Master IELTS Listening Map Labelling

In the IELTS Listening test, you may be asked to label a map. This is a common task type for Section 2, so it’s worth having a look at how to tackle this kind of question. 

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There are two types of map labelling questions that you can receive in the IELTS Listening test. 

One type is where the items on the map are blank and you have to use words directly from the recording, while the other type is where you can select options from a list (e.g. A – G).  The maps can be of an outdoor space or inside a building. 

Sample map labelling question with list of options to select

Source: IELTS Listening on computer familiarisation test

To help with labelling an IELTS Listening map, it is a good idea to use your preparation time well. Here are a few things to consider:  

1. Make sure you know the starting point the speaker uses.

Sometimes the speaker will say where they are standing and which direction they are looking, so this is an important step.  When giving directions, the speaker may return to this starting point for the subsequent questions, not just the first one.   

2. Look at the shapes of items.

The speaker may describe items in the diagram with particular adjectives and nouns (e.g. circular / circle, curved / curve).  

3. Look at what the question number is connected to on the map.

You can do this by paying attention to words related to location.  These words can be prepositions (e.g. across from / next to / behind / below / near / under / etc.) as this type of word is often used for directions.     

Quite often, there are two items that have some similarities.  For example, they could both be on the same side of a street, but one of them is before the intersection and the other one is after it.  The incorrect option in this choice is called a ‘distractor’ and these are used to test your understanding.  

4. Be aware of the compass rose  

Look at the compass rose if it is used (not all maps will have one of these). A compass rose is a round design with pointed lines showing the directions north - south etc. Listening to compass directions can help you pinpoint the item that the speaker is referring to, such as ‘in the north-east’ or ‘to the south of’. 

If there is no compass rose, then the speaker may use words related to left and right, such as ‘to the left of’ or ‘on the right-hand side of’. 

 5. Make sure you use the right number of words for your answer. 

When it comes to the question type where you have to write what the speaker says, make sure you do not exceed the word limit, so take note of this early on. 

To become more confident at labelling a map, try these IELTS Listening preparation tips:  

• Get used to listening to directions in different contexts.   

• Draw your own map and give directions to someone else and see if they can follow where you are telling them to go.   

• Have a look at the transcript of what the speaker says when you do IELTS test practice. Take note of the signposting words and language related to directions and positions. See why some of the other options are incorrect too. 

Another good way to improve your skills in this area is with a practice task.  To practice labelling a map and other parts of the Listening test, try our IELTS Listening practice questions. 

For more expert advice on IELTS Listening, access our wide range of IELTS Preparation Materials.

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