The term IELTS is not new for people, especially those who want to migrate to countries where English is the native language. Undoubtedly, IELTS is the most famous among many countries and is highly accepted by different nations, but other options like TOEFL and PTE also exist. In this blog, we will talk specifically about IELTS writing.
If you are an IELTS certificate holder or an applicant, you must know that IELTS writing is the most challenging part of the test. The writing section is challenging for those who have not prepared well or have not tried to overcome their errors even after the mock tests. In this write-up, we will discuss ten common IELTS writing mistakes and how to avoid them.
Ten Common IELTS Writing Mistakes
As an applicant for any English language test, you must have surveyed or gotten opinions from people who have encountered these tests about the most challenging section. We ensure answers from the majority will be “writing.” They find this segment challenging because of their lack of preparation or because they ignore its importance.
We have compiled a list of 10 common IELTS writing mistakes that people usually make in our institute. On the other hand, you need to avoid these mistakes, and the only solution is to show dedication while preparing. Have a look at these errors and ensure that you do not repeat them.
1. Over-writing
It is a widespread myth that examiners have the option of negative marking in the IELTS. Though this statement is invalid, overwriting still increases the chance of making mistakes. Moreover, this segment has a word limit; using extra words can prevent you from providing a clear message. So, overwriting is a common error that requires proper attention while preparing for this test.
2. Do not correctly answer the questions
If your essay doesn’t address the question, following the format and word count requirements is irrelevant. Ensure your response addresses the questions posed. Read the question two or three times if you are still unable to grasp it. Before you answer, take some time to comprehend what the query is asking. You can ask the examiner for clarification if you think you’re missing something.
3. Ignore the grammatical mistakes
During the IELTS speaking test, a person may be able to convey their point despite grammatical errors, but there is no room for grammatical mistakes in writing. It is essential to frame all the content in both tests without grammatical flaws. In the writing section, grammar is as crucial as the context. The best suggestion to minimize this error is to master grammatical rules.
4. Unfamiliarity with format
Candidates with a firm grip on the English language may still need to improve in IELTS. It might seem strange, but we realized this when we met such people. The reason is often unfamiliarity with or ignoring the format due to overconfidence. To better understand the current format, consider joining an institution like “Learn with Hafiz,” as they always keep themselves up-to-date with the format and preparation duties.
5. Spelling mistakes
This point is closely related to grammatical mistakes. Overusing different social media platforms has spoiled our practice of writing complete words and sentences. A typical example is writing “plz” instead of “please,” and we may follow the same practice in the actual test, leading to mark deductions. Practice writing words with appropriate spelling to minimize this error.
6. Limited vocabulary
Vocabulary in the IELTS writing section matters a lot. Unfortunately, people often consider their limited vocabulary sufficient to pass this challenging segment. Using similar vocabulary throughout the test can lower your scores. The best way to overcome this issue is to read books and newspapers and watch different podcasts to improve vocabulary.
7. Including personal opinion
It is a common error most applicants make when taking the IELTS. Remember that this is not a personal or editorial blog; you intend to go overseas, so you are writing this piece. Consider the remarks and opinions you offer carefully. Make your response as factual as possible while adhering to the facts.
8. Using inappropriate language
IELTS examiners are looking for writing that is clear, concise, and well-organized. They also expect candidates to use a formal tone and avoid jargon, idioms, and taboo language. Using inappropriate language can distract from your argument and make it difficult for the examiner to understand your point of view. This can make it difficult for them to assess your writing skills fairly.
9. Failing to summarize the main features
Candidates who are unprepared for the test often overlook the essential elements. They also fail to focus on summarizing the key points. Since the chart represents only a portion of the score, don’t limit your description to its contents. It is necessary to summarize to complete the assignment successfully. Failing to do so will result in a penalty.
10. Lacking consistency in the use of tactics
Utilizing different tactics requires doing certain things repeatedly. Knowing what to do, how to do it, and practicing will be the strategies that help you succeed in the writing section of the IELTS. The more practice you put into using the same tactics, the less time it takes to complete the work each time. Using strategies consistently is crucial.
Conclusion
Many people looking to move abroad need to pass an English language test, and the IELTS is the best option. While preparing for this test, people often commit various IELTS writing mistakes that deduct marks and create barriers between the applicant and the desired country. The list includes grammatical mistakes, overwriting, ignoring the format, and many others. To overcome these IELTS writing mistakes, practice firmly, keeping in mind the purpose of this test.
FAQs
Q. Are writing samples from PTE and IELTS the same?
Both examinations have comparable scores. However, there is a clear distinction in the degree of difficulty between the two tests. According to students who have taken both the PTE and IELTS exams, the PTE exam’s writing component is more straightforward than the IELTS exam’s.
Q. Is there a format for writing on the IELTS?
An academic or neutral writing format is appropriate. Your thoughts must be well organized, and you must use pertinent examples and evidence—which, if applicable, may come from your personal experience. This work shouldn’t take more than forty minutes to complete.
Q. How many spelling mistakes are allowed in IELTS writing?
The good news for applicants is that small spelling mistakes do not significantly affect their marks. However, remember that a mistake is ignorable only if it does not change the meaning of the word.
Q. How should a summary be written?
A summary should be written in your own words. It covers the ideas of the original text without inserting any of your own opinions.
Q. For the IELTS, how much vocabulary is sufficient?
The English language has an enormous vocabulary. An English-speaking high school graduate is thought to know at least 20,000-word families. In contrast, language learners require between 8,000– and 9,000-word families to comprehend a range of authentic texts, including the reading and listening passages for the IELTS.