How to Prepare for the IELTS Exam: Tips and Tricks for Success

June 24, 2024•8 minute read

The International English Language Testing Exam (IELTS) currently tops the chart of the most popularized language exams around the globe. More than 10,000 organizations worldwide, including government agencies, immigration departments, and even multinational companies, require people to learn English as a compulsory second language to prove their abilities, as it is one of the outstanding IELTS criteria.

The test is not easy, but how can anyone pass a test without adequate preparation? Being able to effectively communicate in English requires you to master lots of test-taking techniques strategically. But hey, achieving that outstanding IELTS score you have always desired does not necessarily have to be a burdensome experience.

Here are tips on how to prepare for the IELTS exam that will unfailingly equip you for success.

Preparing for IELTS Exam: Tips and Tricks for Success

In this Article

1. Understand what the IELTS Exam Entails

Taking an IELTS exam can be likened to finding a job. Simply because most people you’ve come across have tried doing it, does not automatically mean it is difficult and time-consuming. First of all, have an optimistic mindset and do your research before going ahead and booking the test.

You can ask yourself some of these questions for more insights as to what you are signing up for.

Do I want my IELTS exam to be computer-based or paper-based?

The differences between these two versions of the IELTS exam are very slim. Because they are both taken in an examination center, some people prefer the paper version to avoid any system-related problems during the exam. Some people feel that the computer will make exams faster. So, you can always go for what makes you more comfortable. As you prepare for the IELTS exam, it is important to ask these questions.

Do I have to do the IELTS training or the IELTS general training?

Again, this is still about choice, as the IELTS academic training is solely for those looking forward to studying an English Language course. On the other hand, the IELTS general training is for the category of people who need basic everyday English skills either for migration or work purposes. You have to know this as you prepare for the IELTS exam.

They have almost the same format; the IELTS Academic makes more use of scholarly texts, while the IELTS general training focuses on language used in mostly newspaper articles and emails. If you want to immigrate to the UK, taking a third type of IELTS, known as UKVI IELTS, will be necessary.

How long do I have to study to get a good IELTS score?

First things first, you have to determine the IELTS score you want and then work towards it. Most organizations require between a 6 and a 7, and that is technically between a B2 and a C1 on the CEFR scale. With good knowledge of your CEFR scale, you can most likely ascertain your IELTS score without stress. This is another thing to consider as you prepare for the IELTS exam.

Action Point: Try spending at least one to two hours daily on getting a proper overview of the IELTS exam structure. This includes the procedure for test taking and the skills you will also have to develop. You can also speak with a friend who has recently sat for the exam and work towards realistic expectations based on your capability.

2. Look for a Personal Tutor

There is absolutely nothing wrong with consulting the services of a personal tutor in your preparation for the IELTS exam. There is indeed a whole lot to consider in your preparation process. Online classes with an IELTS specialist tutor are not bad, as your tutor can be in person or online.

Your tutor will access you based on your practice exams and help you decide on the sectors to focus on. Your tutor will also be in a better position to give you words of encouragement and moral support. Don’t overlook how important those two can be as you prepare for the IELTS exam.

3. Understand the Grading Criteria

Understanding the grading Criteria is a good way to prepare for the IELTS exam. The secret to smashing any test is having a vivid understanding of what an amazing answer will look like. With the IELTS assessment criteria, you estimate your success by ticking every box to aim at the desired grade. You can also check online for some example answers, but be sure they are from reliable sources.

One thing about this test is that, at the first trial, you will most likely have many failed answers. Those aiming at a band 4 score take the same exam as someone aiming at a band 8. Learning about the grading criteria is understanding how many questions you can afford to miss. For instance, if you are trying to get a band 6 in an academic reading test, you have to aim to get 23 answers out of 40 right.

4. Make Good Use of Official Resources

Preparing students for IELTS is a booming industry with lots of materials. So many courses, textbooks, apps, and programs have been made available to assist students in preparing for the IELTS exams. You just have to look for the one that’s authentic and easy to understand. Please be careful not to rush spending your money on materials that will not be useful.

The first and most trustworthy place to always check is the official IELTS practice materials on the website of the exam boards, textbooks, and social media channels. No one knows more about the exam than the exam board itself. You can use any of the resources below:

Action Point: To make the process easier, you can create a bookmarks folder with the key official resources in your web browser. Also, follow the official IELTS page on social media to stay updated with the latest information.

5. Take Lots of Practice Tests

This is one of the ways to prepare for the IELTS exam. You should know that every practice test you take is a set of skills you have to master because the IELTS exam is a tricky one at that. Test-taking should be a part of your routine as you make preparations for this exam.

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According to Kaplan, ‘’ Multitasking is the key to success in the listening section of the exam; you have to be able to listen while making notes and giving answers to questions.’’ Trying out some IELTS listening tests will help you get better at your skills. Try taking one skill test per week, and asking your tutor to assess you weekly will be a good step to success.

6. Develop Your Vocabulary

This is one of the unavoidable ways to prepare for the IELTS exam. Preparing for an exam of this nature means you have to make the English Language your best friend. Growing a better vocabulary in a language not originally yours can be difficult, but it has to be done.

Vocabulary makes up to 25% of your marks in the speaking and writing sections. Although some students try to only focus on the kind of vocabulary they think might pop up in the IELTS exam, that is a very risky strategy. No matter the topic predictions you get from reliable online sources, it is still advisable not to fully rely on them. Try to study and cover as many topics as possible.

Get more acquainted with English speakers, whether online or in person, and try to expose yourself to the Language as much as possible.

7. Plan for the Test Day

No matter the work you put into preparation, there will always be this feeling the actual test day gives. You will have to be in a good headspace for any exam, including the IELTS exam. Try putting all the basic logistics in place before the day as you prepare for the IELTS exam.

You should sort out how you will get to the examination center, what to carry along, what you would like to eat or drink before the test, and what you will likely wear on the day before then. They might seem insignificant, but they all matter.

Then try to speak no other language than English Language for 24 hours before your test day.

Wrapping Up

It won’t be an exaggeration to say that achieving an outstanding IELTS Score can improve your life. An entirely new world of opportunities will be open to you if you are patient enough to follow the tricks and tips above on preparing for the IELTS exam. Paying for the services of an IELTS specialist tutor will also not be a bad idea.

Mfon Umana

Mfon Umana is a prolific writer, author and critic who uses the principles of communication as a strategy for harnessing desirable benefits from relevant topics of interest.

Mfon Umana is a distinguished Banking and Finance graduate from the University of Uyo, who has carved a niche for herself in the financial writing sphere. With a profound understanding of financial principles and a passion for making complex financial concepts accessible, Mfon has become a go-to financial article writer for numerous websites. Her expertise spans various topics, including personal finance, investment strategies, market trends, and financial planning. Mfon's ability to demystify financial jargon and present information in an engaging, easy-to-understand manner has earned her a loyal readership and widespread recognition in the digital finance community. Her commitment to educating and empowering individuals with the knowledge to make informed financial decisions reflects in every piece she writes. Through her work, Mfon continues to contribute significantly to the financial literacy of her audience, making her an invaluable asset to the finance and education sectors.