How to Prepare for IELTS Exam at Home

While most prefer hiring a coaching expert when preparing for English exams or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test, many still review in their homes to save money and time.

IELTS Exam

Would you believe that with systematic planning and a deep understanding of the exam structure, you can prepare for IELTS while sitting at home? Yes, you read it right. It would help if you thoroughly trained for the exam to have the best chance of doing well on IELTS without a coach. This article has compiled surefire tips to help you prepare and know what to expect on the IELTS test. Read on.

Tips for Preparing for English Exams or IELTS Test

  1. Familiarize yourself with the test format.

Knowing the IELTS test format by reviewing the content and the question and task types for each section is necessary. Read through the IELTS rules and regulations outlined in the Notice to Candidates and Declaration. Remember to skim around the questions and acquaint yourself with the sample IELTS exam. Get an overview of the question types, such as multiple-choice, true/false/not given, sentence completion, and paragraph headings.

2. Improve your skills. 

One of the biggest mistakes takers usually make is focusing only on IELTS. They do many practice tests but forget to improve their English. If you are unaware, the IELTS test will test your four skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. It means that you need to practice not only one but all of them if you want to do well during the test.

3. Look for a study partner.

A study partner or accountability buddy can give you feedback on your progress and make your IELTS test preparation more fun and entertaining. Speaking to yourself is not the same as talking to a real person. It would be best if you got used to answering the questions while looking at and interacting with your study partner who is asking you the questions. Doing this will help you to feel much more comfortable on the day.

4. Meditate every day.

While this might sound silly, a daily meditation at least once for 10-15 minutes is a big help. You will be training your mind to focus on the present. You might think meditation sounds boring, but it will greatly help during the test.

5. Do not be overconfident on the exam day.

No explanation is needed. Even after all that preparation and practice, you still need to give your best to maximize your hard work.

The IELTS test is a gateway to entering English-speaking countries, either for work or higher studies. If you hire a tutor during your test preparation, you must pay around $100 to a certified IELTS teacher with top-notch experience. But you need not worry about this. You do not have to spend vast sums of money on IELTS coaching. Follow the tips listed above when preparing for English exams or IELTS tests, and you’re good to go.