How to start your IELTS preparation [for beginners]

Summary

This video guide offers a comprehensive overview for IELTS exam preparation, distinguishing between the Academic and General Training versions, and explaining the IELTS UKVI's video-recorded format. It advises on booking exams early, especially during peak seasons, and navigating the IELTS.org website. The script covers the test's four sections, emphasizing the importance of practicing writing and speaking skills, and recommends official practice tests and study plans. It also suggests books for preparation, discusses the variability of IELTS scores, and emphasizes the importance of starting preparation as early as possible for the best results.

Takeaways

• 📚 There are two types of IELTS exams: Academic and General Training. Academic is for those studying abroad, while General Training is for joining family or working in an English-speaking country.
• 🎓 IELTS UKVI is not a separate exam type but a video-recorded version of the Academic or General Training exams, mainly for UK visa purposes to prevent cheating.
• 💲 The cost of IELTS ranges from 220 to 250 US dollars, emphasizing the importance of thorough preparation.
• 📅 Booking the exam should be done early, especially during peak seasons like spring and summer, to avoid last-minute unavailability.
• 🌐 The IELTS exam can be booked through the official website, with tests administered by either British Council or IDP, regardless of local test center names.
• 🖥️ IELTS offers both computer-based and paper-based formats. The choice depends on personal preference, typing speed, and comfort with earphones or loudspeakers.
• 📝 IELTS consists of four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The Listening and Speaking sections are the same for both Academic and General Training, but Reading and Writing tasks differ.
• ✍️ In Writing, Academic candidates describe charts while General Training candidates write a letter. Both have an essay task with similar criteria.
• 📝 Official practice tests are crucial for preparation as they reflect the actual exam's difficulty, tasks, and wording.
• 📈 A free IELTS study plan is available to guide preparation, including steps, resources, and practice tests.
• 📚 Books like 'IELTS Academic Practice Tests' and 'The Official Guide to IELTS' provide valuable practice and tips for exam preparation.
• ⏳ Preparation time can vary from a few weeks for essential strategies to one to three months for advanced preparation, with the IELTS certificate valid for two years.

Q & A

What are the two types of IELTS exams mentioned in the video?

The two types of IELTS exams are IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training.

Which IELTS exam should you take if you plan to study abroad?

If you plan to study abroad, you should take the IELTS Academic exam.

What is the purpose of IELTS General Training exam?

IELTS General Training is for those who are going to join their family in an English-speaking country or want to work abroad, and it is generally a bit easier than the Academic version.

What is the difference between IELTS and IELTS UKVI?

IELTS UKVI is not a separate type of exam; it refers to the IELTS Academic or General Training exams taken in a room with video recording to ensure the correct candidate takes the test, mainly due to past incidents of cheating.

How much does it cost to take the IELTS exam?

The IELTS exam costs between 220 and 250 US dollars.

When should you book your IELTS exam, especially during high-demand periods?

You should book your IELTS exam early, especially during the end of spring and summer when the demand for IELTS exams is very high.

What is the structure of the IELTS Listening section for both Academic and General Training?

The IELTS Listening section lasts for 30 minutes and consists of 40 questions, and it is the same for both Academic and General Training students.

How does the IELTS Reading section differ between Academic and General Training?

Academic students get three longer, more scientific texts, while General Training students get five shorter, less scientific texts, with General Training requiring more correct answers to achieve the same score.

What are the two tasks in the IELTS Writing section, and how do they differ between Academic and General Training?

Task 1 differs, with Academic students writing a report describing a chart, table, graph, map, or diagram, and General Training students writing a letter. Task 2 is similar for both, requiring an essay on a topic.

What is the format of the IELTS Speaking exam, and does it differ between Academic and General Training?

The IELTS Speaking exam is a face-to-face interview with an examiner, lasting between 11 and 14 minutes, and it is the same for both Academic and General Training.

What is recommended for someone who wants to prepare for the IELTS exam?

It is recommended to take a free practice test to understand the exam format, learn strategies, and approach each type of task, using official practice tests for authenticity.

What are some resources mentioned in the video for IELTS preparation?

Some resources mentioned include official IELTS practice tests, 'IELTS Academic Practice Tests' book, 'Official Guide to IELTS', and a free IELTS study plan provided by the video creator.

How long should the essential IELTS preparation take, and what should it include?

Essential IELTS preparation should take a couple of weeks, during which you learn about strategies, tasks, and practice. The provided IELTS study plan includes five steps for this essential preparation.

What is the validity period of the IELTS certificate?

The IELTS certificate is valid for two years.

How can one decide between a computer-based and a paper-based IELTS test?

One can decide based on their typing speed and preference for earphones (guaranteed in computer-based tests) versus loudspeakers (which may be used in paper-based tests).