Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
What the official sources say
IDP lists "answering without paying attention to spelling or grammar" as a Listening myth: even when you write only a few words, they must use the right grammar and be spelt correctly to score (IDP). Another IDP article names forgetting the plural form or using the wrong tense as easy ways to lose a mark (IDP). For Reading, ielts.org says you will lose marks for incorrect spelling and grammar (ielts.org).
Copy the form you hear or read
ielts.org says that in Listening you do not have to change the words in the recording in any way, and in Reading the answers must be taken from words in the text (ielts.org Listening, ielts.org Reading). IDP adds that you must use the exact words you hear (IDP). If the speaker says "workshops", write "workshops".
| Mistake | Why it costs the mark |
|---|---|
| Singular for plural | The word is not the form given in the recording or text |
| Wrong tense | IDP lists it as a common error |
| Word repeated from the question | IDP says duplication is marked incorrect |
| Too general (family members, not immediate family members) | IDP says an answer that is too broad is wrong |
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Check the gap fits
ielts.org advises thinking about the type of word that fits a gap, for example whether a noun or a verb is needed (ielts.org). Read the sentence with your answer in it: if it is not grammatical, check for a missing plural or a word that should not be there.
Frequently asked questions
Is a missing 's' marked wrong in IELTS Listening?+
It can be. IDP lists forgetting the plural as a way to lose the mark.
Can I change the form of a word I hear?+
ielts.org says you do not need to; IDP says use the exact words from the recording.
Does grammar matter in IELTS Reading answers?+
Yes. ielts.org says you lose marks for incorrect spelling and grammar.
Do articles like 'the' count toward the word limit?+
Every word you write counts, so only include an article if it fits within the limit.
Keep reading
Related
- Does spelling count in IELTS Listening and Reading?
- Do you have to use exact words in IELTS Reading?
- Free IELTS Listening practice
- All 3112 guides
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