IELTS Test Preparation Resources, Practice Materials & Tips

The IELTS exam syllabus can be checked from below.

Although two weeks are less, however, with a solid strategy can help you get a decent IELTS score. Candidates should understand the IELTS test format and prepare a comprehensive study plan for the next two weeks covering all the topics. After covering all the topics in each of the sections give full-length practice tests.

The IELTS exam format remains largely the same in 2025. It has four parts: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each part tests different skills: Listening checks how well you understand spoken English, Reading measures your ability to read and understand texts, Writing evaluates your writing skills, and Speaking assesses how well you can communicate verbally.

Preparing for the IELTS exam at home might be sounding tedious but it is simple and effective if it is to be done in right ways. Below are the step-by-step guide to help you get ready for IELTS test day:

1. The IELTS has four parts: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Understanding how each part works will help you prepare better.
2. Figure out what your strengths and weaknesses are in English. This way, you can focus on what you need to improve.
3. Decide on a target score and create a study schedule. Make sure to spend time on each section of the test.
4. Use good study materials to boost your IELTS preparation at home. 
5. One should practice English daily at their home with their friends, family, or relatives.
6. Regularly do full-length IELTS practice tests to get used to the exam format and timing at home
7. Join study groups or forums to share tips and get feedback from others.

There is no pass or fail in IELTS exam, however, getting good IELTS band score might be the target of candidates to get admission in top universities. So, to pass or to get good IELTS score on the first attempt, start by understanding the test format and practicing each section—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Then,

• Use official IELTS materials and take mock tests to track your progress.
• One should focus on building their English skills daily through reading, listening, and speaking in English. 
• Set a regular study schedule and stick to it.
• Practice speaking aloud and writing essays to improve fluency and coherence. 
• Review your mistakes and focus on weak areas.
• Stay calm and confident on exam day. With smart preparation and consistency, passing the IELTS in your first try is absolutely possible.

Speaking section has 3 parts which has to be covered in 11-14 minutes.  

• Part 1 (4–5 minutes):

  • Simple questions about yourself (name, work/study, hometown, hobbies).

• Part 2 (3–4 minutes total):

  • You receive a cue card with a topic.

  • One minute to prepare, then speak for up to two minutes.

  • Examiner may ask one or two follow-up questions.

• Part 3 (4–5 minutes):

  • Discussion of more abstract ideas linked to Part 2 topic.

  • You'll be asked to compare, speculate, and justify opinions.

Tip: Treat it like a normal conversation. Be natural, but give full answers (2–3 sentences) rather than one-word responses.

IELTS Listening section is for 40 minutes (30 min + 10 min)

• Four recordings (two conversational, two monologues).

• 40 questions total.

• You hear each recording once.

• Question types: multiple choice, matching, labeling diagrams, short answers, form completion.

• Timing: roughly 30 minutes listening + 10 minutes to transfer your answers to the answer sheet.

Key points to remember:

• Each section gets progressively harder.

• Each recording is played once—no second chances.

IELTS Reading section has 40 questions of different question types. You need to complete them within 60 minutes.

• Three long passages.

• 40 questions total.

• Passages are taken from books, journals, magazines, and newspapers (Academic).

• Question types: multiple choice, matching headings, True/False/Not Given, summary/note/diagram completion, sentence completion.

Academic vs. General:

• Academic texts use higher-level academic language.

• General Training uses shorter, everyday texts (advertisements, letters, manuals).

Timing tip:

• Spend about 20 minutes per passage.

• Don't linger on a single tough question—flag it and move on, then return if time allows.

 Beginners should start preparing for IELTS by following these points:

1. Step 1: Choose the right IELTS test
2. Step 2: Familiarise yourself with the test
3. Step 3: Learn about the question types
4. Step 4: Understand the band scores
5. Step 5: Study and set goals
   • Familiarise yourself with the band scores
   • Asses your English skills
   • Make English a habit
   • Set up a study plan
     • Read English newspapers, books, journals, advertisements and books
     • Listen to English-speaking audio books, podcasts, radio and music
     • Speak to colleagues, friends and family in English
     • Learn a new word every day or week and practice using it in a sentence
6. Step 6: Know what to expect on test day
   1. Arrive early to allow time to register and be seated for your test
   2. Check in your personal belongings such as phones, smart watches, books and notes
   3. Bring your personal identification which is needed for the check-in process

IELTS Writing section contains of 2 tasks to be completed within 60 minutes.

