IELTS Test

Cheat-sheet
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a renowned assessment that measures
the English language proficiency of non-native speakers. It’s a pivotal requirement for those wishing to
study, work, or settle in English-speaking countries. This Cheat-sheet sheds light on understanding the
IELTS test and offers valuable strategies to excel in it.

UNDERSTANDING THE IELTS EXAMINATION

The IELTS, short for the International English Language Testing System, is a globally recognized test that
evaluates your command over English, especially if you’re aiming to join institutions in English-speaking
territories.

VARIETIES OF THE IELTS EXAMINATION

IELTS PRIMARILY COMES IN TWO FORMATS
Academic This format is tailored for aspirants aiming for higher education abroad.

General This is geared towards professionals seeking employment or vocational training in

English-speaking countries.

While our focus here is mainly on the General IELTS, the insights provided can benefit test-takers of both
versions.

DECODING THE IELTS STRUCTURE

Understanding the IELTS blueprint is the first step. The exam encompasses four core modules

Listening Reading Writing Speaking

Completing all these sections requires approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. Prospective candidates
can opt for either the traditional paper-based exam or the modern computer-based version. Regardless
of the choice, all candidates will be assessed in reading, writing, and listening skills, with the speaking
module being an in-person conversation with an authorized IELTS assessor. The overarching aim is to
gauge your proficiency in English and your ability to interact seamlessly with native speakers.

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KEY STRATEGIES FOR IELTS SUCCESS

Familiarize Yourself with the Exam Pattern: Grasping the IELTS structure is
1 foundational. Each module has its nuances. For instance, the speaking section comprises
an introduction, an elongated monologue, and a thematic discussion. Pinpoint your
strengths and areas needing more attention.

Opt for Your Preferred Test Mode: IELTS is flexible, offering both pen-paper and
2 computer-based testing. The content remains consistent across both; choose what suits
your comfort level.

Leverage the Official IELTS Guide: Your IELTS registration includes an invaluable
3 preparatory guide. This resource dives deep into each section, clarifies question patterns,
and even presents model answers. It’s a comprehensive tool, particularly for mastering
the reading and writing modules.

Be Prepared for Diverse Question Types: IELTS designers often infuse fresh question
4 types, particularly in the listening segment. From multiple choices to diagram labelling,
the range is expansive. Hence, versatile preparation is pivotal.

Prioritize Accuracy Over Extensive Vocabulary: Contrary to exams like the GRE, IELTS
5 doesn’t intensely probe your vocabulary. Emphasis is on coherent and grammatically
accurate communication. Use sophisticated words judiciously; mistakes can be costly.

Hone Your Speaking Skills: Many find the speaking module challenging. Begin by
6 perfecting basic sentences, then elevate to more intricate structures. Consistency and
precision are paramount.

Engage with English Media: Consuming English literature and watching English movies
7 or series can be both entertaining and educational. They offer a glimpse into the
natural conversational styles of native speakers, aiding in refining listening and reading
competencies.

In summary, the IELTS is a comprehensive test that demands methodical preparation. With the right
strategies and consistent effort, achieving a commendable score is within reach.

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 IELTS TEST LISTENING CHEAT-SHEET
Overview

The Listening section of the IELTS tests your ability to understand spoken English in various contexts. It
consists of 40 questions spread across 4 recordings, lasting approximately 30 minutes, with an additional
10 minutes to transfer your answers to the answer sheet.

KEY TIPS TO BOOST YOUR SCORE 6 Manage Your Time

1 Familiarize with Question Types Keep track of time, but don’t rush.
Ensure you answer every question, even if you’re
Multiple choice
unsure – there’s no penalty for wrong answers.
Matching
Plan/map/diagram labeling
7 Watch Out for Paraphrasing
Form/note/table/flow-chart completion
Sentence completion The recording might use different words or phrases
Short-answer questions to convey the same meaning as in the questions.
Develop a knack for recognizing synonyms and
2 Practice Active Listening paraphrased content.

Focus intently on the recordings.

