Some applicants complain about how difficult it is to pass the IELTS exam. Reasons range from not being a native speaker of the English language and not being adequately prepared. It is always recommended to get the minimum score on the first attempt.
How to Pass IELTS Exam
In this article, we give a straightforward guide on how to ace your IELTS examination.
1. Understand the Concept of the Exam
Your fear of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) may be reduced when you’re familiar with the basics.
At the core, the IELTS test is used to assess the four (4) primary language skills: Reading, Listening, Speaking and Writing. With this in mind, you know that all the questions you will come across will revolve around these four.
2. Prepare Ahead of Time
The popular saying that failing to plan is simply planning to fail is true when it comes to writing an IELTS exam. As this is not a game of luck; it requires adequate preparation to scale it.
We recommend doing one or more of the following ahead of the test:
Decide on the Test Version
The IELTS is offered in two (2) variants:
- Computer-based version and;
- Paper-based version
While the mode of delivery differs; there isn’t much of a difference between them. However, you should decide on which to go for and start preparing accordingly. While the computer-based variant requires an idea of using a computer/PC and keyboard; you need to know how to shade your answers for the paper variant.
Get a Tutor
Finding a professional IELTS tutor may just be the way for you to be better prepared for the exam. Arranging for online or physical classes (based on convenience) helps you to ask personal questions and relay fears you may have hitherto bottled up.
The personal tutor also helps you to have a preparatory session, just to get you familiar with the process and correct any mistakes you make.
Keep an Eye on Your Performance
The IELTS examination comes at a price, not to mention the prospects of not passing and having to retake it.
Therefore, taking your preparations seriously and keeping an eye on your performance is important. If it seems like a herculean task; get someone to keep you accountable.
Be Consistent with Practice
The cliche says that practice makes perfect. You tend to become experienced after repeating an action continuously. Thus, being consistent with practising most of the language skills is important.
For Listening, prepare by doing one or more of the following:
- Listen to the news or any other broadcast in the English language.
- Make notes of important words and try articulating them.
For Reading, do the following:
- Study syntax and vocabulary when reading a book. Pay close attention to the phrases you come across for the first time. Look up those in the dictionary to learn the right pronunciation and meaning.
- Practice using such words in a sentence.
For Writing, try putting down the spellings of words and possibly, make a phonemic transcription.
You’ll get better at Speaking by:
- Vocalizing words, and phrases and using the same in a sentence.
- Make a recording of your speeches. Go over those and see where to improve.
3. What to Do During the Exam
Now that you are in the examination hall, here is how to ace your IELTS test:
- Don’t spend so much time attempting to answer one question. Skip to the others and come back to it later.
- Always watch the time and be sure to use it optimally.
Conclusion
The IELTS test is globally recognised and helps you gain admission to schools and be considered for a job opening. As proof of knowing how to communicate effectively in the English language; it is what you need to get almost the same considerations as a native English speaker.
By leveraging the tips in this article, you should be able to ace your IELTS exam in one sitting.