Studying abroad has multiple benefits, such as developing academic rigour, a global outlook, learning a new culture, and networking with a vibrant student community. Therefore, 8,00,000+ students travel overseas to pursue higher education every year. If you are planning your study abroad journey, then clearing your International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam is essential.

Here are some incredible IELTS exam preparation tips

IELTS practice tests

When you take a mock test for IELTS online or at the test centre, you can identify your strengths and areas of improvement. By working on these areas, you will soon start perfecting your craft. Besides, you will learn about the types of questions in each section that you can expect in the actual test.

·         Pro Tip: You can consider the IELTS practice tests available on the official IELTS website. It is a rich knowledge base for authentic information and study material. 

Know the format thoroughly

By exploring the exam layout, you can get a clear idea of sections, duration, types of questions, etc.

·         Sections

o    Listening: The duration allotted to this section is 30 minutes. You will be given 4 recordings to listen to and 10 questions.

o    Speaking: You will get 11-14 minutes for this section. You will be given topics to evaluate your language skills.

o    Reading: Aim to complete this test in 60 minutes. You have to answer 40 questions in this section.

o    Writing: You can complete this section in 60 minutes. You can expect essay writing and exercise to draw inferences from various charts and infographics.

Develop your own strategies

Once you start preparing for your exams, you will learn about the sections that you find easy and also the questions that are challenging. To overcome these challenges, you can build your own strategies that work best for you. For instance, if you are good at a particular section, you can answer it later and focus on difficult ones first. Also, please remember that taking the test a week or two after the preparation may not yield any results. You have to start the preparation at least 4-5 months before you plan to appear for IELTS.

Time management is an essential skill

Imagine this - you are unable to complete the first section as per the allotted time. Now you will end up experiencing stress for the rest of the exam despite being fully prepared to take the test. This can hamper your scores. By mastering time management, you gain confidence. So, practice completing each section within the set time limit or 5-10 minutes before the allotted time.

Work on your language skills

o    Listening

Be physically and mentally present when you are assigned listening sections during the section. To practice for this section, you can listen to recordings and news channels. You can jot down the points and then verify if your inferences are accurate.

o    Speaking

It is essential to communicate in English regularly to improve your English speaking skills. So, engage in meaningful conversations with your family and friends and make a note of mistakes you commit so that you can work on them. 

o    Reading

You can pick up an easy assignment of reading news articles and journals and turn it into a ritual. Also, when you notice new words, make it a practice to learn their meanings. 

o    Writing

You have to be mindful of your speed, the quality of your answers and the time allotted for this section. To ensure the timely completion of your assignment, start working on your speed at least 3-4 months in advance.

Other valuable tips and tricks

·         Improve your English vocabulary by keeping a diary to add 5 new words daily.

·         Pay attention to your pronunciation.

·         Work on your story-telling skills by using simple words and sentences.

·         Train yourself to think in English.

So, with these IELTS exam preparation tips, you can confidently start practising for your exam. If a lack of finances keeps you from achieving your academic aspirations, you can opt for an abroad education loan. If you have any queries, please feel free to connect with us.