Tenses for every part of the test Which tense to use in Task 1, Task 2 and each Speaking part, and the mistakes that cost marks.
Task 1: follow the dates
Past dates mean past simple. Future projections mean "is expected to" or "is predicted to". A process or a map with no dates usually needs the present simple, often passive.
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In 2010, sales stood at 4 million.
In 2010, sales stand at 4 million.
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By 2040, the figure is expected to reach 9 million.
By 2040, the figure reached 9 million.
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The leaves are washed and then dried.
Processes: present simple passive.
Present perfect: past action, present link
Use the present perfect for experiences and for changes that continue up to now. Do not use it with a finished time like "in 2015" or "yesterday".
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I have lived in Dhaka for ten years.
I am living in Dhaka since ten years.
for + length of time, since + starting point.
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I visited Cox's Bazar in 2019.
I have visited Cox's Bazar in 2019.
Speaking Part 2: tell the story in the past
Most cue cards ask about a past event. Keep the story in the past simple and past continuous, and switch to the present only for your feelings now.
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While we were walking home, it started to rain. I still remember it.
IELTS tip
Using several tenses accurately is part of Grammatical Range. A Part 2 story that moves naturally between past, present and future scores higher than one tense throughout.
Practice quiz
Pass with 7 or more to tick this topic off.
