For innumerable people hoping to pursue their goals of studying or working abroad, the IELTS exam serves as a ray of hope. Regarded as a quintessential gateway to international opportunities, this English language proficiency test is widely recognized and trusted by numerous countries worldwide. Among the various challenges that test-takers encounter, English grammar preparation for IELTS is by far the most difficult. In this blog, we will delve into the significance of impeccable grammar in IELTS and highlight some common IELTS grammar mistakes to steer clear of during your preparation.

For many in India, especially in major metropolitan areas, English proficiency is a necessity. However, this isn’t the case in smaller towns and rural regions. Does this mean that the dream of studying or working abroad is unattainable for individuals from these areas? Absolutely not! The IELTS test opens doors for them, offering a chance to showcase their English language skills on a global stage. For this, you need to stay away from making the same IELTS grammar mistakes. 

Also read: Things You Need To Know About The IELTS Reading Test

One of the most reputable names in IELTS coaching is Plutus Academy, located in Delhi. Recognized as the best IELTS coaching institute in the Delhi, Plutus Academy provides students with the necessary tools and guidance to excel in their IELTS preparation.  An esteemed faculty member, Ms Huma Hassan, a JNU PhD scholar and an esteemed faculty member of Plutus Academy says, ” Mistakes in grammar are going to repeat if you do nothing to improve your English grammatical skills”. However, no matter where you choose to prepare, understanding and avoiding IELTS common grammar mistakes is crucial. Here are some of the most frequent grammatical errors to watch out for:

Also read: How to Regain Your IELTS Test Confidence After a Failure 

Common Grammar Mistakes During Preparation Of IELTS

Subject-Verb Agreement

Ensure that the subject and the verb in a sentence agree in terms of number. A singular subject requires a singular verb, and a plural subject requires a plural verb.

Correct: The cat sleeps on the bed.

Incorrect: The cats sleeps on the bed.

In the first sentence, the subject is singular (the cat), so the verb must also be singular (sleeps). In the second sentence, the subject is plural (cats), so the verb must also be plural (sleep).

Tense Consistency

Maintain consistent verb tenses within a sentence or a paragraph. Shifting between past, present, and future tenses without proper structure can confuse the reader.

Correct: I went to the store yesterday.

Incorrect: I go to the store yesterday.

In the first sentence, the verb is in the past tense (went), so all of the other verbs in the sentence should also be in the past tense. In the second sentence, the verb is in the present tense (go), which is inconsistent with the rest of the sentence.

Misplaced Modifiers

Place adjectives, adverbs, and phrases in a way that clearly indicates what they modify. Misplacing them can lead to ambiguity and confusion.

Correct: The dog with the big ears barked at the mailman.

Incorrect: The dog barked at the mailman with the big ears.

In the first sentence, the modifier “with the big ears” is clearly modifying the noun “dog.” In the second sentence, the modifier is placed after the verb “barked,” which makes it seem like the mailman has big ears.

Run-On Sentences

Avoid overly long sentences that lack proper punctuation, as they can make your writing convoluted. Instead, opt for clear and concise sentences.

Correct: The cat ran away. The dog chased after it.

Incorrect: The cat ran away, the dog chased after it.

A run-on sentence is a sentence that is too long and does not have proper punctuation. The correct sentence is divided into two sentences, each with its own subject and verb.

Punctuation Errors

Improper use of commas, semicolons, and apostrophes can alter the meaning of a sentence. Brush up on the rules of punctuation for accuracy.

Correct: The book is about a dog named Sparky.

Incorrect: The book about a dog named Sparky.

The comma in the correct sentence is used to separate the introductory phrase “about a dog named Sparky” from the rest of the sentence.

Word Choice

Use precise vocabulary that accurately conveys your ideas. Avoid using complex words if you’re unsure of their meanings or applications.

Correct: The cat is a feline.

Incorrect: The cat is a animal.

The word “feline” is more specific and accurate than the word “animal.”

Articles (a, an, the)

Master the use of articles to determine when to use “a,” “an,” or “the” before nouns. Incorrect usage can lead to confusion or incorrect meaning.

Correct: I saw a cat in the park.

Incorrect: I saw the cat in the park.

The indefinite article “a” is used when the noun is not specific. The definite article “the” is used when the noun is specific. In the first sentence, the cat is not specific, so we use the indefinite article “a.” In the second sentence, the cat is specific, so we use the definite article “the.”

Double Negatives

Be cautious when using negative words in a sentence, as double negatives can create a positive meaning, contrary to what you intend.

Correct: I don’t know anything about that.

Incorrect: I don’t know nothing about that.

The double negative “don’t know nothing” is incorrect. The correct sentence uses the negative word “don’t” once.

Keep in mind that while Plutus Academy can offer fantastic advice, the onus ultimately rests with you as you begin your IELTS preparation journey. You can practice with IELTS grammar exercises available on the internet or avail IELTS exercise books from Plutus Academy.  Spend time practicing your grammar through activities, reading literature written in English, and getting feedback. Correcting these common grammar errors will improve not just your IELTS exam score but also your general English language proficiency.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I hope you now know which common IELTS mistakes to avoid. The IELTS exam is undeniably a crucial step toward realizing your dreams of international opportunities. Embrace this challenge with enthusiasm and a commitment to mastering grammar rules. With the right preparation, determination, and guidance – be it from institutions like Plutus Academy or through self-study – you can confidently navigate the intricacies of English grammar and achieve success in your IELTS endeavors.