All About IELTS

Understanding IELTS test

It is International English Language Testing System. It is the most widely accepted and recognized test worldwide because it accepts international English (including British and Australian).

There are four parts of the test:

1. Listening – An audio test that lasts for 30 minutes, with 10 minutes to transfer to your answer sheet, is the same for both tests.
2. Reading – This test involves three long text paragraphs with 40 questions to be answered. In the case of GT, the paragraphs are mainly from notices, advertisements, newspapers, company handbooks, etc. Academic reading paragraphs are generally articles and journals taken from books, but these are complex and require advanced reading skills.
3. Writing- The writing test is divided into two tasks: task 1 and task 2. Task 1 is a short description of a bar chart, maps, etc., in academic writing, whereas it is a letter in GT. Task 2 is a formal essay for both academic and GT tests.
4. Speaking- An informal face-to-face conversation between the interviewer and the candidate for about 13-17 minutes, starting with general questions about hobbies and likes/dislikes, followed by a cue card and follow-up questions from the cue card. It is the same for both academic and GT exams.

Choosing between a Computer and pen and paper test

The scoring and time given for each module are the same in CBT, except the differences mentioned below:

Difference:

1. The only difference between the computer-based test is that there are only 2 minutes to check your answers while listening.
2. There is a video call option available for the speaking test.

Considerations before taking the computer-based test (CBT):

1. If you have high and accurate typing speed, only you should consider CBT.
2. You must be good with handling different features such as highlighting, note-taking, drag and drop, and mouse clicks because otherwise, these things will save you significant time in the final exam.
3. The computer does not check your spelling and grammar automatically; remember that is also part of marking, hence you should carefully type your answers.

Tip: Always attempt a real online IELTS exam like the final exam to understand the exam setting better.

How do you start preparing for IELTS?

1. Determine whether you want to opt for general training or academic IELTS tests. If you aim to study abroad, take an academic test, and if you are planning to migrate and work in an English-speaking country, choose the general training test.
2. Learn about the following aspects of each module of the selected test:
   • Time allocated.
   • Marking criteria
   • Format of the module
   • Weightage of each component
3. Set practical and achievable goals to achieve your desired band score. The first step is to assess your current level of English and identify your strengths, weaknesses, and areas of improvement. My tip is to attempt all the modules of the IELTS test and mark yourself based on the marking scheme of the test. This will help you understand the gap between your English levels and desired band scores. That’s how you will know whether you need to work on certain aspects of your English, such as your vocabulary and sentence formation, or you must master the skills of IELTS.
4. Consider time frames and skills for improvement for planning your strategy to be successful in the IELTS test.
5. Learn about the question types for each test module. For example, five types of questions are asked in writing task 2 for the academic test (Advantage/Disadvantage, direct question, Opinion, Discussion, Cause and effect questions.)
6. The next step is to pay close attention to strategies for each type of question.
7. Learn vocabulary and common topics.
8. Avoid using informal slang and adverbs in other modules than speaking, especially in writing.
9. Work on speed and time management and practice every module with sample tests of previous years. Practice at least 3-4 complete tests like exam settings to understand the test better.

I wish you great luck in preparing for your test. This website offers free practice tests, tips and tricks, and sample answers to assist you in getting ready for your IELTS exam.

Feel free to ask questions in the comments. Happy Learning!