IELTS Test Day Tips & Advice by IELTS JET

Описание: Below are essential strategies from IELTS JET to guide you before and during your IELTS exam, applicable to both General Training and Academic modules.
Last-Minute Preparation Strategies
To maximize your score, you must remain strategic and keep a clear, focused mind throughout the day.
Listening Exam Tips
• Equipment Check: Ensure your headphones are functional or that you can hear the loudspeakers clearly; raise your hand immediately if there is a volume issue.
• Use Preparation Time: Read all questions before the recording begins and underline keywords to help track information.
• Technical Details: Pay close attention to word and number limits (eg, "15 workmen" counts as one word and one number).
• Transferring Answers: For paper-based tests, you have 10 minutes to transfer answers and it is recommended to use ALL CAPITAL LETTERS to avoid handwriting issues. Computer-based test takers receive only 2 minutes to check answers.
Reading Exam Tips
• Time Management: Do not waste time on a single difficult question; move on to find easier points and return later if possible.
• Analyze First: Spend time analyzing questions before searching the text to avoid confusion and wasted time.
• Focus on Goals: Your aim is to find specific answers through paraphrasing and keywords rather than trying to understand the entire passage.
• Answer Sheets: For the paper test, write answers directly onto the sheet, as no extra transfer time is provided.
Writing Exam Tips
• Timing and Length: Spend 20 minutes on Task 1 (minimum 150 words) and 40 minutes on Task 2 (minimum 250 words).
• Planning: Always plan your essay structure on the question paper, as examiners mark organization and structure.
• Task Requirements: Academic Task 1 must include a clear overview paragraph. Task 2 must always include a conclusion , even if you are running out of time.
• Quality Over Quantity: Focus on relevant information and paragraphing rather than just writing more.
Speaking Exam Tips
• Interaction: Treat the test as an informal chat; be friendly, open, and show a willingness to speak.
• Directness: Answer questions directly in Parts 1 and 3 before adding details, examples, or descriptions.
• Vocabulary and Grammar: Vocabulary accounts for only 25% of your marks; prioritize relevant topic-based words and phrasal verbs over outdated idioms. Use a range of grammar tenses to show flexibility.
• Clarification: You may ask the examiner to repeat a question if necessary.
"On the Day" Logistics
• Physical Readiness: Eat and sleep well before the 2-hour and 40-minute test. Wear comfortable layers of clothing in case the exam room is cold or hot.
• Arrival and ID: Arrive early for check-in with the exact ID used during registration.
• Permitted Items: You can bring a drink in a transparent bottle , as well as pencils, pens, and erasers. No electronic items or phones are allowed.
• Timing: Locate the room clock before starting; for computer tests, a timer is visible on the screen.
• Strict Rules: Do not continue writing after the invigilator tells you to stop, as this can invalidate your entire test.
Success in the IELTS exam requires a combination of strong English levels and mastery of these specific test techniques. IELTS JET wishes you the best of luck in achieving your target band score