IELTS  Listening  Segment

Below are crucial pointers to remember during the IELTS Listening Test:

Preparation: Before each section begins, carefully read all the questions related to that section. This will help you follow the recordings more effectively and identify answers more easily.

• Reading Ahead: Once you complete a section, move on to reading the questions for the next section to stay ahead.

• Answering Options: Sometimes, you’ll have a list of options to choose from. Remember, the answers may not necessarily be presented in the order you hear them; they could also be listed alphabetically.

• Word Limits: Pay attention to word limits for each section. Writing more words than specified could result in no marks for that answer.

• Identifying Keywords: Be attentive and look out for key words or synonyms from the questions while listening to the recordings. This can help you identify the answers more easily.

• Spelling: If you need to write down words spelled out in the recording, be familiar with English alphabets and their pronunciations.

• Listening for Cues: Listen carefully for words indicating the stage of the recording, such as ‘firstly’, ‘my next point’, or ‘to sum up’. These words help you identify which question you’re currently listening to.

• Eliminating Options: While listening, you can cross out options that don’t fit, making it easier to find the right answer.

• Date Formats: If you need to mention dates in your answers, remember there are various correct formats (e.g., March 16, 16th March, 20 April).

• Managing Time: If you encounter difficulty with a question, leave it and move on. Don’t waste time and risk panicking. You can always return to it if time permits.

• Transferring Answers: If you’re taking the test on paper, you’re given 10 minutes at the end to transfer your answers from the Listening booklet to your answer sheet. Wait until all recordings are over before transferring, to avoid missing important information about the next section.

To adequately prepare for your test, it’s crucial to practice every type of question. Provided below is a compilation of question types in the reading section, along with strategies on how to respond to each:

•  

• Multiple Choice Questions

•  
• Read the questions before listening to the recording.
• Listen for keywords and synonyms in the options.
• Eliminate incorrect options to narrow down your choices.

• Matching
• Skim through the options before the recording starts.
• Listen for specific details or keywords to match with the options.
• Pay attention to any changes in the order or wording.

• Form Completion/Note Completion
• Read the instructions carefully to understand what information to fill.
• Listen for specific details such as names, numbers, or dates.
• Write down the answers as you hear them, focusing on spelling and grammar.

• Sentence Completion
• Scan through the incomplete sentences before listening.
• Listen for words or phrases that fit logically to complete the sentences.
• Pay attention to synonyms or paraphrasing in the recording.

• Labelling Diagrams/Maps
• Review the diagram or map and understand the labels before listening.
• Listen for directions, locations, or descriptions to label the diagram/map correctly.
• Pay attention to spatial relationships and any changes in direction mentioned in the recording.

• Short Answer Questions
• Read the questions carefully to understand the information required.
• Listen for specific details that directly answer the questions.
• Write down concise answers using keywords from the recording.

• Summary/Completion
• Skim through the summary or completion task before listening.
• Listen for main ideas, key points, or missing information to complete the task.
• Pay attention to transitions or linking words that indicate the flow of information.

IELTS Reading Segment

Here are some of the basic tips to remember while attempting the Reading Section of the IELTS exam:

• Skim through the passage for a quick overview.
• Identify key words to guide your understanding.
• Read the questions before diving into the text.
• Pay attention to the introduction and conclusion for context.
• Answer each question to the best of your ability.
• Check and review your answers for accuracy.
• Regular practice is essential for improvement.
• Cultivate the practice of reading diverse texts in English to foster the ability to read swiftly.
• Before tackling any question, ensure thorough comprehension by reading each query attentively, facilitating easier retrieval of answers later.
• Whenever feasible, annotate potential answers as you peruse the text.
• Boost your reading pace by employing word chunking techniques. Rather than scrutinizing each word individually, endeavour to read clusters of words simultaneously.
•  

Here’s a breakdown of the question types found in the Reading Section of the IELTS exam, along with helpful strategies and techniques for tackling each type effectively:

• Multiple Choice Questions
• Read the questions and options carefully before you start reading the passage.
• Look for keywords in both the questions and the passage.
• Eliminate incorrect options based on the information in the passage.