• Task 1 (20 minutes):

  • Academic: Describe a graph, table, chart, or diagram in your own words (150 words).

  • General: Write a letter (formal/informal/semi-formal; 150 words).

• Task 2 (40 minutes):

  • Both versions: Write an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem (250 words).

Scoring focus:

• Task 2 carries more weight (around 2/3 of your Writing score).

• Focus on clear structure: introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion.

• Develop ideas logically and use examples.

To start IELTS at home, you need a mobile or laptop, internet, some free IELTS books or videos, and a quiet space. Also get a notebook to note your mistakes and new words.

Yes, many students do IELTS preparation at home without joining any coaching. You just need proper study material, a good plan, and regular practice. It is fully possible and depends on the seriousness of the students. 

If you study about 2 to 3 hours daily, it's enough. Give time to all 4 parts: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking. You can change subjects every day so it don't feel boring.

You can use Shiksha Free IELTS Classes, IDP official website, and British Council practice tests. Also, on YouTube, many free videos are there with IELTS tips, tricks, and sample answers.

There are a lot of online resources available for IELTS preparation. Few IELTS apps that candidates can use to prepare for the IELTS test.

• IELTS Prep App, IELTS Word Power offered by British Council
• The Official Cambridge Guide IELTS mobile app
• The Vocab24 Vocabulary Builder app
• IELTS Prep App: This is an official IELTS app developed by British Council and can be used by both Android as iOS users
• BBC Learning English: One of the best apps to learn English. It is available on both Android and iOS platforms

If you're unable to attend a class, let your teacher know as soon as possible. This way, we can provide you with the session's materials and any additional support you need to catch up. It ensures you stay on track with your learning, even when life gets in the way.

Shiksha offers a free one-month IELTS preparation course. Students can choose between weekday or weekend classes to fit their schedules. The course covers all four IELTS modules: reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

The programme consists of 20 one-hour sessions spread over the month. Each week focuses on a different module, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the IELTS exam content.

Here's a structured plan to prepare for the IELTS exam at home using Shiksha.com's free online classes:

After you've signed up the consent. You'll get a link to join the free IELTS class. Also you be alloted a personal counsellor who will guide you with every detail about your class — from the schedule to what you should prepare before your first lesson. It’s like getting a personalised roadmap to IELTS success. 

IELTS question papers do not repeat exactly, but similar topics and question types may appear. It is important to practice a wide range of questions from IELTS mock test PDF to prepare for different scenarios. 

The IELTS question paper format remains unchanged in terms of sections, which include Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. One can check the number of questions asked in each section of IELTS from below. 

• Listening: 30 minutes, 40 questions.
• Reading: 1 hour, 40 questions. 
• Writing: 60 minutes, 2 tasks. 
• Speaking: 11-14 minutes. 

After learning the complete format familiarize yourself with all the topics that you need to cover while preparing for the test. You can get online practice tests and make sure to do it while following the time. Prepare for the Listening test by listening to the audio recordings. Similarly, prepare for the Reading and Writing sections accordingly. Make sure you do as much practice as possible in order to get a decent IELTS score.

Using IELTS mock test PDFs with answers helps you evaluate your performance, identify areas for improvement, and practice under timed conditions, which help you in the understanding the level of the actual exam. This preparation with past year IELTS question papers can improve your chances of achieving a good score on the first attempt. 

You can download the IELTS past papers PDF with answers on this page clicking on the download sample paper icon. Shiksha provide downloadable IELTS mock test pdf with answers to help you evaluate your performance and improve your skills.

The IELTS Speaking section monitors the spoken English of the candidate. Every test is recorded. Check out the format of the IELTS Speaking section below:

Applicants can prepare for the Speaking section on IELTS based on the above mentioned format.

The IELTS exam pattern is divided into four sections namely: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. All four sections have a different pattern which does not coincide with one another. The type of questions are also different for each of the sections on IELTS. Let us understand the IELTS exam pattern elaborated in the table below for Academic Test takers:

The IELTS Listening section format is designed in the following manner:

Candidates listen to four recordings of native English speakers and then write their answers to the list of questions.

