A common English proficiency test taken around the globe, IELTS is a fundamental requirement for admissions to many institutions worldwide. It is, therefore, imperative that you understand the test and have a reliable strategy that works for you.
The test requires you to have a basic understanding of standard English conventions, common punctuations, diction, and a decent vocabulary. But, without a clear and easy-to-follow strategy, this can take a toll on any test taker.
Here is an eight-step approach to build a solid preparation strategy:
Understand the test
Avoid any surprises on the test day. Go through the IELTS pattern in detail.
Focus on the structure of the test, timing, and question types. Attempting a mock test before
beginning preparation will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses.
Improve your vocabulary
Vocabulary is a critical component of the test. Almost 25 per cent of your total marks, which are in the writing and speaking section, are dependent on your vocabulary.
A daily reading habit is a must in this regard. Identify words that you do not know and create a list of their antonyms and synonyms.
Get Feedback
Practice every day. In fact, practice all sections every day. While reading and listening are passive skills, they require you to process the information given and answer the questions.
However, writing and speaking are active skills where you make content independently. Feedback from an expert on all sections is crucial so as to identify your mistakes and work on the relevant skill.
The IELTS exam becomes easy if you study using the following resources:
1. Road to IELTS: Road to IELTS is the British Council’s official online preparation course. It’s an excellent resource to start your preparation.
2. The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS: This book is suitable for both IELTS academic as well as general training.
3. Cambridge IELTS 17 Academic Student’s Book with Answers: This book gives access to authentic IELTS test papers. It also contains tips for each section and explains different question types.
4. Newspapers and magazines: Pick up national news daily for reading and speaking practice. Focus on the editorial section of the newspaper to cultivate a reading habit and improve vocabulary. You can also refer to magazines such as The National Geographic and Nature.
Lastly, writing the exam at the right time is extremely important. Begin with the end in mind and plan your IELTS test date in accordance with the university admissions deadline. Start preparing at least six months before the targeted score submission deadline to ensure that you have enough runway to prepare (30 to 60 days), practice (15 to 30 days), write the exam and repeat the entire process in case you don’t get the targeted IELTS score in the first attempt. And finally, the day before your exam, relax, sleep, and eat well.
Courtesy : The Indian Express