Top 5 IELTS Listening Strategies to Improve Your Score

Top 5 IELTS Listening Strategies to Improve Your Score

The IELTS Listening test can be challenging, but with the right strategies in place, you can improve your score and feel more confident on test day. In this article, we'll explore the top 5 IELTS Listening strategies to help you succeed.

Practice active listening

One of the key strategies to improve your IELTS listening score is to practice active listening. This means fully concentrating on what the speaker is saying, asking questions for clarification, and paraphrasing the information back to the speaker. By actively engaging with the audio material, you can improve your comprehension and retention of the information. Additionally, active listening can help you to identify key points, main ideas, and supporting details in the audio passages, which will be crucial for answering questions accurately during the test. Make sure to practice active listening regularly to enhance your listening skills and boost your confidence on test day.

Familiarise yourself with different English accents

One of the key strategies to improve your score on the IELTS Listening test is to familiarise yourself with different English accents. The test includes a variety of accents, such as British, American, Australian, and Canadian. By exposing yourself to these different accents through listening to podcasts, watching movies or TV shows, and practicing with sample tests, you will be better prepared to understand the speakers during the test. This will not only improve your listening skills but also boost your confidence on test day. So make sure to diversify your listening practice to ensure success on the IELTS Listening test.

Predict answers before you listen

One effective strategy to improve your score on the IELTS Listening test is to predict answers before you listen to the audio. By reading the questions carefully and thinking about possible answers, you can focus your listening and be better prepared to catch the key information. This can help you save time during the test and increase your chances of selecting the correct answers. Practice this strategy regularly to build your prediction skills and boost your confidence on test day.

Take advantage of the time given to check your answers

Take advantage of the time given to check your answers. Once the recording is over, you will have 10 minutes to transfer your answers to the answer sheet. Use this time wisely to review your answers and make sure you haven't made any mistakes. Double-checking your answers can help you avoid simple errors that could cost you valuable points. Pay attention to spelling and grammar, as well as any specific requirements for each question. Don't rush through this final step, as it can make a big difference in your overall score.

Use keywords to help you follow along

When preparing for the IELTS Listening test, it's important to use keywords to help you follow along with the audio. By familiarising yourself with common keywords and phrases related to the topics being discussed, you'll be able to anticipate what you're going to hear and better comprehend the information. This strategy will not only improve your understanding but also help you answer the questions more accurately and efficiently. Practice using keywords in your listening exercises and mock tests to build your confidence and enhance your score on test day.

By implementing these top 5 IELTS Listening strategies into your study routine, you'll be better prepared to tackle the test and improve your score. Remember to practice regularly and stay focused during the test to maximise your chances of success.