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  • Five common mistakes made by test takers.

  • Everyone makes mistakes!

  • Even the most prepared person can make simple errors on test day and lose valuable marks.

  • Let's take a look at the 5 most common mistakes so you don't fall into the same traps.

  • Not reading the question properly.

  • Don't think this applies to you?

  • Think again.

  • In any test, have you ever written a few words over the set word limit?

  • Or maybe you've provided two answers when only one is required, and just hoped for the best?

  • In both instances, your answer would be marked as incorrect because you didn't follow the instructions!

  • So make sure you read the question and stick to what you're being asked to do.

  • Changing the subject in the writing test.

  • No matter how well-structured your work is, you still won't get a good score if your writing is off topic.

  • To avoid this situation, ensure you stick to the subject.

  • Not pronouncing words correctly.

  • As a test of international English, IELTS does not take off marks if you have an accent.

  • Your accent is not important, but your pronunciation is!

  • So, for example, for the word 'probably' don't say probly or prolly.

  • Make sure you practice and test your pronunciation with some English speakers before the test.

  • Repeating the question that was asked when answering in the speaking test.

  • Don't be a parrot!

  • For example when the question is, "Who's your favorite actress of all time?"

  • You shouldn't answer with, "My favorite actress of all time is Marilyn Monroe."

  • This is because you are not showing your range of English.

  • You're just copying the question.

  • A better answer would be, "I love movies, and I think Marilyn Monroe was a fantastic actress."

  • So remember to show off the many different English words you know.

  • Leaving blank answers.

  • In both your listening and reading tests make sure you provide answers, even if you have to make a guess.

  • You won't lose marks for incorrect answers and you might just surprise yourself by getting some correct!

  • Take note of these common mistakes.

  • And you will be well on your way towards improving your IELTS band score.

  • For more information on common mistakes to avoid on test day, check out Facebook.com/IELTSessentials

Five common mistakes made by test takers.

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