How to avoid major mistakes in IELTS?
To pass a language exam well, you need to carefully prepare: practice listening, reading, speaking and writing, familiarize yourself with the structure of the exam. But there are common mistakes that stand in the way of reaching B2 and higher. They are allowed due to carelessness or excitement. We propose to figure out what these errors are and how to avoid them.
Changing the topic of the essay
This can happen for various reasons. When we come across an unfamiliar topic in an essay, it is not always clear what to write. Therefore, sometimes the examinee chooses another or slightly changes the given topic in the hope of not losing a point. But this is categorically wrong, because then 0 is threatened for failure to complete the task. Another reason is reluctance to defend an argument that you know but disagree with.
How to avoid?
When preparing for the exam, study more different topics and arguments, and also clearly define the main problem of the essay at the beginning of work on it. And remember, there is no right or wrong position for IELTS examiners. It is possible that for the sake of a high score you have to neglect your point of view for a while, but reveal the topic.
Wrong number of words in answer
Simple mistake that could be worth a point.If in the conditions for the answer it is indicated to enter “no more than 3 words”, we use no more than 3 words. The same is with the written part: when specifying the minimum or maximum word threshold, clearly follow it.
How to avoid?
First, we carefully read the task. Since the exam time is limited, sometimes you don't want to spend it reading the conditions for the answer. But avoiding mistakes is easier than correcting them. Therefore, it is better to read the assignment carefully and without haste.
Second, when preparing for the exam, work out a plan for preparing an essay or describing schedules. This will help avoidexcitement and focus on fulfilling all the specified conditions. Also, learn the common phrases in advance that will come in handy in the introductory or concluding part. Remembering how many words are in them will save time when counting.
Focus on accent, not pronunciation
First of all, pronounce the words correctly according to the transcription.And only after that work on the accent.It is the incorrect pronunciation of words that can lower your grade, while the accent does not.
How to avoid?
This requires a lot of work on listening and speaking.In the first case, TV shows, films and videos will help.For example, in this article we have compiled a selection of useful YouTube channels that will broaden your horizons and help you better absorb information by ear.
To practice speaking, go to a language club and interact with native speakers.To find a person with whom you can talk in a foreign language, use different language social networks.
Long pauses while answering
You cannot be silent for a long time while speaking. Time is worth your points. Silence can arise from ignorance of a topic or an unexpected question. For example, you might be interrupted before you finish your main point.
How to avoid?
In the IELTS test items you will find many possible speaking topics and questions. Sometimes we cannot answer them even in our native language. The only way out is to find the topics and work on the answer to each, and also think about how you can use the answers depending on the type of question.
Let's look at an example. You have found a question for a monologue about your favorite movie. Let's say that the main theme of this movie is ecology. Prepare a detailed answer according to the rules and say it. You can use the same answer in other questions as well.If you are asked about a hobby, you can tell that you are a film lover and are also interested in the environment, cite a film as an example, or talk about problems mentioned in the movie without mentioning its name.
Incorrectly calculated time
Little time is given for assignments in IELTS. If you get lost or think about one question for a long time, you may not have time to complete other tasks.
How to avoid?
Be sure to take the IELTS tests on time and find your weak points, which take the most energy. For the exam, it is better to learn how to cope with all the questions in the allotted minutes. Complete tasks from all sections, of different formats, as often as possible, and then you will definitely get a high score.
Helpful Links
We often write about language exam preparation and helpful resources for learning English. Here are some articles for those planning to take IELTS:
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