IELTS Listening Test: IELTS Listening Tips, Free Practice Tests Online, Exam Format
International English Language Testing System ( IELTS )
IELTS Listening Exam assesses a candidate's ability to understand spoken English in various contexts. Test consists of four sections. Each features a different listening scenario, ranging from everyday conversations to academic lectures. They become challenging, introducing different accents and speaking speeds.
Candidates listen to various materials and answer 40 questions. Test lasts approximately 30 minutes, followed by 10 minutes to transfer answers to answer sheet. Scoring is based on number of correct answers, with results reported on a scale from 0 to 9.
Academic and General Training are IELTS has two main types. Listening section is same for both types. It is important for your preparation to understand.
Key Highlights of IELTS Listening Exam
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 30 minutes for listening + 10 minutes for transferring answers. |
| Sections | 4 sections, each with increasing difficulty. |
| Questions per Section | 10 questions per section, totaling 40 questions. |
| Types of Questions | Multiple choice, short answer, sentence completion, note completion, matching, and map labelling. |
| Listening Material | Varied contexts: conversations, monologues, academic lectures, and everyday situations. |
| Accents | Includes a range of English accents: British, American, Australian, and Canadian. |
| Answer Format | Answers must be in the specified format (e.g., word limits, spelling accuracy). |
| Scoring | Scores are based on the number of correct answers; band scores range from 0 to 9. |
| Test Types | Available in both Academic and General Training versions. |
| Equipment | Audio is played through headphones; sound quality is monitored. |
| Preparation Materials | Practice tests, official IELTS practice materials, and IELS Training by Shiksha. |
The Listening test is scored out of 40, with each correct answer receiving one mark. The total score is then converted to the IELTS band score, which ranges from 0 to 9.
The TOEFL test has many question types. You will see multiple-choice questions, matching questions, plan or map or diagram labeling, form completion, and short-answer questions. It is important to practice all these question types before the exam. This will help you understand the test format and get better scores.
The IELTS Listening Exam is one of the four components of the IELTS test, designed to assess a candidate's ability to understand spoken English in various contexts. It consists of four sections, each with increasing difficulty.
IELTS Listening Mock Test
Register and attempt this IELTS Listening Mock Test. Read the instructions carefully before answering the test.
Commonly asked questions
To get good marks in IELTS listening, you need to practice daily. You can hear English news, podcast, or people talking. Try to write notes when you listen and guess what they will say next. Also learn new English words from daily topics. If you do this daily, your listening score will go up slowly.
Success in IELTS Listening hinges on understanding the test format and developing effective strategies. Familiarize yourself with the different question types and practice identifying keywords. Pay close attention to these keywords (or their synonyms!) while listening. Consistent practice with authentic listening materials is crucial. By understanding the format you will reduce some anxiety, allowing you to focus.
Achieving a perfect 9 in IELTS Listening requires exceptional listening skills and meticulous attention to detail. You must demonstrate complete comprehension of all audio material, regardless of accent or complexity. It's important to practice active listening techniques, such as predicting answers and taking detailed notes. Review and correct any mistakes to identify your weaknesses and prevent repeat errors.
IELTS Listening Format for IELTS Academic
The IELTS Listening format is the same for both the IELTS Academic and IELTS General Exam. Here’s an overview of what is included in the IELTS Listening Paper:
| Section | Description | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Four audio recordings with different scenarios and question types | Each recording has 10 questions, making a total of 40 questions. |
| Time | 30 minutes for listening, plus 10 minutes to transfer answers (paper-based test only) | 40 minutes in total for the paper-based test and 30 minutes for the computer-based test. |
| Recording 1 | Conversation between two people in an everyday social context | Example: booking a hotel room or discussing a travel itinerary. |
| Recording 2 | Monologue on a general topic, often informative | Example: a speech about local facilities or public events. |
| Recording 3 | Conversation between up to four people in an educational or training context | Example: a group discussion between students or a student and teacher. |
| Recording 4 | Monologue on an academic subject or lecture | Example: a lecture on biology, history, or psychology. |
| Question Types | Multiple choice, matching, plan/map/diagram labelling, form/note completion, sentence completion, short answer | A mix of question types to test a range of listening skills, including detail and gist. |
| Scoring | 1 mark per correct answer; no negative marking | Total out of 40 is converted to IELTS band scores (e.g., 39-40 correct = Band 9). |
| Accents | Varied English accents (British, American, Australian, etc.) | Familiarity with different accents is recommended for accurate understanding. |
NOTE: There will be a word count limit for each set of questions - please pay attention to the word limit and how it changes for the next set of questions.
