IELTS

IELTS Listening section is scored out of 40. Band score for this section is from 0 - 9. Based on the total score out of 40 band score will be calculated.

There is no penalty for incorrect answers in the IELTS Listening test; candidates are only scored on the number of correct answers.

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

In IELTS Listening, you see different type questions like matching, multiple choice, maps and one big common thing is fill-ups. Many time you just hear names or numbers and write them. Make sure spelling is correct or they mark it wrong.

IELTS Listening Test uses four recordings. You'll hear both conversations and solo talks. Different accents are included in recordings. Your job is simple. Listen well and answer questions. They ask you to match items and choose options.

Practice makes the man perfect. It's true! Start practicing in front of the mirror and record your voice just like it will be done in the exam. This is the best method to gain confidence for the main day and to pick up your own mistakes and correct them, so that you do not make the same mistake on the exam day.

The more you practice, esp. In part 2 (cue card), the more familiar you will become with the paper and its timings. You just need to be persistent in practicing speaking because it is not a one-day game.

The examiner has the right to stop you anywhere in between the exam. They must take care of the timings during the paper. Part 1 is strictly not for more than 5 minutes. Hence, they might stop you in between your answers to cover up the time. Because they have lots of candidates per day for the exam.

As well as that they might also ask you to speak more to get more ideas from you on the topic. Or sometimes if you do not elaborate much, they prompt questions for you to answer more.

Gaining band 9 can be scoring as well as tricky. Nothing comes without hard work, if you are willing to score band 9 in speaking. You should have a good command of the language. Be practical! If you have trouble speaking English, focus on the language and not on the vocabulary.

Idioms and phrases are a boon for your speaking test but only use them if you are familiar with their usage and meaning otherwise this boon might become a hindrance in your score.

Language plays a major role in getting a good band in speaking. The way you speak, and answer questions says a lot about your performance. In fact, it is a separate parameter for marking in speaking module.

Grammar, vocabulary, fluency and intonation together talk about your speaking skills. If you use more complex sentences with uncommon vocab, a good band is on the way. The simpler the language, the simpler the bands.

Writing on paper is allowed in the exam. In fact, is it advisable to make notes during your part 2 (cue card) section of the exam. Many times, students forget or do not write keywords and then while speaking forget about the important points.

Hence, it is advisable to make notes because after writing the mind registers the points really well. And there are less chances to forget pointers while speaking.