Preparing for the International English Language Teaching System (IELTS) is a journey many overseas education aspirants undergo to determine their language proficiency. Through the test, international institutions and visa-granting authorities ensure that students from different countries do not go through any communication problems in the country.
As a student aiming to study abroad, understanding the ins and outs of the IELTS test is essential. This article serves as a guide in navigating through the various components of the IELTS that will help you confidently approach this critical test.
Read on to learn the necessary aspects of the test, which is the first thing you are taught when you opt for IELTS coaching in top overseas education institutes.
Understanding the IELTS Dynamics
Find below a clarification on the IELTS format, which is crucial in empowering your journey towards the test’s success.
IELTS Composition
IELTS is divided into 4 sections with a total duration of 2 hours and 15 minutes. To get a better understanding of its format, have a look at the table below.
| Sections | Parts | Tasks | Time |
| Listening | 4 | 40 questions | 30 minutes |
| Reading | 3 | 40 questions | 60 minutes |
| Writing | 2 | 2 tasks | 60 minutes |
| Speaking | 3 | No limits on questions asked | 11-14 minutes |
The IELTS scores for Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking are equally weighted. They are scored in increments of 0.25, 0.5, and.075 on a 0–9 scale and the average of all the papers is used to determine the overall band scale.
IELTS Specifications
Given below are the specifications of IELTS bifurcated according to the sections:
- Listening
The listening paper comprises four parts; in every part, there are ten questions to solve. Parts 1 and 2 are based on everyday social situations. The first part includes a conversation between two speakers, and in the second part, only one speaker narrates. Coming to parts 3 and 4, deal with educational and training situations. The third part has a conversation between two speakers; in the fourth one, only one person talks about an academic subject.
The listening paper uses different accents, including British, North American, Australian, etc.
- Reading
All sections of the reading paper cover subjects to assist international students in communicating at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Assorted styles are used, including narrative, descriptive, and argumentative in the reading paper. It further uses logical arguments, diagrams, graphs, and illustrations to analyze the reading skills of the test taker. Even if some texts use technical terminology, a basic definition is supplied for each.
- Writing
The writing paper comprises two tasks, and both need to be completed. Task 1 contains a graph, table, chart, or diagram, and you need to provide information on each. Task 2 comprises an argument or problem that needs to be discussed. In 40 minutes, one should at least write 250 words, and all the answers should be written in full sentences. Answers written in note format or bullet points need to be avoided.
- Speaking
The test taker and the examiner have a face-to-face interview during the speaking test. This interview is recorded for further evaluation. This exam is divided into three sections, each following a specific format that facilitates a multi-faceted analysis of your speaking skills. Based on the test taker’s speaking pattern, the language proficiency, grammatical range, accuracy, and pronunciation are assessed in the paper.
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is one of the most prominent language proficiency tests required by top study destinations to assess a candidate’s language skills. Once you understand the format, you may begin preparing with successful test-taking tactics. Furthermore, you can also incorporate mock tests or practice tests to increase your hold on the test section-wise.
You can also get professional training from an IELTS coaching center in your area. They begin by assessing your command of the English language and identifying areas for improvement.
May the knowledge of this article serve as a beacon on your language proficiency path, leading you to success in IELTS!