Choosing the best IELTS® guide involves looking at how various books and resources address the unique challenges of the International English Language Testing System exam that is maintained by the British Council and other sponsors or administrating offices. Not all IELTS® resources are equal, and some may prepare students for taking this English language proficiency test better than others. The key is to look at not only what content and categories are addressed in a IELTS® guide, but how that product provides overall preparation targeted toward this specific exam.
Technically, a IELTS® guide should address all of the pertinent kinds of tasks and skills that will be tested on the exam. The guide should address whether it is preparing students for a general test, or a more advanced academic test. It should include all four of the major areas of content on the IELTS®: these are reading, writing, listening and speaking. The IELTS® guide should also be able to reach out to students at a specific level in their language acquisition.
Along with technical content mastery resources, the guide for an IELTS® test should get students better acquainted with the “flavor” of the exam. Skilled language learning trainers and instructors often know all about how the IELTS® differs from other kinds of English language tests. The heavy involvement of Cambridge ESOL and other British organizations gives the IELTS® a distinctly British presentation. Leaving out the culturally specific aspects of the IELTS® can leave a student relatively unprepared for the underlying elements of the tasks and challenges that he or she will meet at test time.
The best guide for a test will also incorporate much of the motivational work that is so important to a student. Including “handy tips” or other fact/motivational sheets in the book or resource is key for developing a student’s confidence. Experienced trainers know that confidence and familiarity with the test can make all of the difference for many students. Guiding students through specific tasks, from multiple choice listening, to the rigorous oral section of the exam, can help students really achieve what they set out to do on test day. By giving additional encouragement, self study tips, and much more, the best IELTS® guide will enable students to both master content, and draw on their skills under pressure.