The IELTS Listening Test remains the same for both the Categories of the IELTS Exam- Academic and General Training like the IELTS Speaking test. Rigorous IELTS Listening Practice is essential before you make up your mind to take the IELTS Listening Test.
Commonly asked questions
IELTS is an international exam so you might hear a variety of different accents in the recording for the Listenibg module. You should have good practice for all the accents before you take the exam, because it might become a hindrance in getting a good band. Understanding different accents might become a challenge but it can be overcome by listening to different podcasts, watching movies and news. This would help in improving your listening skills for various accents.
Yes, you may write on the question paper when attempting IELTS Listening module and make notes if you need to. In fact, it is recommended to write and have some keywords ready before you put them on the final answer sheet. Making notes helps you to remember what you heard in the audio, because the audio is played only once and the answers won't be repeated.
Also keep a note that you need to transfer the answers correctly in your answer sheet in those last 10 minutes of your listening paper. Sometimes candidates forget or miss out on transferring the answers correctly in the sheet, so keep sometime to do so.
Yes, it is very much possible to get a good score with a month of dedicated practice sessions. But you need a certified trainer's help so that you do not waste a single second on irrelevant sources. It is essential to use your time wisely while practicing for IELTS, because every question has a different approach and a strategy.
Also, one has to be realistic in such a context, if you have issues understanding English. Then the first approach should be to learn the basic skills rather than focusing on the IELTS paper. With that you can aim for a higher band because IELTS requires you to have at least a basic level of English to clear the paper.
IELTS Listening Sections
There are four sections or parts on the IELTS Listening section. The first two sections of the IELTS Listening Test talk about the situations in everyday social contexts. The final two parts deal with situations set in educational and training contexts. Check out the breakdown of IELTS Listening module sections with examples:
| Section | Description | Examples | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section 1 | Social Situation – A conversation between two people in an everyday social context. | Booking a hotel room, arranging transportation, or planning an event. | Listen for names, addresses, numbers, and specific details. Identify information gaps and note-taking for accuracy. |
| Section 2 | Monologue on a Social Topic – A single speaker provides information, usually in a non-academic setting. | A tour guide describing a tourist attraction, a speech on a local event, or an explanation of membership benefits. | Focus on main ideas, sequence of information, and specific details. Note the speaker's tone and purpose to capture the main points accurately. |
| Section 3 | Academic Discussion – A conversation between 2–4 people, typically in an academic context. | Students discuss a project, tutor-student feedback, or a group discussion on a research topic. | Recognise individual viewpoints, relationships between ideas, and relevant supporting details. Track multiple speakers and distinguish between them. |
| Section 4 | Academic Lecture – A monologue on an academic or research-related topic. | Lecture on climate change, historical event analysis, or a scientific topic. | Listen for structure (introduction, main points, conclusion), specific data or examples, and terminology. Focus on content comprehension and the speaker’s main arguments. |
Each section has ten questions. It makes a total of 40 questions in Listening test. Applicants must have a strong vocabulary for IELTS to ace Listening module. Sections get progressively harder, and each recording is played only once, so practice is essential!
IELTS Listening Question Types
There are various types of questions that the candidate encounters in the IELTS Listening exam. Every question has its own approach. Here is a list of the different types of questions you would come across in the IELTS Listening Test, along with examples for each type:
NOTE: The IELTS Listening Exam assesses your ability to understand spoken English in various contexts and situations. You will only hear each recording once, so listening carefully and practising good note-taking skills are essential. Remember to follow the instructions for each question type carefully and adhere to the word limits specified (e.g., "NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS"). Use a pencil to record your answers, and ensure you transfer all answers to the answer sheet within the allocated time. No extra time is provided after the test ends, and answers will be marked only as they appear on the answer sheet.