True/False/Not Given Questions

Pay attention to the wording of the statements.

Look for information that directly supports (True), contradicts (False), or is not mentioned (Not Given) in the passage.

Be cautious of synonyms or paraphrasing in the passage.

• Matching Headings/Information
• Skim through the headings or information provided.
• Scan the passage to find sections that correspond to each heading or piece of information.
• Pay attention to the main idea or topic of each paragraph.

• Matching Sentence Endings
• Read the beginnings of the sentences carefully.
• Scan the passage to find the endings that complete the meaning of each sentence.
• Pay attention to synonyms or paraphrasing in the passage.

• Sentence Completion
• Read the incomplete sentences carefully to understand the information required.
• Scan the passage for specific details or keywords that complete each sentence.
• Pay attention to grammar and context to ensure the completion fits logically.

• Summary/Note/Table/Flowchart Completion
• Skim through the summary, notes, table, or flowchart provided.
• Scan the passage to find information that completes each item accurately.
• Pay attention to keywords or phrases that match the information in the passage.

• Diagram/Map/Labelling Questions
• Review the diagram, map, or labels provided.
• Scan the passage to find information that corresponds to each label.
• Pay attention to spatial relationships or descriptions in the passage.

• Short Answer Questions
• Read the questions carefully to understand what information is required.
• Scan the passage for specific details that directly answer each question.
• Write down concise answers using keywords from the passage.

IELTS Writing Segment

Here is a selection of practical tips and effective strategies for the Writing component of the IELTS exam:

• Expressive Writing: Understand that examiners assess your expression, not just the correctness of your answers. There are no definite right or wrong answers.

• Thorough Examination: Examine the questions carefully and ensure you address all parts of each question.

• Word Limit: Adhere to the specified word limit. Writing fewer than 150 words for Task 1 or fewer than 250 for Task 2 will result in marks deduction.

• Language Use: Write your answers using your own words. Avoid copying directly from the question as it won’t earn you marks.

• Formatting: Avoid using bullet points; instead, write in full sentences and organize your ideas into paragraphs to demonstrate your ability to structure your points effectively.

• Clarity and Coherence: Focus on clarity and coherence rather than writing lengthy and complex answers. Ensure your grammar is impeccable.

• Task 1 (Academic Writing): Select and compare relevant information from graphs, tables, or diagrams. Use your own words when writing the introduction.

• Task 2 (Academic Writing): Plan the structure of your essay in advance, including a clear introduction, supporting ideas with real-life examples, and a conclusion.

• Time Management: Allocate five minutes for planning your answer before writing and another five minutes at the end for reviewing your essay for mistakes.

• Conclusion: Reserve the final paragraph of your essay for summarizing all the points you’ve made.

• Grammar and Spelling: Pay attention to singular and plural nouns, and double-check your answers for these common mistakes. Remember, correct spelling is crucial, and American, British, and Australian spellings are all acceptable in IELTS.

Here is a paragraph-wise description for IELTS Academic Writing Task 1:

• Introduction
• Begin by introducing the visual stimulus, which could be a graph, chart, table, diagram, or map.
• Provide a brief overview of what the visual represents, including its title, source, and any key information.

• Paragraph 1: Overview/Introduction to the Data:
• Present a summary of the main trends or significant features depicted in the visual data.
• Highlight the most notable patterns, changes, or comparisons evident in the visual stimulus.
• Keep this overview concise but informative, providing the reader with a clear understanding of the key points.

• Paragraph 2: Detailed Description
• Provide a more detailed analysis of the visual data, focusing on specific data points, trends, and relationships.
• Describe the data accurately and systematically, addressing each component or category in turn.
• Use appropriate language to quantify data, such as percentages, figures, or comparisons between different elements.

• Paragraph 3: Analysis and Interpretation
• Analyze the data to identify patterns, trends, and correlations, explaining their significance.
• Interpret the data by providing insights into the reasons behind the observed trends or variations.
• Consider factors that may influence the data and discuss their impact on the trends depicted.

