There’s usually this anxiety that comes with taking an exam for the first time. The IELTS is widely recognized and accepted by educational institutions, employers, and immigration authorities in English-speaking countries and, if you’re planning to take the IELTS as a first-timer, this blog post will provide you with essential information and tips to help you navigate the exam successfully.
IELTS has four sections which are Speaking, Reading, Listening and Writing.
The most suitable approach for taking the IELTS test is to fully comprehend why it was designed in the first place,
So, why was the IELTS designed?
The major reason for the IELTS is that it is used as a prerequisite for residency, admissions in specific English speaking countries. Results from the IELTS are recognised by the governments of the UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. It is also noteworthy that the IELTS score you need varies depending on your visa’s criteria.
- For Higher Education
Most higher institutions of learning in the UK, New Zealand and Canada specifically request for an Ielts as a test of english language proficiency as a condition of acceptance into their institutions.
- For professionals
Professionals such as accountants, engineers, Lawyers, doctors, Nurses, Pharmacists, and Teachers most often are required to have an IELTS result before they are accepted into the workforce of a foreign county. This could only mean that after completing your studies, you might need to take the exam to become professionally registered in an English-speaking nation.
Here are things to know about writing the IELTS as a first timer
1. It’s not a test of brilliance it’s a test of intelligence
The exam isn’t meant to scare you into failure, it’s just a means of proving that you have the necessary and basic communication skills.
2. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a standardized exam designed to assess your proficiency in the English language and as such, understand that it is a needed element in your relocation journey.
Understanding the IELTS Exam:
A. Test Format: The IELTS exam consists of four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
B. Two Types of IELTS: Academic and General Training. Determine which version is required for your specific purpose.
The Academic IELTS test was designed to assess your English proficiency and determine whether it is suitable for an academic setting.
The General IELTS Test on the other hand is designed for applicants who want to study below the degree level and also, It may be used for internships or other forms of employment purposes.
C. Scoring: The IELTS uses a 9-band scoring system, with 9 being the highest score.
D. Test Validity: IELTS scores are valid for two years.
Understanding the Exam Components:
A. Listening: Practice active listening skills and familiarize yourself with different accents through practice tests and recordings.There are loads of resources on youtube and you can start by watching CareerEdu’s introduction to IELTS exam
B. Reading: Improve your reading speed and comprehension by reading a variety of English texts and practicing with past papers.
C. Writing: Understand the task requirements, practice different writing tasks, and work on organizing your ideas effectively within the given time frame.
D. Speaking: Practice speaking fluently and coherently by engaging in conversations, recording yourself, and seeking feedback.
How to Ace your IELTS exam at first try
A. Assess Your Current Level: Take a diagnostic test or practice exam to identify your strengths and weaknesses.
B. Set Goals: Determine your target band score and establish a realistic study plan to achieve it.
C. Allocate Study Time: Dedicate regular study sessions to each section of the exam, focusing on improving specific skills.
D. Use Authentic Materials: Utilize official IELTS preparation materials, sample tests, and online resources to familiarize yourself with the exam format.
As a first timer, you are advised to do the following;
1. Seek Professional Guidance: Enrol in IELTS Preparation Courses, this has been made available here at CareerEdu and we offer a seamless and cost effective IELTS lectures. Joining and being a part of our classes is important because joining a structured IELTS preparation course where you can receive guidance from experienced instructors and engage in interactive practice sessions will help your progress.
2. Personalized Feedback: Take advantage of mock exams or writing assessments to receive feedback on your performance and identify areas for improvement.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice: Take regular practice tests to familiarize yourself with the exam conditions, time management, and build endurance.
4. Time Management: Practice completing each section within the allocated time to improve your speed and accuracy.
5.. Review and Analyze: After each practice test, review your answers, identify your mistakes, and work on understanding the reasons behind them.
Preparing For the Exam
A. Be Prepared: Know the location and time of your test, gather the necessary identification documents, and bring necessary materials such as pencils, erasers, and ID.
B. Rest and Relaxation: Ensure you get enough sleep the night before the exam and practice relaxation techniques to stay calm and focused.
C. Follow Instructions: Pay close attention to instructions during the test, manage your time wisely, and carefully read and understand each question.
D. Speak Confidently: During the speaking test, speak clearly, demonstrate your language abilities, and engage in a natural conversation with the examiner.
HERE ARE ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE IELTS EXAM
A. Improve Your Vocabulary: Create word lists based on different topics and practice using those words in sentences.
B. Read Widely: Read books, newspapers, articles, and blogs to expose yourself to a wide range of vocabulary.
C. Use Flashcards: Utilize flashcards or vocabulary apps to learn and review new words regularly.
Enhance Your Grammar Skills:
A. Grammar Exercises: Practice grammar exercises to strengthen your understanding of English grammar rules.
B. Identify Common Errors: Identify common grammatical errors you tend to make and work on correcting them.
C. Seek Feedback: Ask a native English speaker or a language instructor to review your writing and provide feedback on grammar usage.
Enhance Your Listening Skills:
A. Listen to Authentic English: Regularly expose yourself to authentic English audio materials such as podcasts, movies, and TV shows.
B. Note-Taking: Practice taking concise notes while listening to recordings to improve your ability to grasp key information.
C. Familiarize Yourself with Different Accents: Listen to speakers with different accents to become accustomed to diverse speech patterns.
Prepare for the Speaking Test:
A. Practice Speaking Fluently: Engage in conversations with native English speakers or join language exchange programs to improve your fluency and confidence.
B. Focus on Pronunciation: Pay attention to your pronunciation, stress, and intonation patterns to ensure clarity in your speech.
C. Prepare Sample Answers: Familiarize yourself with common speaking topics and prepare sample answers to boost your confidence during the test.
Stay Positive and Manage Test Anxiety:
A. Positive Mindset: understand that you need a positive mindset to go anything in life, adopt a positive attitude and believe in your abilities. Visualize yourself succeeding in the exam.
B. Relaxation Techniques: Practice deep breathing exercises or meditation to help calm your nerves before and during the exam.
C. Take Breaks: During the test, if you feel overwhelmed, take a moment to pause, relax, and refocus.
Remember, success in the IELTS exam requires consistent effort and dedicated practice. With thorough preparation, effective study techniques, and confidence in your abilities, you can excel in your first-time IELTS attempt.
Always remember that taking the IELTS exam as a first-timer can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation and strategies, you can increase your chances of success. Develop a study plan, practice consistently, seek guidance when needed, and stay confident during the exam. Remember that practice and perseverance are key to achieving your desired IELTS band score.
Are you Looking for personalized support to excel in your IELTS journey?
At CareerEdu, we specialize in helping students like you achieve their desired IELTS scores. Our experienced instructors provide tailored classes that address your specific needs, empowering you with the skills and confidence to succeed.
Take the first step towards IELTS success by reaching out to us today. Contact us to learn more and start your personalized IELTS journey.
