IELTS, International English Language Testing System in one among the various other English proficiency tests such as PTE/TOEFL/CAE/CPE, which is recognised worldwide by many educational institutions and companies. IELTS score is also sometimes mandatory for those people who belong to such countries where English is not the first language and who want to migrate to the English speaking countries such as Canada, Australia etc.
All IELTS band scores are between 0 and 9. This exam is considered as the most trusted, best organized, and widely accepted in order to assess the English Language Proficiency. While it can be challenging to score a higher band in the exam, doing so is not impossible. However, there are certain myths regarding IELTS due to which most people are not confident of achieving a good band score. Now, with the following points the common myths will be discussed and clarified:
1. I will not get high band score because I am a non-native English speaker, however, a native speaker will easily get high band score in IELTS
This IELTS myth does not match with the statistics of thousands of aspirants that are able to get a good score in IELTS despite being from a non-native country. The only thing that is required is the best effort with best approach towards the exam. For this, some might require a quality guidance through either online classes or offline classes.
2. I don’t have a good accent in speaking, I will not be able to score high band in speaking
Again, the non-native speakers are not confident of scoring high in the Speaking part of IELTS. Nevertheless, this again is a myth that if one speaks in an American or British accent than only he/she will score high in speaking. However, what is required is that the tone of your speaking should be clear, perfect and unbiased with proper usage of grammar and good vocabulary.
3. I need to write more in order to score more in the writing part of IELTS
This again is a myth that in order to impress the examiner one has to write more and to show your knowledge about the topic of writing. However, one must always stick to the word limit. The instructions given and the word limit mentioned must be adhered. The only thing that is required is the holistic coverage of the topic. Coherent writing with a balanced mix of complex sentences will definitely help in attaining high band.
4. If I use difficult/complex vocabulary than I will be able score high band in writing and speaking
Being able to write or speak, as a professional and displaying your knowledge of English vocabulary are both very important parts of achieving a great score in the test. However, the use of complex words should be balanced and judicious as per the requirement of the context. Sometimes, some words are used for very specific situations and even though they give the meaning one is looking forward to give to them in that context, is incorrect. This will affect the cohesion and coherence, and of course, the final score.
5. What if I will copy from other’s answers
Firstly, as per the sitting arrangements of this exam, there is no way someone can cheat on the IELTS test. In addition, if you are caught, you cannot give the test again. People usually fail by thinking that IELTS is like other English tests, ignoring that reading, writing, speaking and listening skills are of critical importance when taking the test. One has to give a good performance in each part of the test. Therefore, there is no scope of copying or cheating during the exam.
These are only a part of the IELTS myths that every second person encounters. There are numerous other myths one can come across. However, always keep in mind that they are nothing but rumours. So, instead of focusing on them, prepare for the IELTS test with your sincere effort and quality guidance in order to fulfil your further international aspirations.