Mistakes are inevitable in every exam, but a student may easily overcome them if he or she recognises the errors early and begins trying to correct them. The same is true for the IELTS exam. Most students make the Same Mistakes on the IELTS Test and afterwards regret it. Nonetheless, be extra cautious about these typical IELTS Test blunders because even missing the needed score by 0.5 Band might cost your ambition of studying or settling abroad.
This essay is aimed exclusively for those hopefuls who wish to discover the most common faults in the IELTS test and work on improving them. Take these into mind and avoid them for improved IELTS test outcomes.
The Most Common IELTS Errors
- Follow the Instructions
- Remember the Word Count in IELTS Writing
- Refrain from Extending the Word Limit
- Never Overdo with Connecting Words
- Stick to the Topic
- Cover All the Key Points mentioned in the Task
- Accent is Trivial but Pronunciation is Important!
1. Follow the Directions
One of the most prevalent IELTS faults is that candidates overlook the instructions presented at the start of each section. They are critical for progressing in the test. Examiners subtract points if they are not followed completely. Instructions in the Reading test are one of the most prevalent IELTS faults. Why? Because pupils do not thoroughly follow the directions, they are incorrectly assessed. As an example,
For a certain inquiry, you are provided the following information.
Finish the phrase below. For each response, write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS.
Ques: Passenger ships across North Atlantic Ocean had an excellent safety record in ______.
Ans: past forty years [insert a ‘right mark’ here]
Ans: the past forty years [insert a ‘wrong mark’ here]
You will almost surely lose marks if you answer in more than three words.
2. Remember the IELTS Writing Word Count
The IELTS Writing Test assignments are based on word count. As a result, it is critical that you stick to the word count when completing these assignments. Another typical IELTS error is that students do not count their words after finishing the task. IELTS writing activities carefully adhere to the word limit. IELTS Writing Task 1 (Letter or Report) requires you to write 150 words, whilst IELTS Writing Task 2 (Essay) requires you to write 250 words.
It is strongly advised that you count the words so that you can quickly add extra material if it falls short of their criteria. You will not lose points for assignment completion this way. The length of these exercises is quite important, so be sure to count your words after completing them.
3. Please Refrain From Exceeding the Word Limit
We have often highlighted how important it is to follow the directions to the letter. One typical IELTS error is for applicants to exceed their word limit. The majority of IELTS test takers believe that writing lengthier essays would help them earn higher marks.
Why should you avoid going over the word limit?
When writing a long essay, the possibilities of making mistakes rise as the number of words and phrases increases. Furthermore, it is a direct breach of the instructions. Yes, more than 30 words is allowed. However, going above 100 words is considered NOT obeying the requirement. This lowers your score. As a result, it is imperative that this fallacy be dispelled as soon as possible.
4. Never Use Many Connecting Words
One of the main factors is coherence and cohesion, which is used to grade your IELTS Exam, particularly your Essay Writing Task. So, which is the ideal technique to exhibit your Coherence and Cohesion abilities when undertaking IELTS tasks?
Is it via the use of more and more linking words?
If you answered YES, you must work on it. Reduce the overuse of linking words. Unfortunately, this is one of the most prevalent IELTS blunders. The reason behind this is that most test-takers aren’t proficient in the language and try to fill in the gaps with linking words or fillers. Because this is a crucial factor in determining IELTS results, the examiner sees through it and may deduct bands.
5. Keep to the Point
Frequently, the aspirant does not comprehend the topic in IELTS Writing or IELTS Speaking. In such instances, individuals become worried and shift the subject. Unfortunately, there will be no score if the assignment in the IELTS Test deviates from the theme. Your thoughts and labour will not be considered, no matter how wonderfully you offer them. Though this is not a typical IELTS error, it is on its way to becoming one. As more pupils believe that this is the best option.
6. Cover All of the Important Points Given in the Task
INSTRUCTIONS. It is the most significant component of the IELTS exam. We recently spoke about how vital it is to keep to the topic. Similarly, it is critical to cover all of the key elements listed in the job.
Let’s look at an example to help you grasp it better.
While you are away, a family member has promised to care after your house and plants.
Write a letter to a member of your family. You said in your letter
- Provide contact details for when you are away
- Give specific instructions about how to care for your plant
- Mention details of other household duties
You must include all three items listed above in your letter. If you miss any of them, your score will suffer. This is a typical error made by IELTS test takers; they ignore a point, figuring that covering the remainder of the points will enough. However, this is not the case. Read the instructions attentively and cover all of the main aspects.
7. Pronunciation is More Important Than Accent!
IELTS is a test that evaluates your command of the English language. As a result, your accent has no bearing on your score. However, solid pronunciation is required for a high score on the IELTS Speaking Test. Many test-takers make the mistake of faking their accent in the mistaken belief that it would lead to better bands. But keep in mind that this is a typical IELTS exam blunder, or rather a prevalent misperception.
However, it is the WORDS YOU SPEAK that are important. The examiner looks at your pronunciation, sentence delivery, and grammatical use.
A Word of Advice
To avoid difficulty, it is necessary to be aware of the hazards. So, prepare well for the IELTS Exam. Also, follow these pointers to help you avoid the most typical IELTS blunders.
IELTS Tutorials provides excellent IELTS Test preparation with practise tests and other essential tools. Familiarize yourself with the test format and scoring system. Analyze your performance utilising the free online IELTS exam. You may also go for IELTS Online Coaching if you want advice and coaching, or you can download for the unlimited IELTS practise material and support. Build your confidence, and your efforts will undoubtedly reflect in your IELTS score.
An online tutoring alternative, such as IELTS Tutorials, has a reputation for helping students pass their exam on the first try, saving them money and time.
Always stick to tried-and-true methods as long as they perform flawlessly.
IELTS coaching is accessible in two formats: traditional classroom teaching and contemporary online coaching. While both offer advantages, balancing the advantages and disadvantages would tip the scales in favour of online tutoring.
Now that you understand the difficulties that you may experience if you study on your own, I believe you will be able to make the best decision for yourself.
Best of luck with your IELTS preparation and exam.