The International English Language Testing System, otherwise known as IELTS®, is designed to measure a person’s ability to understand and use the English language. To do well on the IELTS®, a person should know the testing format and the times allotted to each section. The best IELTS® tips can vary depending upon the specific section; however, the most important thing a test taker can do to improve his or her score is to practice. It is also essential that a person prepare physically and mentally prior to taking the IELTS® test.
The IELTS® test is divided into four sections, which test a person’s ability to listen, read, write, and speak the English language. One of the most important IELTS® tips is for a person to practice each aspect of the test. There are many online practice tests and tutorials available, and many books have helped people prepare for the IELTS®. Several preparation courses can be purchased, and these courses might help some individuals to improve their IELTS® scores.
Aside from practice tests and preparation courses, one of the most essential IELTS® tips is to practice speaking, writing, and reading English. Wherever practical, a person should engage others in active conversation using the English language. An individual should also make a habit of reading factual pieces, such as newspaper or magazine articles, that are written in English. Similarly, writing at least one or two paragraphs every day, paying special attention to organization, spelling, grammar, and punctuation can help.
The test itself lasts for 2 hours and 45 minutes. It is important for a test taker to know the time allowed for each section and to make sure he or she allots enough time to complete them. Again, this is largely a matter of practice, and sample tests can help individuals master this skill. Regardless of the specific section, though, it is always better to finish as many questions as possible, and a person should avoid dwelling too long on one question. There is no penalty for incorrect responses, so it usually better for a person to guess rather than leave a question blank.
Some IELTS® tips are specific to the particular sections of the test. For instance, in preparation for the reading portion of the exam, it is helpful for a person to develop the habit of skimming, which allows a person to get a basic idea of the topic, and scanning, which helps in picking out relevant information. As another example, when preparing for the listening portion of the exam, a person should be aware that material will be presented with various accents, such as British, Australian, and Irish, and the test taker should be familiar with the sound and intonations of those accents. Again, practice tests and preparation courses will help familiarize a person with these more specific IELTS® tips.
Finally, one of the most important but overlooked of the IELTS® tips is encompassed by the “three R’s,” that is, rest, relax, and remember. First, a person should get plenty of rest the night before the exam. Second, even though the situation may be stressful, a person should try to relax, take a few deep breaths, and focus on one section at a time without worrying about what has been completed or what remains. Lastly, it's important to remember that everyone makes mistakes, and the test can always be retaken.
