Word order refers to writing the sequence of words correctly in a sentence. Incorrect order of words can change the meaning of a sentence and hence should be used appropriately. This is important from the IELTS writing point of view since students often make mistakes in word order while speaking or writing. Some students make these mistakes because they do not consider it important enough for the grammar for IELTS.
Most Common Word Order in a Sentence as per Right English Grammar
Subject + Verb + Object (SVO)
For example,
Greg completes his work.
Greg (S) + completes (V) + his + work (O).
Common Error in IELTS Speaking:
Yes, cricket I play definitely and enjoy a lot.
Correct:
Yes, I definitely play cricket and enjoy it a lot.
2. Adverbs of Frequency
Adverbs that determine the frequency of action are called adverbs frequency. Adverbs of frequency are usually placed before a verb but can also be placed after a verb or in between two verbs.
Example
- Often
- Never
- Always
- Rarely
- Occasionally
- Sometimes
- Every time etc.
- Before the verb:
Sandy often goes to the temple.
- After verb (to be):
She is never late for school.
- Between two verbs:
I will always remember you
Example of Common Error in IELTS Writing and Speaking:
People often frequently visit different places for travelling.
Correct:
- People often visit different places for travelling.
- People frequently visit different places for travelling.
3. Comment Adverbs
Comment adverbs include hopefully, obviously, remarkably etc.
Example
Hopefully, I will clear my exam this time.
Incorrect: I hopefully will clear my exam this time.
Example of Common Error in IELTS Writing and Speaking:
Overall, visiting this restaurant was the best remarkably.
Correct:
Overall, visiting this restaurant was remarkably the best.
Also Read : 9 Practical IELTS Letter Writing Tips: Guide to General & Academic Writing
4. Focus Adverbs
Focus adverbs are adverbs that draw focus on specific information in a sentence.
Examples: Just, even, only etc.
- She can even play badminton. (This is surprising)
- Even she can play badminton. (Badminton is easy)
Example of Common Error in IELTS Writing and Speaking:
People do not try to utilize natural resources even wisely.
Correct:
People do not even try to utilize natural resources wisely.
5. Adverbs of Manner
Examples: Slowly, carefully, quietly etc.
For example,
I played football quite well
Incorrect – I played quite well football.
Example of Common Error in IELTS Writing:
The consumption of food decreased from the year 2000 to 2004 slowly.
Correct:
The consumption of food slowly decreased from the year 2000 to 2004.
6. Place & Time
The place is positioned usually after time.
Mariya has been living in Britain for 5 years.
Incorrect: Mariya has been living for 5 years in Britain
Example of Common English Grammar Error in IELTS Speaking:
I have been for 5 years working in a manufacturing company.
Correct:
I have been working in a manufacturing company for 5 years.
Grammar for IELTS Exercise:
Now you can try to correct the following sentences:
- Really he is an amazing person.
- He earns money enough to meet his needs.
- Always he has been working hard.
- After coming to the UK, my English quickly improved well.
- We want to spend holidays every year in the same resort.
- Michael has started just to work hard.
- I passed very well for my exam last year.
- Some garments are quite in the mall cheaper than others.
- She always often visits this place.
- I usually am able to complete all tasks before time.
Answers:
- He is really an amazing person.
- He earns enough money to meet his needs.
- He has always been working hard.
- After coming to the UK, my English improved well quickly.
- Every year, we want to spend the holidays in the same resort.
- Michael has just started to work hard.
- Last year, I passed my exam very well.
- Some garments in the mall are cheaper than others.
- She always visits this place.
- I am usually able to complete all tasks before time.
Conclusion
English grammar is a vital point in achieving a good band score in the IELTS exam. Hopefully, this article will be helpful for you in achieving good marks in the IELTS writing test.
Do let us know how you are preparing for the exam by commenting in the box below.
Also Read : Difference Between IDP and British Council: Which is Better for the IELTS Test?