A Comprehensive Guide on How to Pass IELTS in One Sitting

Taking the IELTS exam can be a daunting task, especially if you’re aiming for a high score. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my personal experience and provide you with valuable tips on how to excel in each section of the IELTS exam. With dedication and the right strategies, you can achieve a remarkable score on your very first attempt.

General Tip: Don’t Cram

Before we delve into specific sections, let’s start with a fundamental piece of advice: don’t cram. Unlike traditional exams, IELTS evaluates your language skills and ability to communicate effectively. You won’t be asked the same questions as others, so rote memorization won’t help. Focus on understanding how to respond to different types of questions instead.

Listening: Sharpen Your Focus

Listening is a crucial component of the IELTS exam, and for many, it can be challenging. To succeed in this section, train your mind to stay engaged and attentive. I had trouble with this because I was used to watching movies with subtitles, which allowed me to skim over the audio. In the IELTS exam, there are no subtitles.

You must pay close attention to every detail of the conversation. Taking practice tests can be immensely helpful. On the night before the exam, I took a practice test, which significantly improved my focus during the actual test. So, invest time in practicing as many listening exercises as possible.

Writing: Time Management and Clarity

The writing section of the IELTS exam can be intimidating, with two tasks to complete in just 60 minutes. Task 2 holds more weight, so tackle it first. It usually requires a formal response. In my case, I had to write about age restrictions for driving.

I exceeded the word limit, and this led to typos and tense errors. To avoid this, limit Task 1 to around 200 words and Task 2 to 300. I had a plan in mind: 3/4/4/3 sentences for Task 1 and 3/7/7/3 for Task 2. However, I got carried away and exceeded these limits. Stick to your plan, emphasizing concise, clear sentences.

Using linking words like “To Begin,” “Moreover,” or “In Conclusion” helps your sentences flow smoothly. Also, read your responses aloud to catch errors, as precision is crucial in this section.

Reading: Strategize for Success

In the reading section, take a strategic approach. Start by reading the questions before diving into the passage. Time is on your side here, so don’t rush. If a question poses a challenge, move on and return to it later. Remember, do not insert your words into the passage; answer only based on what the passage provides.

Be particularly cautious with “Not Given” or “False” questions. If information isn’t in the passage, it’s “Not Given.” If you can’t confirm whether a statement is true or false, it’s safest to choose “Not Given.”

With ample time available, thoroughly review your answers. If you’ve scored well in previous English exams, such as WAEC’s English, you should aim for at least a 7.5 in this section.

Speaking: Practice and Confidence

The speaking section can be subjective, but practicing is key to success. Record yourself answering common speaking topics, then listen for errors and inconsistencies. Gradually advance to video recordings, striving for fluency and clarity.

When facing the examiner, approach the conversation with confidence and a smile. Avoid correcting their questions; simply provide clear, well-structured responses. Remember, they assess your fluency, vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation, not the truthfulness of your answers.

Practice Resources: Choose Wisely

For your practice, I primarily used the British Council’s IELTS registration website. While some exercises are paid, there are several free ones that are worth completing. Additionally, you can find free practice exercises on various websites like IELTS Buddy, IELTS Online Tests, and IELTS LIZ. These resources offer valuable practice material to help you prepare effectively.

In conclusion, passing the IELTS exam in one sitting is attainable with the right approach. Practice diligently, manage your time effectively, and focus on improving your language skills. Remember, IELTS is designed to assess your English proficiency, and with consistent effort, you can achieve an impressive score. Best of luck in your IELTS journey!