- Overcomplicating the Question: Many students try to read between the lines too much and end up interpreting the question more complexly than it is intended. The IELTS test is designed to assess your understanding of the passage, not your ability to infer information beyond what is written. For instance, if the passage talks about “some countries” adopting a policy, don’t assume it applies to all countries unless explicitly mentioned.
- Making Assumptions Based on Prior Knowledge: Another common mistake is using external knowledge or assumptions to answer the question. Remember, your answer must be based solely on the passage. Even if you know additional information about the topic from outside reading, only consider what the passage provides.