Tips for IELTS Listening Question Types
1. Multiple Choice
Tip: Focus on keywords and anticipate synonyms in the answer options, as the recording might rephrase the options rather than using the exact words.
-
Example:
- Question: What is the primary reason for the delay?
- A) Road construction
- B) Heavy traffic
- C) Weather conditions
- Correct Answer: If the speaker says, “There was congestion due to an accident,” this implies B (Heavy traffic) because "congestion" is a synonym for traffic.
- Incorrect Answer: Choosing A (Road construction) because it’s similar to a cause of delays. You must rely on the exact clue (in this case, “congestion”) given in the recording.
- Question: What is the primary reason for the delay?
2. Matching
Tip: Match based on clear clues in the recording. Be mindful of similar-sounding words that can be misleading.
-
Example:
- Task: Match each person (A, B, C) to their preferred activity.
- People: A) Anna, B) Ben, C) Carla
- Activities: 1) Hiking, 2) Swimming, 3) Reading
- Correct Answer: If Anna says, “I love reading books in my free time,” the correct match is A – 3 (Anna – Reading).
- Incorrect Answer: Choosing A – 1 (Anna – Hiking) because another person later mentions outdoor activities. This would confuse Anna’s preference for reading with another person’s interest.
- Task: Match each person (A, B, C) to their preferred activity.
3. Plan, Map, or Diagram Labeling
Tip: Familiarize yourself with the map layout or plan before the audio starts. Look for landmarks and directional cues. Listen for location cues (e.g., “next to,” “opposite”) and pay close attention to directions.
-
Example:
- Task: Label the locations in a building based on the description.
- Map Locations: A) Conference Room, B) Cafeteria, C) Main Hall
- Correct Answer: If the speaker says, “You’ll find the cafeteria directly opposite the main hall,” then B (Cafeteria) should be labelled opposite C (Main Hall).
- Incorrect Answer: Labeling the cafeteria next to the main hall because the speaker said “opposite.” Misinterpreting direction words will lead to incorrect answers.
- Task: Label the locations in a building based on the description.
4. Form Completion
Tip: Record exact details like dates and numbers accurately, as even small changes can make an answer incorrect.
-
Example:
- Form Field: Date of Event: __________
- Correct Answer: If the recording says, “The event will be held on the 15th of July,” the correct answer is “15th July” or “July 15” (format varies by test instructions).
- Incorrect Answer: Writing “July” alone or “15” without the month will be incomplete, as both parts are required for accuracy.
5. Note Completion
Tip: Identify key points, as irrelevant details are often distractions.
-
Example:
- Note Prompt: The library opens at __________ every day.
- Correct Answer: If the recording states, “The library opens at 9:00 AM every day except Sunday,” the answer is “9:00 AM”.
- Incorrect Answer: Writing “Sunday” because it was mentioned as an exception. Here, you need the regular opening time, not exceptions.
6. Table Completion
Tip: Focus on the structure of the table and the specific row or column being addressed.
-
Example:
- Table Prompt: Price per ticket: __________
- Correct Answer: If the audio states, “Each ticket costs $15,” the answer is “15” or “$15”, depending on formatting.
- Incorrect Answer: Writing “30” because the recording later mentions, “Two tickets would cost $30.” Make sure to answer only the specific question (single ticket cost).
7. Flowchart Completion
Tip: Follow the sequence in order and listen for connecting words that signal the next step.
-
Example:
- Flowchart Step: Step 3: Apply for a __________ permit.
- Correct Answer: If the recording says, “Once you’ve submitted your documents, you’ll need to apply for a temporary permit,” the answer is “temporary”.
- Incorrect Answer: Writing “parking” because the word “permit” was used. Only the descriptive adjective “temporary” answers the question.
