by When considering overseas education, appearing for the English proficiency test is a prominent step for international aspirants.
One of the most popular English proficiency test scores that almost all the popular international universities accept is the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Study abroad aspirants choose IELTS because several learning resources and practice materials are available for this test.
IELTS is divided into four sections: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Each section has equal weightage and, therefore, needs equal preparation time. Test preparation for IELTS can be simple if one makes a standardized study plan and follows proper strategies.
If you are also planning for overseas education, these strategies are all you need to ace the IELTS. Let us get on the details!
Essential Tips for IELTS Excellence
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Comprehend the IELTS Test Format
Before getting into the preparation part, understand the IELTS test format and its intricacies. When you get to know the exam format beforehand, it helps highlight your strengths and familiarise you with your challenging zones. Emphasize the question format and task type of each section. When preparing for any exam, including IELTS, you should focus on the test format, pattern, and essence for better consideration.
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Understand the Calculation of the Band Score
The IELTS test comprises scores of four bands, calculated from 0 to 9. The average of the scores received in each section is taken to calculate the overall score. That is why it is essential to focus on each section during the test preparation because missing any part will have a direct impact on your final score.
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Enhance Your Reading and Writing Skills
After that, start enhancing your English reading and writing skills. To improve your reading expertise, you can focus on English novels that are the best servers to comprehend the tone and provide a better understanding of the sentences. You can habitually run your finger across the sentences to avoid missing sentences while reading. For the writing part, you can practice writing sample essays, which helps in increasing your writing speed. Remember that IELTS is not a one-day exam but a process generally requiring at least 3 months of preparation.
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Work on Your Time Management Skills
IELTS is a time-bound exam. For listening, 30 minutes are given; for reading, 60 minutes are given; for writing, 60 minutes are given; and for speaking, hardly 11-14 minutes are given. The total duration of the exam is 2 hours 45 minutes in which the entire exam is conducted in one sitting. That is why, your preparation strategies should align with the timings given for the IELTS exam.
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Practice Mock Tests
Practice and mock tests are an excellent way to analyze your progress in the IELTS exam preparation. These tests give you a hint about the exam structure and understand the types of questions asked. Try practising daily with Online IELTS test preparation resources and make a dedicated schedule for them. You can even practice tests on the official website of IELTS or third-party resources. Practising on maximum mock tests will present you with an idea about the questions you will deal with on your exam day.
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Do not Pressurise yourself
Overseas aspirants tend to pressurize themselves in the admission process. And IELTS, a prominent part of it, needs a concentrated and relaxed mind to prepare. Studying till the last minute in your preparation might confuse you. When the test day approaches, try relaxing activities such as yoga or meditation to concentrate well on your day.
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Seek Guidance from Experts
Lastly, you can always seek guidance from the Study abroad experts who guide you from scratch in your IELTS preparation. IELTS coaching from experts can help you achieve a band score matching the requirements of your targeted college or university. Their domain expertise guides various aspects of the IELTS exam, including test format, content, and scoring criteria.
Key Takeaway
Planning and time management play prominent roles in IELTS preparation. Watching English-subtitled movies or reading any English paper randomly won’t help you top the IELTS test. Even if your English skills are great, you must invest dedicated time for exemplary results.
An IELTS topper would schedule their preparations and follow all the strategies mentioned in this article. If you cannot commit to the schedule or cannot find the right resources to study, contact IELTS preparation experts to guide you.
