IELTS Preparation- ✍️ Everything You Need to Know
What is the IELTS?
The International English Language Testing System, commonly known as IELTS, is a standardized test designed to measure the language proficiency of non-native speakers who aim to study or work in countries where English is the primary language of communication. There are two types of IELTS exams: Academic and General Training. The former is intended for students who aspire to pursue higher education in an English-speaking country while the latter assesses the practical communication skills required for immigration purposes or employment. The exam evaluates candidates’ abilities across four key components: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each section has its unique format; however, all sections evaluate candidates based on their comprehension and application of grammar rules such as sentence construction and vocabulary usage. IELTS preparation involves understanding the test format, how it is marked and then making a plan to achieve your desired score. To do this, you will need to improve your English, practice test skills and join a preparation course to check your progress before registering for the test.
How to Prepare for the IELTS Test
- Understand the test format
- Know how the test is marked
- Surround yourself with English
- Join a preparation course
- Practise IELTS sample questions
- Enhance your English language skills
- Improve Your Vocabulary
- Get Your Speaking and Writing Assessed
- Set Realistic Goals
- Check your progress
- Immerse yourself in English
- Register for the test
- Be aware of the exam time constraints
Why is IELTS Preparation So Difficult?
Quite simply, so much information is out there, and students do not know which sources they can trust. IELTS can take months (sometimes years!) of hard work and thousands of dollars in tuition and test fees, so there is a lot of pressure to get it right the first time. There are three main things you need to improve:
- General level of English (Slow)
- Test skills (Medium)
- Knowing how the test is marked (Fast)
Practise IELTS sample questions
Use the IELTS preparation books provided at the time of test registration. You can either download the books online or get them at the IDP registration centres. Analyse each question well, take notes, underline keywords and plan your answers accordingly. Follow this simple activity throughout your practice sessions to score well. Ask your mentors for feedback and improve upon on areas you lack. Take sample mock tests to time yourself. Find some here.
Enhance your English language skills
Improving on a language takes time, and so it is important that you start working on your skills ahead in time. Make use of these handy tips:
- Read, write and speak in English as much as possible. Make it a part of your daily life.
- Create a group of friends and practise speaking in English.
- Read English newspaper and listen to English news channels or radio.
- Try listening to a variety of English accents – British, Australian, American, British, New Zealand and Canadian.
- Watch English movies with subtitles.
- Read extensively to develop your reading speed.
- Learn to understand context to be able to scan the available content for answers.
- Start paying attention to your grammar, spelling and vocabulary.
- Learn to be precise, relevant and within the required word count.
Be aware of the exam time constraints
The clearer understanding you develop regarding the test structure, the higher your chances are to completing it successfully within the allocated time frame. Conduct your preparation under timed conditions, so you become accustomed to the pace of the test. Remember the IELTS test has a time limit and you will only have the time given for each module. If you are unable to complete the modules within the allocated time or if you cannot concentrate accordingly due to the timing pressure. All preparation done in classes of a preparation course, are conducted under the same timed conditions as the exam, so you’re ready for the pace of the IELTS test.
Know How the Test is Marked
The fastest and most effective way to improve your score is knowing exactly what the examiners want and giving it to them. Most of my teachings are based on this principle. However, you can’t simply learn this and get a high score; they should be combined with improving your level of English and test skills. Below we will look at the official marking criteria to help us understand what the examiner wants.
How will I know that I’m ready for the IELTS exam?
Hundreds of thousands of students fail the IELTS exam each year for one simple reason: They took the test before they are ready for it! In my experience, there is only one question you need to ask yourself to decide whether you’re ready for the IELTS exam.
On the day of your IELTS test
Keep in mind these little pointers to stay calm during the test and give it your best shot:
- Ensure that you carry your relevant ID proofs. Carry the same identification document as used at the time of test application.
- Be attentive when the supervisor is giving instructions, ask again if you have any doubts.
- Try to attempt all questions as there is no negative marking.
- Do not try to cheat or copy any other student’s work.
- Leave your belongings outside the examination hall, as directed by the supervisor.
- Do not take back the question paper or answer sheet with you.
- Seek your supervisor’s permission before leaving the room.