16 Most Common Mistakes during IELTS Speaking Test

and Their 9-Band Solutions

Thursday 6 PM IST 22 AUG

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IELTS Speaking test has three sections - part 1, part 2 and part 3.

In part 1 of the test, the examiner asks 5-10 familiar questions about the
candidate's hometown, family, interests, study, jobs and so on.

In part two of the test, the candidate is given a topic about which he/she has to
talk about 1-2 minutes.

Part three questions are a bit more complex and detailed questions and these
questions are related to the topic given in part 2 and your response to the topic.
You in total have 11-15 minutes and need to present yourself confidentially.
CRITERIA
 TYPES OF QUESTIONS
TASK 1 TASK 2 TASK 3
There are seven common question
The cue card given in IELTS types that appear in IELTS speaking
The topics that are dealt with speaking task 2 is divided into the
in this section are general in part 3 are:
most common types of topic. These • Opinion: Give your opinion on a
nature. Topics that you are IELTS speaking topics are: certain topic. Remember to give
likely to encounter in your • People: your favourite person, examples.
day to day life like your role model etc • Evaluate: Evaluate opinion of
newspapers, and magazines. • Places: your favourite someone else.
• Hobbies restaurant, favourite city, etc • Future: Your opinion about what
• Studies • Experiences: favourite childhood will happen in the future?
memory, etc
• Hometown • Past: How have times changed?
• Feelings: memorable experience, • Cause and Effect: What is the
• Work etc
• Food cause of a reaction/action?
• habits and likes: hobbies and • Hypothetical: Your take on
• Magazine & Newspapers interests, etc imaginary situations
• Objects: money, finances, • Compare and Contrast: Talk
favourite item, etc about the difference and/or
similarities between two things.
In IELTS, your speaking skills is graded as they need to know if you can communicate and understand what is asked of you in English
especially when you go to a native English-speaking country.

UNDERSTAND THE QUESTION:

You are supposed to understand the question and answer it without going off topic. So even if you speak fluently and you talk about
something other than the question then you will end up scoring less.
For example: The question asked is, “where do you live?” in reply some would say “I am from Hyderabad.”
The above answer is grammatically correct, but it didn’t answer the question. You could be from Hyderabad but you could be living in
Australia.
Do say “I reside in Hyderabad.”
Notice the change of words that was used in the question “live” was changed to “reside”. This is yet another example of using better
vocabulary.
USE OF VOCABULARY.
In non native English speaking countries, people are more likely to use simple English when they communicate but this custom has to be
avoided when giving the speaking test. You have to use better words to describe the question.
For example: For “I mean to say…” say “I intend to say…”
COHERENCE (COMMON THREAD IN THE SPEECH):
Your speech has to be linked via connectives that enable you to keep the listener engaged.
As you have to use connectors, to have that continuity maintained throughout you speech, so that even you don’t switch from topic to
topic.
GRAMMAR: GRAMMATICAL ERRORS ARE AT ALL COSTS TO BE AVOIDED.
For instance: “I slept at 6” could be said as “I was sleeping at six…” or “I went to sleep at 6.”
• Familiarize Yourself With Test Format: Understand the structure and
requirements of each section – Part 1, Part 2 (Cue Card), and Part 3.
• Practice answering questions within the given time limits. Example:
Spend time reviewing part IELTS speaking test questions and simulate test
conditions to improve your familiarity with the format.
• Expand Your Vocabulary: Improve your vocabulary range by learning and
using advanced words and phrases relevant to different topics. Example:
Instead of using basic adjectives like “good” or “nice” opt for more
specific and sophisticated words like “exceptional,” “remarkable”, or
“outstanding.”
• Maintain Cohesion And Coherence: Ensure that your answer flow
logically and coherently. Use transition words and phrases to connect ideas
and organise your thoughts. Example: When transitioning to a new point,
you can use phrases like “Furthermore,” “Moreover,” or “In addition to
that.”
• Practice Fluency: Develop your ability to speak fluently without hesitations or long
pauses. Practice speaking at a natural pace with appropriate intonation and rhythm.
Example: Engage in conversations with native English speakers, join speaking clubs, or
use online resources to improve your fluency and rhythm of speech.
• Use Idiomatic Expressions: Incorporate idioms, collocations, and figurative language
into your responses to showcase a higher level of language proficiency. Example:
Instead of saying, “I enjoy reading books,” you could sat, “I’m an avid reader, and
books have always been a source of inspiration and enlightenment for me.”
• Use Complex Sentence Structures: Incorporate a variety of sentence structures, such as
passive voice, conditional sentences, complex sentences, and clauses, to showcase your
grammatical range. Example: Instead of saying, “I like travelling because it is fun,” you
can say, “I find travelling immensely enjoyable due to the myriad of new experiences it
offers, such as exploring different cultures, trying exotic cuisines, and immersing
myself in breathtaking landscapes.
• Paraphrase And Rephrase: Show your ability to rephrase questions or repeat information
using different words and structures. This showcases your paraphrasing skills and language
flexibility. Example: If the examiner asks, “What king of music do you enjoy?” you can
respond with, “I’m particularly fond of different genres of music. From classical
compositions to contemporary pop hits, I appreciate a diverse range of musical styles.”

