Achieving your desired IELTS score can feel like an uphill battle. In spite of putting in the study and practice hours, it can feel that you're making very little progress which can be frustrating and demotivating. Yet, with the right strategies and an organized approach, you can set yourself up for success within a manageable timeline. In this post, we will uncover essential strategies for reaching your IELTS target.
Be Realistic
Did you know? According to research by the IELTS test partners it takes approximately 200 hours of study and practice to increase your overall band score by 1.0! So, adopting a realistic mindset is essential. Many students fall into the trap of setting overly ambitious goals, often influenced by what they see on social media, the internet, or hear from friends.
For instance, if you currently score a 6.0 but you are aiming for a 7.5 don't set yourself up for disappointment by believing you can achieve this score quickly. Accept that you'll need to put in the study and practice hours which will alleviate feelings of frustration.
Make a Practical Study Program
With your realistic goals in place, it's time to create a structured study program tailored to your needs. A well-organized schedule will help you strategically cover each component of the IELTS test.
Start by determining how much time you can commit to studying each week. For example, if you have ten hours available, don't schedule 20 study hours. You can allocate specific days for each test component: dedicate three days to Listening and Reading, two days for Writing, and two days for Speaking practice. Balancing your time across all four areas is key, as neglecting any part can hinder your overall performance.
Target your weak areas
Reflect on your strengths and weaknesses in the four areas of the test: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. If you recognize that you excel in Listening but struggle with Writing, set aside more time for this skill.
Vary your practice and study
Incorporate regular practice tests and simulate exam conditions to build familiarity with the test format. Research shows that candidates who simulate testing conditions score, on average, 15% higher than those who don’t.
However, practice tests alone or for the majority of your study schedule, can be counterproductive. Don't neglect vocabulary building and grammar development as these are the foundation for improving your score. In addition, try active reading and listening using materials that are not IELTS specific.
Create a study program that allows for breaks and downtime to avoid burnout. Remember, a well-balanced and varied study plan over a realistic timeline will achieve a lot more than cramming frantically before the test.
Avoid Quick Fix Fake Experts
In today's digital world, it's common to see quick-fix solutions and self-proclaimed experts promising amazing results in no time. These shortcut schemes can lead you astray and motivated by financial gain. They often lack the depth required for thorough IELTS preparation and can mislead you regarding essential test strategies.
As a general rule, avoid sources that offer "guaranteed success". Instead of relying on shortcuts, turn to reputable sources. Look for well-established IELTS preparation centers and experienced tutors. Real expertise arises from understanding the test format, the scoring criteria, and the variety of tasks you will face during the exam. Make sure that study materials or courses you choose align with the official IELTS criteria and practices.
Get Quality Feedback from Experienced IELTS Teachers
One of the most important aspects of IELTS preparation is obtaining quality feedback. While self-study is important, insights and advice from an experienced IELTS instructor can make a significant difference in your preparation.
A qualified instructor can provide personalized feedback on your speaking and writing skills, highlighting specific areas for improvement. For instance, they can analyze your essay structure in Writing Task 2 and suggest ways to improve task response.
Additionally, practicing speaking with someone experienced in the IELTS format is crucial. Engaging in conversations with an experienced teacher can prepare you for the Speaking section and help you understand expectations around fluency and coherence. Studies show that candidates who engage in regular speaking practice with qualified instructors score 30% higher in the Speaking section compared to those who do not.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for the IELTS exam is more than just hard work; it's about working smart. By setting realistic and achievable goals, avoiding quick-fix solutions, developing a structured and varied study program, and obtaining feedback from experienced instructors, you can achieve your goal.
Remember, your desired IELTS score is within reach if you are dedicated and strategic. Implementing these strategies will bring you closer to your target score in IELTS.
Wishing you success on your IELTS journey!
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