How much does spelling count in writing exams?

Spelling accuracy is assessed directly in most writing rubrics. Occasional slips on difficult words are usually forgiven, but frequent errors — especially on common words — drag a score down and distract the reader. Spelling an ambitious word correctly, on the other hand, signals a strong vocabulary you actually control.

Under time pressure, the highest-value habit is leaving a minute to proofread for the spelling mistakes you know you tend to make.