Grammar plays a significant role in your IELTS performance. Correct usage enhances your writing and speaking scores. In this lesson, we’ll address some common grammar mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Subject-Verb Agreement:
Ensure the subject and verb match in number (singular/plural). Incorrect: “The team are winning.” Correct: “The team is winning.”

2. Verb Tenses:
Use appropriate tenses for accuracy. Incorrect: “I will went to the store.” Correct: “I went to the store.”

3. Articles (a, an, the):
Use “a” before consonant sounds and “an” before vowel sounds. Incorrect: “An apple is a fruit.” Correct: “An apple is an edible fruit.”

4. Prepositions:
Choose the right preposition to show relationships. Incorrect: “I’m good in mathematics.” Correct: “I’m good at mathematics.”

5. Singular/Plural Nouns:
Ensure agreement between nouns and pronouns. Incorrect: “Each student should bring their book.” Correct: “Each student should bring his or her book.”

6. Comparatives and Superlatives:
Use “more” for comparatives and “most” for superlatives. Incorrect: “She is the most tallest in the class.” Correct: “She is the tallest in the class.”

7. Double Negatives:
Avoid using double negatives, as they create confusion. Incorrect: “I don’t need no help.” Correct: “I don’t need any help.”

8. Parallel Structure:
Keep sentence elements parallel for clarity. Incorrect: “She likes to dance, swimming, and reading.” Correct: “She likes to dance, swim, and read.”

9. Confusing Words:
Differentiate between similar-sounding words. Incorrect: “Their going to the park.” Correct: “They’re going to the park.”

10. Passive Voice:
Use active voice for directness. Incorrect: “The book was read by me.” Correct: “I read the book.”

Impact on IELTS:
Using correct grammar elevates your writing and speaking abilities. In the Writing section, accuracy enhances your coherence and cohesion score. In the Speaking section, clear grammar ensures effective communication.


Mastering grammar errors helps you convey ideas confidently and accurately. Regular practice is key. Strengthening your grammar foundation contributes significantly to your overall IELTS success.