IELTS Preparation : An Epigrammatic Approach

Many a time we get several queries regarding the preparation for IELTS for higher study purpose. While the ways of preparing vary from person to person, there are some general guidelines that can be followed for getting some advantage.

There are thousands of materials available for IELTS both offline and online.

Unfortunately, not many of them are geared for the humble starters of IELTS preparation.

Well, success in IELTS is a happy marriage between time and strategy. To succeed in any time-paced exam like IELTS, you need some definite strategies.

Actually, there is a series that explain the step by step strategies for preparing for IELTS. This series is known as Khan’s IELTS series and they have full-fledged books for IELTS preparation.

I would suggest beginners start with Khan’s IELTS for the strategies and then directly move into the Cambridge IELTS series for practicing.

Last but not least, self-preparation is the best remedy for scoring higher. And keep practicing since practice makes things permanent.

Again, these strategies vary from person to person since we all have our own learning style. This is why I would say that put more emphasis on your strong points.

If you are good at reading and writing, then keep doing the warm-up. For weak points, give more time and practice.

From the humble experience I have, I would like to point out some general strategies for IELTS by sections –

Reading: For reading, read the question first and then scan the passage for the answer. Initially, you might face some problems.But once you are used to it, you see that you are saving more time by doing so. The reading section of the Cambridge IELTS series is more than enough for preparation.

Writing: For the writing section, try to be more specific and be free from grammatical and other errors.

Free-hand writing is the best way to familiarize yourself with the IELTS writing section. Try to find a mentor who can correct you after writing anything.

Listening: For the listening section, print out the sample answer sheet of the IELTS exam available on the internet. Then get Cambridge IELTS listening CD with the book.

Listen to the CD, and then answer on the answer sheet. In the beginning, there will be many mistakes for sure. With everyday practice, you will eventually nail it.

Besides, you can listen to English songs (usually the soft ones) to familiarize yourself with the standard pronunciation to avoid confusion.

Speaking: Speaking is something, which many fear. But, this is something to be approached naturally. If you have a partner or even someone dear, then start speaking in English with him or her.

If you do not have such access, then speak with yourself in front of the mirror. Many people do poorly in this section mainly because of being shy and anxious.

Just be calm and try to be as natural as you are. Keep talking and eventually, you will be there.

Good luck all. Stay safe, stay connected!!

BBA (University of Dhaka), 14th batch

MBA (University Putra Malaysia)

Researcher in Financial Engineering (Japan)