8 Spellings Matter
Try to anticipate what the speaker might say next.
Avoid getting stuck on a single difficult word or Incorrect spellings are marked wrong.
phrase. Be especially cautious when writing names or specific
terms.
3 Read Questions Before Listening

Use the time provided to read the questions in 9 Follow Instructions

advance. If a question specifies a word limit (e.g., “NO MORE
This allows you to know what specific information to THAN TWO WORDS”), adhere strictly to it.
listen for.

10 Stay Calm and Composed

4 Identify Keywords
If you miss an answer, don’t panic. Focus on the
Highlight or mentally note keywords in the questions.
next one.
These can guide you to the answers when you hear
Maintaining composure ensures you don’t miss
them in the recording.
subsequent answers.

5 Beware of Distractions 11 Utilize the Extra 10 Minutes

The recordings may contain information meant to IThis time is given to transfer answers from the
mislead or confuse. question booklet to the answer sheet.
Stay focused on the questions and avoid Double-check your answers, ensuring you’ve
overthinking. adhered to word limits and spellings.

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 Additional Practice

Engage with various English accents through podcasts, news, interviews, and more. The IELTS
includes a mix of accents (e.g., American, Australian, British), so diverse listening practice will be
beneficial.

Remember: The key to a high score in the Listening section lies in attentive listening, careful
understanding of the questions, and rigorous practice. Make the most of available resources, and
you’ll be well-equipped to tackle this section confidently!

IELTS TEST LISTENING CHEAT-SHEET

Overview

The Reading section of the IELTS assesses your comprehension of written English across various text
types. It contains 40 questions distributed across three passages. Candidates are allotted 60 minutes to
complete this section.

KEY TIPS TO BOOST YOUR SCORE 4 Handle Time Wisely

1 Familiarize with Question Types Spend approximately 20 minutes on each passage.

Keep a few minutes at the end for a quick review.
Multiple choice
Identifying the writer’s views/claims (yes, no, not
5 Beware of Tricky Phrasings
given)
The IELTS often paraphrases questions or uses
Matching headings
synonyms in the passage.
Matching features or sentence endings
Understand the underlying meaning, not just the
Sentence completion
exact wording.
Summary, note, table, or flow-chart completion
Diagram label completion
6 Answer All Questions
Short-answer questions
There’s no penalty for wrong answers, so make sure
2 Skimming and Scanning to attempt all questions.

Skim each passage quickly to get its general sense.

7 Follow Instructions Carefully
Scan for specific details related to the questions.
Adhere to word limits or specific instructions given
3 Focus on First and Last Paragraphs (e.g., “NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS”).

Introductions and conclusions often encapsulate the

main ideas of the passage.

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 8 Understand Question Types 10 Avoid Overthinking

For ‘yes, no, not given’ questions, ensure you Your first instinct is often correct.
distinguish between a factual claim (yes/no) and Don’t spend too much time on a single question.
information that isn’t present (not given).
For matching headings, first understand the main idea 11 Practice with Diverse Texts
of each paragraph. The IELTS Reading section might include texts from
books, newspapers, journals, and more.
9 Underline Key Information
Expose yourself to a variety of reading materials in
As you read, underline or mentally note dates, preparation.
names, and other specific details.
This makes it easier to reference back when
answering questions.

Additional Practice

Enhance vocabulary and comprehension by reading a range of materials, including news articles,
academic papers, fiction, and non-fiction. This not only improves speed but also acquaints you with
different writing styles and structures.

Remember: The Reading section tests not just comprehension but also your ability to identify main
ideas, details, and inferences. Regular practice, combined with the above strategies, will equip you to
tackle this section effectively and achieve a commendable score!

IELTS TEST WRITING CHEAT-SHEET

Overview
The IELTS Writing section evaluates your ability to convey information and viewpoints through written
text. This segment consists of two tasks: Task 1 (reporting about a chart, graph, or process for Academic;
letter-writing for General) and Task 2 (essay writing). You have 60 minutes in total: 20 minutes for Task 1
and 40 minutes for Task 2.

