Common Mistakes in the IELTS Writing Test

The International English Language Test System’s Writing Exam is one seen as one of the most difficult aspects of the IELTS, especially if you want a really good score. There are four things looked into when examiners grade IELTS Writing Exams: Task Achievement  (idea development), Coherence and Cohesion (relationship and organization of ideas), Lexical Resource (vocabulary) and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. A small difference in any of these components can make you or break you, especially if your score requirement is high, like a band 7.

Here are some common mistakes done during the IELTS Writing Examination and ways to avoid them.

1. Misinterpreting the question. This can do a lot of damage to your band score, since Task Achievement is a fourth of your total score. This is also the aspect which gives trouble to a lot of test takers who have good grammar and lexical resource. Even if you have mastered the language, if you cannot develop your exposition well, a band 7 will be difficult to get.

Solution: Read the questions carefully.

2. Errors in the format of the essay. The essay typically has 3 parts: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. If not followed, the test taker may have problems with Coherence and Cohesion. This is why you are in trouble if you only wrote one paragraph for your entire article. There should be at least three paragraphs, one for each part of the essay.

Solution: Write three paragraphs at least.

3. Improper Tenses of the Verb. The appropriate use of tenses of verb is very important because it affects the message you want to convey. Should you make a mistake on the tenses you want to convey. This means two aspects of the criteria are affected: Grammatical Range and Accuracy and Task Achievement.

Solution: Master the tenses of the verb, particularly the Simple Tenses.

4. Using fancy words incorrectly. This is a common mistake done by those wish to impress people than express a message. Remember: it is not the word usage itself, but the clarity of context. If you are going to use a hifalutin word but not be able to use it properly, chances are your Lexical Resource will drop down.

Solutions: Stick to words you know how to use and improve your vocabulary.

5. The belief that you can improve as a writer without actually writing. Writing is a skill. You can never be a good writer if you refuse to practice the craft. It is not that easy either. To make significant improvement to your writing involves significant improvement in your language skills and even the ability to create logical ideas.

Solutions: Practice, and get a mentor if you have to.

IELTS Writing is indeed difficult, but with the right kind of practice and training, you may be on your way to becoming a band 7 writer. Make sure that you stay disciplined and patient with progress, and never forget that the smallest step is still an improvement. Let us start by making sure we do not commit these mistakes.

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