21 Tips and Tricks for Acing the IELTS: Strategies for Success on the English Language Proficiency Exam
You’ve decided to take the IELTS, congratulations! The International English Language Testing System is a high-stakes English exam that is required for study, work, and immigration in many countries. The IELTS is offered in both academic and general training versions, and you will need to take the IELTS exam that corresponds to your goals. For example, the academic IELTS is required for university study in English, while the general IELTS is often required for work and immigration.
Before you begin studying for the IELTS, it is important to understand the exam and what is required to get a high score. In this article, we will give you an overview of the IELTS and 21 tips and tricks to help you ace the IELTS and get the score you need.
What is the IELTS?
The IELTS is a high-stakes English exam that is required for study, work, and immigration in many countries. The IELTS is offered in both academic and general training versions, and you will need to take the IELTS exam that corresponds to your goals. For example, the academic IELTS is required for university study in English, while the general IELTS is often required for work and immigration.
The IELTS is divided into four sections: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Each section is worth 25% of your total score. To pass the IELTS, you will need to score at least a 6.0 on each section, for a total score of 24.0.
Listening: You will listen to four recordings of native English speakers and answer 40 questions. The recordings will get progressively more difficult.
Reading: You will read three passages and answer 40 questions. The passages will get progressively more difficult.
Writing: You will write two essays. In the first essay, you will respond to a prompt about your own opinion. In the second essay, you will respond to a prompt about an argument.
Speaking: You will speak for 11-14 minutes on three different topics. The topics will get progressively more difficult.
What is a Good Score on the IELTS?
A “good” score on the IELTS is anything above a 7.0. A score of 7.0 is considered “competent” or “good.” A score of 8.0 is considered “very good.” A score of 9.0 is considered “excellent.”
To get a score of 8.0 or above, you will need to do more than just get the minimum score on each section. You will need to demonstrate consistent excellence throughout the exam.
To get a score of 9.0, you will need to demonstrate exceptional English skills. This is a very high score that is only attainable by a small percentage of test-takers.
Tips and Tricks for Acing the IELTS
1. Start studying early
The IELTS is a difficult exam, and you will need to give yourself plenty of time to prepare. We recommend starting to study at least two months before your exam date.
2. Make a study schedule
Once you have a study plan, make sure to stick to it. A study schedule will help you make the most of your study time and keep you on track.
3. Use official IELTS resources
There are a lot of IELTS resources available, but not all of them are created equal. We recommend using official IELTS resources, such as the IELTS Official Practice Materials and the IELTS Cambridge Practice Tests.
4. Find a study partner
One of the best ways to prepare for the IELTS is to find a study partner. A study partner can help you with your studies, give you feedback on your practice tests, and keep you motivated.
5. Take practice tests
Practice tests are an essential part of IELTS preparation. They will help you get familiar with the test format and identify your strengths and weaknesses.
6. Time yourself
Make sure to time yourself when you take practice tests. This will help you get used to working under time pressure and ensure that you finish the test on time.
7. Understand the scoring rubric
The IELTS is scored on a 9-point scale. It is important to understand how the IELTS is scored so that you can focus your studies on the areas that will give you the most points.
8. Know what to expect on test day
Test day can be stressful, but it is important to remember that the IELTS is just another test. Be prepared for test day by knowing what to expect and what you need to bring.
9. Get a good night’s sleep
It is important to get a good night’s sleep before your IELTS exam. A good night’s sleep will help you focus and do your best on the exam.
10. Arrive early
Make sure to arrive early on test day. This will give you time to relax and focus before your exam.
11. Be confident
Confidence is key on test day. Remember that you have prepared for this exam and that you can do it.
12. Listen carefully
The listening section of the IELTS is designed to test your ability to understand spoken English. Make sure to listen carefully and take notes to help you answer the questions.
13. Read the directions carefully
The reading section of the IELTS is designed to test your ability to read and understand written English. Make sure to read the directions carefully and answer the questions based on what you have read.
14. Take your time
There is no need to rush on the writing section of the IELTS. Take your time and plan your essays before you start writing.
15. Speak clearly
The speaking section of the IELTS is designed to test your ability to communicate in English. Make sure to speak clearly and confidently.
16. Use proper grammar
Grammar is important on the IELTS. Make sure to use proper grammar and avoid making common mistakes.
17. Be familiar with the vocabulary
The IELTS tests your vocabulary skills. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the vocabulary that will be tested on the exam.
18. Know the idioms
Idioms are a common part of spoken English. Make sure to know the meaning of common English idioms to avoid confusion on the speaking section of the IELTS.
19. Practice your pronunciation
Pronunciation is important on the IELTS. Make sure to practice your pronunciation and avoid common pronunciation mistakes.
20. Focus on your strengths
Everyone has different strengths and weaknesses. Make sure to focus your studies on your strengths and areas that need improvement.
21. Get help from a tutor
A tutor can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and create a study plan that is tailored to your needs. A tutor can also give you feedback on your practice tests and help you prepare for test day.
IELTS Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
What is IELTS?
IELTS, the International English Language Testing System, is designed to assess the language ability of candidates who need to study or work where English is the language of communication. IELTS is required for entry to university in the UK and other countries.
How is IELTS scored?
IELTS is scored on a 9-band scale, with each band corresponding to a specified competence in English. The test comprises four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. The total score is the average of the four scores.
What is the IELTS test like?
The IELTS test has four sections – Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. The Listening and Speaking sections are the same for both academic and general training versions of the test. The Reading and Writing sections differ, with the academic test focusing on more challenging, higher-level material.
How long does the IELTS test take?
The IELTS test takes 2 hours and 45 minutes.
How often can I take the IELTS test?
You can take the IELTS test as many times as you need to, but most students take it only once or twice.
What is the IELTS test fee?
The IELTS test fee varies depending on the test center, but is typically between $150 and $250.
When should I take the IELTS test?
You should take the IELTS test when you are ready to apply for study or work in an English-speaking environment. Most students take the test 1-2 years before they plan to apply.
We hope the tips and tricks we provided above will help you ace your IELTS exam.
Have any questions? Leave a comment.