15 Tips & Tricks for Improving Your IELTS Score

Your objective when taking the IELTS is to achieve the highest score possible so that you won’t have to retake the exam later. Getting the scores you need on each section can be challenging. Proper exam prep and getting a decent night’s sleep the night before the exam are great ways to prepare. When taking the IELTS, here are some tips and tricks you can use to help you get a better score.

1. Remember to follow the suggested timing in each section of the test to maximize points. For instance, there are more points possible on Task 2 than on Task 1.
2. Use the example given at the start of the Listening section to become more familiar with the speakers, situation, and sounds.
3. Don’t try to understand every word and phrase you read in each of the IELTS sections. You won’t have time to complete each section if you do.
4. Review the example answer if one is provided in the Reading section. This can help you develop a correct answer for the actual Reading section questions.
5. Make sure to organize your thoughts and ideas before writing them out on the Written section. Take a moment and make a rough outline of what you want to write as this will help you express your ideas and opinions.
6. Allow plenty of time to review your essay question and check your work.
7. Avoid speaking to the recording equipment during the spoken part of the IELTS. Make sure to address the examiner directly by making eye contact as you speak.
8. Anytime you give a “yes” or “no” answer to the examiner make sure to provide a little more detail. Try to explain at least one point of what you were asked.
9. As you are listing to a recording, only focus on the questions that relate to the part that is currently being played.
10. You are often given short periods of time in between recording sections. Use this time to start to prepare answers to the questions.
11. The Listening section questions tend to follow the order of the information presented in the recordings.
12. Make sure to check your grammar and spelling anytime you transfer answers to the Answer Sheet.
13. Always read the instructions of each IELTS section to verify you are answering the questions correctly. For instance, in some Reading tasks, you may be required to answer in your own words, while others will want you to use words from the text in your answer.
14. Some instructions require you to meet a minimum word usage requirement. Make sure to attain the minimum amount, but try to avoid using filler and unnecessary words.
15. The Writing section will have a specific topic you must follow. Use practice exams to help prepare, as you will not know what the topic is until your actual IELTS exam.

Remember the purpose of the IELTS is to test your ability to communicate effectively, not necessarily your general knowledge of English. For more great tips and tricks, as well as access to IETLS prep materials, please feel free to explore our website further, or contact your nearest IELTS Centre directly.

 

*The original article first appeared on ieltscanadatest.org.