Common IELTS preparation mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Most lost marks come from a handful of repeatable habits. Fixing them is often the fastest band gain available.
Listening
Read ahead during pauses, predict the type of answer (number, name, noun), and move on immediately if you miss one.
- Ignoring the word limit on completion questions
- Misspelling common words and names that are spelt out
- Stopping to worry about a missed answer and losing the next three
Reading
Keep to about 20 minutes per passage, answer every question, and return to difficult items at the end.
- Treating Not Given as False
- Spending ten minutes on one question
- Matching headings to a single detail instead of the main idea
Writing
Plan for three to five minutes, check every part of the question is answered, and keep 40 minutes for Task 2.
- Answering a related but different Task 2 question
- No overview in Academic Task 1
- Writing under the minimum word count
- Spending too long on Task 1
Speaking
Answer, explain and give an example. In Part 2 use your one minute of preparation to note three or four points and keep speaking until the examiner stops you.
- One-sentence answers in Part 1
- Memorised speeches that do not fit the question
- Stopping early in the Part 2 long turn
Common questions
Is using an accent a mistake in Speaking?
No. Pronunciation is assessed on how easy you are to understand, not on having a particular accent.
Should I answer every Listening and Reading question?
Yes. There is no penalty for a wrong answer, so a blank can only cost you.
Practise the way the exam actually tests you
Exam-order modules, real question types, explanations for every answer, and feedback that quotes your own work.