Best IELTS Preparation Strategies: Study Plan and Prep Tips
The IELTS syllabus is comprehensive. It includes content that evaluates core English language skills such as vocabulary, pronunciation, ability to form sentences, inferring an opinion or idea from a passage, etc.
Here, you will get an IELTS study plan, including the advantages of preparing for IELTS, a review of the exam pattern, a 6-week study plan, pre-test and on-day test tips, and more.
Week-Wise IELTS Study Plan
The chart illustrates each week’s objectives and their respective focus area.
| Weeks | Focus Area | Objective |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Familiarisation with the IELTS exam format | Set a target score, assess your skills, take an initial practice test, and create a study plan. |
| Week 2 | Listening Section (Accent, pronunciation, fluency, judging the speaker’s tone) | Listen to daily English podcasts from various accents, taking notes and forming personal opinions. |
| Week 3 | Reading Section (Vocabulary, sentence formation, pronunciation, synonyms) | Read English newspapers and magazines daily, note critical points, form opinions, and discuss them with others. |
| Week 4 | Writing Section (Comprehension of sentence structure, tone, imagination, answer making, formal communication) | Write daily extended essays, summarise key points, form conclusions, and maintain a daily journal for fluency. |
| Week 5 | Speaking Section (Vocabulary, fluency, pronunciation, tone) | Practice daily 5-minute monologues, gradually increasing to 9-10 minutes, record them, and seek feedback. Also, communicate with others in English. |
| Week 6 | Test and Practice | Revise content section-wise and take regular mock tests. |
IELTS Bootcamp By AdmitX
AdmitX’s IELTS Bootcamp offers a focused and efficient path to your target score. This 14-hour program packs a powerful punch with:
- 67 concise video lessons: Expert trainers break down each module (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) into bite-sized, easy-to-digest chunks.
- 17 targeted assignments & 7 quizzes: Test your understanding and identify areas for improvement with a variety of exercises.
- 13 interactive activities: Engage with the material and reinforce key concepts through hands-on learning.
- 5 full-length mock tests: Simulate the real exam experience and receive detailed feedback to pinpoint your strengths and weaknesses.
- Community support: Connect with fellow IELTS aspirants, share your progress, and get your questions answered by experienced mentors.
Beyond the curriculum, you’ll gain:
- Proven test-taking strategies: Master time management, tackle challenging questions, and maximise your score.
- Personalised guidance: Receive expert feedback on your writing and speaking skills to boost your confidence.
- Clear explanations & text summaries: Easily review key concepts and consolidate your learning.
IELTS Study Plan: A Section-by-Section Guide
Listening:
Here are some IELTS Listening strategies:
- Practice active listening with diverse audio sources like lectures, talks, and announcements.
- Develop skills to understand various accents and speaking styles.
- Master the art of identifying key details and answering comprehension questions.
Reading:
Here are some IELTS Reading strategies:
- Familiarise yourself with a variety of academic texts, reports, and instructions.
- Learn effective techniques to identify main ideas and supporting details quickly.
- Practice answering reading comprehension questions accurately.
Writing:
Here are some IELTS Writing strategies:
- Practice writing tasks 1 and 2: descriptive/factual reports and essays.
- Organise your writing with a clear structure and appropriate language.
- Use accurate grammar and vocabulary to convey your ideas effectively.
Speaking:
Here are some IELTS Speaking strategies:
- Practice speaking fluently and coherently on a range of topics.
- Develop strategies to answer questions and participate in discussions.
- Use correct grammar and vocabulary to express yourself clearly.
IELTS Test Prep Strategies
Below, we have highlighted some of the essential before registration and test-day tips for test pursuers:
Before Registration
- Research: Check the IELTS band score requirement for your desired program or immigration process.
- Set a Target: Determine your target IELTS score based on your research.
- Understand the Test: Familiarise yourself with the IELTS format, sections, and scoring criteria.
- Invest in Resources: Purchase an official IELTS preparation kit like IELTS Prepare.
- Create a Study Plan: Follow a structured study plan, focusing on each section.
- Practice Regularly: Take mock tests weekly to assess your progress.
- Seek Expert Feedback: After 6 weeks, take a full-length mock test and analyse your performance with expert guidance.
