7 Tips on How You Can Ace the IELTS Test
So, does the thought of a test make you too stressed and anxious? Are you preparing for the IELTS test and worried about core? Fret not! In this blog, we shall share 7 remarkable tips to ace the IELTS test.
This blog doesn’t guide you into the integrated tips, tricks, and strategies of the IELTS exams but provides you with a broader spectrum to succeed.
First and foremost, IELTS is the simplest examination, if we compare it with the other examinations. This exam seems tough to those, who do not have a good command of the fundamentals of English or underestimate the importance of the English language.
So, how do you ace the IELTS exam?
The answer to this is very simple: For IELTS preparation, hard work along with smart work and dedication is the key.
IELTS is not a qualifying exam. Hence there is no ‘Pass’ or ‘Fail’ here. Your Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking skills in English are assessed against a band of 1 to 9. The only thing you need to be sure of is you have enough time to prepare and know the structure of the test, question types, and practice daily so that on the test day you have the confidence you need to pass the exam with flying colors.
Here are the 7 tips for you to excel in the IELTS exam –
1. Make English your Primary Language
First and foremost, if you are not a native English speaker then make sure you make English, your primary language. You cannot go into the exam with a low level of English. The best way to include the English language as a part of your life is to start viewing English news, shows and movies, etc. Further, to better integrate English into your day-to-day routine, you could play games like crossword, scrambled words, etc. in your free time for recreation. Doing this will revamp your IELTS vocabulary words.
Reading is the most effective way to refine your English Reading skills. It widens your knowledge about various topics as well as augments your comprehension skills. You can start with short stories, novels, poems, newspapers, study books, or anything of your interest. But make reading a regular ritual to excel in the IELTS reading test.
Listen to news and podcasts consistently. You can find a variety of musical; cultural and current affairs show online.
Conversing in English every day will help you get familiar with both the tempo and cadence of English speech. With dedicated practice, you will be able to sound as natural as possible and will have an enhanced vocabulary.
Daily writing will improve your writing skills and will help you in clearing the IELTS writing exam. You can start with writing essays on topics you prefer, or you can even write stories, personal notes, or maintain a daily journal. But the main thing is that you write every day.
2. Stick to Authentic Learning Material
Most aspirants err by blindly following strategies, materials, random tips, videos, and suggestions shared online, often free of cost. However, what is free is not always of superlative quality. Before relying on any information, try to find out how authentic it is. The offcial IELTS website is the prime source of information for IELTS applicants. You can read about the rules and regulations of the test, the test format, and find useful IELTS exam tips and materials such as books, tests, and videos on the website.
3. Understand the Examination Structure
It is pivotal for you to comprehend the structure of the exam. IELTS has 4 sections that include reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Review the mock test papers to understand the type of questions asked. If you are well acquainted with the pattern, you will be able to handle the questions more confidently when you take the IELTS exam. Along with the exam structure, understand and practice answering the various question types reading, writing, and listening section, while practice speaking the most asked IELTS Speaking Topics.
To understand the IELTS Test Format to the format, visit Test format (ielts.org)
4. Identify your Strengths and Weaknesses
The best way to crack IELTS in the first attempt is through a perfect plan and that is Pre-test – Plan – Practice. You must be wondering – Why should I take a test before practice? Well, here is the catch – First you need to test your skills that will help you in identifying your strengths and weaknesses. Take a practice test and see which are the sections – you can easily answer, which require practice and which you find tough. With this, you can self-grade and concentrate more on areas that need more practice, at the same upgrading your strengths.
5. Learn Time Management
In the IELTS exam, your biggest enemy is ‘Time’. The exam is conducted in the specified duration of 2 hrs 40 mins (The IELTS Speaking Test is conducted at an appointed time). There is no break between the sections, so you need to be at your best for a long time. Most of the candidates who have taken the test and did not perform as well as they had hoped, often complain that they were unable to give all the answers in the Listening Test because the audio was too fast, or they ran out of time in the Reading Test, or they lost track of time in the writing test. IELTS tutors and examiners always suggest taking IELTS mock tests as practice for time management.
6. Practice, Practice, and Practice is the key
There is no shortcut to success in the IELTS exam. It’s an only adequate practice that can get you a high score in the IELTS. Once you understand the skills and how to use them, you need to practice them in controlled tests and learn from your mistakes. Set aside a few hours each day to practice in all four sections. Not only concentrate more on your weakest areas but also give some time on areas you do well. Irrespective of the level of knowledge or preparation, keep attempting mock tests with a timer to boost your confidence.
7. Take guidance from Professional
If you aim to clear IELTS in the first attempt, then seeking professional help is of utmost importance. IELTS coaching can connect you to experts who can upskill your abilities and teach you the untold tips and tricks to crack the exam. In addition, a professional tutor can provide genuine feedback to improvise and overcome difficulties. If you can have a native English tutor then, that would be the icing on the cake. To discover the advantages of Native English Tutor for any English Language Competitive Exams, read our full blog on ‘7 Advantages ofLearning English from a Native Tutor’
You can always connect with Learn from Native an online learning platform that has the best and highly qualified native English tutors to train and prepare you for the IELTS examination. Their course is designed in a way that is guaranteed to give you success with a 7+ band score.
The best way to handle the IELTS exam is to be well prepared. Remember proper guidance and dedication will take you to the path of success.
Be consistent and practice well!
Hope this helps you to plan and prepare for your IELTS journey.
Adios!