Any type of exam preparation takes time and effort, for sure. When it comes to IELTS though, it is more about the “smart” way rather than the “hard” way!
Today, I have distilled certain points for both the categories of IELTS aspirants, i.e., those who are going to attempt it for the first time, and those who are going to attempt it after having an experience of not-being-able to make it!
I would explain step-by-step the process to adopt in series of the blogs coming up. In this series “Shortcut to Success: Does it Really Exist?”, I would share some insights on the following topics:
- Understanding what “preparation” exactly means for IELTS exam.
- specific tips for the absolute beginners.
- Study plan for IELTS retakers.
- What worked for our students who prepared for not more than 1-2 weeks?
SET THE SAIL RIGHT!
It is highly pertinent to note that any IELTS band score is attainable, if the preparation and direction is right. The moment you decide about taking IELTS exam, you go and research on the internet about the exam. Of course, this shall be the first step to KNOW about the exam pattern and basic requirements although this can’t be included in the term “preparation”. Let’s explore what does it mean?
- > The first step to prepare is to understand “grading criterion” to achieve your set target. Read the band descriptors on the British or IDP website, and acquaint yourself of what exactly would it mean to be graded at band 7. Only if you are aware of what is the expectation of the examiner, would you be able to fulfil it too.
- > Mark all the things that you don’t possess in your language skills, and devote your attention towards that instead of reading everything that you come across.
- > Make a study plan for yourself that is achievable, and stick to it. There has never been any success that happened by chance, and if it did, we don’t know how bright would be our chances!
- > Don’t prepare for too long. It seems strange, I know. Keeping a long-term plan of months generally is not sustainable, and one tends to divert multiple times, finally leading to frustration. Keep the time from 2 weeks to 5 weeks at the most. Targeted time would keep you on track.
- > Don’t keep the habit of accumulating too much of information from web. It is just a distraction, and most of us don’t even read half of the files we save. Stick to authentic Cambridge books and material.
- > For adjusting your sails, the quickest, take guidance from the trainer or expert in the field. This would save a lot of time on thinking about “what to study?”
- > Don’t go section by section. Keep two sections preparation parallel. It keeps you engaged for longer time, and saves you from boredom or frustration that you might face because of difficult parts.
- > Don’t run away from mock tests! This is the only way to judge yourself fairly. Having the right assessment and evaluation done would guide you better in “what still needs to be done”.
See you in the next blog with Specific Tips for The Absolute Beginners!
