TOEFL ® Registrations 2024
Accepted by more than 11,000 universities in over 150 countries worldwide
The IELTS listening preparation is considered the most important aspect of the IELTS exam, as many of the students aspire to score a minimum of band 8. A very high IELTS listening band score can enhance the candidate's overall IELTS band score. Students acquiring Band 8 usually get good scholarships from universities and on the other hand the working professionals or the candidates aspiring for a permanent residency in many countries meet their eligibility criteria if they score so high. The candidates are advised to engage themselves in a lot of IELTS listening practice tests to secure a very high IELTS listening test score.
In this article, we shall discuss the IELTS listening preparation tips and tricks so that help you score the desired band. For this, it is important for you to know the structure of the exam and the strategies to solve each type of question.
Before we start with the strategies, we all need to know that both General and Academic IELTS have a similar listening test. It is also marked in the same way. Hence, we recommend that IELTS listening preparation be done online and you do not have to travel to far-off places to go through any training. Always remember to follow strategies and practice well before the exam will ensure a high band score.
There are four sections in the IELTS listening module and each comes with different types of questions. Let us discuss all in detail.
Now, let us check the strategies to score high in Section - One of IELTS Listening Module
Apply for Online MBA from Manipal University
IELTS listening section two normally has map-based questions, so let us follow the given strategies to solve them accurately.
We recommend that you make sentences with each directional word given above to excel in using maps and also following the directions. If a candidate wishes to improve their IELTS listening band scores and learn other important IELTS dictation words, they can refer to the 100+ IELTS dictation words article written by IELTS experts.
While you practice well for the IELTS exam, we recommend that you stay focused and give yourself an English environment so that you are well-versed in the language.
Before each recording starts, carefully read all the questions for that section. This will help you follow the recordings and find the answers easily.
Once you finish a section, you can proceed to read the questions for the next section.
Sometimes, you'll have a list of options to choose from. Answers may not necessarily be in the order you hear them; they could be alphabetically listed.
Pay attention to the word limits for each section. For example, if it says 'Write no more than two words', stick to this limit. Writing more could result in receiving no marks for that answer.
Be attentive and watch for key words or synonyms from the questions. This can help you identify the answer.
Listen carefully for words that indicate where you are in the recording, such as 'firstly', 'my next point', 'conclude'. These words help identify the relevant question.
While listening, eliminate options that don't fit to make finding the correct answer easier.
When mentioning dates in answers, remember different formats are acceptable (e.g., April 24, 24th April, 24 April).
If you're stuck on a question, skip it and return later if you have time. Avoid wasting time and causing unnecessary stress.
If taking the IELTS on paper, you have 10 minutes after the last recording ends to transfer answers from the Listening booklet to your answer sheet. Wait until all recordings are finished to transfer, as transferring between sections may cause you to miss important information about the next section of the test.
Question Type 1 – Multiple-choice | |
Overview | In MCQs, the candidates will be given 3 options, A, B, and C. They will be asked to find the most suitable answer from the recording that is being played. Almost all of the listening IELTS practice tests available online have MCQ question samples in them. |
What skills are required? | This type of question tests various listening skills (such as detailed understanding) and the alertness of the candidate. |
Question Type 2 – Matching | |
Overview | In this type of question, the candidates are required to match the set of items in column A with the set of items in column B. Practising more IELTS listening practice sets can help the candidates ace this test. |
What skills are required? | This type of question tests the abilities of the candidates to understand the relationship between the different entities in a conversation. |
Question Type 3 – Plan/map/diagram labelling | |
Overview | In this type of question, the candidates are asked to complete labels on a visual which may be: a diagram a group of pictures a plan a map The candidates should: Choose the answers from a list given on the question paper and then write the correct corresponding letter on the answer sheet Select words from the recording that a match into gaps provided on the question paper by following the words or letter limits specified on the question paper without changing any words or adding any extra words by their own. |
Question Type 4 – Form/note/table/flow chart/summary completion | |
Overview | In this type of question, the candidates are asked to fill or complete a part of the conversation given on the question paper. It can be A form: This is used as a substitute for various information such as a name, place, date etc. A set of notes: used to summarise the recording and establish a relationship between multiple concepts. A table: used to summarise information which can be further subdivided into more categories, e.g. place/time/price A flow chart: used to summarise the flow of events in a process, with the direction of the process represented by arrows. The candidates must adhere to the word limits set by and answer the questions accordingly |
What skills are required? | The analytical and reasoning skills of the candidate are put to the test |
Question Type 5 – Sentence completion | |
Overview | Candidates must read the question's sentences and highlight the key ideas to answer this kind of question. Each sentence will have a gap that they must fill in with information from the recording. These types of questions are very frequent and are seen in almost every set of IELTS listening sections |
What skills are required? | This type of question focuses on the ability of the candidates to identify the pivotal information in a recording. |
Question Type 6 – Short-answer questions | |
Overview | In this type of question, the candidates have to read the question and write a short answer using information they have listened to from the recording. |
What skills are required? | This type of question focuses on their ability to pay attention to vital information presented in the recording such as facts, place names, prices or times, dates and famous anecdotes heard in the recording. |
IELTS listening score charts provide a clear and standardized way to assess and communicate a test taker's English proficiency. This clarity helps candidates understand their strengths and areas needing improvement. Also, The IELTS listening band score charts help candidates set realistic goals for their language proficiency. By seeing where they currently stand and where they need to be for their specific purposes (such as studying abroad or immigrating), candidates can focus their efforts effectively.