• Paragraph 4: Conclusion
• Summarize the main findings of the analysis, reiterating the key points highlighted in the overview.
• Offer any concluding remarks or observations based on the analysis conducted.
• Provide closure to the task by reinforcing the importance of the data and its implications.

Presented below is a subjective analysis of the IELTS General Training Writing Task 1:

• Introduction
• Start with a friendly greeting to establish rapport.
• Introduce the purpose of the letter in a captivating way to grab the reader’s attention.
• Tailor the salutation to the recipient if possible, showing politeness and respect.

• Paragraph 1: Opening/Reason for Writing
• Clearly state the reason for writing in a concise manner.
• Interest: Create interest by briefly explaining the importance or urgency of the matter.
• Connection: Establish a connection between the writer and the recipient by mentioning any previous correspondence or relationship.

• Paragraph 2: Main Body
• Organize information using bullet points for clarity and ease of reading.
• Provide sufficient detail to address the purpose of the letter effectively.
• Use persuasive language to make requests or inquiries politely but assertively.

• Paragraph 3: Closing/Additional Information
• Express gratitude for the recipient’s time or assistance.
• Recap the main points discussed in the letter for emphasis.
• Encourage action if necessary, such as requesting a response or providing further information.

• Signature
• Add a handwritten signature for authenticity if allowed.
• End with a polite closing remark and your name to sign off the letter respectfully.

Below is a subjective analysis of the IELTS Writing Task 2:

• Introduction
• Express your personal viewpoint or stance on the given topic.
• Capture the reader’s attention by posing a thought-provoking question or providing a striking statistic.
• Clearly state your main argument or position on the issue.

• Paragraph 1: Argumentative Paragraph
• Present your arguments in a logical and coherent manner.

          Argument 1:

• Introduce your first argument or supporting point.
• Provide evidence or examples to support your argument.
• Explain how this supports your overall viewpoint.

          Argument 2:

• Present your second argument or supporting point.
• Provide evidence or examples to reinforce your argument.
• Discuss the implications of this argument in relation to the topic.

• Paragraph 2: Counterargument and Refutation
• Acknowledge opposing viewpoints or potential counterarguments.
• Refute these counterarguments with logical reasoning or additional evidence.

• Paragraph 3: Critical Analysis
• Analyse the complexities of the issue and its broader implications.
• Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of different perspectives.
• Provide insights into the significance of the topic and its relevance in contemporary society.

• Paragraph 4: Conclusion
• Recap the main points discussed in the body paragraphs.
• Restate your main argument or viewpoint.
• Offer some concluding remarks or reflections on the topic.
• Encourage further discussion or propose potential solutions to the issue.

IELTS Speaking Segment

Your Speaking evaluation will be conducted based on four principal criteria:

• Fluency and cohesion
• Vocabulary proficiency
• Diversity and accuracy of grammar
• Pronunciation clarity

A detailed examination of each of the four evaluation criteria at every level will provide a clear understanding of how candidates are judged in the Speaking section of the test and how band scores are allocated to them. Let’s delve into what each of these categories entails.

Fluency & Coherence

Key elements that contribute to higher scores in Fluency & Coherence include:

• Demonstrating the ability to sustain discussion on the topic with minimal hesitation, repetition, or self-correction.
• Grasping the topic and generating logical ideas related to it while expanding on your points.
• Employing a variety of linking words and other strategies to articulate your ideas effectively.
• Using self-correction when necessary but limiting its frequency.
• Addressing hesitation, which may be related to content (searching for ideas) but minimizing language-related hesitation.
• Avoiding the repetition of specific words or phrases commonly used as “fillers” for fluency, such as “like” or “you know.”