• Speak Fluently: Maintain a smooth and natural flow of speech. Avoid long pauses and
hesitations. Example: Instead of saying, “Um… well… I think…” say “In my opinion…”
Mistake: Candidates often misinterpret the examiner's question due to nerves or lack of
attention.
Solution: To avoid this, listen carefully and paraphrase the question in your own words
before answering. This ensures you fully understand the question and can answer
appropriately.
Example 1: If asked, "What are the advantages of public transport?" rephrase it mentally
as, "They want to know the benefits of using public transport.“
Example 2: If asked, "Describe a time you helped someone," you could think, "They are
asking about a specific situation where I assisted someone," and then answer with a
detailed example like, "Last year, I helped a colleague complete a difficult project by
organizing our tasks and providing guidance on how to tackle complex problems."
 2. Speaking Too Softly or Unconfidently

Mistake: Speaking too quietly or with a lack of confidence can make it difficult for the
examiner to hear and understand you.
Solution: Practice speaking loudly and confidently, using a conversational tone. This helps
convey your message clearly and shows that you are confident in your language abilities.
Example 1: During practice, record yourself speaking and focus on maintaining a strong,
steady voice.
Example 2: In the test, if asked, "Do you enjoy outdoor activities?" instead of quietly
saying, "Yes, I do," you could confidently respond, "Absolutely! I love outdoor activities
because they allow me to stay fit and enjoy nature. Hiking, for example, is something I do
every weekend."
 3. Going Off-Topic or Rambling

Mistake: Many candidates tend to stray from the question, especially during Part 2, leading
to disorganized answers.
Solution: Structure your responses logically, using a clear beginning, middle, and end. Stick
to the topic and use relevant examples to support your points.
Example 1: If discussing a favorite book, outline why you like it, give a brief summary, and
explain its impact on you.
Example 2: If asked, "Describe a memorable meal," avoid rambling about unrelated food
experiences. Instead, focus on one meal, such as, "The most memorable meal I had was
during a trip to Italy. The fresh pasta and rich flavors made it unforgettable, and it
reminded me of how food can connect us to a culture."
 4. Providing One-Word Answers

Mistake: Short responses do not demonstrate language proficiency and can negatively
affect your score.
Solution: Aim to extend your answers with two to three sentences, providing details and
examples. This demonstrates a higher level of fluency and language use.
Example 1: Instead of saying, "Yes, I like reading," say, "Yes, I enjoy reading because it helps
me relax and learn about different cultures."
Example 2: If asked, "Do you like music?" rather than saying, "Yes," you could expand with,
"Yes, I love music, especially classical. It has a calming effect on me, and I often listen to it
while studying or unwinding after a long day."
 5. Using Memorized Answers

Mistake: Relying on pre-prepared responses can make your speech sound unnatural and
may not fit the specific question asked.
Solution: Practice answering questions in a natural, conversational manner. Focus on
understanding the question and formulating a relevant response on the spot.
Example 1: Instead of reciting a memorized answer about your hometown, describe it in
your own words, focusing on what makes it unique to you.
Example 2: If asked, "What are the benefits of exercise?" rather than reciting a general
answer, personalize it: "Exercise keeps me healthy and energetic. For example, I enjoy
jogging in the morning because it clears my mind and prepares me for the day."
 6. Overusing Fillers

Mistake: Frequent use of fillers like "um" or "like" can detract from fluency and make you
seem unprepared.
Solution: Speak slowly and use pauses to collect your thoughts instead of relying on fillers.
This improves the clarity and professionalism of your speech.
Example 1: Pause briefly before answering a question instead of starting with "um" or
"uh."
Example 2: If asked, "What do you do in your free time?" instead of saying, "Um, I like, you
know, reading," pause, and then say, "In my free time, I enjoy reading novels, especially
mysteries and thrillers, as they keep me engaged and entertained."
 7. Neglecting Body Language

Mistake: Poor body language, such as avoiding eye contact or slouching, can convey
disinterest and lack of confidence.
Solution: Maintain eye contact, use appropriate gestures, and sit upright to show
engagement and confidence.
Example 1: Practice speaking in front of a mirror to observe and improve your body
language.
Example 2: During the test, if discussing a favorite travel destination, maintain eye contact
and use hand gestures to illustrate your enthusiasm, saying, "I was amazed by the
breathtaking views of the mountains. The experience was truly unforgettable."
 8. Incorrect Vocabulary Usage

