tips to succeed in ielts exam

whats in the IELTS exam and how it works. A lot of people dont really find out much about the exam and its content so they dont know what to expect.

Practise as much as possible. Work on your global level of English; read lots of academic and general texts, read English newspapers and magazines; watch films so that you improve your listening.

Concentrate on time management. Make yourself a revision timetable as this can help to keep things in perspective. Over time you can see real progress and concentrate on the areas that are problematic.

Dont let insecurity hinder all your hard work. Show the examiner what you know, dont be afraid to try. If you make a mistake, carry on. Find a study buddy and practise together. You dont even have to be in the same room, you can use skype, instant messaging or Google Hangout.

Vocabulary lists are one way of learning mind maps, word association, picture matching, synonyms and antonyms, and placing words in context will all aid vocabulary memorisation. For example, if you are learning about food, think about where you buy it, store it, cook it. Then visualise yourself buying food or ordering a meal at a restaurant and use the new words in sentences. You can even do some role play with your study buddy, where, for instance, you are the waiter and your buddy is the customer. Other good study techniques include carrying a vocabulary notebook that can go everywhere with you, use post-its and your phone to store words lists.

Read through the questions to predict what the topic will be about. It will be easier, if you have an idea of what you are going to hear. Use the time allowed for reading the questions to identify the signposts to the answers.

Read the questions first. Identify the key words and then scan-read the text for the answers.

Write clearly, making sure you include paragraphs and use a varied vocabulary. Most of all, answer the essay questions and stick to the topic. Check the word count when you are done.

Try to give full answers. Give your opinion and then add reasons and examples to support it. If you dont understand a question or a word, tell the examiner and ask for clarification.

watch the clock on the big day and dont leave any gaps. Guess the answer if you dont know it.