The real IELTS listening test can feel intimidating, but with the right preparation, it becomes one of the most score-able modules. The key is to understand the test’s structure and know what to expect. This guide from Banglay IELTS, led by founder Rashed Hossain, will give you a clear overview of the IELTS listening test format and provide you with actionable tips to prepare for the final exam.
What is the IELTS Listening Test Format?
The IELTS Listening test is approximately 30 minutes long and consists of 40 questions spread across four sections. You will hear each recording only once. After the recording ends, you will have 10 minutes (for the paper-based test) or 2 minutes (for the computer-based test) to transfer your answers to the answer sheet.
- Section 1: A conversation between two people in an everyday social context (e.g., booking an appointment).
- Section 2: A monologue in an everyday social context (e.g., a speech about a new facility).
- Section 3: A conversation between up to four people in an educational or training context (e.g., students discussing a research project).
- Section 4: A monologue on an academic subject (e.g., a university lecture).
The recordings get progressively more difficult. To succeed, you need to practice with a variety of question types, including multiple choice, form completion, and map labeling.
How to Prepare for the Real IELTS Listening Test?
Preparing for the real IELTS listening test requires more than just listening to English. Here are some of our expert tips:
- Active Listening: Don’t just hear the words; actively listen for the answers. Pay attention to keywords and synonyms from the questions.
- Anticipate the Answer: Before the recording starts, read the questions and try to predict what kind of information you need to listen for (e.g., a name, a number, or a place).
- Practice with Different Accents: The recordings feature a variety of native English accents (British, Australian, American). Listen to different types of podcasts and watch movies to familiarize yourself with these accents.
- Improve Spelling: You lose marks for spelling mistakes. Make sure to check your spelling when transferring your answers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the IELTS Listening test the same for Academic and General Training?
Yes, the IELTS Listening test is exactly the same for both Academic and General Training test takers.
How do I practice for the IELTS Listening test?
The best way to practice is by taking a free IELTS listening mock test. You can find authentic practice tests on the official websites of the British Council and IDP, as well as on the Banglay IELTS YouTube channel.
Can I pause or replay the audio during the test?
No. The audio for each section is played only once. You cannot pause, replay, or go back to any part of the recording.
What is a good score in IELTS Listening?
An IELTS Listening score of Band 7.0 or higher is generally considered a good score. To achieve a Band 7.0, you need to get 30 to 32 questions correct out of 40.
What happens if I miss an answer?
Don’t panic. If you miss an answer, move on to the next question. Dwelling on a missed question can cause you to miss more answers in the following questions.
Contact us today to get started.
Call Now: +8801329719513
Visit: https://banglayielts.com/