• Recording 1 - a conversation between two people set in an everyday social context
• Recording 2 - a monologue set in an everyday social context
• Recording 3 - a conversation between up to four people set in an educational or training context
• Recording 4 - a monologue on any academic subject

Types of IELTS Listening Questions

• Matching
• Multiple-choice questions
• Sentence completion
• Short answer questions

Three long texts range from factual and descriptive to discursive and analytical. The texts are selected from magazines, journals, newspapers, and books for those looking to enter universities. Apart from the IELTS format, we have also given the types of questions below.

Types of IELTS Reading Questions

• Identifying information
• Matching features
• Sentence completion
• Short-answer questions
• Identifying the author’s claims
• Multiple choice questions
• Note completion
• Diagram label questions
• Matching information & Sentence endings

The topics in the Writing section are test takers who are suitable for undergraduate and postgraduates looking to get into universities.

IELTS Writing Task 1 - The test taker gets 60 minutes to complete both tasks. One task is for 20 minutes and the other is for 40 minutes. On the IELTS Academic Module, in Task 1, a candidate has to write a summary of at least 150 words of a:

• Table or,
• Graph or,
• Process or,
• Map

Any of the above-given types of questions can be tested, thus applicants should be prepared for it.  

IELTS Writing Task 2 - Task 2 is the same for both Academic and General Training Modules, and involves an essay of at least 250 words. Candidates will be asked to write an essay in response to an argument, problem, or point of view. Make sure to give responses to both tasks formally.

As of 2025, the IELTS Reading Test format remains consistent with previous years, designed to assess a range of reading skills, including skimming, understanding logical arguments, and recognizing writers' opinions, attitudes, and purposes.

Test Structure:

• Duration: 60 minutes
• Number of Questions: 40
• Sections: 3

IELTS Academic Reading:

• Content: Three long passages sourced from books, journals, magazines, newspapers, and online resources, written for a non-specialist audience. Topics are of general interest to students at the undergraduate or postgraduate level.
• Question Types: Multiple choice, identifying information (True/False/Not Given), identifying writer's views/claims (Yes/No/Not Given), matching information, matching headings, matching features, matching sentence endings, sentence completion, summary/note/table/flow-chart completion, diagram label completion, short-answer questions.

IELTS General Training Reading:

• Content: Sections include everyday materials such as advertisements, official documents, brochures, and newspapers.
  • Section 1: Two or three short factual texts.
  • Section 2: Two work-related texts.
  • Section 3: One longer text on a topic of general interest.
• Question Types: Similar to the Academic module, including multiple choice, matching information, and sentence completion.

To get a good score in IELTS reading. One can follow the below-mentioned strategies.

• Skim and Scan: Skim and scan passages to get a general idea.
• Understand the Question Types: Develop skills for each type of question in IELTS reading.
• Timing: Manage your time effectively.
• Instructions: Read the instructions carefull

To get good band scores in IELTS Reading test, applicants should prepare well and practice a lot. Some tips to prepare for IELTS Reading module includes:

• Understand the pattern of the Reading module and take IELTS Reading mock test to understand where the applicant stands.
• Once applicants take the IELTS Reading mock test, create a schedule. 
• Read regularly - books, newspapers and magazines for academi purposes (like Outlook, Business Today).
• Learn new words maybe five each day with their meanings and using them in conversations.
• Attempt different types of passages with a mix of various question types. Try to solve 2-3 everyday.
• Ensure that IELTS Reading practice covers all topics that are tested on the module.
• Apply techniques of skimming and scanning and answer all questions when attempting IELTS Reading practice.
• Consider trying the new, 1-month free online IELTS course to aid students prepare for their IELTS Exam with certified British Council trainers.
• Finally, be consistent with IELTS Reading mock tests, and practice so that there is no break in the flow of preparation.

Want to try some IELTS Reading practice tests? Try and solve these IELTS Reading passages with answers:

To achieve an 8.5 in IELTS Reading, applicants will have to focus on their accuracy and speed. They would need to answer almost all the questions on the IELTS Reading module correctly. To aim for 8.5 band score on IELTS Reading test, applicants should aim for:

• Regularly practice with past papers
• Focus on understanding main ideas, supporting details, and specific information.
• Improve vocabulary and reading speed by reading diverse texts. Check IELTS Vocabulary Words with Meanings
• Effectively learn to skim and scan techniques to locate answers quickly.
• Time management is crucial.
• Finally, analyze your mistakes to identify areas for improvement.

