The IELTS examination can seem daunting, particularly when test day looms on the horizon. However, with the right approach, you can learn how to pass IELTS, and unlock study and work opportunities in English-speaking countries.
How To Pass IELTS
This guide, brimming with IELTS tips and insights, aims to enhance your English skills and equip you with the confidence to excel under exam conditions - and pass IELTS!
From understanding the core structure of the test that the British Council and IDP administer to creating a regimen of mock tests simulating real-life scenarios, you'll become proficient in strategies that have proven effective time and again.
So, whether you're preparing for IELTS or other tests of language proficiency, read on to unlock the secrets of how to pass IELTS.
Learn About The IELTS Exam Format
The official IELTS web page is written by the organization that administers the IELTS exam.
This should be your first place to visit and find out all about the IELTS tests: Academic or General Training.
- It is full of really useful information for candidates.
- Read it before planning when to take the IELTS.
- It explains the four different sections of the exam.
- See examples of typical IELTS exam questions and tasks.
When you have read the official IELTS web page and learned about the test format – do some IELTS practice tests.
- This will give you an idea of how easy or difficult it will be for you to pass IELTS.
- It will help to highlight your strong English language skills and weak skills.
- This will make the process of preparation for the real IELTS exam easier.
- You can now make intelligent decisions knowing what is involved.
IELTS Time Management - Allow Enough Time For Preparation and Study
Many IELTS test-takers do the IELTS test at the last minute. This is NOT a strategy for success unless your general level of English in all four skills is already excellent.
- Most candidates need more time to prepare than they initially think.
- Make sure your level of general English is sufficient before thinking about IELTS.
- Allowing sufficient time reduces the stress and pressure of preparation.
- Organize your IELTS preparation time in your weekly schedule.
Preparing for IELTS - Get Advice from IELTS Experts
Some candidates take IELTS without knowing anything about it. This is NOT a strategy for success. Preparation before the IELTS exam is essential and will improve your performance.
- Investigate the IELTS preparation options available in your area and online (internet).
- Speak to the instructors/coaches about the course materials, duration and focus of the course.
- Does it prepare you for Academic IELTS and/or General IELTS?
- Ask someone who has done IELTS previously if they have any recommendations.
- Get a copy of the Official IELTS Practice Materials for lots of useful information and examples of how to write answers.
IELTS Practice Materials
There are many IELTS strategy books and IELTS preparation books available and online (internet) IELTS practice materials too. Before choosing the most suitable book for yourself you need to know the answers to the following questions.
- What band did you score in the IELTS practice test?
- What band score do you need in the real exam?
- Do you need to prepare for Academic IELTS or General IELTS?
- How much time do you have to prepare?
IELTS Progress - Plan Your IELTS Practice
If you plan your preparation for IELTS in the same way as planning a project at work, you will get better results.
- Set clear and exact objectives for Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking, Grammar, Vocabulary etc.
- Set time limits for these objectives.
- Test / measure your progress frequently.
- Make adjustments in your preparation based on the test results.
IELTS Weak Skills - Concentrate On Improving IELTS skills
Very few candidates have equal ability in Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking skills. Most candidates have at least one skill which is stronger or weaker than the others.
- You should aim to improve your weak points as fast as possible.
- Improve your weakest skill and you will improve your overall performance in the IELTS exam.
- First identify why you are weak in that particular skill.
- Plan the extra time required to improve that skill.
IELTS Practice, Practice, Practice
Practice makes perfect – it applies to everything in life, and preparing for the IELTS exam is no exception. The more practice you do the more confident you will become about the IELTS exam.
- Plan focused practice sessions in all four skills regularly.
- Find a study partner to practice speaking – it’s much more fun!
- Listen to different types of English and different accents.
- Read something in English every day – a magazine article, a chapter of a novel or a journal article.
IELTS Objectives - Be Clear About What You Need To Do
Most people agree that Academic IELTS is more demanding than General IELTS. You may need to allow more preparation time if you need to take the Academic IELTS exam.
- Be clear from the start which one you need to do.
- Understand the band score you need to obtain. (see IELTS Band Descriptors below)
- Is the score you need an overall score or skill-specific?
- Make sure the initial practice test you do is the same type (Academic/General) as you will do in the real IELTS exam.
How to be successful in IELTS
There is no trick or magic formula for success in the IELTS exam. People say that money can’t buy you love, or happiness, or health. Well, it can’t buy you a score of 6.5 or 7 in IELTS either!