Lexical resource (LR)

Key factors that contribute to higher scores are:

• appropriate and natural use of uncommon words in context
• the ability to paraphrase (saying the same thing in different words) using a range of words and expressions to avoid repetition
• accurate use of phrasal verbs, figurative language and idiomatic expressions
• accurate use of collocations E.g. go shopping and not do shopping
• Making the right word choice for the right connotation E.g. slim converys a positive meaning, whereas skinny may be used negatively

Grammatical Range(GR)

Critical components that contribute to achieving higher scores in GR include:

• Mixing simple, compound, and complex sentences
• Using various tenses like perfect, future forms, and narratives
• Employing modals for different purposes
• Connecting ideas with referencing and connectors
• Using subordinating and relative clauses
• Comparing things with comparative and superlative adjectives
• Knowing when to use active and passive voice
• Using conditionals for speculation, discussing unchangeable past events, or hypothetical situations

Pronunciation (P)

Some aspects of pronunciation to focus on are:

• Getting the right individual sounds (phonemes) correct
• Understanding strong and weak sounds within sentences
• Using stress effectively, both at the word and sentence level
• Employing intonation to convey the appropriate emotions
• Linking sounds and using contractions for smoother speech
• Using chunking, a mix of pauses and stress, to emphasize key points

• Some people think that it is better to educate boys and girls separately. Others, however, believe that boys and girls should be educated together. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

(April 2024)

In many cities, planners tend to arrange shops, schools, offices and homes in specific areas and separate them from each other. Do you think the advantages of this policy outweigh the disadvantages? (April 2024)

• Individual greed and selfishness have been the basis of modern society. Some people think that we must return to older more traditional values such as respect for the and the local community in order to create a better world to live in. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (April 2024)

• The world has many towns and cities constructed in previous centuries that were more suitable and livable for people in those times than they are now. What problems will this cause? What can be done to solve these problems? (March 2024)

• Innovation is often driven by the pursuit of profit and economic growth. However, some argue that it should prioritize addressing social and environmental issues.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. (February 2024)

• Fewer and fewer people today write by hand using a pen or pencil. What are the reasons for this?Is this a positive or a negative development? (February 2024)

• Eco-tourism often involves visiting remote and fragile ecosystems, which raises concerns about the impact on local cultures and indigenous communities. What problems can this cause?

How can these problems be resolved? (February 2024)

• Everybody should donate a fixed amount of their income to support charity. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (January 2024)

• In today’s digital age, anyone with a smartphone can capture and share photographs. this accessibility to photography diminishes the value of professional photographers. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (January 2024)

• Nowadays, there is more and more competition for getting into university.

Is this a positive or negative development? (December 2023)

• The demand for coaching services has grown significantly in the digital age, with online coaching platforms becoming prevalent. Some now feel online coaching is a superior option to in-person coach. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (December 2023)

• Financial education should be included as a mandatory subject in schools to prepare students for managing money effectively.

To what extent do you agree or disagree? (December 2023)

• Some people think the manufacturers and shopping malls should sell fewer packaged products while others argue that people have the responsibility to buy products with less packaging. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. (December 2023)

• In recent years, there has been a rise in the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports.

What are the consequences of doping for athletes?

What measures should be taken to combat this issue? (November 2023)

• Environmental damage is a problem in most countries. What is the cause of this damage? What should be done about this problem? (November 2023)

• The rise of social media platforms has made it easier for people to vent their frustrations and complaints publicly. What is the consequence of this trend? Is there any benefit to expressing complaints on social media? (November 2023)

• Some people think that certain old buildings are more worth preserving than other ones. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (October 2023)

• In many countries, the number of animals and plants is declining. Why do you think this is happening? How can this issue be solved? (October 2023)

• In many societies, there is a growing emphasis on individualism, with people prioritizing their personal goals and desires over collective interests. Is this is a positive or negative development? (October 2023)

• Some argue that music mainly serves as a way for individuals to reduce their stress and anxiety. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (October 2023)

• Some people believe that professional athletes serve as positive role models for young people, while others argue that their behavior both on and off the field can have a negative influence.

Discuss both sides and give your opinion. (October 2023)

• In many societies, there is a growing emphasis on sustainable living and reducing environmental impact. What are the challenges of adopting a sustainable lifestyle? What practical actions can individuals take to contribute to sustainability? (September 2023)

• Some people feel that the private lives of celebrities should not be openly shared by the media.