- Prepare for Application: Gather the necessary documents and start your application process.
On the Test Day
- Get sufficient rest before appearing for the test.
- Take light meals with fruits and protein sources to maintain energy and concentration.
- Carry a valid ID card to show at the center during check-in.
- Wake up early in the morning.
- Avoid excessive carbohydrates or fat-based meals because they can make you feel sleepy.
- Since the IELTS test takes 2 hours without any break, use the washroom beforehand.
- Dress appropriately according to the instructions given.
- Do not wear any religious handwear or attire.
- Do not carry personal belongings like mobile phones, watches, or food.
- Carry only a valid passport.
Key Takeaways By AdmitX
| Weeks | Focus Area | Objective |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Introduction of IELTS by creating effective study habits | Fix the target IELTS score band Create a daily study schedule by allotting a specific time duration Gather and organise the test resources |
| Week 2 | Listening Section (Accent, pronunciation, tone, style, fluency, assimilation) | Listen to English news and podcasts in different accents every day for about 1-1.5 hours Build the notes and take out the essence or opinions by writing points Go through the practice test and analyse the score of the listening section |
| Week 3 | Reading Section (Vocabulary, sentence formation, pronunciation, synonyms, main idea or opinion, purpose of the writer) | Read English newspapers and blogs daily to build vocabulary and new words Stay updated with current affairs and the latest journals Practice skimming and scanning techniques |
| Week 4 | Writing Section (Comprehension of sentence structure, tone, imagination, answer making, formal communication) | Write journals and essays regularly and get them checked by an experienced tutor. Build word lists and update them regularly. Use them in everyday life. Practice grammar exercises to strengthen English grammar |
| Week 5 | Speaking Section (Fluency and coherence, vocabulary, grammar, intonation, formal communication) | Speak with family members and friends in English daily Join a language exchange program online for better learning and assessment Join speaking clubs and debate groups |
| Week 6 | Revision and Practice | Practice the mock test and practice series every day and get it evaluated by the tutor Analyse your test scores section-wise and point out weaknesses Review weaker areas and use targeted practice to address these areas |
Key Takeaways By AdmitX
IELTS preparation involves understanding the pattern of each section. However, the positive aspect of making an IELTS study plan is preparing for one section as it automatically builds the foundation of another IELTS section, which helps students tackle the challenges effectively.
You can prepare for IELTS with our free IELTS Bootcamp. This course will help you get all the information and cover the syllabus in one click.
| Books for IELTS | IELTS Exam Guide |
| Score 7+ in IELTS | IELTS Band Score - How to Calculate |
| IELTS Reading Practice Questions and Answers | IELTS Writing Task 1 |
| Best IELTS Coaching in Delhi | IELTS Fees in India |
| Universities accepting IELTS 6.0 | IELTS Speaking Topics |
FAQs
When can you again appear for the IELTS test if you have not scored a good band the first time?
If you did not achieve the desired band score on your first IELTS attempt, you can retake the test whenever you feel ready, including just one section if needed.
There’s no limit to how often you can retake the exam, but waiting at least 12 days between attempts is recommended.
Can I cancel or postpone my IELTS test booking?
Yes, you can postpone the IELTS test booking. However, the rules for this can differ depending on where you are taking the test and your situation. Typically, you must request within a certain period before your scheduled test date, and fees might be involved.
When can I expect the IELTS test results?
With the IELTS Computer-based test, you’ll typically receive your scores within 3-5 days after taking the test. On the other hand, if you opt for the paper-based test, it can take up to 14 days to receive your results. That’s why a lot of people prefer the computer-based option.
Can I prepare for IELTS in 1 month?
Yes, it is possible to prepare for the IELTS exam in 1 month, provided you have good command over communication skills, including vocabulary, pronunciation, and deriving ideas from plots.
How to start IELTS preparation at home?
You can start IELTS preparation at home by reviewing the exam pattern, format, and syllabus, solving model test papers such as mock tests, and purchasing the study guide provided by IELTS conducting authorities like IDP and British Council.
If you are an aspirant looking to study at your dream university, book an appointment with AdmitX today and start your applications early to avail yourself of all the benefits.