This way, applicants will be able to aim for 8.5 IELTS Reading band score.

Reading section on IELTS Academic can be challenging because there are just 60 minutes to comprehend three passages and answer 40 questions. But with a lot of timed practice, applicants can ace this section easily. The Reading section can be difficult if the applicants do not:

• Practice multiple passages 
• Not time their speed for the section
• Also not practice on different types of passages
• Approach different question types on the passages tested
• Finally, give enough attention to reading newspapers and build vocabulary.

Applicants should ideally begin preparing for the Reading section earlier and give regular time to reading and building vocabulary. 

The test consists of two tasks:

• Task 1 (Academic): Summarize or describe visual data (graphs, charts, diagrams, or maps).

• Task 1 (General Training): Write a letter (formal, semi-formal, or informal).

• Task 2: Write an essay expressing an opinion or addressing a problem.

The IELTS Writing module is an important part of the IELTS exam, testing candidates' ability to express ideas clearly and effectively in written English.

The IELTS writing part is divided into tasks: Task 1 and Task 2.

In IELTS Writing Task 1, candidates in the Academic test are required to describe, summarise, or explain visual data, such as graphs and charts. For General Training, Task 1 focuses on writing different types of letters, including formal, semi-formal, and informal letters. Meanwhile, IELTS Writing Task 2 is an essay question where candidates must present a clear and organised response to a given prompt.

• For Academic IELTS, Task 1 usually involves describing visual information, such as charts, graphs, maps, or processes.

• For General Training IELTS, Task 1 is usually a letter based on a situation. It could be formal, semi-formal, or informal depending on the question.

For Task 1 use:

• Past tense for historical data

• Present tense for processes/diagrams

• Future tense if predictions are shown

For Task 2 use:

• Mix of tenses depending on the topic

• Present tense for general statements

• Past tense for examples or historical references

Achieving a band 9 in IELTS writing is exceptionally challenging and requires near-perfect execution. It demands a sophisticated understanding of the English language and the ability to express complex ideas with clarity and precision.

One needs to demonstrate flawless grammar, a wide range of vocabulary used appropriately, and a natural, fluent writing style. Seek feedback from multiple experienced IELTS instructors to identify subtle areas for improvement.

IELTS Listening test has 4 parts including 10 questions in every part. Part one and two of the test includes everyday social situations whereas part three and four includes educational situations. The questions are in sequence as the information provided in the recording, therefore, the answer for the first question will be before the second.

The IELTS Listening test is designed to assess a variety of listening skills, including how aptly the applicant:

• Understands the main ideas and identify the factual information.
• Recognise given opinions and purpose of the speaker.
• Follows the development of the given argument.
• Finally, how the applicants can accurately or closely answer the questions based on the recordings they have heard.

Thus, applicants who give the Listening section on IELTS should have an eye for detail and listen to the recordings carefully to answer questions correctly. 

Yes, each recording is played only once, so candidates must listen carefully and take notes during the playback.

Improving your IELTS listening score requires consistent effort and varied practice. Immerse yourself in the English language by listening to podcasts, news broadcasts, and conversations. Practice active listening by taking notes and trying to predict what the speaker will say. Expand your vocabulary, focusing on common topics.

Achieving an 8.5 in IELTS Listening demands focused preparation.

• Condition yourself to listening to audio only once to mirror test conditions and enhance concentration. 
• Familiarize yourself with a range of English accents, including those less commonly heard. It is important to learn about the main listening strategies like skimming, scanning and predicting.
• By practicing regularly you will pick up a variety of vocabulary that will help you throughout the test.

In the IELTS Speaking test there is a face-to-face interview between the test taker and the examiner. The Speaking test includes 3 parts which are mentioned above. Here, candidates are assessed on the following parameters:

• Grammar
• Pronunciation
• Lexical resource
• Fluency

The Speaking test is recorded and marked based on the applicant's performance. Applicants should be careful how they attempt this section. Confidence, diction, pronunciation and the use of correct words is important to ace this section. 