8. Summary Completion
Tip: Summaries are paraphrased; listen for similar meanings rather than exact words.
-
Example:
- Prompt: The tour takes approximately __________ hours to complete.
- Correct Answer: If the speaker says, “The tour lasts around two hours,” then “two” or “2” (hours) is the correct answer.
- Incorrect Answer: Writing “a couple of” because it’s informal. Stick to a concise, direct answer as required by the question.
9. Sentence Completion
Tip: Listen for the context of the sentence to fill in the blanks accurately. The audio will often paraphrase the information. Answers must fit grammatically into the sentence.
- Example: If the sentence reads, "The conference will be held in ______," and the audio says, "The conference will take place at the downtown convention centre," your answer should be "downtown convention centre."
- Common Mistake: Mishearing or misinterpreting the paraphrased information.
10. Short Answer Questions
Tip: Use only the words needed to answer the question, adhering strictly to the word limit. Pay attention to the word limit specified (e.g., "NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS"). This helps you focus on the exact information needed.
-
Example:
- Question: What day is the event scheduled for?
- Correct Answer: If the speaker mentions, “The event is on Saturday,” then “Saturday” is the correct answer.
- Incorrect Answer: Writing “It is on Saturday” would be incorrect due to the word limit; keep it as brief as required.
IELTS Listening Tips
The IELTS Listening Test might seem difficult as the test progresses. These are a few general IELTS Listening Tips and strategies to help you gain a good IELTS Listening score band.
| Tip/Strategy | Description | Example | Suggestion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Read Instructions Carefully | Understand question requirements, like word limits and answer format. | For "no more than two words," a three-word answer is incorrect. | Double-check instructions to avoid errors based on format or limits. |
| Preview Questions | Skim questions during pauses to anticipate information needed. | In a map task, look at locations and potential directions. | Underline keywords to stay focused. |
| Focus on Keywords | Listen for specific words and phrases matching questions. | For "years," listen for "2010," "last decade," or similar time markers. | Identify synonyms, as questions often use paraphrasing. |
| Stay Calm if You Miss a Word | Missing one answer shouldn’t disrupt the focus on upcoming questions. | If you miss a name, move on to the next question. | Practice letting go of missed answers to maintain focus. |
| Practice Note-Taking | Jot down key points quickly to avoid forgetting details. | Take notes on terms, dates, and concepts in lectures. | Use shorthand or symbols to speed up note-taking. |
| Familiarize with Accents | IELTS audios include different accents; practising helps reduce misunderstandings. | Listen to British, Australian, and American accents on similar topics. | Use podcasts or other recordings for exposure to diverse accents. |
| Watch Out for Distractors | Speakers may add details or correct themselves. | "The cost is $30, no, actually $20 per ticket." | Stay alert for changes; the last statement is often the answer. |
| Practice Using the Answer Sheet | Familiarity with the answer sheet helps with timing and reduces errors. | Download and fill out a sample answer sheet during practice. | Aim to transfer answers in 10 minutes to simulate real test conditions. |
| Recordings Are Played Once Only | You have one chance to listen and write answers immediately. | Practice listening once and answering immediately. | Strengthen multitasking by reading, listening, and writing at once. |
| Use a Pencil for Answers | A pencil allows for corrections and is recommended for both listening and reading. | Write all answers in pencil on the answer sheet. | Correct any errors during the transfer time. |
| Know the Scoring System | Each question is worth one point; scores are based on correct answers out of 40. | A score of 30/40 might result in a Band 7. | Familiarize yourself with band score descriptors to set target goals. |
| Capital Letters or Lowercase | You may use either capital or lowercase letters for all answers if consistent. | Both "GARDEN" and "garden" are acceptable. | Choose one style (all caps or lowercase) and stick to it. |
| Observe Word Count Limits | Each question specifies a word limit; check this to avoid errors. | “No more than two words and/or a number” allows up to two words and one number. | Focus on “and/or” and keep within the word count exactly. |