To what extent do you agree or disagree? (September 2023)

• Young people are often influenced in their behaviors by others in the same age group. Some argue that peer pressure is important while others feel it has distinct disadvantages. Do the disadvantages of peer pressure outweigh the advantages? (September 2023)

• Virtual reality be used as a tool for therapeutic interventions and mental health treatments.

To what extent do you agree or disagree? (September 2023)

• Schools should use films, computers and games instead of books. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (September 2023)

• Nowadays, most countries can improve the standard of living through economic development, but some social values are lost as a result.

Do you think the advantages of this phenomenon outweigh the disadvantages?

(September 2023)

• Some people think eating meat is bad for health. Do you agree or disagree? (August 2023)

• Friendships that take place online are not as meaningful as those where people meet each other face to face.

To what extent do you agree or disagree? (August 2023)

• The best way to reduce poverty in developing countries is by giving up to six years of free education, so that they can at least read, write and use numbers. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (August 2023)

• Some people believe that reading is always a good habit. Others feel it depends on which books a person is reading.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. (August 2023)

• Many people argue that restaurants should be required to disclose the nutritional information of the dishes they serve.

Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages? (August 2023)

• The increasing availability of low-cost airlines now lets people travel around the world. Some feel this is a positive development while others think it is negative overall. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. (August 2023)

• Young people are often influenced in their behaviors by others in the same age group. Some argue that peer pressure is important while others feel it has distinct disadvantages. Do the disadvantages of peer pressure outweigh the advantages?

• In some countries, people prefer to live in a house rather than an apartment. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.(May 2021)

• Some people believe that the best way to improve public health is by increasing the number of sports facilities. Others, however, think that this is not enough and that the government should provide more financial support for healthcare services. Discuss both views and give your opinion. (August 2022)

• In some countries, companies allow people to work from home. In others, people are still expected to work in an office.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion. (July 2023)

• In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of oil drilling operations in remote locations around the world. This has brought economic benefits to some countries, though it has also raised concerns about the environmental impact of these operations.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. (July 2023)

• Some feel that governments should prioritize healthcare instead of other important areas.

To what extent do you agree or disagree? (July 2023)

• Around the world, people are now living longer than ever before in the past. Some say an ageing population creates problems for governments. Others believe there are benefits to society having more elderly people.

To what extent do the advantages of possessing an ageing population outweigh the disadvantages? (June 2023)

• Around the world, rural people are moving to cities and urban areas, so populations in the countryside are decreasing.

Is this a positive or negative development? (June 2023)

• Fewer young people play sports these days.

Why is this? What can be done to encourage more young people to do sports? (June 2023)

• The most important aim of science ought to be to improve people’s lives.

To what extent do you agree or disagree? (June 2023)

• Many university students want to learn about different subjects in addition to their main subjects. Others feel it is more important to give all their time and attention to studying for their qualification.

Discuss both views and give your opinion. (June 2023)

• Fossil fuels are the main source of energy around the world today. In some countries, the use of alternative sources of energy is replacing fossil fuels.

Is this a positive or negative development? (June 2023)

• Always telling the truth is the most important consideration in any relationship between people.

To what extent do you agree or disagree? (May 2023)

• Many think that religion should be taught in schools while others think it should be avoided.

Discuss both sides and give your opinion. (May 2023)

• Many today feel that attention spans are becoming shorter due to the prevalence of social media.

To what extent do you agree or disagree? (April 2023)

• Some believe that students should begin learning a language very early in school while others think these subjects should be taught later.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. (April 2023)

• Some feel that students should not have to take standardized tests in school.

