5 Writing Problems Most Non-Native English Users Have

The writing mistakes discussed below will bring down not only your essay’s quality but also your IELTS writing score. Most non-native English speakers commit them. Make sure you’re not one of them. Keep them off your works during your IELTS online course sessions.

     1.    Incorrect Subject–Verb Agreement 

Make sure your verb caters to its subject’s quantity and perspective.

·         singular subject – s-form of the verb

·         plural subject – base form of the verb

·         first/second/third person point of view – verb form varies

      2.    Long and Aimless Paragraphs 

Lengthy passages do not reflect language mastery. So, keep your essays simple and concise. Don’t include words, phrases, expressions, and sentences that contribute nothing to the overall composition.

      3.    Alternating Points-of-Views (POV)

There are three kinds of POVs: first, second, and third. Here’s how they differ.

·         First-person POV refers to the “I” perspective. The writer is the focal point of the narrative.

·         Second-person POV refers to the “you” perspective. The reader is the focal point of the narrative, or the writer is directly addressing the reader.

·         Third-person POV refers to the “he/she/it” perspective. The writer and the reader are uninvolved in the narrative.

Practice using these POVs during your best online IELTS course sessions.

      4.    Inconsistent Spelling Styles

Choose an English style (UK or US) and stick to it. Your spellings cater to the style you chose. The differences between British English (BrE) and American English (AmE) are often difficult to spot. Make sure your work is consistent.

      5.    Conflicting Tenses   

Pay attention to your tenses. Make sure they’re correct and consistent. Change your verb tense only if it’s appropriate to the context or circumstance. Make a habit of reviewing your work for tense errors during your IELTS online course sessions.

There are two things you can do to avoid these mistakes. The first is to think about your readers when you write. Keep your work concise and be consistent with your language and ideas. The second is to keep an eye out for these errors when you proofread your work. Check your spelling and tenses. Make sure every verb caters to its subject.

Keep in mind that these are only some of the mistakes that you need to watch out for when writing. If you want to learn more, pick your best online IELTS course instructor’s brain. Ask him/her during your sessions. Maximize your training program to ensure IELTS success!

References:

“Common Writing Problems for Non-Native Speakers of English.” The Mayfield Handbook of Technical & Scientific Writing. Accessed November 20, 2018. http://www.mhhe.com/mayfieldpub/tsw/esl-link.htm.

“Common Writing Problems for Non-Native Speakers of English.” Accessed November 20, 2018. http://enos.itcollege.ee/~kart/Common_Writing_Problems.TASK.htm.

"Six Common Mistakes in ESL Writing." EnglishClub. Accessed November 20, 2018. https://www.englishclub.com/writing/common-errors.htm.

"Writing Problems in a Second Language: The Lowdown." Bright Hub Education. June 25, 2014. Accessed November 20, 2018. http://www.brighthubeducation.com/language-learning-tips/87480-writing-problems-for-english-as-a-second-language-esl-students/.