So you're preparing for the IELTS? Here are the most useful tips which can help you get a good score:
Know how the test works - You may be good in English but you do need to know the format of the test. Taking the test without knowing the test format is a sign of over-confidence which may not lead you to your goal.
Work on your speed - You need to improve your speed in the following areas:
Reading - Speed reading is essential for the Reading Test. You can improve your reading speed by reading a lot. Read a lot on your PC. Install a dictionary program on your PC and use it to look up the meanings of words you don't understand. Most of the times, you may understand the meaning of a word from the context even if you don't know the exact meaning.
Writing - To write fast, you need to come up with your ideas, create an impression in your mind of what you are going to write and then finally write it down. Your writing must have a flow. You need to take care that sentence formation is correct. To start practicing writing, read an interesting article or topic and write it down in your own words. See how much time you take to assemble the ideas, create an outline and then finally put everything into words.
Listening - The same rule applies to listening as well - listen as much as you can. Watch English movies and channels. Join English speaking groups and communities in your local area.
Start with something interesting - If you have not been reading, writing and/or listening English that much till age, never start with topics that you dislike or find uninteresting. Start reading a good novel. Search the internet for your favourite topic , read it and write down something about it in your own words. Consult your friends for some good English movies. Get their DVDs and watch those. This really works.
Read the examination instructions first - Many test-takers don't read the instructions which may contain vital information to answer the questions correctly. You would save a little time by skipping the instructions but more prominently you would be hurting your score by doing things incorrectly.
Your introduction - During speaking, most candidates are asked to introduce themselves. Feel comfortable and try to interact with the interviewer in a friendly way. Speak willingly and say interesting things about yourself.
Know what is going on in the rest of the world - It would help if you stay updated with the current affairs. Sometimes you get topics related to current events or issues to write upon.
Show yourself in the Speaking Test - The speaking test can be very scoring if you keep yourself calm and confident. Don't answer in just "yes and "no". Speak more than that. Show your willingness to speak the English language. Sit comfortably with a good posture. Be helpful to the interviewer by listening to his question properly and then responding in a friendly way.
