
Note Completion task is one of most common question types in the IELTS. It evaluates your ability to accurately complete notes from a recording. This article will help you understand structure, difficulties, and strategies to succeed in IELTS Listening section.
What is Note-Completion Task in IELTS Listening?
IELTS Listening test includes different types of questions. One of these types is Note Completion. You are given notes with missing information and must fill in blanks based on what you hear in a recording. In this task of IELTS listening test, you’ll listen to an audio and fill in the blanks in the notes. Notes will include a summarised part of a lecture. Answers usually come in order in recording. It is important to follow order of blanks and listen carefully for details like names, numbers, and dates.
IELTS Listening Mock Test - Note Completion Task
One can check the IELTS listening note completion with answers by practicing the free mock test provided below.
Understanding the Note Completion Task - Sample Questions
Below are two note-completion questions taken from previous IELTS listening tests.
Sample Question 1 –
Source - Cambridge English test paper
The recording for the above sample question is regarding the several events and activities that are planned for the Kenton Festival. Participants inquire about specifics including event locations, schedules, ticket costs, and special features. Information on the various performances, workshops, food vendors, and cultural displays that will be accessible throughout the festival period is provided by the organizers.
Sample Question 2 –
Source - Cambridge English test paper
The recording for this sample question concerns Paul, who calls Susie, who works at a newly reopened library. They discuss the library's free membership, various facilities, including travel and history books, activities for children, adult events, IT support for seniors, and a free medical check-up service. Paul plans to join the library with his children and asks about parking, which is free in the evenings and weekends.
Common Challenges and Solutions in Note-Completion
Your performance will significantly improve if you understand these difficulties and use practical solutions to overcome them. Following table lists typical problems related to completing Note Completion task. It includes solutions to overcome them:
| Challenge | Description | Solution |
| Misinterpreting Word or Number Limits | Writing more words or numbers than allowed. | - Read instructions very carefully and highlight word/number limits. |
| Missing out important Details While Listening | Losing focus and skipping crucial information due to distractions or fast-paced audio. | - Stay attentive and follow the sequence of the blanks. |
| Spelling Mistakes | Incorrect spelling leads to a loss of marks, even if the answer is otherwise correct. | - Review common words and terms used in IELTS Listening. |
| Grammar Errors | Answers don’t fit grammatically within the sentence or context of the notes. | - Double-check grammar after writing on answer sheet. |
| Difficulty with Accents | Understanding various English accents (e.g., British, Australian, American) can be challenging. | - Practice with different listening materials to improve accent familiarity. - Listen to podcasts in different accents. |
| Not Following the Sequence of Answers | Answers appear in order in the recording, but some test-takers jump around, losing their place. | - Follow the blanks sequentially and refer to keywords in the notes to stay on track of the audio. |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Note Completion task in the IELTS Listening section?
The Note Completion task requires you to fill in missing information in notes, which summarizes key points from the audio recording. You will listen to the audio and write down specific details like numbers, dates, names, or concepts.
2. What types of recordings are used for Note Completion tasks?
The recordings can include conversations, lectures, monologues, or discussions on everyday or academic topics. The language used is conversational or formal, depending on the context.
3. How much time is given for the Note Completion task?
The listening recording is played only once, but you are given time before and after the audio to read instructions, skim the notes, and review your answers.
4. How do I know what type of information to listen for?
The notes and blanks will provide context. For example, if a blank is of “Phone number,” the answer is likely a number. Similarly, a blank after “due date” likely requires a date.
5. What does the instruction “Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER” mean?
This instruction indicates that your answer should not exceed two words and/or one number. For example, if the answer is "20 dollars," writing "20 US dollars" would exceed the limit and answer will be marked wrong.
6. Can I write answers in all capital letters?
Yes, writing answers in all capital letters is acceptable and often recommended to avoid issues with capitalization errors.
7. What happens if I miss an answer during the recording?
If you miss an answer, don’t panic. Move on to the next blank to stay with the audio. You can make an educated guess during the review time, once the audio has played.
8. Do I lose marks for spelling mistakes in Note Completion tasks?
Yes, spelling mistakes will lead to a wrong answer, even if the information is correct. For instance, writing "comittee" instead of "committee" will lead to a deduction.
9. Can I use abbreviations in my answers?
Avoid using abbreviations unless specified in the notes. For example, write "kilometers" instead of "km," unless the abbreviation is part of the provided context.
10. How can I prepare effectively for the Note Completion task?
Practice listening to different types of recordings, focus on identifying key details, and develop your ability to predict answers based on the context of the notes.
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