Things to remember for IELTS exam

Pro tip: Practice time management

IELTS stands for the International English Language Testing System. It is a standardized English language proficiency test that measures the ability of non-native English speakers to use and understand English in academic and general contexts. The IELTS exam is widely recognized and accepted by universities, employers, and immigration authorities in English-speaking countries as a means to assess an individual's English language skills.

The test consists of four main modules: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.

Here are some tips to get your prepared for IELTS.

Read Instructions Carefully

Pay close attention to the instructions for each section. Understand the question types and any specific guidelines provided before attempting the questions.

Time Management

The IELTS exam is time-bound, so manage your time wisely. Don't spend too much time on a single question. If you're stuck, move on to the next question and come back to it later if you have time.

Skim and Scan

In the Reading section, use skimming to get a general idea of the text and scanning to find specific information. These techniques can save time and help you locate answers quickly.

Highlight Keywords

When reading passages or questions, underline or highlight keywords to better understand what's being asked. This will help you focus on the main points and relevant information.

Guess if necessary

If you're unsure about an answer, make an educated guess. There are no penalties for wrong answers, so you have a chance of getting it right.

Manage Nervousness

Feeling nervous is natural, but try to remain as calm as possible during the exam. Take deep breaths if you feel overwhelmed. Remember, staying relaxed will help you think more clearly.

Listen Attentively

In the Listening section, listen carefully to the audio recordings. It is played ONLY ONCE.  Focus on the main ideas and details to answer the questions accurately. Give full attention when the audio is playing. Take notes as you listen if you aren’t a fast at typing.

Paraphrase

In the Writing section, demonstrate your language skills by using synonyms and paraphrasing when appropriate. This will showcase your vocabulary range.

Speak clearly and confidently

In the Speaking section, speak clearly and confidently. Be prepared to expand on your answers and provide examples to support your responses.

Stay Organized in Writing

When writing essays or letters, organize your thoughts and ideas logically. Using paragraphs to structure your writing effectively can get you better score.

Check for Errors

In the Writing section, allocate some time to review your answers for spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes. Correcting errors can improve your overall score.

Don't leave blank answers

There’s no negative marking so even if you can't complete a full response, write down any relevant information you know.