Mistake: Using inappropriate or overly informal language can negatively impact your score,
as it may not suit the context.
Solution: Familiarize yourself with vocabulary relevant to common IELTS topics and practice
using it correctly in sentences.
Example 1: Instead of saying "kids," use "children" when discussing educational topics.
Example 2: If discussing environmental issues, instead of saying, "It’s bad for the planet,"
you could say, "These practices are detrimental to the environment, contributing to
pollution and global warming."
 9. Not Asking for Clarification

Mistake: Some candidates hesitate to ask the examiner to repeat or clarify a question,
leading to misinterpretation.
Solution: If you do not understand a question, it’s acceptable to ask for clarification. This
shows that you are attentive and keen to respond accurately.
Example 1: Politely say, "Could you please repeat the question?" if you're unsure of what
was asked.
Example 2: If asked a complex question about climate change and you're unsure, ask,
"Could you please clarify whether you are referring to the causes or the effects of climate
change?"
 10. Focusing Too Much on Grammar

Mistake: Overemphasizing grammar can disrupt fluency and make your speech sound
unnatural.
Solution: Aim for a balance between accuracy and fluidity in your speech. Focus on
communicating your ideas clearly, even if your grammar isn't perfect.
Example 1: Instead of pausing frequently to correct minor errors, keep speaking smoothly
and naturally.
Example 2: If discussing a past experience, instead of stressing over perfect tense usage,
focus on the narrative: "When I was a child, I used to visit my grandparents every summer.
It was a time filled with joy and learning."
 11. Not Providing Thoughtful Answers

Mistake: Superficial responses can indicate a lack of depth in language use and can
negatively affect your score.
Solution: Take time to think and elaborate on your answers thoughtfully. Use examples and
explanations to add depth to your responses.
Example 1: If asked about your favorite hobby, explain why you enjoy it and how it benefits
you.
Example 2: If asked about the impact of technology on communication, instead of giving a
brief answer like, "Technology makes communication easier," you could say: "Technology
has transformed communication by making it faster and more accessible. Apps like
WhatsApp and Zoom allow real-time connections with people globally, strengthening
relationships despite distance and enabling remote work and global collaboration, which
was once unimaginable."
 12. Inadequate Preparation

Mistake: Lack of practice can lead to poor performance, as candidates may not be familiar
with the test format or the types of questions asked.
Solution: Regularly practice speaking on various topics to build confidence and fluency.
Engage in mock tests and get feedback from teachers or peers.
Example 1: Practice answering Part 2 questions under timed conditions to simulate the test
environment.
Example 2: If asked, "Describe a skill you would like to learn," being prepared allows you to
confidently answer, "I would love to learn how to play the guitar. Music has always
fascinated me, and I believe learning an instrument would be both challenging and
rewarding."
 13. Ignoring Pronunciation

Mistake: Mispronouncing words can lead to misunderstandings and lower your score.
Solution: Focus on clear pronunciation and practice difficult words in advance. Work on
stress, rhythm, and intonation to make your speech more natural and engaging.
Example 1: Listen to native speakers and repeat their pronunciation of challenging words.
Example 2: If discussing a topic like "climate change," ensure you pronounce key terms
correctly, such as "environment," "emissions," and "sustainable," to make your point clear
and professional.
 14. Failing to Structure Responses

Mistake: Unstructured answers can confuse the examiner and make it difficult to follow
your thoughts.
Solution: Use a clear beginning, middle, and end in your responses to enhance coherence.
This helps the examiner follow your ideas easily.
Example 1: When answering a question, start by introducing your main point, expand with
details or examples, and conclude by summarizing your response.
Example 2: If asked, "Describe a film you recently watched," structure your answer:
"Recently, I watched 'Inception.' The storyline was complex but fascinating. The way it
explored the concept of dreams within dreams was both intriguing and thought-provoking,
making it one of the best films I’ve seen in years."
 15. Overcomplicating Answers

Mistake: Using overly complex language or trying to impress the examiner with advanced
vocabulary can lead to mistakes and reduce clarity.
Solution: Focus on clear, concise answers that directly address the question. Use language
that you are comfortable with and that fits the context of the question.
Example 1: Instead of trying to use sophisticated words you’re not familiar with, use simple
but precise language to convey your ideas.
Example 2: If asked, "Do you prefer reading books or watching movies?" instead of giving a
complex response, you could say, "I prefer reading books because they allow me to imagine
the scenes in my mind, which makes the experience more personal and engaging."
 16. Worrying Too Much About Being Judged

