What is the 100% rule, and how can I use it to increase my score?
The 100% rule is quite simply this:
ONLY use words you are 100% sure are correct.
If there is any part of your brain that is unsure about a word, don't use it. If you do, you will make a mistake. Mistakes will lower your score.
What if my vocabulary is too simple?
For a Band 7, you need to be concerned about right or wrong. The examiner is impressed when you use the right words. The examiner is NOT impressed when you make mistakes with "fancy" words.
Of course, you need to be able to communicate Band 7 ideas (= relevant and specific) and develop them to a Band 7 standard (= in a logical and relevant way). If you have the words to do this, and you can do it without making too many mistakes, you'll get a Band 7 for Vocabulary. The most important thing is that you don't use the wrong words and that the examiner can easily understand exactly what you mean in every single sentence.
For a Band 8, you need to avoid mistakes and express your ideas idiomatically (= the most natural way of expressing something.)
What if I followed the 100% rule, but I didn't get the score I need on my essay or in my mock speaking test?
What if I want to try out some new vocabulary in my essay submission or mock speaking test and get feedback from a teacher?
You can do this, but it is a slow and expensive way to improve your vocabulary. You can find the answer instantly and for free by yourself. Click here to see how.
