Debunking myths about the IELTS Speaking test

The International English language testing system (IELTS) test is very important if you want to study at a university abroad or work in English-speaking countries like Australia and the UK. The Speaking test is a crucial part of the IELTS test. Doing well in this section is necessary to get a good overall score and achieve the band score you need for your desired course.

It's normal to feel nervous about preparing for the IELTS Speaking test. However, you shouldn't believe many of the myths and misconceptions about the test that you may have heard from others. In this blog, we will clear up the 9 most common myths and misconceptions about the IELTS Speaking test to help you stay on the right track.

9 myths about the IELTS Speaking test you should avoid

Here are the myths about the IELTS Speaking test you should not believe when planning to take an IELTS test:

Myth 1: Having a native accent or using slang is necessary to score better.

Speaking with a native accent or using slang is not necessary to get a better score. If you have an accent typical of your country. The examiner evaluating you doesn't expect you to sound exactly like them. Your accent or slang won't be considered when they grade you.Instead, focus on what matters for your evaluation, your pronunciation, grammar usage, fluency, and how well your ideas are presented in your conversation. A good way to practice is by reading out loud to improve your pronunciation. You can also practice with family, friends, or teachers to check if they can understand you and if your ideas come across naturally and clearly.Read more: Does accent matters in IELTS speaking

Myth 2: I always have to agree with my examiner

When talking with the examiner, you don't need to agree with everything they say, especially if you don't believe in it. The evaluation is not about whether your ideas align with theirs or not. It's about having a smooth conversation with good grammar, clear pronunciation, and logical points. If you disagree with their ideas, you can politely acknowledge their viewpoint and then share your own.

Myth 3: Scoring well in the Speaking test is straightforward and easy

The Speaking test might seem simple and straightforward since you only need to talk and not write anything. However, like other parts of IELTS test, it has its challenges that need practice. While some people may find the speaking test easier based on their preferences and situation, it's not just about having a casual chat.You will need to talk about abstract ideas and important topics, express yourself naturally, and make sure your thoughts are clear and well-spoken with good pronunciation. So, it's important to practice and prepare for it.

Myth 4: My Speaking test got completed before time, I might lose points

In the IELTS test, the Speaking section usually takes between 11 to 14 minutes. Even if your test was shorter or longer than the average time, it won't affect your score. The evaluation doesn't consider the test duration. So, no need to worry about it.

Myth 5: If I don't know the answer to a question, it might affect my score

The test is not about knowing specific topics. The examiner focuses on how you speak and how well the conversation flows, not the actual content of your answers. While it's good to know the topic, you can't prepare for every possible question.If you're unsure about an answer, you can share your personal experiences or give your own opinion to keep the conversation going. It's okay to do that!

Myth 6: Being nice and polite will improve my score

It's essential to be polite, courteous, and smile when talking to anyone. These are basic manners during a conversation. Being polite does make the conversation go well, but it's not something they specifically grade. So, you shouldn't stress about being overly polite. Instead, you should concentrate on the conversation and the topic you both are discussing.

Myth 7: In the IELTS Speaking test, you cannot ask the examiner to repeat a question

Sometimes, people worry that they have to answer every question even if they don't understand it correctly. But that's not true! It's absolutely okay to ask the examiner to repeat the question or say it in a different way if you don't get it. Asking for clarification is a good thing. It helps you understand the topic better, and that can actually improve your score. So, don't hesitate to ask when you're unsure about something.

Myth 8: If you use short and simple sentences, you may make no mistakes

Remember, the examiners look at how well you connect ideas and use different sentence structures and grammar. Using only simple sentences means you won't be able to show off your skills with clauses, verbs, and time clauses.So, while simple sentences can be okay if you want to do really well and impress the examiner, try to use a variety of sentence structures, and show your language abilities. Using only short and simple sentences might lead to a lower score.Also read: IELTS on computer myth vs truth

Read more insightful articles:

• Parts of IELTS Speaking

• Follow these tips to practice pronunciation for IELTS Speaking

• Overcome nervousness in IELTS Speaking exam

• Types of questions in IELTS Speaking test

• Achieve Band 9 with these IELTS Speaking tips

• Common IELTS Speaking topics

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