7 Most Common IELTS Myths To Avoid For A High IELTS Band Score
Introduction
Pumped up to start your IELTS Test preparation? And want to get a High Band Score on your IELTS test?
Great!
But as you proceed with your preparation, you will have ample questions that will pop up, like:
"How can I find the best possible answer for Multiple Choice questions?"
"What if I don't know the answer to a particular question?"
"Will I be able to complete the test on time?"
"What more can I do to obtain a high band score?”
And, the list continues…
IELTS Myths that keep you away from getting a High IELTS Band Score
Adding to your difficulties in scoring high, you even have to deal with the myths related to the IELTS Exam. All these will leave you confused.
So, what are those rumours surrounding the IELTS Test that you heard and believe to be true?
- IELTS is more difficult as compared to other English Language Proficiency tests
- If IELTS Exam is given in the home country, there are higher chances to score better
- Smiling in front of the examiner or making him/her laugh during the IELTS Speaking test might fetch a high IELTS Band Score
- Writing more than the specified word limit in the IELTS Writing test will help get a better score
- Speaking in an accent other than Australian, American, or British lowers IELTS Band Score
- If the opinions expressed in the Writing or Speaking Test differ from the examiner's point of view, it may lessen the score
- IELTS Test can be taken only once
Now, have a look at the facts and dispel the myths so that you can do a focused preparation for the actual test.
1. IELTS is more difficult as compared to other English Language Proficiency Tests
IELTS Test is taken to assess a candidate's English Language skills so that they can achieve the required score to meet their study or settle abroad requirement. It is scored on a 9 Band scale which has remained consistent over the past 20 years.
Also, one neither fails nor passes the IELTS Test. It provides Band Score based on your performance. So, it is a wrong belief that you must get steer clear of.
2. If IELTS Exam is given in the home country, there are chances to score better
This is a common myth prevailing among most IELTS aspirants. However, one must understand that the standard of the IELTS Test - Academic or General Training - remains the same across all the test locations in the world. So, the result will entirely be based on your performance and not the place from where you appeared.
Another false belief among the aspirants is regarding the IELTS Results. They believe that results vary depending on the test centre you choose or the examiners who assess your paper. This is again a false notion. None of the test centres are biased. They are just doing their duty on the Exam day.
Further, IELTS is a high-profile exam. So, any kind of malpractice during or after the exam is strictly prevented by IDP and British Council.
3. Smiling in front of the examiner or making him/her laugh in IELTS Speaking Test might fetch a good IELTS Score
To stay calm and composed during the test, it is good to keep smiling. This can avoid anxiety and also improve your performance.
The examiner in the IELTS Speaking test only examines the level of your English and how you demonstrate your skills. Smiling or laughing won't have any effect on your IELTS Score. you are judged only based on your performance.
4. Writing more than the specified word limit in IELTS Writing Test will help get a better score
In IELTS Writing Test, you need to write 150 words for Task 1 and 250 words for Task 2. Just as writing under word count will lessen your score, writing more than the specified word count will also cost your IELTS Band Score. So, it is advisable to complete your task within the pre-specified word limit. Correct spellings, Grammar, Sentence Structures, and Vocabulary are taken into consideration while marking the test.
5. Speaking in an accent other than Australian, American, or British lowers IELTS Band Score
IELTS Speaking Test does not require you to change your accent. You can speak in your normal accent. But, make sure that you speak clearly and at a natural pace so that the examiner can understand what you are speaking.
Practice speaking in English with your friends, colleague, and family in your everyday life. Listening to native speakers can also help you learn the proper pronunciation of different words.
6. If the opinions expressed in the Writing or Speaking test differs from the examiner's point of view, it may lessen the score
There is no such thing as right opinion or wrong opinion in the IELTS Writing and Speaking tests. You are marked based on:
- How perfectly you demonstrate your English Language Skills
- How well you express and explain your ideas
7. IELTS Test can be taken only once
This is again a misconception among the candidates appearing for the IELTS exam. But the fact is that there is no limit to the number of times you can take the test. You can sit for the IELTS test as many times as you want. However, you will have to pay the exam fee each time you book your test.
Conclusion
Once you avoid these myths, you will find yourself more comfortable with your IELTS test preparation. You can then focus on what really matters to
achieve a High IELTS Band Score.
For effective test preparation, you can access the free IELTS practice tests as well. Attempt these tests and get them evaluated by experts. This will help you gauge your performance for the actual exam. Besides, you can even check out different techniques, tips & strategies for different modules of the IELTS test in our other blogs.
If you have any difficulties or specific doubts regarding the test, you can always drop us a message on our
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