The IELTS Writing Task 2 is one of the most important sections in the IELTS exam. It tests your ability to write a well-structured essay with clear ideas and proper grammar. Many students lose marks because of small errors that can be avoided easily. If you want to get a good score, you must understand the common mistakes and learn how to fix them.
1. Not Understanding the Question Properly
One of the biggest mistakes students make is misunderstanding the question. When you read the question, take a few minutes to understand what it is asking. Many students start writing quickly without planning. This leads to answers that do not match the topic.
Tip: Always underline the main keywords in the question. Identify whether it is asking for your opinion, a discussion, or a problem and solution.
2. Poor Essay Structure
A well-organized essay is very important in IELTS Writing Task 2. Some students write everything in one big paragraph, which makes the answer look messy. The examiner needs to see clear sections in your essay.
Tip: Use this simple structure:
- Introduction – Paraphrase the question and state your main idea.
- Body Paragraph 1 – Explain the first main point with an example.
- Body Paragraph 2 – Explain the second main point with an example.
- Conclusion – Summarize your ideas without adding new points.
3. Writing Without Planning
Planning saves time and improves quality. Many candidates think planning is a waste of time, but it actually helps you write faster and better.
Tip: Spend 5 minutes planning before you write. Make a quick note of your main points and examples.
4. Using Informal Language
IELTS Writing Task 2 is formal writing. Using informal language, slang, or short forms like “don’t” or “can’t” will reduce your score.
Tip: Use full forms like “do not” and “cannot”. Write in a formal tone.
5. Overusing Complex Words
Some students think that using very difficult words will impress the examiner. This often leads to wrong word choices and awkward sentences.
Tip: Use simple, clear, and correct words. Vocabulary should fit the sentence naturally.
6. Poor Grammar and Sentence Structure
Grammar mistakes are very common. Wrong verb tenses, missing articles, and incorrect word order can reduce your score.
Tip: After writing, check your grammar. Look for common errors like:
- Subject-verb agreement (e.g., He go → He goes)
- Articles (a, an, the)
- Tenses (past, present, future)
7. Not Supporting Ideas with Examples
Many students write general ideas without giving examples. This makes the essay weak.
Tip: After every main point, add a short example. It makes your answer strong and clear.
8. Writing Too Few or Too Many Words
You must write at least 250 words. Writing less than this will reduce your score. Writing too much can also cause mistakes because of lack of time.
Tip: Aim for 260–280 words. This is enough to explain your ideas clearly.
9. Ignoring Cohesion and Linking Words
Essays should be easy to read. Without linking words, sentences sound disconnected.
Tip: Use words like “however”, “therefore”, “on the other hand”, “for example” to connect your ideas. But do not overuse them.
10. Not Practicing Enough
Finally, the biggest mistake is not practicing before the exam. You cannot improve writing in one day.
Tip: Write at least one essay daily. Check your mistakes and try to improve.
Conclusion
Avoiding these mistakes will help you score better in IELTS Writing Task 2. Always understand the question, plan your essay, and write in clear, simple language. Check your grammar and structure before finishing. Practice regularly so you feel confident during the test. If you follow these tips, you will be ready for any IELTS writing task 2 question in the exam.