KEY TIPS TO BOOST YOUR SCORE 2 Plan Before You Write

Spend 2-3 minutes organizing your thoughts and

1 Understand the Question Prompt structuring your answer.

Ensure you comprehend the question thoroughly This helps in writing a cohesive and coherent piece.

before you start writing.

3 Stick to the Word Limit
For Task 1 (Academic), identify main trends,
Task 1 requires at least 150 words, and Task 2
differences, and similarities.
requires at least 250 words.
For Task 2, comprehend the essay type (e.g., opinion,
Avoid overly long responses, but ensure you meet the
problem-solution, discussion).
minimum requirement.

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4 Be Formal and Objective 9 Proofread

Avoid slang, contractions, and overly casual language. Dedicate the last 2-3 minutes to checking for spelling,
Stay objective, especially in Task 1. grammar, and punctuation errors.
Ensure that your ideas flow logically.
5 Vary Your Vocabulary and Sentence Structure

Avoid repetition by employing synonyms.

10 Practice Different Question Types

Use a mix of simple, compound, and complex Familiarize yourself with various Task 1 data
sentences. presentations (graphs, charts, processes) and Task 2
essay prompts.
6 Use Paragraphs Wisely
Regular practice will enhance your versatility and
Organize your content into clear paragraphs. preparedness.
Each paragraph should have a central idea.
11 Mind Your Timing
7 Stay On Topic
Ensure you allocate sufficient time for both tasks,
Avoid veering off-topic. Stick to the question and
especially Task 2, which carries more weight.
maintain relevance.

8 Back Your Points with Examples

For Task 2, support your arguments with relevant

examples to make your essay more convincing.

Additional Practice

Write regularly on diverse topics to enhance your writing speed, coherence, and cohesion. Seek
feedback from teachers, peers, or online platforms to understand areas of improvement.

Remember: The Writing section is not just about showcasing your vocabulary or grammar but
also about presenting clear, logical, and relevant content. Focus on understanding the question,
structuring your response, and refining your writing skills. With consistent effort and the right
approach, you can ace this section!

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 IELTS TEST SPEAKING CHEAT-SHEET
Overview

The IELTS Speaking section is designed to gauge your spoken English capabilities and how effectively
you can communicate your ideas. This one-on-one oral test consists of three parts: Introduction and
Interview, Long Turn, and Discussion. The entire assessment spans approximately 11-14 minutes.

6 Use a Range of Vocabulary and Grammar

KEY TIPS TO BOOST YOUR SCORE
EShowcase your language breadth by using varied
1 Stay Calm and Confident vocabulary and sentence structures.

Treat the test as a regular conversation. However, prioritize clarity and accuracy over using

Your nerves can hinder your performance, so breathe complex words.

deeply and relax. 7 Correct Yourself if Needed

2 *Expand Your Answer If you realize you’ve made a minor error, it’s okay to
correct it quickly and move on.
Don’t reply with simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’. Elaborate your
thoughts.
8 Engage in the Discussion
Offer reasons, examples, or personal experiences
when appropriate. Part 3 involves a discussion. Engage actively,
presenting your views and responding to
3 Listen Carefully to the Questions
counterpoints.

Ensure you understand the question before This is your chance to showcase your ability to

answering. discuss abstract ideas and issues.

If you’re unsure, it’s acceptable to ask the examiner to

9 Practice Various Topics
repeat or rephrase the question.
Familiarize yourself with common IELTS speaking
4 Stay on Topic
topics like hobbies, travel, technology, health, & more.

Answer what’s asked without digressing. Regular practice will make you feel more prepared &

However, provide comprehensive responses to confident.

showcase your language proficiency.

10 Mind Your Pronunciation
5 Avoid Memorized Answers
Speak clearly and at a moderate pace.
Examiners can usually detect rehearsed answers, Work on areas where you might have strong accents
which can affect your authenticity and score. or pronunciation challenges.
Focus on spontaneous, natural responses.
11 Be Genuine

It’s okay to admit if you don’t know something.

