IELTS preparation seems overwhelming sometimes, and this is understandably possible because the test taker might be struggling with different fears, including those of failure. To help you succeed in your IELTS test, we’ve put together this article on How to Prepare for IELTS.
This article, however, is devoted to providing you with excellent tips to ensure you come out on top. We learned from experience that most test-takers don’t know how to prepare for their tests.
What is IELTS:
IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System. The test was initially designed to assist migrants in migrating to live permanently, study, or work in countries where English is the official language.
The USA, the UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand are among these countries. On a scale of 1-9, IELTS assesses the English proficiency of test-takers.
Why Take IELTS?
Among the top English tests globally is IELTS – the International English Language Testing System.
Some of the world’s top language assessment experts assess a variety of English skills – reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Its purpose is to assess your ability to use English in an English-speaking environment, whether studying, working, or living.
Stepwise Approach to how to prepare for the IELTS exam:
- To prepare for the IELTS exam, you must understand the test format and how it is marked and then develop a strategy for getting the best score possible.
- Getting ready for the test requires improving your English, practicing test skills, and joining a course to assess your progress before registering.
Check out the tips below to help you prepare for IELTS.
Step 1: Decide which IELTS test is proper for you
- You must decide what kind of IELTS test you will take based on whether you intend to work, study or migrate to an English-speaking country.
- The IELTS Academic test is most likely required if you plan to study or pursue a professional career in an English-speaking country.
- Taking IELTS General Training is of excellent value if you want to learn higher education, get vocational training, or migrate to Australia, New Zealand, Canada, or the UK.
- IELTS Life Skills could be taken if you need citizenship or professional registration in the UK.
Step 2: Be aware of the format of the test
- After deciding which test to take, review the test content and the types of questions and tasks in each section to get familiar with the test format.
- It is also essential to familiarize yourself with the IELTS rules and regulations.
- IELTS is divided into four parts – Speaking, Reading, Listening, and Writing. Each of these parts has a different set of tasks attached to it.
- Further reading on Test Formats.
Step 3: Identify the question types
- Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speakings are the four sections of the IELTS Academic and General Training tests. Each section of the test asks a different type of question.
- You should familiarize yourself with the types of questions you might encounter in each test part and the time limits for completing each test.
Step 4: Know the band scores
- The IELTS results are reported as band scores, ranging from 0 to 9. Band scores indicate how proficient you are in English.
- As well as the overall band score, each section of the test will have an individual band score. It is possible to report band scores in whole and half bands, such as 7.0 and 8.5.
- So you should familiarize yourself with the meaning of each score and the marking criteria that examiners use when marking the Speaking and Writing tests.
Step 5: Assess your English skills
- By understanding your band score, you can determine where you need to improve.
- A mock test that indicates your IELTS band scores and official feedback on your performance is the IELTS Progress Check.
- Look for IELTS Practice tests Here.
Step 6: Develop the habit of speaking English
- You can improve your English by practicing every day. Even 5 minutes of your time per day can make a big difference – reading English news stories, writing a letter to a friend, or watching English-speaking movies can make a tremendous difference.
Step 7: Set up a study plan:
Make time every day to practice IELTS’ four parts. Consider these tasks to help you improve:
- Take the time to read English newspapers, journals, advertisements, and books.
- Tune in to English-speaking audiobooks, podcasts, radio, and music
- Communicate in English with colleagues, friends, and family
- Every day or every week, learn a new word and practice using it.
Step 8: Communicate coherently and fluently in English
- You will become accustomed to the pressure of the test by practicing your speaking part under test conditions. During the second part of the test, you will have to prepare a few notes to assist you in talking for two minutes.
- Answering questions without actually knowing the answer is also important. Remember that your knowledge is not assessed, but your English language proficiency, pronunciation, lexical resource, and fluency are.
Step 9: IELTS Progress Check – official practice test
- The IELTS Progress Check is an online IELTS practice test marked by qualified and trained IELTS markers.
- Timed or untimed tests are available. You will receive feedback, including a band score for each section: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
- It’s a good idea to practice with a well-reputed IELTS progress check test and understand what you need to work on.
Step 10: Know what to expect on test day
If pre-test nerves are getting you down, you need to know What happens on test day.
For test day, keep these things in mind:
- Prepare to be seated in time for your test by arriving early
- Make sure your personal belongings such as watches, phones, and books are checked in
- Make sure you have your identification with you when you check in.
During the preparation phase of the examination, it is crucial to remember that persistence is the key to success. By adding these ten steps to your IELTS preparation plan, you will be better positioned to get the IELTS band score you need.
4 Comments