Successfully speaking for two minutes in Part 2 of the IELTS speaking test requires strategic planning and practice.

• Before you begin, jot down key points and ideas you want to cover.
• Expand on your answers by providing details, examples, and personal experiences.
• Utilize linking words and phrases to connect your thoughts seamlessly.
• If you need a moment to gather your thoughts, use phrases like, "That's an interesting question." Practice under timed exam conditions.

IELTS Speaking topics can be across different areas like - personal information, hobbies, education, travel, environment and others. Some of the topics for practice on IELTS Speaking are as follows:

General Topics

• Technology and Social Media:

• The impact of social media on mental health

• The role of artificial intelligence in our lives

• The digital divide and its consequences

• Environment and Climate Change:

• The effects of climate change on our planet

• Sustainable living and eco-friendly practices

• Renewable energy sources and their importance

• Education and Work:

• Online learning vs. traditional education

• The future of work and automation

• Work-life balance and its challenges

• Health and Wellness:

• The importance of mental health

• Healthy lifestyle habits and their benefits

• The impact of stress on our lives

IELTS Speaking Topics (Part 2 Cue Cards):

• A time when you helped someone

• A memorable journey

• A favorite hobby or pastime

The IELTS Speaking test lasts between 11 and 14 minutes. During this time, you will have a face-to-face interview with an examiner. The test is divided into three parts:

1. Part 1 (Introduction and Interview): This part lasts about 4 to 5 minutes, where the examiner will ask you general questions about yourself, your home, family, work, studies, and interests.

2. Part 2 (Long Turn): In this section, you will receive a task card with a specific topic. You will have 1 minute to prepare and then speak for 1 to 2 minutes on that topic. This part takes around 3 to 4 minutes in total.

3. Part 3 (Discussion): This final part lasts about 4 to 5 minutes, where you will discuss more complex issues related to the topic from Part 2 with the examiner.

The speaking test will be taken on the same day of test when you are taking IELTS on computer. The sequence of IELTS speaking test might vary, either before, or after the other three parts of the test.

The table mentioned below shows how to read the IELTS score banding

You will be given a score from 1 to 9 for each part of the test – Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The average produces your overall band score. You can score whole (e.g., 5.0, 6.0, 7.0) or half (e.g., 5.5, 6.5, 7.5) bands in each part of the test.

Most universities ask for IELTS Band 6.5 or 7. Some places may take Band 6, but they also want each section (like Writing, Speaking) not too low. Better to aim for Band 6.5 or more.

Yes, the band score system is same for both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. But the Reading and Writing questions are little different, so sometimes scoring feels harder in Academic.

Yes, IELTS gives scores like 6.0, 6.5, 7.0 etc. If your average is 6.25, it will be shown as Band 6.5, and if it is 6.75, then it becomes Band 7.

Although two weeks are less, however, with a solid strategy can help you get a decent IELTS score. Candidates should understand the IELTS test format and prepare a comprehensive study plan for the next two weeks covering all the topics. After covering all the topics in each of the sections give full-length practice tests.

The best books for IELTS preparation are:

• The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS
• Cambridge IELTS Series (1-18)
• Barron's IELTS Superpack
• IELTS Trainer
• IELTS Advantage Series
• Target Band 7: IELTS Academic Module
• Check Your English Vocabulary for IELTS

One of the best books for reading preparation for the IELTS exam is "Cambridge IELTS 16 Academic Students' Book." This book includes authentic practice tests that closely resemble the actual exam format, helping students familiarize themselves with the types of questions they will encounter. Another excellent choice is "The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS," which provides strategies and tips specifically for the reading section.

Yes, it is possible to prepare for and take the IELTS exam within three months. With a focused study plan, regular practice, and possibly enrolling in an IELTS preparation course, many candidates can achieve their desired scores in this timeframe. However, individual preparation time may vary based on your current English proficiency level.

The IELTS exam syllabus can be checked from below.

Yes, you can do IELTS preparation in one month. Many students do it. But you have to be serious and study every day. Give time to all 4 parts, Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking, and don't miss any day.

You should study around 2 to 4 hours per day. If your English is already okay, 2–3 hours may work. If you are weak, try to give more time. Make a study plan and follow it daily.

