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What are the Different Methods of IELTS® Practice?

T. L. Childree
T. L. Childree

There are a variety of different methods for International English Language Testing System (IELTS®) practice. These practice methods must prepare individuals for all aspects of the exam. IELTS® practice methods should include a self-diagnostic test to determine a starting point as well as a general study of the exam’s basic concepts. Solving practice questions and taking sample tests are good ways to prepare an individual for the exam. Improving test-taking techniques and participating in group study sessions may also be beneficial.

The IELTS® exam is recognized throughout the world as an accurate measure of English-language speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. Individuals who wish to study, work, or immigrate to English-speaking countries must score well on this exam. Extensive practice is an essential prerequisite for obtaining a high exam score. There are many different methods for IELTS® practice, and each one has a particular benefit.

Sample tests and practice questions are a good way to prepare for the IELTS.
Sample tests and practice questions are a good way to prepare for the IELTS.

The IELTS® exam may be taken as an academic module for individuals who desire to study in an English-speaking country or as a general training module for work or immigration purposes. IELTS® practice methods must prepare an individual for all aspects of the test, including understanding the basic exam pattern and question types. Practice methods should also provide a sample experience for the actual exam, determine any areas of weakness, and keep track of progress. IELTS® practice may be conducted through various coaching institutes, group-study classes, or personal study courses.

Working with a study group is a good method of exam preparation.
Working with a study group is a good method of exam preparation.

IELTS® practice should begin with a comprehensive self-diagnostic test to determine an individual’s current skill level. This type of test is included with most personal study guides and can also be found online. The results of this test will determine the amount of practice needed for each exam section. The self-diagnostic test should be followed by a general study of the basic exam concepts. An IELTS® exam consists of speaking, listening, reading and writing concepts, with only small differences between the academic and general training modules.

IELTS practice should include learning basic test-taking techniques.
IELTS practice should include learning basic test-taking techniques.

Solving practice questions pertaining to each exam concept is one of the most common ways to prepare for the exam. A good personal study guide will usually include a series of practice questions at the end of each section. Solving these questions will help to gauge progress and identify problem areas for additional study. A complete practice test should be taken after a sufficient amount of study time. This practice test must be taken according to the time constraints of the actual exam.

IELTS® practice should also include learning basic test-taking techniques. Individuals should practice focusing their attention on particular phrases and keywords during the exam. This will allow time to answer more questions during the exam. Practice may also be conducted in a group setting to gain a better understanding of the exam concepts. Group practice sessions often help speed up the exam preparation process.

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    • Sample tests and practice questions are a good way to prepare for the IELTS.
      By: gstockstudio
      Sample tests and practice questions are a good way to prepare for the IELTS.
    • Working with a study group is a good method of exam preparation.
      By: Riccardo Piccinini
      Working with a study group is a good method of exam preparation.
    • IELTS practice should include learning basic test-taking techniques.
      By: Andres Rodriguez
      IELTS practice should include learning basic test-taking techniques.