
- Do not use Task 2 essay templates on GT letters.
- 150+ words with appropriate greeting and closing.
FAQ
No. Letters use Task Achievement for purpose, tone, and bullet coverage—not argument essay Task Response.
Yes. Formal complaints need formal openings and closings; informal letters to friends allow contractions—mixing registers caps TA.
Missing or underdeveloped bullets typically cap Task Achievement at Band 6 even when grammar is strong.
Check bullet coverage and tone on your GT letter—not essay fluency alone.
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