Preparing for the IELTS exam is not easy for most candidates. It requires commitment, discipline, determination and a lot of effort.
There is an expression in English, “Success is 10% inspiration and 90% perspiration”. Basically, to be successful requires a lot of hard work. To be successful in the IELTS exam just remember to:
- Allow sufficient time and plan your IELTS prep time well.
- Be disciplined in your preparation and IELTS practice activities.
- Get support from other people who are preparing for IELTS or who have already done it.
- Practice lots of different types of listening skills and reading test questions.
- Try to practice Writing and Speaking test questions as often as possible.
- Find a study/practice partner – it’s easier to keep each other motivated.
- Stay focused, concentrated and determined and you WILL crack IELTS!
IELTS Frequently Asked Questions
What should I focus on in my first attempt at IELTS?
Your first attempt should be a holistic trial to understand the structure and requirements of the IELTS examination. It's advisable to immerse yourself in authentic, everyday conversations with native speakers to improve your listening and speaking skills and to practice reading and writing in English daily. Take note of new words you encounter to expand your lexical resource and hone your grammatical range.
How important are linking words in the writing section?
Linking words play a major role in the writing section as they help you organize your thoughts and present your arguments logically. Using them correctly can enhance the coherence of your essays and increase your exam score. However, don't overuse them to avoid sounding unnatural.
What are the two tasks in the writing section?
In the writing section, you'll have to complete two tasks: Task 1 involves writing a report based on a specific graphic or diagram, while Task 2 requires you to write an essay on a given topic. Both tasks test your ability to communicate effectively in English under timed conditions.
How can I make the most of the audio clips in the listening section?
Listen carefully to the audio clips in the listening section and take notes on the answer sheet to ensure you don't lose track of important details. Practice with a variety of accents and speeds to prepare for different scenarios on test day.
What are useful tips for the speaking section?
In the speaking section, the examiner is evaluating your ability to express your general ideas fluently and coherently. The key is to stay relaxed and speak naturally as in everyday conversations. Don't rush, take your time to form your answers and make sure to use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. Try to study some high-scoring model answers to see how to respond well to all the questions.
What strategies should I employ in the reading section?
The reading section is a test of your comprehension and speed. It's recommended to skim the text first to get a general idea of its content, then read the questions and look for the answers in the text. Note the usage of synonyms, as the test often uses different words with similar meanings. Practice reading English newspapers, articles, and books to improve your reading speed and vocabulary.
How can I effectively interpret the general idea in the speaking and writing sections?
Understanding and articulating the general idea in the speaking and writing sections are crucial. For the speaking section, listen carefully to the question and respond to what is actually asked, not what you think you heard. Be clear and concise in your response. In the writing section, make sure to understand the topic correctly and stay on point. It's recommended to plan your response before starting to write, ensuring your ideas are well-organized and coherently presented.
Are there any helpful tips for self-study while preparing for IELTS?
Self-study is an excellent approach to prepare for and pass IELTS. Make use of online resources, practice with previous authentic question papers, and invest in books dedicated to IELTS exam techniques. Having a structured plan and sticking to it is also crucial. Lastly, don't ignore the importance of regular breaks to avoid burnout.
How much time should I allocate for IELTS practice?
The time needed for preparation varies depending on your current English proficiency level. However, it's recommended to start preparing at least 3 months before the test. Remember, slow and steady wins the race; allowing ample time for consistent study is usually more effective than last-minute cramming.
How can I stay relaxed during the test?
Staying relaxed during the test is extremely important. Stress can hinder your thinking process and negatively affect your performance. If you feel stressed, practice mindfulness, take deep breaths, and remember it's just a test. With ample preparation, you should feel confident and calm on test day and ready to pass IELTS.
How can I achieve a good band score in IELTS?
Achieving a good band score in IELTS requires a balanced focus on all four sections of the test - Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Regular practice, understanding the test format, and receiving feedback on your performance are key strategies. Remember to manage your time effectively and address all parts of each question to maximize your score.
How should I deal with the time limit in each section of the IELTS?
Time management is a crucial skill for the IELTS. Make sure you're familiar with the structure of each section and the amount of time allotted. Practice under timed conditions to get a feel for the pace you need to maintain during the actual test. This will help you avoid feeling stressed when dealing with the time limit on test day.
Is IELTS easy?
IELTS is not an easy exam, but it can be mastered with the right amount of hard work and preparation. Set realistic goals and dedicate a consistent amount of time to practice and study. Seek help from experienced tutors if needed, and remember that your dedication will pay off in the end! Good luck!