Tips To Nail IELTS like a Pro in 2021?

The International English Language Testing System is the standardized test required to qualify for universities in majority English speaking countries. Preparing for IELTS is a challenge for most candidates who are non-English speakers and we are here to help you crack the IELTS test on the very first attempt.

Here are some preparation tips that can help you ace the IELTS test :

  1. Work on your English- This tip might seem obvious but it's absolutely important. IELTS is conducted to determine your language ability and you cannot crack this test without a fluent and upper hand on English. There is no shortcut to success, you cannot just solve IELTS mock tests and expect to ace the test. You will need to dedicate 6 months or a year to sharpen your fluency in English. Learning and dedication is the key.

  2. Know the Format – Having knowledge beforehand of the test you are going to take is very important. IELTS consists of four-skills tests- Writing (60 min), Reading (60 min), Listening (30 min), and Speaking (10-14 min). Now that you are aware of what the test consists of, you can focus on improving those areas.

  3. Prepare according to the Sections – As mentioned above, the test has four sections and you need to prepare accordingly to ace the IELTS test. Do not try to study for all four sections in one day, cramming information won't help you stay focused. Divide your days and study time to tackle each section in detail and with full attention. For example, you can use 2-3 days to prepare for the Writing test and then the next 2-3 days preparing for the Reading test and so on.

  4. Take Mock Tests – Mock tests will help you understand the test paper more accurately. You can get IELTS mock tests online or you can get your hands on books that contain IELTS mock papers. Spend your time solving as many mock papers as possible, this will prove very helpful to you. Required skills like time management can be perfected through these mock tests.

  5. Get assessed – Get your mock tests and papers assessed by an IELTS tutor. Trainers will point out your mistakes and help you to rectify them. Enrolling in an IELTS tutoring program will prove to be more beneficial to you as this can provide you with an opportunity to sharpen your skills with an expert's help.

Here are some tips to keep in mind while taking the IELTS test :

  1. Listening Section – (i) While taking the listening test, be sure to read the instructions and rules very carefully.

    (ii) You can check the grammar and spellings while transferring the answers on the answers sheet; you do not need to focus on them while listening.

    (iii) Do not rush to copy the answers on the answer sheet when you get a break between recordings.

    (iv) Check your spelling and grammar before handing in your answer sheet.

  2. Reading Section – (i) Read the given passages very carefully.

    (ii) Manage your time between reading the passage and writing.

    (iii) Keep a check on your grammar and spellings.

    (iv) Make notes and underline words in the passage that seem important.

    (v) Attempt all the questions even if you are not sure about the answer.

  3. Writing Section – (i) Do not use informal language and abbreviations.

    (ii) Write concisely and briefly.

    (iii) Do not go off-topic or deviate by writing unrelated sentences.

    (iv) Time management is very important in a writing test.

  4. Speaking Section – (i) Think and listen carefully before speaking, do not jump in while the examiner is speaking.

    (ii) Communicate in a very effective and clear manner.

    (iii) Don't go off-topic, only speak on the topic you are asked.

    (iv) Give well-thought answers by inculcating new words in your vocabulary.

With these tips, you are sure to crack the IELTS Test on the first attempt. Good Luck!