IELTS Test Strategies - Complete Guide

Prediction Strategy (30-45 seconds per section)

1. Read questions quickly
   • Underline keywords (who, what, where, when, why)
   • Note the type of answer needed (number, name, date)
   • Identify word limits
2. Predict possible answers
   • Grammar clues (noun, verb, adjective needed)
   • Context clues (topic, setting)
   • Number formats (prices, times, dates)
3. Note question order
   • Questions follow audio order
   • Mark groups of questions
   • Be ready for the first question

Active Listening Techniques

• Follow with your finger: Keep place in questions
• Write as you hear: Don't wait for perfection
• Use abbreviations: Expand during transfer time
• Listen for signpost words: "However," "Next," "Finally"
• Don't panic if you miss one: Move to next question

Common Distractors to Watch For:

The 3-Pass Method

1. First Pass - Survey (2-3 minutes)
   • Read title and subtitles
   • Look at any diagrams/images
   • Read first and last paragraphs
   • Note paragraph topics
2. Second Pass - Question Analysis (2-3 minutes)
   • Read all questions for the passage
   • Underline keywords in questions
   • Note which follow passage order
   • Identify question types
3. Third Pass - Targeted Reading (12-14 minutes)
   • Read specific paragraphs for answers
   • Use scanning for names, dates, numbers
   • Use skimming for main ideas
   • Mark difficult questions to return to

Question Priority Strategy

Answer questions in this order for maximum efficiency:

1. Questions with line references or clear locations
2. Fill-in-the-blank and completion questions
3. True/False/Not Given questions
4. Multiple choice questions
5. Matching headings (most time-consuming)

Task 1 Strategic Approach

1. Analyze (2-3 minutes)
   • Identify key features/trends
   • Note units and time periods
   • Plan paragraph structure
2. Introduction (2 minutes)
   • Paraphrase the question
   • State what the visual shows
   • Keep it brief (1-2 sentences)
3. Overview (3 minutes)
   • 2-3 main trends or features
   • No specific data
   • General observations only
4. Body paragraphs (10 minutes)
   • Group related information
   • Include specific data
   • Make comparisons

Task 2 Strategic Framework

1. Understand the question (2-3 minutes)
   • Identify question type
   • Note all parts to address
   • Decide your position
2. Plan your essay (5 minutes)
   • Brainstorm 2-3 main ideas
   • Think of specific examples
   • Organize paragraph structure
3. Write efficiently (30 minutes)
   • Clear introduction with thesis
   • Topic sentence for each paragraph
   • Develop ideas with examples
   • Link paragraphs smoothly
4. Review and edit (3-5 minutes)
   • Check task response
   • Fix obvious errors
   • Ensure minimum word count

Part 1: Introduction (4-5 minutes)

• Extend answers: Aim for 2-3 sentences
• Give reasons: "I like... because..."
• Add examples: "For instance..."
• Show personality: Be natural and friendly

Part 2: Long Turn (3-4 minutes)

• Use the preparation time wisely:
  • Write keywords, not sentences
  • Cover all points on the card
  • Plan your conclusion
• Structure your talk:
  • Introduction (what you'll talk about)
  • Main points with examples
  • Personal feelings/opinions
  • Brief conclusion

Part 3: Discussion (4-5 minutes)

• Buy thinking time: "That's an interesting question..."
• Organize thoughts: "There are several aspects..."
• Give balanced views: "On one hand... on the other..."
• Support opinions: Provide reasons and examples