7 useful tips to help you prepare for your IELTS test

If you're planning to move abroad for studies, work or migration, one important step in your journey towards that goal is clearing your English proficiency test. 

People choose IELTS because it's not only the most respected test of English in the world, but we also offer you  more free practice material than any other language test. IELTS services are designed to help you succeed.

Preparing and sitting for an English language exam can make you feel nervous and stressed. We understand what you may be feeling and we’re here to help you prepare, gain confidence, and do the best you can in your test. 

All you need is lots of preparation and these 7 key essential tips to get you into high gear for the IELTS test!

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Sometimes when you try to achieve perfection, it can hinder progress. Keeping things simple is key. Let go of the need to be perfect and stick with what you know.

IELTS Listening -Tips to avoid common mistakes

Before answering any questions, take the time to skim through the entire questionnaire to get a general overview of what’s ahead. This would give you some time to formulate a plan on how you will tackle each question.  

If you find yourself struggling with a particular question for far too long, move on to the next one first and come back to it later.

Remember to pace yourself throughout and allocate a certain time for each question.  

Another way to avoid spending too much time on one question is by doing IELTS practice tests before the actual test. This will help you find the balance between managing your time efficiently and crafting a good answer.

IELTS Reading test: True, False and Not given explained

Despite how challenging it may be, the IELTS does offer some flexibility when it comes to answering the test questions.  

Unlike IELTS on paper tests, IELTS on computer tests allow students to navigate the different pages with ease by simply using the forward and back arrows.  

On top of that, there is also a navigation bar at the bottom of the page which shows you any answers you may have missed out on.  

Make full use of advantages such as these to ensure that all your questions are answered correctly!

Learn the difference between IELTS on computer and paper

Just like you, people choose IELTS to support their study ambitions in Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the UK.

Not only does this test prove your English language proficiency, but it is also a highly recognised certification by more than 12,000 organisations in 140 countries.  

While you prepare, make it a point to familiarise yourself with the format, be disciplined with your IELTS practice tests, and monitor your progress regularly. This helps you gain a general idea of what to expect during the real thing.

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Most students would think that preparing and revising every minute up until test day is an effective way to retain as much information as possible.  

Contrary to popular belief, this isn’t always the case. Taking some time off before the actual test can help as this gives you more time to rest and recharge for the IELTS test. 

Take one or two days before the test to meditate and rest your mind, and ensure you get a good night’s sleep before the actual day.

Prepare for IELTS with these 6 easy steps

Having a positive mindset can impact your confidence more than you think. 

Studies have shown that how you think about the test will have adverse effects on the way you perform during that same test. 

For instance, if you use positive affirmations and words of self-encouragement to deal with exam anxiety, it will replace those negative thoughts with positive ones.  

This mindset would then carry over during the test, ultimately boosting your confidence.  

Don’t lose sight of the end goal and continue to work towards it until the end!

Vocabulary to help prepare for common IELTS topics

Attempting IELTS when English is not your first language can be challenging. But actively practising daily can help you improve much quicker.  

This includes reading magazines and blogs on topics you’re interested in, keeping a diary or journal for daily entries, and even listening to podcasts or watching videos online.  

But one of the best ways to really hone your English skills is by listening to native speakers or conversing with someone fluent in the language.  

Repetition and practice would help you with pronunciation and tone, and significantly build your familiarity with the English language.

Top 10 tools to improve your written English

Achieving a great IELTS score takes time and planning. You can’t just book and take your test in a matter of days – no matter how strong your English skills are. Successful test takers create a schedule to help them study everything they need to know before they sit an IELTS test. They make time to practise all four English skills – Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking – as they know that each one is different.

If they have trouble with a topic, they attend a FREE Masterclass with an IELTS expert who can teach them how to improve. And, when they’re almost ready to take IELTS, they will complete as many practice tests as they can find. 

So, when there are hundreds of resources to help you study, where do you begin? Click here to access your go-to guide to IELTS preparation. All of our most important materials – both free and paid – are listed here, divided by category.

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