IELTS Speaking Mistakes: The Speaking test is one of the four sections in the IELTS Exam. It evaluates a candidate’s ability to communicate effectively in English, which is essential for admission to prestigious universities abroad and for immigration to popular foreign countries. To achieve the required IELTS band score, it is important to avoid common yet critical mistakes related to pronunciation, grammar, fluency, and coherence. Every year, many candidates fails to achieve their desired scores due to errors in their speaking performance. However, with the right practice, guidance, and focused preparation, these issues can be overcome. In this guide, we will explore some common IELTS Speaking mistakes and offer practical solutions to help test takers improve their performance.
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IELTS Speaking Mistakes
The IELTS Speaking test is often seen as one of the challenging sections, especially for non-native speakers. Even candidates with strong grammar and vocabulary can lose marks due to common yet avoidable mistakes. Below are some of the major mistakes candidates should avoid to score high in the Speaking section:
Memorising Answers Instead of Speaking Naturally
Many candidates believe that memorising responses to common questions will help them perform better in the speaking test. While this may work to a certain extent in the writing section, it can be a major mistake during the speaking part. Memorised answers often sound unnatural. Examiners are trained to recognize memorised answers. It also limits your ability to adapt to variations in questions. Therefore, prepare by practicing speaking about common topics, but avoid memorising full responses. Focus on developing your ability to respond naturally, using your own words.
IELTS Speaking test format
Speaking Too Softly or Lacking Confidence
Many students get nervous during the IELTS Speaking test. However, it should not affect your ability to speak. In many cases, candidates get nervous and this can lose their confidence while speaking. This lack of confidence can reduce your overall score. Candidates should not speak too quietly or avoid eye contact. Avoiding eye contact with the examiner suggests a lack of confidence. Speak clearly and confidently. Also, make eye contact with the examiner while answering questions. Confidence in delivery helps your fluency and pronunciation scores.
Free IELTS Speaking Practice Tests, Download Cambridge PDF
Going Off-Topic
Sometimes, in an attempt to say more or showcase vocabulary, candidates drift away from the original question. Candidates should answer according to the question. Listen to the question carefully and ask for clarification in case you do not understand the question and always stick to the topic only.
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Giving One-Word or Very Short Answers
Stop giving one-word responses for different questions. Giving only one-word answers "Yes" or "No" expresses a lack of knowledge in the English language. In the IELTS test, the examiner assess your fluency, grammatical range, and vocabulary. Giving short and one-word answers don't provide enough language for evaluation which can lower your score.
Using the Same Words Repeatedly
Limited IELTS vocabulary is another common issue that can lower your IELTS Speaking band score. Your lexical resource (range of vocabulary) is a key scoring criterion. Repetition suggests you do not know alternative ways to express ideas. Expand your vocabulary by learning synonyms and practising with flashcards or vocabulary lists based on common IELTS topics.
IELTS Speaking Vocabulary, Key Areas, Strategies
Overusing Linking Phrases
Do not overuse IELTS linking words too often while speaking. Excessive use of linking phrases can disrupt the natural flow of conversation. Use different synonyms of linking phrases and replace formal connectors with conversational alternatives to sound natural.
Guidance of PW IELTS
Physics Wallah offers multiple online IELTS courses for all students. Follow the IELTS pages to better prepare for the exam.
