Play, Pause, Rewind much-acclaimed words that seems to be emerging on OTT platforms are a swear by for youth. However, the three verbs are only restricted to music or podcast available on your TV screens or phones! No matter how dearly you wish to pause and rewind audio at the IELTS listening test, it won’t give you chance.
The listening section takes 30 minutes to complete and consists of four passages and 40 questions. At the end of the test, you are left with 10 minutes to write your answers on the answer sheet. So before the date of your IELTS seem to be knocking at the door prepare for the audio test beforehand, to brush off your listening skills here are some tips:
- Listening is the key
Remember you only get to listen once, so be careful while you take the mock pay attention to the audio. Try not to press the repeat button after a few practice sessions only you’ll get a hold of it.
- Use different communication tools
Listening to a mock test is one approach to excel in the exam; however, it’s not the only mantra to improve your score or listening abilities. Exercise the power of mass communication tools for a fruitful listening exercise. Tune into radio channels, listen to news reports, ted talk, podcasts, etc to enhance your listening capabilities. In this process, Netflix can help you with a range of content that will add to your accent list.
- Train your mind to think in English
When English is not your main language, your first reaction after listening to the audio would be translating it into your native language. Alas, the process of translation won’t be of great help! Since the time constraints don’t leave you with ample time to translate during the exam.
It is advised by experts to start practicing by thinking in English which can bring you a step closer to fluency. Remember consistency is the key!
- Prepare a time-table and stick to it!
Depending upon your grip over the language, concept, and vocabulary IELTS aspirants must devote a minimum of 4-6 weeks to the listening section. As the preparations commence, take about 1-2 days to understand the test format and the question pattern for the particular section. They can then start practicing for the section.
As you become familiar with the exam pattern, assess your weak points, and identify which segment takes longer to understand. Devote more time to your weak areas by practicing more and trying to strive to achieve conceptual clarity.
Map how much time you’re giving to each segment and come up with a precise time management strategy to balance time without comprising on other parts.