any students choose the Duolingo English Test (DET) because it looks easier than IELTS or TOEFL. It's shorter, cheaper, and you can take it at home in your pajamas.
But don't be fooled. The "at-home" format tricks many smart students into making simple mistakes that ruin their scores. The test is designed to be tricky, and the security rules are very strict.
Here is a simple guide to the most surprising ways students fail the DET, and how SuGanta tutors help you avoid them.
1. The "Eye Contact" Trap
The Mistake: In a normal test, you look up at the ceiling when you think. On the Duolingo test, if you look away from your screen too many times, the computer thinks you are cheating. Your result will not be certified.
How to Fix It: You need to train yourself to stare at the camera or screen, even when you are thinking hard. It feels weird, but you must practice it.
2. Giving Short, Boring Answers
The Mistake: For speaking and writing questions, many students just give a one-sentence answer to finish quickly.
How to Fix It: The test wants to see how well you can explain things. Don't just say, "I see a dog." Say, "I see a happy brown dog running in a park on a sunny day." Always add more details. Our SuGanta tutors teach you simple methods to make any answer longer and better.
3. Rushing and Not Checking Spelling
The Mistake: Students type fast to save time and make silly spelling mistakes. The test is adaptive, so if you make easy mistakes, it gives you easier questions, which lowers your final score.
How to Fix It: Always save the last 20-30 seconds of any writing task to read it again and fix typos. A correct, simple sentence is better than a complex one full of errors.
4. Memorizing Answers from the Internet
The Mistake: Some students find "sample answers" online and try to memorize them. The Duolingo computer program is very smart and can tell if your answer is not natural.
How to Fix It: Learn how to build sentences, don't just memorize them. You need to sound like yourself, not a robot.
5. Not Having a Quiet, Private Room
The Mistake: Your test will be cancelled if anyone enters your room, or if there is too much background noise (like a TV or people talking).
How to Fix It: You must have a completely private room for 60 minutes. Tell your family not to disturb you. Lock the door if you can.
How to Guarantee a High Score with SuGanta
You don't need to study alone and guess what to do. A personal tutor can watch you practice and fix your mistakes instantly.
At SuGanta, our tutors are experts in the Duolingo English Test. They will help you:
Practice the "no looking away" rule until it feels natural.
Learn simple ways to expand your speaking and writing answers.
Build your confidence so you don't feel nervous on test day.
Don't take a chance with your future. Get the right help and pass the first time.
Click here to book a FREE Demo Class with a SuGanta expert today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is the Duolingo test easier than IELTS?
A: It is different, not necessarily easier. It is shorter (1 hour), but the questions change based on how well you are doing, which can be stressful. You also have to be very careful about test rules like looking at the screen.
Q: How long does it take to get results?
A: You get your results very fast, usually within 48 hours (2 days).
Q: Can I wear headphones during the test?
A: No. You are not allowed to wear headphones or earphones. You must use your computer's speakers and microphone.
Q: How many times can I take the test?
A: You can take the test up to 3 times in a 30-day period. But it's better to prepare well and get a good score the first time! A SuGanta Tutors can help you be ready.
Q: Do universities really accept this test?
A: Yes! Over 5,000 universities around the world accept the Duolingo English Test, including top universities in the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia.