To improve IELTS writing in one month:

• Write 1 task daily.
• Read Band 7 or Band 8 writing samples, try to copy the structure.
• Use linking words, write clearly, and check grammar.
• Try to finish each writing task in time.

Talk in English with a friend or just talk in front of mirror. Record your answers. Use IELTS cue cards and speak on topic for 1–2 minutes. Listen to Band 8 speaking videos online and learn how they speak.

Yes, if you use them well. You can use Shiksha Free IELTS Classes, IDP website, and free apps. YouTube also has lots of free IELTS practice videos. Just be regular.

Yes, many students do IELTS preparation at home without joining any coaching. You just need proper study material, a good plan, and regular practice. It is fully possible and depends on the seriousness of the students. 

To start IELTS at home, you need a mobile or laptop, internet, some free IELTS books or videos, and a quiet space. Also get a notebook to note your mistakes and new words.

Talk in English with a friend or just talk in front of mirror. Record your answers. Use IELTS cue cards and speak on topic for 1–2 minutes. Listen to Band 8 speaking videos online and learn how they speak.

Do 1–2 full mock tests at home with timer. If your scores are close to your target band, you are doing good. If not, check what part is weak and give more time there.

You can easily find PDFs of previous IELTS questions on our website or even on the official IDP website online.

It depends on your current knowledge of the English language. If you are proficient in English then you can score well even with less preparation. One can definitely increase improve his/her score by studying for the IELTS exam.

One of the best books for reading preparation for the IELTS exam is "Cambridge IELTS 16 Academic Students' Book." This book includes authentic practice tests that closely resemble the actual exam format, helping students familiarize themselves with the types of questions they will encounter. Another excellent choice is "The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS," which provides strategies and tips specifically for the reading section.

Achieving a score of 8.5 in IELTS requires thorough preparation and practice. Focus on improving your English language skills across all four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Use high-quality study materials like "Target Band 7" by Simone Braverman for effective strategies. Regularly practice with past papers and take mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format. Additionally, consider seeking feedback from teachers or peers to refine your skills.

Using IELTS mock test PDFs with answers helps you evaluate your performance, identify areas for improvement, and practice under timed conditions, which help you in the understanding the level of the actual exam. This preparation with past year IELTS question papers can improve your chances of achieving a good score on the first attempt. 

After learning the complete format familiarize yourself with all the topics that you need to cover while preparing for the test. You can get online practice tests and make sure to do it while following the time. Prepare for the Listening test by listening to the audio recordings. Similarly, prepare for the Reading and Writing sections accordingly. Make sure you do as much practice as possible in order to get a decent IELTS score.

Practicing for the IELTS exam independently can be effective with the right resources. Here are some tips:

• Use Official Practice Materials: Utilize books and online resources that provide sample questions and practice tests.
• Set a Study Schedule: Allocate specific times for each section of the exam to ensure balanced preparation.
• Focus on Weak Areas: Identify which sections you find most challenging and dedicate more time to practicing those.
• Engage with English Content: Read English newspapers, watch movies or shows in English, and listen to podcasts to improve your language skills.
• Take Mock Tests: Simulate exam conditions by taking full-length practice tests to build familiarity with the test format.

You can access free IELTS mock test PDFs from various online resources such as FREE IELTS Preparation Classes by Shiksha, IDP India, Cambridge, and more. These websites offer free IELTS practice materials for all sections of the IELTS exam.

IELTS question papers do not repeat exactly, but similar topics and question types may appear. It is important to practice a wide range of questions from IELTS mock test PDF to prepare for different scenarios. 

For some candidates it is important to have a mentor and a regular study plan with fixed timing to prepare for the exam. IELTS test may seem a piece of cake to many but at the same time, it can be difficult for some after knowing its complexities. Candidates can go through the exam pattern and check the topics they need to cover. If you think you need tutoring for preparation then go for coaching or else go for self-study.

There may not be a specific answer to this question as it varies from person to person. Somebody may find the Writing section the most difficult for preparation while some may find Speaking the hardest. It is better one should go through the IELTS exam pattern and understand each and every section and figure out the toughest section based on preparation and focus more on that.

Those who want to give the IELTS test without studying should take some of the IELTS practice tests and then decide whether they need to prepare for the exam or they can give it without studying.