IELTS Listening Tips

There are four sections in this module. Social situations, needs and wants are generally discussed in the first and second sections. Study related topics, mini lectures or speeches is included in the third and fourth sections. The test is designed with increasing difficulty. You will need to answer and listen simultaneously. The test taker is allowed ten minutes extra to check the answers at the end of the test. After every section 30 seconds is allotted  to check the answer. At the beginning of every section 30 seconds is allotted to read and comprehend the questions.

Section 1 and 2:

Discussing direction, opening a bank account, discussing the marks, meeting people, complaining, explaining a situation, describing a process, general enquiries, a tour of a museum, a visit to a public place are some of the monologues and dialogues you generally listen and collect information in these sections.

Section 3:

Generally consists of up to four people talking about an issue, project or happenings. 

Section 4:

You usually listen to a monologue, such as, lectures or general academic topics in this round. 

TIPS:

• Accents in listening can vary from American, Australian, British, Indian, Chinese, or any common English accents.
• Attempt all the questions irrespective of your understanding. 
• Utilize the time given between sections to recollect the conversation.
• Use pencil to write all answers.
• Make use of the last ten minutes only to check answers and their spellings.
• Do not overwrite or scribble unnecessarily in the answer sheet.
• Do not demand for extra time.
• Practise at least ten or more listening tests before appearing for the real test.
• Spellings of Proper Nouns may be excused.
• Listen carefully to names, values, dates, numbers and time indications.
• When charts/maps and diagrams are discussed, take note of directions and process respectively.
• Keep your pace with the listening track.
• Do not waste time in guessing a left over answer or information while listening.