Introduction:
You have good English, but your score isn’t improving. Often, the problem isn’t a lack of knowledge, but a few persistent errors that hold you back. Fixing these common mistakes is the fastest way to boost your band score. Here are the top 10 culprits.
The Mistake List: How to Identify and Fix Them
1. Mistake: Not Answering the Whole Question
- What it is: Only addressing part of the prompt. For example, writing about the advantages of a topic but forgetting to discuss the disadvantages when asked.
- The Fix: Before you write, circle the key question words. Underline every part of the instruction. Plan your paragraphs to answer each part directly.
2. Mistake: Memorized Answers and Off-Topic Arguments
- What it is: Using a pre-written essay on “technology” for a question that is only loosely related. The examiner will spot this immediately, and your score for Task Response will be very low.
- The Fix: Your ideas must be 100% relevant to the specific question. Never try to force a memorized essay.
3. Mistake: Informal Language and Contractions
- What it is: Using language like “don’t,” “can’t,” “gonna,” “kids,” “a lot of,” or “etc.”
- The Fix: Use formal, academic language.
- Instead of: “don’t” → use “do not”
- Instead of: “kids” → use “children”
- Instead of: “a lot of” → use “a significant number of” or “considerably”
4. Mistake: Using “I think” or “I believe” Excessively
- What it is: Starting every sentence with “I think that…” It’s repetitive and weak.
- The Fix: Use a variety of phrases or state your opinion more directly.
- Instead of: “I think that pollution is bad.” → use “It is argued that pollution is a serious issue.” or “In my opinion, pollution is detrimental.”
5. Mistake: Spelling and Basic Grammar Errors
- What it is: Consistent spelling mistakes (e.g., “goverment,” “society,” “enviroment”) or subject-verb agreement errors (e.g., “People wants”).
- The Fix: Proofread! Leave 2 minutes at the end to check for these simple errors. Learn the correct spelling of the 10 most common IELTS topics.
6. Mistake: Overusing Basic Linking Words
- What it is: Starting every sentence with “Firstly,… Secondly,… Furthermore,… Finally,…”
- The Fix: Use a wider range of cohesive devices.
- Instead of: “Furthermore” → use “Moreover,” “Additionally,” “Another compelling argument is…”
- Instead of: “Finally” → use “In conclusion,” “To conclude,” “Overall.”
7. Mistake: Writing Too Generally (No Examples)
- What it is: Making a claim without support. E.g., “Technology helps education.” (How?).
- The Fix: Always follow a general statement with an explanation and a specific example.
- Better: “Technology can greatly enhance learning. For example, students in remote villages can now access world-class lessons online through platforms like Khan Academy, which was impossible before the internet.”
8. Mistake: The “In a nutshell” Conclusion
- What it is: Writing a weak, repetitive, or rushed conclusion.
- The Fix: Your conclusion should have two sentences:
- Summarize your main points in new words.
- Restate your overall opinion or give a final thought. Never introduce new ideas here.
9. Mistake: Incorrect Formatting and Paragraphing
- What it is: Writing one huge block of text or using bullet points.
- The Fix: Use the clear 4-paragraph structure: Introduction, Body 1, Body 2, Conclusion. Leave a clear line between each paragraph.
10. Mistake: Illegible Handwriting
- What it is: Writing so messily that the examiner struggles to read your answers.
- The Fix: If you’re taking the paper-based test, practice writing neatly under timed conditions. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but it must be readable.
Conclusion:
Print this list. Do one practice essay focusing on just one or two of these mistakes. Once you’ve corrected them, move on to the next. Conscious practice is the key to breaking bad habits and unlocking the band score you deserve.