Understand common IELTS spelling mistakes

When you prepare for the IELTS test, it is very important to pay extra attention to your spelling as it plays the most important role in scoring a high score. For instance, If you have given all the correct answers but your spelling is wrong, then it will be marked as incorrect.

Therefore, understanding the IELTS common spelling mistakes in the IELTS is crucial for you if you are aiming to achieve high scores. Spelling and vocabulary account for a significant portion of the marks in all sections of the IELTS test, making it essential to avoid common errors.

These mistakes include confusion between single and double letters, silent letters, mixing up 'i' and 'e', confusion with 'er' and 'or', writing words based on accent rather than pronunciation, doubling letters, using the wrong word, incorrect vowel usage, and mixing up 'c' and 's'. By making yourself familiar with these common spelling errors, you can improve your performance and increase your chances of scoring high on the IELTS test.

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Although IELTS doesn't have specific spelling or vocabulary tests, your spelling is still evaluated.

In the Listening, Reading, and Writing tests, it's important to use the right words (like nouns, adjectives, and verbs) and spell them correctly. Mistakes in spelling can result in incorrect answers in the Listening and Reading tests, and they can make it harder for the examiner to understand your message in the Writing test.

Here are some spelling mistakes you need to watch out for when taking your IELTS test:

1. Single and double letters

Many IELTS test takers often make spelling errors when there are single or double letters in close proximity within a word. Understanding the difference between single and double letters is important for correct pronunciation and spelling.

• Incorrect: She was embarased.

• Correct: She was embarrassed.

2. Adding suffixes to words

Test-takers often make spelling errors when adding specific endings like -ed, -ing, -er, and -est, as it is common for them to double the last consonant in the word. Knowing how to add suffixes to words helps in creating correct grammatical forms and maintaining proper spelling.

• Incorrect: He runned fastly toward the finish line.

• Correct: He ran quickly toward the finish line.

3. Silent letters in consonant clusters

Test takers often face spelling difficulties when a word changes its form, as the spelling of the word can also change in such cases. Identifying silent letters within consonant clusters is crucial for accurate pronunciation and spelling.

• Incorrect: He gave his hankerchief to her.

• Correct: He gave his handkerchief to her.

4. Frequently confused words

Test takers often make IELTS common spelling mistakes by confusing two words that sound similar but have distinct meanings and spellings. Being aware of words that are commonly confused helps in using the right word in the appropriate context.

• Incorrect: Their going to the party tonight.

• Correct: They are going to the party tonight.

5. Position of 'i' and 'e'

On a daily basis, you may come across words that involve the combination of the letters 'i' and 'e'. In some words, the sequence is 'i' followed by 'e', while in others, it is the opposite. Understand the correct placement of 'i' and 'e' in words avoids spelling errors and mispronunciations.

• Incorrect: Recieve the package at the front desk

• Correct: Receive the package at the front desk

6. Confusion with 'or' and 'er'

There are words that end with 'or', such as a doctor, while other words use 'er', like gather. This distinction can be confusing, so it is important to be cautious when coming across these words. Differentiating between 'or' and 'er' prevents confusion in using the correct suffix or word.

• Incorrect: She's a skilled dancor.

• Correct: She's a skilled dancer.

Now that we’ve gone through some common spelling mistakes, let’s test your understanding with this quick spelling test.

Answer key: A, A, B, A, A, A, B, A, B

British and American spelling are both accepted in the IELTS examination. However, it is important to maintain consistency and choose one style throughout your writing.

Accurate spelling holds importance and can impact your ability to achieve the desired band score. If you feel the need to enhance your spelling skills, it is beneficial to familiarise yourself with English spelling rules and regularly practice your spelling. You can also create personalised lists of challenging words to improve upon. When you frequently misspell a word, go through a dictionary for the correct spelling and include it in your list. Revisit your list every week and incorporate these words into your IELTS preparation exercises.

If are struggling with your IELTS common spelling mistakes and you have no idea where to start from you can start by improving the mistakes mentioned above. By practicing test tips, you can achieve your desired scores on the IELTS test.