IELTS Test Results competition

Remember Mythri, who got 8.5 in IELTS last month? I asked her for advice, what in her opinion is important to get a high score, and here is what she says:

“My tips will be relevant for those who are already conversant with the English language in general, but need to understand the dynamics of the exam.

1. Understanding the exam is the first step. One must have a clear idea of the modules, what the different components are, and what sort of questions could be asked under each component. I started with the IELTS blog as it explained each aspect of the module and had great tips. I also looked at the official IELTS site for examples of various types of questions.

2. I solved several tests, rigidly timed (time is a very critical commodity in the test).

3. Reading and listening test performance has to be perfect as it’s our accuracy which determines the score. Writing and speaking is not totally in our hands.

4. Listening – I listened to talk shows and the news for some time every day. UK postcodes may form an answer and they are of the form “HR 4 2 BL”. I was not expecting this, so i was a bit stunned.

5. Writing – Using the first 5 minutes to chalk out a plan and arranging the answer is vital. Practice the terminology for interpretation of graphs and use the terms liberally, creating variety in the answer.

6. Kindly use the last 5 minutes to revise the answer, as however good you are, you are bound to make spelling errors under stress.

7. Speaking – most examiners are very kind and it is really easy to make a slightly formal conversation. It s not exactly talking to your neighbor, but not that frightening either. You don’t have to sound brilliant. You do not necessarily have to use very complicated vocabulary. I spoke slowly with clarity and accuracy using rather average vocabulary.

8. Finally, it is important to take a mock test at least twice before the exam. You must time yourself and run through all the aspects of the module over 2 hrs and 40 minutes in one stretch.

It is a test of your endurance and ability to concentrate over that length of time. Its tough as you are hanging on to every little word like your life depends on it!

Thanking Simone for her wonderful effort, I’d like to wish all the exam goers the very best of luck.

Regards,
Mythri”

As you may remember we had 4 winners in our results competition last month. One of these high achievers, Lena Bucatariu, shared with us her best exam tips, what she thinks is important and can help you get a better result. Here is what she says:

“Dear Simone,

Every month, high achievers from around the world post on your blog excellent tips on how to tame the English language and improve the four skills. To avoid re-inventing the wheel, I have decided to focus on common sense advice on less ‘technical’, but still potentially dangerous details.

1. Sleep very well the night preceding the test; before going to bed, avoid watching TV, playing video games or doing other activities that may put undue strain on your eyes. And no alcohol!

2. On the day of the test, get up early enough – you want to make sure you are thoroughly awake by the time the test starts. Have a good breakfast, drink sufficient water, and don’t forget to use the restroom 🙂

3. When deciding what time to leave the house, take weather conditions and traffic into account; I suggest you have a friend or family member give you a ride, to avoid being pulled over for reckless IELTS-fever driving.

4. If possible, try to take the test at the same time with a friend or classmate; you can help each other out a lot by studying together, sharing materials and comparing teacher’s corrections on your homework.

5. During the last 20 minutes of waiting in the test room, anxiety may take over and fill your head with terrifying scenarios. You may feel scared, paralyzed, drawing a blank. This is the time to look around the room, make eye contact with your friend and smile. He or she probably needs this even more than you do.

6. While the recording is playing, look in your paper, and occasionally rest your eyes on the floor or anything inanimate. DON’T look at other people. Their reactions to the listening will distract you and, even worse, the proctors may suspect you are trying to cheat.

7. For the interview, dress professionally, but don’t overdo it; try to avoid new, very tight, or uncomfortable clothes or shoes. When giving your 2-minute answer, make sure you have an interesting story to tell, but don’t worry if the examiner seems a bit cold or unfriendly; they have instructions to stay neutral and keep facial expressions to a minimum.

Good luck! :)”