Authenticity can be more beneficial than trying to
fabricate an answer.

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Additional Practice

Engage in conversations in English regularly, either with native speakers or language learning
buddies. Watching English movies, podcasts, or talk shows can also help in understanding diverse
accents and picking up natural conversational cues.

Remember: The Speaking section is about clarity, coherence, and the ability to communicate ideas
effectively. Keep practicing, stay genuine, and approach the test with confidence. With the right
preparation, you can excel in this section and leave a lasting impression on the examiner!

BONUS MATERIAL
THE IELTS PREPARATION IMMERSION SCHEDULE
For many working professionals, balancing a hectic job schedule with comprehensive IELTS
preparation can be challenging. This proposed plan serves as a blueprint, designed specifically to
integrate IELTS practice seamlessly into the daily routine of those with busy lives.

The weekly breakdown is structured to ensure consistent immersion in the English language
across all four core IELTS competencies: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each day is
dedicated to specific tasks, ensuring that the individual doesn’t feel overwhelmed while ensuring
that they touch upon every crucial aspect of the exam over the week.

However, it’s essential to understand that this plan is merely a guideline. The beauty of this
blueprint lies in its flexibility. Every individual’s work commitments, energy levels, and learning
styles are unique. Hence, while this plan provides an effective starting point, it’s designed to be
tailored. Users can shuffle activities, adjust time commitments, or even replace tasks to better suit
their individual needs and lifestyles.

In essence, before stepping into the IELTS examination hall, every candidate should feel confident
in their English proficiency. This plan is that bridge – guiding professionals towards consistent
practice and familiarity, all while respecting the demands of their professional lives.

Got it! Here’s a weekly schedule tailored for working professionals, factoring in a standard 9 AM - 5
PM workday.

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 IELTS IMMERSION
WEEKLY SCHEDULE FOR WORKING PROFESSIONALS

Monday Evening: Relax & Unwind

Morning Commute: Listening Practice Watch an English movie or series. Aim for
Listen to English podcasts or radio shows during your understanding dialogues, cultural nuances, and
commute. different accents.
Evening: Reading Practice Saturday
Spend 30 minutes reading English newspapers or Morning: Focused Study Session (2 hours)
magazines. Dive deep into one IELTS section. Rotate sections
Summarize what you’ve read. each week.

Tuesday Use online platforms to get feedback, especially for

writing and speaking.
Morning Commute: Speaking Practice
Afternoon: Leisure Reading & Listening
Talk aloud, practicing pronunciation and sentence Read an English novel or listen to an audiobook.
construction. It could be a recap of what you did the Evening: Social Practice
previous day or plans for the week. If possible, attend English-speaking meetups or
Evening: Writing Practice engage in online conversations with native speakers.
Spend 30 minutes on an IELTS writing prompt.
Sunday
Review and make corrections.
Morning: Review & Planning Session (1 hour)
Wednesday Recap what you’ve learned during the week.
Morning Commute: Listening Practice Plan your focus for the coming week.
English music or audiobooks. Afternoon: Relax & Leisure Listening
Evening: Grammar & Vocabulary Continue with the audiobook or indulge in English
Dedicate 30 minutes to study a particular grammar music.
topic. Evening: Prepare for the Week Ahead
Note down and practice 5 new vocabulary words. Set goals for the next week.

Thursday Prepare materials or choose topics you’d like to delve

into.
Morning Commute: Speaking Practice
Narrate a story or recent event to yourself. Focus on End of the Month
clarity and fluency. Dedicate one Saturday or Sunday for a full Mock Test
Evening: Mock Listening or Reading Test on the IELTS Express Platform
Take a short practice test. Analyze the results, identify areas of improvement,
Review your answers. and adjust the next month’s schedule accordingly.
Friday This schedule is meant to be flexible. Depending on
Morning Commute: Listening Practice one’s energy levels and commitments, some activities
Choose a different genre or source from Monday’s can be shuffled around or replaced as needed. The key
practice for variety. is consistent exposure and practice.

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