Common Grammar Mistakes to Avoid in the OET Writing Section

The OET Writing sub-test is a critical part of the exam, requiring you to write a letter, such as a referral or discharge letter, based on provided case notes. Grammar errors can lower your score significantly, even if the content is strong. As experts and the best OET coaching provider, Medcity has the right guide for you to avoid the most common grammar mistakes and improve your writing.

1. Incorrect Tense Usage

 

•                     Mistake: Using the wrong tense when describing patient history or ongoing treatment.

•                     Example: “The patient is complaining of fever for two days.” (Incorrect)

•                     Corrected: “The patient has been complaining of fever for two days.”

•                     Tip: Use the present perfect for ongoing issues and the past tense for completed actions.

 

2. Subject-Verb Agreement Errors

 

•                     Mistake: Mismatch between the subject and verb.

•                     Example: “The patient’s symptoms was severe.” (Incorrect)

•                     Corrected: “The patient’s symptoms were severe.”

•                     Tip: Always ensure the subject and verb agree in number (singular/plural).

 

3. Overuse of Articles

 

•                     Mistake: Adding unnecessary articles.

•                     Example: “The patient was admitted for a pneumonia.” (Incorrect)

•                     Corrected: “The patient was admitted for pneumonia.”

•                     Tip: Learn when to use and omit articles, especially with uncountable nouns like “pneumonia” or “diabetes.”

 

4. Improper Use of Prepositions

 

•                     Mistake: Misplacing or omitting prepositions.

•                     Example: “He was prescribed with antibiotics.” (Incorrect)

•                     Corrected: “He was prescribed antibiotics.”

•                     Tip: Practice common medical phrases to ensure accurate preposition use.

 

5. Fragmented or Run-On Sentences

 

•                     Mistake: Writing incomplete sentences or excessively long ones without proper punctuation.

•                     Example: “The patient has been unwell since last week she is feeling fatigued and has a headache.” (Incorrect)

•                     Corrected: “The patient has been unwell since last week. She is feeling fatigued and has a headache.”

•                     Tip: Use short, clear sentences to maintain readability.

 

6. Confusion Between Passive and Active Voice

 

•                     Mistake: Misusing passive or active voice unnecessarily.

•                     Example: “The medications were taken by the patient yesterday.” (Passive, wordy)

•                     Corrected: “The patient took the medications yesterday.” (Active, concise)

•                     Tip: Use the active voice for clarity unless the passive voice is more appropriate for emphasis.

 

7. Punctuation Errors

 

•                     Mistake: Missing commas or using incorrect punctuation.

•                     Example: “The patient, who is 45 years old is diabetic.” (Incorrect)

•                     Corrected: “The patient, who is 45 years old, is diabetic.”

•                     Tip: Pay attention to commas, especially in complex sentences.

 

At Medcity International Academy, we focus on polishing your grammar and writing skills through targeted practice and personalized feedback. Our experts help you master the nuances of OET Writing to ensure your letters are error-free and impactful. If you are looking for the best OET training in Kerala look no further!

Join Medcity today and take the first step toward success! Contact us now! +91 9048059999, +91 9072619999.