Understanding the IELTS Test Format
IELTS has four sections: Listening (30 min), Reading (60 min), Writing (60 min), and Speaking (11–14 min). You are scored on a 0–9 band scale, and the average of all four gives your overall band score.
1. Start with a Diagnostic Test
Before beginning preparation, take a full-length official IELTS practice test. This baseline score shows where you stand and which sections need the most improvement.
2. Master Academic Vocabulary
Focus on the Academic Word List (AWL) — 570 word families that appear frequently in academic texts. Use Anki (spaced repetition flashcards) for efficient vocabulary building.
3. Reading: Practice Skimming and Scanning
Skim each passage in 60 seconds to get the main idea before looking at questions. Scan for specific information (names, dates, numbers) without reading everything. Spend no more than 20 minutes per passage.
4. Writing Task 2 Formula
Structure every essay: Introduction (paraphrase question + thesis) ? Body 1 (main argument + example) ? Body 2 (second argument + example) ? Conclusion. Practice writing in exactly 40 minutes.
5. Speaking: Use PEEL Format
For Part 2 (Long turn): Point, Explain, Example, Link. Record yourself and listen for fillers ("umm", "like"), pronunciation, and fluency.
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