How to Prepare for IELTS?

The listening section evaluates an applicant’s ability to comprehend the English language. There are 4 recorded monologues and conversations which have in total 40 questions. You will be provided with headphones where you need to listen to the recordings. You will have enough time for this. The challenge lies in listening to specific information and understanding the speaker’s point of view.

The reading section assesses the applicant’s ability to interpret the written English. Here you are given three passages with a total of 40 questions. Test-takers are required to locate relevant information within the time constraints. You need to have strong reading skills to crack this section. This can be done through regular practice of reading.

The writing section evaluates an applicant’s ability to deliver ideas in written format. There are two major tasks here. In one task you need to describe visual information and in the second task, you need to write an essay. To successfully crack this section, you need to understand the requirements of each task.

The speaking section assesses the applicant’s communication skills. Here there is a face-to-face interview with an examiner. The interview is divided into three parts. In part 1 you need to introduce yourself and answer the questions about your familiar topics. In part 2 you need to speak for two minutes on a given topic. In part 3 you need to discuss abstract ideas and issues which are related to a topic in part 2.

IELTS sample paper and IELTS exam mock test help you get an overview of the IELTS exam format. This means you can have an idea about the type of questions, time required for each section and the overall structure. Once you familiarize yourself with the structure then it can boost your confidence on the actual test day.

If you engage in regular practice of writing the IELTS exam mock test and IELTS sample paper then you can identify your strengths and weaknesses. Practice tests will help you manage time as well as refine your pronunciation. Analyse the performances in mock tests and this will help you focus on areas that need improvement.

The IELTS exams are like marathon races so building exam endurance is necessary to crack the exam. Mock tests give the feel of an actual exam. By regularly taking mock tests you become habituated to the pace and duration of the exam.

Time management is the key component in any exam preparation. Practice tests help you to understand your timings and apply various time strategies to allocate appropriate time for each section. This especially applies in the reading and writing section. By regular practice, candidates can also maintain a balance between accuracy and speed.

One can start by creating a realistic study schedule. You can allot specific time slots for each section of the IELTS test. A good schedule will allow you to cover all sections regularly.

Identify your weak areas and find some more time for them. It can be refining your writing skills, or improving your listening skills. If proper focus is given to weaker areas, then it can help you improve and build confidence.

Divide your IELTS preparation into milestones and goals. For example, you can try to complete a certain number of practice tests within a certain time. Or else you can set a goal to write a certain number of words in a certain time. This will help you track your progress in preparations.

Develop certain strategies for managing time in each section. For example, you can use skimming and scanning techniques in the reading section to find information faster. Similarly, you can allocate specific time to task 1 and task 2 in the writing section. This time managing strategies will ensure a well-rounded approach.

Review your study plan on a regular basis. This helps you to analyse and measure your progress. If you are consuming more time in certain sections then adjust timings accordingly. This type of review helps you to make changes to meet your goals.

An individual who has a good reading habit has a rich vocabulary. Develop a habit of reading regularly. Read a variety of reading materials like newspapers, magazines, books, academic articles etc. This will enhance your comprehension skills and also enrich your writing with new vocabulary.

Maintain a vocabulary journal or use a digital notepad to note down new words you come across while reading. You can note the meaning of the word, its synonym and the example sentence. Regularly review and revise these words to ensure it in your memory.

Flash cards are the most common and popular way to improve the vocabulary. You can either create flashcards with target words or buy the readymade flash card kit available in the market. Apart from this, you can also use vocabulary-building apps designed for IELTS preparation.

To increase and improve your vocabulary start using vocabulary words in a daily context. Try using new words in writing and speaking.

1. For success in the listening section, try focusing on the gist and specific information and practice different kinds of accents. Also practice with a variety of English materials like podcasts, new broadcasts and online videos.
2. To score maximum in the reading section develop skimming and scanning techniques to identify relevant information. Read the question properly and pay attention to keywords.
3. In the writing section analyse the task requirements properly. Allocate proper time between task 1 and task 2.
4. For speaking you need to articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently. Practise speaking confidently and be prepared to express your thoughts on various topics.
5. Time management is very crucial in IELTS preparation. Practice under timed conditions during your preparations. Allocate specific time for each question and don’t waste too much time on a single question.
6. Stay calm and focused during the entire exam. If you come across a difficult question then go ahead and come back later if you have enough time.