Top 7 Tips on Preparing for IELTS Exam

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Preparing for IELTS

Things have come to a standstill due to the pandemic and a lot of test centers are temporarily closed. 

However, under these circumstances, to help you stay on your toes, IELTS (The International English Language Testing System) has introduced their very own IELTS indicator test.

This way you can begin preparing for IELTS.

The introduction of this online Academic test gives you every reason to move forward with your study abroad plans. Things seem to be picking up and this only means that you will be able to take the next step toward your future.

The best thing a student can do, at the moment, is to prepare oneself. Once test centres open, you will be glad you stayed sharp the whole time! Here are some important tips on preparing for the original IELTS exam.

1. A man of few words? Improve your vocabulary

Preparing for IELTS

Have you ever wanted to express yourself in the best possible way, but somehow fell short because you didn’t know the right words to use?

If you are an artistic and expressive person in general, having a rich vocabulary helps articulate your thoughts better. Improving your vocabulary will certainly come in handy and be of big help while writing your IELTS exam. 

To do this, however, you need to read regularly. From comic books to novels, magazines and newspapers, spend time reading and learning. 

Always have a notebook or a dictionary next to you so you can study while enjoying what you read (Fun way to study, right?). 

More importantly, use the words you learn in your everyday speech. If you get stuck, go back to your notes and learn them again, and repeat. Make it an everyday practice to learn the meaning and use of at least five words. This will not only help you ace your exam but will aid you in your daily communication as well.

2. Reading skills

Prepare for IELTS test

The exam has a ‘Reading’ category. Wondering what this category is about? Well, basically, it is meant to test your speed, understanding, grammar, and knowledge of the English language. 

To improve your reading skills, learn how to read fast while making sure you understand the gist of the content. Take comprehension tests, the tougher the better. 

Moreover, as you cultivate your vocabulary, you will be able to grasp things faster and you won’t be spending much time reading.

An important point to remember is that you don’t have to memorize and understand the entire passage. Skim through the passage  – this is where practicing how to read fast will help. After skimming through, read the questions carefully and analyse the passage for the keywords located in the question. 

The passage and the question will have a word(s) common. Locating the keywords is the solution. Read the sentences before and after the key sentence and find your answer.

This is usually how it works, so if you aren’t really an avid reader, know that the solution lies with the keywords.

3. Listening Skills

Preparing for IELTS

There is a saying that goes like this: “Do not listen with the intent to reply but with the intent to understand’. 

This is a useful tip, even for the IELTS exam. For the Listening portion of the test, concentrate on what’s being said because it will be played to you only once

Take as many practice tests as you can. During those tests, ensure you listen to the recording only once. Learn how to concentrate on things that don’t interest you as well. To do this, what could help is having your goal in mind. And, that is, to ace this test and begin studying abroad

Moreover, IELTS tests have the habit of inserting synonyms in their questions. For example, King’s daughter instead of a princess. So, be aware of the use of synonyms during the recording.

4. Writing skills

Studying for the IELTS

Learning to write, translate your thoughts to written words can be a challenge. It sure makes you appreciate authors right?

One of the first tips for improving your writing skills is to be knowledgeable about current and past affairs. Read the newspaper and follow international news channels like the BBC, CNN.

Gaining knowledge and improving your vocabulary goes hand in hand and can help you in the long run.

While practising writing, read the instructions carefully. Always read the question and get an understanding of what the question is asking you to write about. Form a skeletal layout of your content piece before writing so you would not forget the foundational points.

The best tip is, practice every day!

5. The IELTS Indicator Test

prepare for ielts test

As mentioned earlier, due to the current situation, IELTS has introduced the IELTS indicator test. The test’s format is similar to the original IELTS test. However, of the four (Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking), your speaking skills will be tested separately. 

The IELTS Indicator test has been offered in order for educational institutions to gauge the English language ability of foreign students, and it isn’t meant for immigration purposes. 

Therefore, before you book, check with your institution whether your score will be accepted.

With this, you will be able to test yourself and improve your English language skills.

6. Planning your time properly

prepare for ielts

Working and studying at the same time can be hectic. Planning your day properly is important. Make your allotted time to study for the IELTS a part of your everyday routine. 

If you are only waiting and not working, the chances of being distracted and taking the exam lightly are high. For this reason, make sure you go through as many practice tests as possible, to keep yourself busy during this situation. Ensure that you spend as much time as you can daily studying.

7. All work and no play can make you dull

preparing for ielts
While it is important to be prepared, it is also equally important for you to take adequate rest. Do activities that are relaxing, even if it is taking a nap for a while. You can even bake a chocolate cake? Because, who doesn’t want chocolate cake, right? 

Take it easy, prepare, relax, and know for sure that you are doing the best you can and you will reap the benefits of your hard work.

Keep going forward and with the above tips, stay on your toes, and be prepared to be catapulted into your study abroad journey!

We at AECC Global are here to guide you through this. You can always contact us for more information.


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