To what extent do you agree or disagree? (April 2023)

• Some feel that individuals should have the right to strike in all jobs while others feel there are exceptions.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. (March 2023)

• Some people prefer to spend their lives doing the same things and avoiding change. Others, however, think that change is always a good thing. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (March 2023)

• Many believe that the goal of one’s career should be to pursue a passion while others feel it is merely a way to earn a livelihood. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. (March 2023)

• New technologies have changed the way children spend their free time. Do you think the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages? (March 2023)

• Some feel that movies and tv shows are a good way to study history despite their lack of historical accuracy at times.

To what extent do you agree or disagree? (March 2023)

• Today, many people do not know their neighbours. Why is this? What can be done about this? (February 2023)

• Nowadays, not enough students choose science subjects at university in many countries. Why is this? What effects does this have on society? (February 2023)

• Some people feel that cities should allow for spaces for graffiti while others feel it should be banned. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. (February 2023)

• In many countries, people increasingly talk about money such as how much they earn or how much they pay for things in their daily conversations. Why? Is this a positive or negative trend? (February 2023)

• Some think newspapers are the best method for reading the news while others think other media is better. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. (January 2023)

• Some believe that new science related to criminal forensics should be used to look at old cases. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (January 2023)

• Car ownership has increased so rapidly over the past thirty years that in many cities around the world there are constant traffic jams.

How true do you think this statement is? What measures can governments take to discourage people from owning cars? (January 2023)

• Some countries have legal ages at which people can drink. Other countries believe not have strict laws is a better policy. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. (January 2023)

• Many people argue that the fashion industry has a negative impact on society. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. (March 2021)

• It is often said that children should learn a foreign language from a young age. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages? (May 2021)

• Nowadays, many people choose to rent rather than buy their homes. What are the advantages and disadvantages of renting? (April 2023)

• In some countries, the government pays for the healthcare costs of its citizens. In other countries, individuals must pay for their own healthcare. Discuss both views and give your opinion. (February 2023)

*Note : These topics were dictated to us by our subscribers because IDP doesn’t let the students take question papers home, so it cannot be accepted as the exact question which

1. “The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS”: This book, published by Cambridge University Press, provides comprehensive preparation for both the Academic and General Training versions of the IELTS exam. It includes practice tests, audio CDs, and tips from IELTS experts.
2. “Barron’s IELTS Superpack”: This comprehensive package includes three books: “Barron’s IELTS Strategies and Tips,” “Barron’s IELTS Practice Exams,” and “Barron’s Essential Words for the IELTS.” It offers thorough coverage of all sections of the exam, along with strategies for success.
3. “IELTS Trainer”: Published by Cambridge University Press, “IELTS Trainer” includes six practice tests with detailed explanations of answers, as well as additional practice exercises for each section of the exam.
4. “Target Band 7: IELTS Academic Module – How to Maximize Your Score” by Simone Braverman: This book offers practical strategies and tips for achieving a high score on the IELTS Academic module. It includes practice tests and exercises to help improve your skills.
5. “IELTS Practice Tests” series by Collins: This series includes multiple books, each containing several practice tests for both the Academic and General Training versions of the IELTS exam. It also provides answer keys and audio CDs for listening practice.
6. “IELTS Advantage: Writing Skills” by Richard Brown and Lewis Richards: This book focuses specifically on improving writing skills for the IELTS exam. It offers detailed guidance on how to structure essays, develop arguments, and use language effectively.
7. “Check Your English Vocabulary for IELTS” by Rawdon Wyatt: This workbook helps improve vocabulary skills specifically for the IELTS exam. It includes exercises and activities to expand your vocabulary and practice using words in context.
8. “IELTS Reading Recent Actual Tests Volume 3” by IELTS Material: This book contains recent IELTS reading tests along with detailed explanations of answers, helping you familiarize yourself with the types of questions you may encounter on the exam.
9. “IELTS Speaking Success: Skills, Strategies, and Model Answers” by Julia White: This book provides strategies and model answers to help improve speaking skills for the IELTS exam. It includes practice questions and tips for each part of the speaking test.
10. “Collins Vocabulary for IELTS”: This book focuses on expanding your vocabulary for the IELTS exam. It includes vocabulary exercises, word lists with definitions, and tips for effectively learning and using new words.