10 IELTS Exam Preparation Tips and the Most Valuable Online Resources
By
derenh
August 1, 2023
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a widely recognized English language test that measures students' proficiency in English. People who want to study at international universities, immigrate, or work in English-speaking countries typically use IELTS scores as an important reference indicator. In the process of preparing for the IELTS exam, there are some important skills and strategies that can help candidates achieve better results.
At the same time, there are also a wealth of resources and practice materials available online to provide candidates with preparation for the IELTS exam. Let's take a look at how to make good use of online resources.
The official IELTS website
The official IELTS website is a useful resource where you can find an overview of the exam, such as the format, content, scoring criteria, and exam dates. The website provides a list of IELTS test centers around the world, allowing you to choose the most convenient test date and center and complete online registration. Of course, the website also offers a variety of online practice resources, including simulated test questions, speaking practice, writing practice, reading practice, and listening practice. It provides guidance and suggestions for IELTS exam preparation, including how to prepare for each section of the exam, how to expand vocabulary and grammar skills, and more. It is worth mentioning that the website also provides information on the requirements of countries and schools for IELTS scores, which is something that candidates need to pay attention to.
The British Council website
The British Council is one of the organizations that administer the IELTS exam, and its website provides a wealth of information and practice materials related to the exam, including simulated test questions, online practice, and courses. Road to IELTS is a website developed by the British Council that provides a rich variety of IELTS exam practice materials.
Free online resources for IELTS exam preparation
IELTS Liz and IELTS Online Tests are both websites dedicated to helping candidates prepare for the exam, providing various types of exam questions and even tips for exam day. Of course, the websites also provide past exam questions, but candidates need to understand the nature of the questions and answer techniques to be able to overcome any type of question. Therefore, it is important not to rely on rote memorization.
Wall Street English website
Wall Street English was founded in 1972 and established its first educational center in Hong Kong in 2000, providing various English information, courses, and resources. Recently, they have also organized events with English as one of the main themes, allowing people to integrate English into their daily lives and learn it in a lively way. Of course, they also provide free simulated IELTS exams and IELTS courses to help students learn more accurately.
YouTube Channel
Of course, there are many free videos available for learning on the internet, and YouTube is a good platform to search for related questions and answers based on keywords. There are also channels established by individuals or organizations specifically for the IELTS exam, such as E2 IELTS. Cambridge English, Learn English with Emma, etc., which allow candidates to practice on their own. However, candidates need to be aware of the reliability of their sources and understand their own shortcomings to search for relevant materials, which might take a lot of time. As there is no real-time interaction, which may also affect learning effectiveness.
Forums or Webinars
Experienced IELTS exam trainers have created forums such as IELTS Buddy Forum, IELTS Simon Forum, or IELTS Network Forum. These forums provide a wealth of exam information, resources, skills, strategies, etc. also provide different platforms for candidates to interact with each other. At the same time, candidates can also participate in various online or offline seminars, listen to the latest exam information and notes, and actively ask questions during the Q&A session.
10 Critical Tips for IELTS Exam Preparation:
Familiarize with the question types: Understand the question types and formats of each section of the exam and practice the question types to become familiar with the exam.
Practice mock tests: Practice mock tests to become familiar with the exam environment and time limits.
Improve listening skills: Practice listening to English broadcasts and TV programs to improve listening skills and comprehension.
Improve reading skills: Read English articles, such as news reports, academic papers, and novels, to improve reading skills and vocabulary.
Practice writing: Practice different types of writing tasks, such as writing presentations, essays, letters, and reports, to improve writing skills.
Expand vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases and use them to practice writing and speaking.
Focus on grammar: Learn English grammar and practice using correct grammar and word order.
Practice speaking: Practice English speaking, including dialogue, speeches, and discussions, to improve speaking skills and confidence.
Practice time management: Practice completing tasks within the exam time and focus on time management.
Seek help: Seek help from teachers, classmates, or online resources to solve questions and provide feedback.
Conclusion
In summary, the IELTS exam is a comprehensive exam that includes four parts: listening, reading, writing, and speaking, each with its unique exam requirements and skills. Online learning can help candidates understand the exam content and requirements, provide relevant learning resources and practice questions to enhance their learning and preparation process. For example, candidates can improve their listening and reading skills by watching videos, listening to audio, and reading materials, while improving their writing and speaking skills through writing and speaking practice.
However, listening and speaking skills require more practice and feedback, which usually require candidates to participate in face-to-face courses, sporadic courses, mock exams, and other methods. In face-to-face courses, candidates can communicate and interact with other students and teachers, receive more feedback and guidance, as well as more practice opportunities, to better improve their listening and speaking skills.
Therefore, although online learning can provide candidates with many useful information and resources, we recommend that candidates attend face-to-face courses.
derenh 
