Nine Donts for the IELTS Speaking Test?

Is it good to make use of big words in IELTS speaking test? Will examiner be impressed if you speak fast? There are many questions and there are many don’ts. Listed down are the things you shall not do if you want to score higher in your speaking test.

Say “NO” to mugging up answers

Scripted answers will not take you anywhere. It is not the right way to do well in the test. In fact, it is a bad idea. Examiners have the skills to identify memorized answers. The examiner might ask you more difficult questions to judge your real level of English.

Examiner’s opinion doesn’t matter at all

Do not think that you will have to convince the examiner with your answers. Do not think you will get good score if only if the examiner agrees with your opinion. Your examiner is not concerned with what your opinions are. He or she wants you to demonstrate how well you can speak. That is all. Just focus on providing answers which are grammatically correct.

Don’t make use of BIG words

There is a misconception that use of big words will impress the interviewer. If you listen to any native speaker of English, you will know they do not make use of complicated words. It is good to show that you have good vocabulary but try to make use of simple words. High-sounding words will confuse the interviewer.

Don’t use long or complicated sentences

If you are not sure of long sentences, then do not use them. It is possible that the complicated sentences create difficulties for you to make understand your interviewer.

Don’t put up a show of how strong your grammar is

Do not think you will have to have strong hold over grammar in order to be able to get through it. Just basic knowledge of grammar will also work for you. Use correct tenses and focus on what you are saying. That is very important.

Don’t say you do not know

When you are asked about anything it is advised that you shall try to answer. There is nothing wrong in trying to answer. You just need to demonstrate your language skills. Just try to answer the question making use of right words or phrases. But, in some cases, when you really do not know about the subject then you can say, “I have no idea of it or I have no knowledge of it.” You can also request for some new topics if you want.

Don’t speak fast

Remember, speaking fast is not fluency. Maintain proper speed. You do not have to speak fast nor you should speak slow.

Don’t focus more on accent

You do not have to speak like an American or British. Just be you and be the best. Do not mimic or try to copy English accent. But, remember, what you say shall sound English. Proper pronunciation or accent is needed.

Don’t get nervous or hesitated

There are many candidates who get nervous or feel hesitated. Some candidates speak at very low volume and some falter when they are asked new questions. Some mumble when they are confused at what to say and some even prefer to say nothing or get their lips sealed. The key to overcome nervousness or hesitation is proper preparation. You will gain more confident when you are prepared for the IELTS test.