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"Practice makes perfect" – a common phrase we've all heard time and time again. But what happens when our practice is faulty? The same goes for the IELTS test – you may have been practising day and night, but are you practising the right way?

Well, it's time to turn your practice into perfection! Here are 6 big mistakes in IELTS that you need to avoid at any cost:

1. Quality Over Quantity

It's important to keep an eye on the word limit for your writing tasks. Writing too many words can negatively affect your score, as can writing too few. It doesn't mean weighing the words every minute and wasting the time. Practice writing within the recommended word limit to get a feel for how much you can fit into the given space.

2. Connect the Dots, Not the Words

Avoid using too many connecting words, such as "and," "but," and "because." While these words may seem helpful in connecting your ideas, using them excessively can make the writing repetitive and create confusion. Remember, coherence and cohesion, which means your ability to link your ideas and present them in a logical and easy-to-understand way is an important criterion in the IELTS writing module. So, try using transitional phrases or reorganizing your ideas to flow naturally.

3. Stick to the Script

One of the biggest sins in the IELTS Writing section is going off-topic. The Writing prompt has a specific task for you to address, and deviating from it can lead to a lower score. Make sure you read the prompt carefully and stick to the task, and don't get sidetracked by unrelated ideas. Keep your writing focused and to the point, and avoid meandering off into irrelevant territory.

4. Proverbs and Idioms are Pitfalls

While idioms and proverbs may add colour and life to your writing, they are generally not recommended for the IELTS exam. These expressions can be difficult to understand for non-native speakers and can also come across as too informal for the exam. Stick to formal language and avoid slang or regional expressions.

5. Speak Like A Pro, Not A Parrot

It's important to remember that IELTS is an international test, and your pronunciation will be assessed based on how well you can be understood by a wide range of English speakers, not just those from a specific region or country. While it's important to have good intonation and stress patterns, trying to imitate a specific accent can actually harm your score. Instead, focus on the clear and accurate pronunciation of individual sounds and words, and aim for a neutral, easily understandable accent.

Conclusion

"Rome wasn't built in a day," and neither is a perfect IELTS score. It takes time, effort, and dedication to achieve your desired score. But by avoiding these six common mistakes, you can ensure that your journey to success is smoother and more efficient.

So, don't be discouraged by setbacks or mistakes along the way. Keep striving towards your goals, and remember that every step forward, no matter how small, is progress. If you ever need a helping hand, there is always a True Trainer to support you every step of the way.

So what are you waiting for? Join Skill Raiser Learning Academy and let's build your road to success together!