Common Grammar Mistakes in IELTS Writing (15-20 Errors + Fixes)
π Quick Summary
Grammar mistakes are one of the biggest reasons candidates lose marks in IELTS Writing Task 1 and Task 2. According to IELTS band descriptors, Band 6 candidates make noticeable errors, while Band 7+ writers demonstrate better control with fewer mistakes. The 20 most common errors include subject-verb agreement, article usage, run-on sentences, and incorrect tense usage.
Grammar mistakes are one of the biggest reasons candidates lose marks in IELTS Writing Task 1 and Task 2. Even strong ideas can receive a lower band score if they contain frequent grammatical errors.
According to IELTS band descriptors, Band 6 candidates make noticeable errors in grammar, while Band 7+ writers demonstrate better control of complex structures with fewer mistakes.
In this guide, you'll discover the 20 most common grammar mistakes in IELTS Writing, along with clear corrections and explanations.
The 20 Most Common Grammar Mistakes in IELTS Writing
1. Subject-Verb Agreement Errors
He go to university every day.
He goes to university every day.
Why it matters: Examiners immediately notice basic agreement errors. Third-person singular requires -s/-es.
2. Incorrect Article Usage (A / An / The)
Government should invest in education system.
The government should invest in the education system.
Why it matters: Article mistakes are extremely common among Band 6 writers. Use 'the' for specific or unique nouns.
3. Run-on Sentences
Many people work long hours they feel stressed.
Many people work long hours, so they feel stressed.
Why it matters: Use conjunctions (and, but, so) or punctuation properly to connect clauses.
4. Sentence Fragments
Because pollution is increasing rapidly.
Pollution is increasing rapidly because of industrial growth.
Why it matters: A sentence must express a complete idea with both a subject and a main verb.
5. Incorrect Verb Tense
In the past, people use bicycles.
In the past, people used bicycles.
Why it matters: Always match tense with time references. Past time = past tense.
6. Misuse of Complex Sentences
Although technology improves education but it creates distraction.
Although technology improves education, it also creates distractions.
Why it matters: Do not use 'although' and 'but' together, choose one subordinating structure.
7. Plural / Singular Confusion
Many student face difficulty.
Many students face difficulties.
Why it matters: Check plural forms carefully. 'Many' requires a plural noun.
8. Incorrect Prepositions
Different than other countries.
Different from other countries.
Why it matters: Preposition errors reduce grammatical accuracy. Learn common collocations.
9. Overusing Simple Sentences
Technology is important. It helps communication. It improves education.
Technology is important because it improves communication and education.
Why it matters: IELTS rewards varied sentence structures. Combine ideas using complex sentences.
10. Incorrect Conditional Structures
If people will exercise, they will stay healthy.
If people exercise, they will stay healthy.
Why it matters: First conditional: if + present simple, will + infinitive. Don't use 'will' in the if-clause.
11. Misplaced Modifiers
Walking through the city, the buildings were impressive.
Walking through the city, I found the buildings impressive.
Why it matters: Make sure the subject matches the action. 'Buildings' cannot 'walk.'
12. Incorrect Comparatives
More easier
Easier
Why it matters: Never use double comparatives. One-syllable adjectives add -er, not 'more.'
13. Confusing Adjectives and Adverbs
People drive careless.
People drive carelessly.
Why it matters: Adverbs (ending in -ly) modify verbs. Adjectives modify nouns.
14. Incorrect Word Form
The government should make a strong decisionment.
The government should make a strong decision.
Why it matters: Use correct word forms. 'Decision' is the noun; there is no word 'decisionment.'
15. Punctuation Errors
However many people disagree.
However, many people disagree.
Why it matters: Transitional words like 'however' need a comma when starting a sentence.
16. Overusing 'Very'
Very important, very big, very serious.
Crucial, significant, severe.
Why it matters: Improve vocabulary precision. Replace 'very + adjective' with stronger vocabulary.
17. Double Negatives
It is not uncommon that nobody agrees.
It is uncommon that nobody agrees. OR It is not uncommon that people disagree.
Why it matters: Double negatives create confusion. Use single negative forms for clarity.
18. Inconsistent Pronouns
If a person studies hard, they will succeed.
If a person studies hard, he or she will succeed.
Why it matters: Formal consistency is preferred in IELTS. Match singular subjects with singular pronouns.
19. Wrong Collocations
Do a mistake
Make a mistake
Why it matters: Collocations are fixed expressions. Learn common verb + noun combinations.
20. Overcomplicated Sentences
The implementation of governmental policies regarding environmental sustainability...
Government policies on the environment...
Why it matters: Trying too hard to sound 'advanced' often creates grammar errors. Keep sentences clear and controlled.
π Why Grammar Is So Important for IELTS
Grammar directly affects your score under Grammatical Range and Accuracy, one of four scoring criteria (25% of your Writing score).
Band descriptors show:
- Band 6 β Frequent grammar mistakes
- Band 7 β Fewer errors, good control
- Band 8+ β Rare minor errors only
π‘ Improving grammar can raise your band score by 0.5-1.0 immediately.
π Band 6 vs Band 7 Grammar Difference
| Band 6 | Band 7 |
|---|---|
| Frequent errors | Occasional errors |
| Limited complex sentences | Effective use of complex sentences |
| Basic sentence variety | Clear range of structures |
| Article mistakes common | Articles mostly accurate |
How to Avoid Grammar Mistakes in IELTS
- Review subject-verb agreement daily
- Practice complex sentences correctly
- Check articles carefully
- Use a grammar checker before submitting practice essays
- Avoid writing overly long sentences
β Quick Grammar Checklist Before Submitting Your Essay
- β Check verb tenses
- β Check plural forms
- β Check articles (a/an/the)
- β Check punctuation
- β Remove sentence fragments
- β Simplify overcomplicated sentences
Frequently Asked Questions
What grammar mistakes lower IELTS score the most?
Subject-verb agreement errors, incorrect tense usage, article mistakes, and sentence fragments significantly reduce your band score. These basic errors signal weak grammatical control to examiners.
How many grammar mistakes are allowed in IELTS?
Band 7 requires good control with only occasional errors. Frequent mistakes usually limit candidates to Band 6. Band 8+ requires rare minor errors only.
Can grammar mistakes reduce my band score by 1 point?
Yes. Frequent grammar errors can reduce your score by 0.5-1 band depending on severity and frequency. Grammar directly affects 25% of your Writing score.
What is the difference between Band 6 and Band 7 grammar?
Band 6 shows frequent errors and limited complex sentences. Band 7 demonstrates occasional errors, effective use of complex sentences, and a clear range of structures.
How can I improve my grammar for IELTS quickly?
Focus on: 1) Subject-verb agreement, 2) Article usage (a/an/the), 3) Correct verb tenses, 4) Complex sentence structures, 5) Punctuation. Practice with grammar checkers and analyze Band 9 essays.
Are complex sentences required for Band 7 in IELTS?
Yes. Band 7 requires frequent and mostly error-free use of complex structures. Simple sentences alone will not achieve Band 7.