| Use Correct Grammar and Spelling | Answers must fit the grammar and spelling requirements of the sentence. | Answer "at the hospital" instead of just "hospital" if required. | Review spelling and grammar while transferring answers. |
| Count All Words and Numbers | Every word and number counts, even small words like "a" or "the." | "A holiday" is two words, while "1950" is one word. | Stay within word limits by counting carefully, including small words. |
| Follow Required Letters or Words | Pay attention to instructions for letters or words in answers, especially in MCQs. | For MCQs, write only the answer letter, like "B" or "C." | Verify the answer format before transferring to avoid errors. |
| Know Question Types Well | Familiarize yourself with all IELTS question types and strategies for each. | Practice multiple-choice, matching, and note-completion questions. | Each type has unique strategies, so practice each individually. |
| Focus on Finding Specific Answers | Aim to find specific answers rather than understanding all details. | Ignore extra information unrelated to questions. | Concentrate on answers, as irrelevant details are included to distract. |
| Be Ready for Fast-Paced Answers | Answers may appear close together or in quick succession. | Three or four answers might be mentioned consecutively. | Stay attentive and preview questions to follow along smoothly. |
| Look Ahead to Upcoming Questions | During pauses, skim upcoming questions to anticipate new topics. | Review the next three questions to stay aware of upcoming topics. | Move to the next question as soon as you answer the current one. |
| Take Notes While Listening | Jot down keywords to retain important information. | Note key terms or numbers mentioned in the audio. | Practice shorthand to keep up with the audio while taking notes. |
| Watch for Gaps Between Answers | There may be pauses between answers; don’t panic. | A long gap may occur between answers, especially in lectures. | Underline keywords to stay focused on questions during pauses. |
| Stay Alert for Common Traps | Answers may change mid-sentence or be paraphrased differently. | A speaker might say, "It was originally USD 50, but now it’s USD 30." | Focus on final statements, as corrections are often mid-sentence. |
| Mind Singular/Plural Forms | Singular/plural misinterpretations can lead to wrong answers. | Write "student" instead of "students" if only one is implied. | Listen carefully for distinctions in nouns, as they can be traps. |
| Guess If Unsure of an Answer | There is no penalty for wrong answers, so fill in every blank, even if unsure. | If unsure, make a guess that fits contextually with other answers. | Avoid blanks; guessing may help you score extra points. |
These are some of the expert tips for the IELTS Listening section, which applicants can incorporate when they take up IELTS Listening practice tests.
How to Score 9 Bands in IELTS Listening?
It is tricky to get a high IELTS Listening Band Score. You need to practice a lot. A well planned IELTS preparation can help students aim for their desired scores. Check out the ways to score 9 bands in IELTS Listening in the section below:
- Understand the Test Format Thoroughly
- Develop Active Listening Skills
- Practice with IELTS Materials and Realistic Conditions
- Work on Speed and Accuracy
- Identify and Focus on Keywords
- Use Prediction Skills
- Practice Note Taking
- Use Correct Spelling and Grammar
- Use the 10 Minute Transfer Time Wisely
- Build Stamina and Focus
- Use Online Apps for practice
Just follow these tips strictly. You can easily achieve a Band 9 score in IELTS Listening.
IELTS Listening Exam Do's and Don'ts
Many candidates face issues with what to believe while preparing for the paper and what to ignore. Here are a few do's and don'ts which would help you to use your time wisely and get a better band with the right IELTS Listening Practice.
| IELTS Listening Do's | IELTS Listening Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Check your headphones before the exam starts | Be afraid to seek help if your headphones aren’t working |
| Read instructions and underline key information | Forget to paraphrase the sentence before you listen to the audio |
| Make notes as you listen | Try to understand every word, and look out for the answers |
| Keep listening even after you feel you have got the answer because it might change | Forget that the recording is played only once |
| Check your spelling and keep all the letters capitalised if you need to | Forget to check your grammar & spelling |
| Aim to answer every question as there is no negative marking for incorrect answers | Miss out on answering any questions as there is no negative marking for incorrect answers |
IELTS Listening Tutorial
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