Nowadays, the most widely used English language test worldwide is the International English Language Testing System, or IELTS. The test is difficult. In addition to having good English communication skills, you'll need to become proficient in a number of calculated test-taking strategies. However, getting the necessary IELTS score doesn't have to be a difficult task! IELTS is a must if you are looking for Studying Abroad in UK.
Similar to job searching, taking the IELTS can be difficult and time-consuming, even though many people you know have already done it. You should schedule the test after doing some study. Another option is to review the official summary of the exam structure. Check out Nodnat Lucknow if you want to know about Study in UK.
Understand what IELTS is all about-
- Which IELTS version would you want to take—the computerized or paper version? The two versions hardly differ from one another. Both are administered at a testing facility. Some people feel that choosing answers to questions on paper is faster than using a computer, while others prefer the paper version since they don't have to deal with an unfamiliar keyboard layout.
- Which IELTS test is required to take, Academic or General Training? IELTS General Training is for those who need to know everyday English for job or immigration, whereas IELTS Academic is for those applying to study in an English-language program. While the framework of both tests is essentially the same, the IELTS Academic employs more academic materials, while the IELTS General Training concentrates on language from everyday sources like emails and newspaper articles. It should be noted that the UKVI IELTS, a third version of the IELTS, is required if you plan to immigrate to the UK.
- How much time would it take you to study in order to get a high IELTS score? Decide what score on the IELTS you require first. On the CEFR scale, most organizations generally require anything between a 6 and a 7, or between a B2 and a C1. With some degree of accuracy, you can predict your expected IELTS score if you know your CEFR level. This will assist you in estimating the amount of time needed to raise your IELTS score. "The majority of English-speaking schools advise at least six months to improve a student's level of English by the equivalent of 0.5 — 1 band score," per IELTS Advantage. This means that before beginning test preparation, you should focus on improving your general English language skills if you are not currently conversationally competent in the language.
Learn About Grading Criteria:
The key to acing any test is knowing what constitutes a quality response. Your best friend and the basis for all of your responses should be the IELTS evaluation criteria! These guidelines serve as a gauge for your level of success. To ensure that you are checking all the boxes and receiving the necessary grade, you must properly understand them. This is particularly crucial for speaking and writing exams, as the evaluation of your responses is based mostly on subjective criteria. Additionally, you can look up some sample responses online, but be sure the sources are reliable. Official textbooks and the websites of the IELTS exam boards are excellent places to start.
Remember that you are supposed to get quite a few questions wrong on this test, which makes it one of the most odd! The exam is taken by people who need to get a band 4 and those who need a band 8. Finding out how many questions you can afford to get wrong is a component of understanding the grading criteria. For instance, you just need to get 23 out of 40 right answers if your goal is to receive a band 6 on the academic reading test. Quite comforting!
Make Most Out of Official Resources:
There is a large market around IELTS preparation for students. To help students get ready, a plethora of courses, books, apps, and programs are accessible. At first, it can be challenging to determine which ones are reliable and even worth your time. Generally speaking, don't hurry into purchasing unnecessary tools.
The official IELTS practice materials available on the websites of the test boards, social media platforms, and textbooks should always be your first choice. Nobody knows the exam better than the exam board itself, after all.
Check out YouTube Channels and Specialist Blogs:
Numerous blogs, podcasts, Facebook pages, and YouTube channels featuring experts—and pseudo-experts—discussing IELTS strategy are available. A lot of them are treasure troves of knowledge!
Naturally, you shouldn't put too much faith in unofficial sources. Keep in mind that the IELTS is modified and updated almost annually. A blog post or YouTube video is most likely outdated if it is older than a few years. However, unapproved web forums can provide you with information that the exam board cannot, such as other test-takers viewpoints!
Create a Study Schedule:
No matter when you schedule your test, it will happen quickly! To achieve your goals, you must have a game plan. Establish a time slot for studying that works for you and mark it on your calendar.
Are you unsure of how much time you should or can devote to the textbooks in order to get the desired results? Prior to scheduling an exam, schedule a meeting with an experienced tutor to discuss the matter.
The four sections of the test carry the same amount of marks, therefore you should attempt to split your time about evenly for each! The British Council offers a one-month study plan that breaks each week's study into a distinct test ability.
Tips: Consider the intervals in your everyday schedule where you could dedicate some time to studying. For instance, you may arrange to practice writing or listening for 30 minutes after work and use flashcards in the morning along with breakfast. Consider the times you set aside for study as appointments with yourself.
