I. How to prepare specifically for IELTS

Know the IELTS test format  
It has been largely the same for years; the only thing that really changes is the questions asked. 

When you know what to expect, you can focus on the language.

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Complete several practice tests.  Lock yourself in a quiet room where you can practice undisturbed

for at least 1 hour at a time. For example, if you practice IELTS listening, complete a whole test

(½ hour) uninterrupted.  If you’re doing a Task 2 writing topic, set a timer and aim to complete it in

40 minutes or less.  Speed matters. By copying testing conditions, you will be better prepared for

the long day of testing.

 

Find a Tutor who knows the IELTS test well.  They can find your weak areas and give you homework that strengthens your weak skills.  Be willing to pay for this professional advice as it will be worth it in the long term. 

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II. How to prepare generally for IELTS

Practice daily. 

If you live in a household where English is not used, try to schedule a couple of days each week where your family do their best to speak English with you.  Not 100%, of course, but around 90%.  This meaningful listening and speaking practice will help build fluency and comfort in using English.

 

Keep a pen & paper notebook.  

Divide it into sections you need, such as grammar, vocabulary, strategies, etc. Review your notes

regularly and by all means, write, write, write!  Don’t worry if you make mistakes…how else will

you improve? 

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Learn new vocabulary effectively.

If you learn new words, make meaningful sentences using those new words writing about something in your life.  Do not just write the English word and a translation.  Your brain will pay little attention to such a simple task.  When you make sentences, now you have to think about grammar, spelling, and how to use the new word correctly.  That is something your brain will remember.  And when you link the new word to anything in your life, you are more likely to remember it.  

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III. Common IELTS Misconceptions

The IELTS test is a global high-stakes exam.  With this fame comes a lot of misunderstanding and misinformation.  I call the IELTS rumours. The biggest rumour is that the IELTS test is easier in some magical country or city. False.  The test is standardized globally, which means the difficulty level and scoring are the same anywhere.  Do not spend big money flying to some special place where it is rumoured that IELTS is easier.   

 

Accent is another hot topic.  You do not need to copy an American or British accent to do well on the speaking test.  You will sound unnatural.  All you need to do is speak clearly and carefully (do not rush).  If you think speaking rapidly and using complex words will get you a higher score, you will be disappointed.

 

Asking the examiner to repeat the question is fine.  You will not “lose points”.  Just ask for clarification within a few seconds, otherwise it will sound unnatural.

 

You will not “lose points” for speaking less than 2 minutes in Part 2.  Aim to finish your story on your own terms with a nice conclusion. It is the examiner’s job to ask a short follow-up question if you finish early. It’s best to finish a story properly, rather than repeating yourself and rambling on until the examiner finally stops you mid-sentence.  Quality is always more important than quantity.

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IV. IELTS computer or paper-based test?

You will notice when booking your IELTS test that some test dates are marked CBT (taking the test on computer) or PBT (traditional pencil & paper test).  Here are the pros & cons of both.

 

Computer-based IELTS

  Pros:

1. test results are available in a few days. 

2. writing section has an automatic word counter. 

3. switching back and forth is simple. 

4. headphones will be used for the listening section, improving clarity.

5. a built-in timer will keep you aware of the remaining time.

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  Cons:

1. you should be familiar with reading and typing on a computer.

2. the computer-based test may not be available in your area.

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Paper-based IELTS

  Pros:

1. More people are comfortable with paper tests. You can underline, circle, make notes, and brainstorm freely on the page.

2. The paper-based test is more common as it does not require a special                                                                       computer testing room.

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  Cons: 

1. results available after 10-14 days.

2. listening will be played on speakers in a room (where there might be distractions).

3. if your handwriting is hard to read, examiners cannot easily give you a score. 

4. Likewise, erasing your writing takes time and can make a mess.

 

Conclusion - The Bottom Line 

If you need IELTS test results right away, the CBT is your only choice.  

If you like having control of your paper and pencil, and your handwriting is clear, I would recommend the paper-based test.