ListeningListening
Predict the answer type
Before each part, read the questions and guess whether you need a number, a name, a date or a place.
Practice task of the week
IELTS Writing Task 2
Some people think students should study abroad to get a better education. Others think it is better to study in their own country. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. Write at least 250 words.
14 tips for IELTS
ListeningListening
Watch spelling and word limits
“No more than two words” means two words maximum. Misspelt answers are marked wrong.
ListeningListening
Don’t get stuck
If you miss an answer, move straight to the next question. The recording plays only once.
ReadingReading
Skim, then scan
Read the first line of each paragraph for the main idea, then scan for names, numbers and key words.
ReadingReading
True, False or Not Given
“Not Given” means the text says nothing about it. Don’t use your own knowledge.
ReadingReading
Manage the hour
Spend about 20 minutes per passage. On the computer test, use the highlighting tool to mark key lines.
Writing Task 1Writing
Always write an overview
Describe the main trend or biggest difference in one or two sentences. It is essential for Task Achievement.
Writing Task 1 (GT)Writing
Match the tone of the letter
Use formal language for a manager or company and informal language for a friend. Cover all three bullet points.
Writing Task 2Writing
Answer every part of the question
If it asks “why” and “what can be done”, answer both. Give a clear opinion if asked.
Writing Task 2Writing
One idea per paragraph
Start each body paragraph with a topic sentence, then explain and give an example.
Speaking Part 1Speaking
Extend every answer
Add a reason or example. “Yes, I do” is too short; two or three sentences is ideal.
Speaking Part 2Speaking
Use the minute to plan
Write key words for each prompt and speak for the full two minutes. A short personal story helps.
Speaking Part 3Speaking
Discuss, don’t just describe
Compare past and present, give both sides and use phrases like “It depends on…”.
Computer testGeneral
Practise typing your essays
Typing speed matters on computer IELTS. The word count is shown on screen.
Avoid these
Five mistakes that cost students marks
1
Memorising templates
PTE now checks content with human raters, and IELTS examiners spot memorised answers. Learn structures, not scripts.
2
Booking the wrong test
PTE Academic vs PTE Core, IELTS Academic vs General Training. Check what your visa or university accepts.
3
Practising only easy tasks
Spend most time on the tasks that carry the most marks and on your weakest skill.
4
Skipping full mock tests
Timing and stamina matter. Sit at least two full mocks before your real test.
5
Ignoring skill minimums
Many visas need a minimum in each skill, not just a good overall score.
Want feedback on your speaking or writing?
Tips help, but personal feedback helps more. Book a demo class at Ambala Cantt or Ladwa and take a short diagnostic test.