Number of correct answers (Raw Score) | IELTS Listening Band Score |
39-40 | 9 |
37-38 | 8.5 |
35-36 | 8 |
32-34 | 7.5 |
30-31 | 7 |
26-29 | 6.5 |
23-25 | 6 |
18-22 | 5.5 |
16-17 | 5 |
13-15 | 4.5 |
11-12 | 4 |
Extracted from - IELTS IDP official website. Copyright © 2024 by IDP Education
Refer here for the most important IELTS listening preparation PDFs and essential IELTS listening preparation books to enhance the candidate’s IELTS listening preparation.
Ebooks | Download Links |
IELTS Reading Practice Books | |
IELTS Writing Practice Books | |
IELTS Speaking Practice Books | |
IELTS Listening Practice Books | |
IELTS Preparation Tips 2024 Book | |
IELTS and TOEFL Vocabulary Guide Book |
The IELTS practice tests demand a big chunk of the candidate’s IELTS preparation and hence, they should put efforts into attempting various IELTS practice tests throughout their IELTS preparation journey.
Expert IELTS listening tips coupled with extensive IELTS listening practice ensure success in the examination. Candidates can practice selected IELTS listening practice tests and much more from the below. The below practice tests designed by Careers360 has IELTS listening test with audio and answers necessary for enhancing the candidates overall IELTS listening skills.
No, there is no penalty for incorrect answers in the IELTS listening section. It's better to make an educated guess than to leave a question blank.
If you encounter a word or phrase you don't understand, try to infer its meaning based on the context. Focus on understanding the overall message rather than getting stuck on individual words.
To improve your listening skills, practice listening to a variety of English audio materials, such as podcasts, radio programs, and TED talks. Focus on understanding main ideas, supporting details, and vocabulary.
No, test-takers only have one opportunity to listen to each recording in the IELTS listening section. It's essential to listen carefully and take notes to answer the questions accurately.
Yes, test centers typically provide headphones for test-takers to use during the IELTS listening section.
No. The candidates must refrain from making spelling mistakes. This can severely impact their scores because often answers with spelling mistakes are not counted for final band score calculations.
The best way to improve the listening band score is through constant practice. The candidates must be involved in as much as IELTS preparation listening practice tests. They can also seek help from IELTS listening preparation online articles. The IELTS listening preparation of the candidate can also be enhanced by making IELTS listening practice a part of their daily routine. This can be achieved by listening to English movies, songs, podcasts, shows and audiobooks of different accents regularly.
The IELTS listening test consists of four sections. Each section features different types of recordings, such as conversations, monologues, and discussions, which gradually increase in complexity and difficulty. Candidates listen to recordings only once and answer a series of questions based on what they hear. Each section is designed to test different listening skills, such as understanding main ideas, details, opinions, and specific factual information.
If you have completed a master's degree in the UK, you might still need to take the IELTS test to qualify for a Permanent Residency (PR) or Work Visa in Australia. While your degree from an English-speaking country like the UK may demonstrate your proficiency in English, Australian immigration authorities typically require a standardized English language test score, such as IELTS, to assess your language skills formally.
For better guidance, Invicta Institute can provide you with detailed information and assistance regarding the specific English language requirements for Australian PR or Work Visa applications. Invicta's experienced counselors can help you navigate the process and determine if your UK degree suffices or if you need to take the IELTS test.
Since you're currently in the first year of your Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com), planning ahead for your MBA abroad is a wise decision. The ideal time to take your IELTS exam is during your third year of B.Com. This timing ensures that your IELTS score, which is valid for two years, will still be valid when you apply for MBA programs. I recommend reaching out to a reputable abroad education advisor, as they can assist you throughout the entire process from start to finish. One such company is Invicta Career Consultancy, which offers specialized training, guidance, and support for studying abroad. You can visit their website at icclearning.com to learn more and make an informed decision. Best of luck!
Hello,
It is very highly unlikely to obtain a legitimate IELTS certificate without taking the exam. Any claims suggesting otherwise are likely scams. It is essential to take the exam through authorized testing centers to ensure the validity and credibility of the certificate.
Hope this helps you ,
Thank you
The IELTS General is generally considered easier than the IELTS Academic because the General test focuses on practical, everyday English skills, such as social and workplace communication, while the Academic test assesses a candidate's readiness for academic study with more complex reading and writing tasks. For better guidance, Invicta Institute can help you determine which test suits your goals and provide tailored coaching to maximize your performance on either version of the IELTS.
Hello aspirant,
Opinions on the E-GMAT course vary. Some find it beneficial for improving GMAT skills, especially in verbal sections, while others may prefer different resources. It's essential to explore reviews, consider your learning style, and maybe try a trial or sample to see if it aligns with your preferences before making a decision.
So it all depends on your personal opinion.
Thank you
Hope this information helps you.
Accepted by more than 11,000 universities in over 150 countries worldwide
Universities inviting applications | Get expert guidance
Register now for PTE & Save 5% on English Proficiency Tests with ApplyShop Gift Cards
Apply for GRE® Test now & save 10% with ApplyShop Gift Card | World's most used Admission Test for Graduate & Professional Schools
Apply for upcoming intake & plan your journey
Explore Universities, Courses & Subjects | Work while study