Taking an English proficiency test such as TOEFL, IELTS, or the Global English Test (GET) can be challenging, especially if you’re aiming for a high score. One of the key areas that test-takers struggle with is grammar. In this post, we’ll highlight common grammar mistakes that can impact your performance and how you can avoid them to improve your overall score.
1. Subject-Verb Agreement
One of the most frequent mistakes in English proficiency tests is subject-verb agreement. In English, singular subjects must be paired with singular verbs, and plural subjects with plural verbs.
Example of a mistake:
- Incorrect: She go to school every day.
- Correct: She goes to school every day.
How to avoid it:
- Always double-check the subject and the verb in your sentence. Make sure they match in number.
2. Misplaced Modifiers
A misplaced modifier is a word or phrase that is placed awkwardly in a sentence, leading to confusion about what it describes. This mistake can be costly in tests like IELTS or GET, where clarity is essential.
Example of a mistake:
- Incorrect: Running to the door, the keys were found.
- Correct: Running to the door, I found the keys.
How to avoid it:
- Make sure the modifier is placed next to the noun or pronoun it describes.
3. Confusing Tenses
Using the wrong tense is another common mistake. Test-takers often mix up past, present, and future tenses, especially in the writing and speaking sections.
Example of a mistake:
- Incorrect: He is playing soccer yesterday.
- Correct: He played soccer yesterday.
How to avoid it:
- Pay attention to time markers in the sentence (e.g., yesterday, now, tomorrow), and adjust the verb tense accordingly.
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4. Pronoun-Antecedent Agreement
In English, a pronoun must agree with its antecedent in number and gender. Many test-takers make mistakes when referring to singular or plural subjects.
Example of a mistake:
- Incorrect: Everyone should bring their books.
- Correct: Everyone should bring his or her book.
How to avoid it:
- Be cautious when using pronouns like everyone or someone. Remember that these are singular and require singular pronouns.
5. Incorrect Use of Articles (a, an, the)
Articles can be tricky, especially for non-native speakers. Many people omit articles or use them incorrectly in their sentences.
Example of a mistake:
- Incorrect: I have cat.
- Correct: I have a cat.
How to avoid it:
- Remember to use a or an for singular, non-specific nouns and the for specific or known nouns.
6. Overuse of Passive Voice
While passive voice is grammatically correct, it’s often overused, making sentences wordy and less direct. Active voice is generally preferred in English proficiency tests.
Example of a mistake:
- Incorrect: The letter was written by John.
- Correct: John wrote the letter.
How to avoid it:
- Use the active voice whenever possible to make your sentences clearer and more concise.
7. Confusing Adjectives and Adverbs
Many learners confuse adjectives and adverbs, which can lead to errors in both speaking and writing sections.
Example of a mistake:
- Incorrect: She sings beautiful.
- Correct: She sings beautifully.
How to avoid it:
- Remember that adjectives modify nouns, while adverbs modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs.
8. Double Negatives
Using two negative words in a sentence creates a positive meaning, which often leads to confusion.
Example of a mistake:
- Incorrect: I don’t need no help.
- Correct: I don’t need any help.
How to avoid it:
- Stick to one negative word in a sentence to maintain clarity.
Avoiding these common grammar mistakes in English proficiency tests can significantly improve your score. Practice is key—take the time to review your work, and pay close attention to these common pitfalls. By mastering the rules of grammar, you can feel more confident during your test and achieve the results you need.
