Common Grammar Mistakes in IELTS Speaking (And How to Fix Them)

Grammar matters in the IELTS Speaking test. While the focus is on fluency and communication, grammar errors can affect your score. Let's explore the most frequent mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Tense Shifts

Switching tenses mid-sentence is a major red flag. Practice staying consistent: if you start in the past tense, stick with it unless the context changes.

2. Subject-Verb Agreement

Singular subjects take singular verbs: "He speaks English" not "He speak English". Pay special attention to irregular verbs too.

3. Article Usage

Don’t forget "a", "an", and "the". These tiny words can significantly impact sentence clarity. Use them carefully with singular nouns.

4. Sentence Fragments

IELTS requires full, connected sentences. Instead of "Because I like it," say "I enjoy learning English because I like it."

5. Overusing Simple Structures

Use a mix of compound and complex sentences to show your range: "Although it was difficult, I managed to pass the exam."

Grammar doesn’t have to be scary. With awareness and practice, you can fix these issues and speak with confidence.