Thousands of students prepare to give IELTS every year, and when researching the exam, they come across false information or myths about the exam. These IELTS myths can mislead students and give them a false sense of security which might lead to a blunder during the exam. So, today we will bust the top 10 common myths and give you accurate information. The blog will discuss the different types of myths regarding the writing, listening, speaking and reading sections. Below are the top 10 common IELTS myths that any student might face.
Write more to score more
This is among the most common IELTS myths that are present. You may come to believe that by writing more, you will be able to demonstrate your vocabulary and grammar skills. However, it is false that exceeding the word limit of 150 words to 250 words would automatically increase your score. While the number of words you surpass will not be penalised, you may end up spending more time than needed on the section.
Speaking in a particular accent will help you score more
This is arguably one of the worst IELTS myths you will come across, despite appearing natural on the surface. IELTS is a global language proficiency exam. Examiners are aware of your nationality and take note of your accent. Talking in an American, British or Australian accent has nothing to do with the score they will be getting in the speaking section. So, the focus should be on speaking clearly with the use of the correct vocabulary.
IELTS is more difficult than TOEFL
Almost every student has encountered this myth about IELTS being tougher than TOEFL, which is entirely false. TOEFL and IELTS are two different exams; some people are better suited for either of the examinations. The difficulty of IELTS and TOEFL are the same but different in their sets.
You will score more by just solving sample papers
This IELTS myth can look legit, but it is not. IELTS sample papers are an excellent approach to practise and improve your scoring band. Most students gain confidence in their ability to perform well by practising with a sample paper. Do remember that when it comes to the speaking and listening section, sample papers won't be of much help.
Level of difficulty varies from one nation to another
Several students believe this IELTS myth that the questions on the test are easier or more difficult than in other nations. The IELTS test questions are tested with test takers worldwide before they are certified, which attests to the impartiality with which the IELTS exam is administered. The test is given in over 1100 places throughout 140 nations, and the level of uniformity is maintained to ensure that no student gains an unfair advantage.
While telling you about the many IELTS myths, we can also provide a few tips and tricks to help you crack your IELTS exams.
You should try to match the opinions of the examiner
This is one of the most common IELTS myths that students believe in. Students assume that if they agree with the examiners, they will score higher on the speaking and writing tests. It is false because the test does not judge political correctness or a test taker's point of view. The ability to explain oneself in English is the main determinant for evaluating test takers. It is a language test, and one must understand that one's point of view is irrelevant.
Giving more information will give more marks in speaking
This is another common IELTS myth that students believe in; This myth is completely false. There are various scenarios where a student begins to provide more information than is required for a specific type of question. You should always stick to the question and limit your answers to the scope of the question.
Confidence and attitude are tested during the IELTS speaking test
This is an IELTS myth. Your English speaking ability is evaluated using four criteria: fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. Not on your self-confidence and attitude. Remember that you are not sitting for a job interview but rather an exam on your English language skills.
Following the word count is compulsory in IELTS
This IELTS myth is related to the idea of writing more in order to score higher. When it comes to word count, you can certainly go above in the IELTS writing portion. On the other hand, Examiners will not consider other writing for a credit or negative marking. They may even feel exhausted from reading so many words. Sticking to the word limit and being clear with your answers is best.
Speaking is the most important component of the IELTS
Students frequently believe IELTS myths, such as this one, that students should give one module less importance than the other, which is incorrect. Speaking, listening, writing, and reading are equally important modules because the overall score, as well as all components above a specific band, are crucial. Don't overburden one module or spend too much time on another. All of the components function together.
The IELTS reading section is getting harder
This myth is not actually false, but you cannot really blame the IELTS exam committee for raising the Reading section's bar. However, they have recently introduced new passages that they anticipate students will be able to read. If you take many practice tests, you will almost certainly pass the modified version of the reading section as well.
You can easily find answers in the reading section
This myth is entirely false. You cannot expect to find answers by reading the passage simply. It is not like an English exam in school. It's a difficult section in which you must carefully read the passage and questions in order to find the solutions.
Use special words to show off your vocabulary
This IELTS myth can be misleading for many students as it can be seen as a true statement. You can use fancy words, but the exam is about your English language skills, so you should only use words related to the given topic..
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These were the top 10 common IELTS myths that you might face while doing your research or might fall victim to. Please avoid people or sites that tell you any of these myths because you can't trust them. While talking about IELTS, did you know that you can study in the UK without giving IELTS? Our blog discusses the exact details of how to study in the UK without IELTS.
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