Mistake: Being overly concerned about how the examiner might judge your answers can
make you nervous and affect your performance.
Solution: Focus on delivering your answers confidently and remember that the examiner is
assessing your language skills, not your opinions. Relax and express your thoughts
naturally.
Example 1: If asked a controversial question, such as your opinion on social media,
confidently state your views without worrying about being judged: "I believe social media
has both positive and negative impacts. While it connects people and provides information,
it also contributes to misinformation and can be addictive."
Example 2: If asked, "What is your opinion on space exploration?" instead of worrying
about the examiner's judgment, confidently answer, "Space exploration is essential for
scientific advancement. It has led to numerous technological innovations and could help us
find solutions to Earth's challenges in the future."
The IELTS Speaking Response Formula: A Proven Structure
• To answer any IELTS Speaking question effectively, you can use the following
structure, which ensures clarity, coherence, and a demonstration of your language
skills.
Step 1: Understand and Paraphrase the Question
•Action: Mentally rephrase the question in your own words before answering.
•Example: If asked, "What is your favorite book and why?" think, "They want to know
which book I like most and the reasons behind my choice."

Step 2: Directly Answer the Question

•Objective: Provide a clear and direct response to the question.
•Action: Start with a straightforward sentence that answers the question.
•Example: "My favorite book is 'To Kill a Mockingbird' because it offers profound insights
into human nature and justice."
The IELTS Speaking Response Formula: A Proven Structure
Step 3: Elaborate with Details or Reasons
•Objective: Add depth to your answer by explaining the reasons or providing additional
details.
•Action: Expand on your initial answer with two or three supporting points.
•Example: "The way the author portrays the characters is both moving and thought-
provoking. The narrative also sheds light on the social issues of its time."

Step 4: Provide Examples or Personal Experiences

•Objective: Make your answer more relatable and grounded by including specific
examples or personal experiences.
•Action: Incorporate an example or a brief anecdote that supports your points.
•Example: "For instance, the character of Atticus Finch has always inspired me to stand
up for what’s right, no matter the circumstances."
The IELTS Speaking Response Formula: A Proven Structure
Step 5: Conclude with a Summary or Personal Reflection
•Objective: Wrap up your answer in a way that reinforces your main point and leaves a
strong impression.
•Example: "Overall, this book has had a lasting impact on me, making it a favorite that I
often return to for inspiration."

Step 6: Manage Your Fluency and Pronunciation

•Objective: Maintain a steady, confident flow of speech while ensuring clear
pronunciation.
•Action: Speak at a comfortable pace, avoid fillers, and focus on enunciating your words
clearly.
•Example: Practice with a timer to simulate test conditions and ensure you can speak
fluently without rushing.
 The Complete Formula in Action

Question: "Describe a place you have visited that left a lasting impression on you.“

Response Using the Formula:

1.Paraphrase the Question:

"They want to know about a memorable place I've visited.“

1.Direct Answer:
"A place that left a lasting impression on me is Kyoto, Japan.“

1.Elaborate with Details:

"Kyoto’s blend of ancient temples and modern culture fascinated me. The serene
atmosphere of the temples contrasted beautifully with the bustling city life.“
 The Complete Formula in Action

4. Provide Examples:
"For example, visiting the Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its thousands of red torii gates, was a
mesmerizing experience. The peacefulness of the bamboo forests added to the charm of
the city."
5. Conclude with a Reflection:
"This visit deeply influenced my appreciation for Japanese culture and history, making it
an unforgettable experience."
6. Manage Fluency and Pronunciation:
(Throughout, maintain a steady pace, clear enunciation, and avoid filler words like 'um'
or 'uh.' Pause briefly between ideas to keep the flow natural.)
 Benefits of This Structure

•Clarity: This formula helps ensure your answers are well-

structured and easy to follow.
•Coherence: By organizing your thoughts logically, you
demonstrate strong communication skills.
•Depth: Elaborating on your answers with details and examples
adds depth, showcasing your language proficiency.
•Personal Connect: Providing Examples with personal experience
adds originality to the responses.
•Confidence: Following a structured approach reduces anxiety and
boosts your confidence during the test.
How to improve from 5 to 9 bands
•Identify your weaknesses.
•Record and evaluate your practice sessions.
•Simulate the real test as much as you can.
•Improve overall English skills.
•Read and listen to English media.
•Practice speaking daily.
•Engage in multiple mock tests.
•Develop fluency and coherence.
•Expand your vocabulary.
•Improve grammar and accuracy.
•Enhance pronunciation.
•Manage your time effectively.
•Get Feedback from teacher and implement.
•Stay calm and confident.
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