IELTS Preparation Strategy – the final week

Is your IELTS test coming up this week? If so, this video lesson will help you prepare in the final week before your test.

This topic is actually quite simple, because pre-test preparation is not complex. Here is the gist…

Tip #1: Don’t Study Any New English

This sounds strange, but it’s likely true that you will not be able to add a significant amount of new vocabulary or grammar in just one week. So instead, you should use your final week to should review what you have already learned including. In particular, I recommend reviewing the following

• Basic test strategies
• Writing Basics & Question Types
• Already-known vocabulary & grammar

I’d also recommend doing a lot of reading to get your brain prepped for the long test. No need to tire yourself out, but you should be comfortable reading/writing/speaking/listening in English for long periods of time.

Tip #2: Know the Test

If you’ve never taken a full sample test before, make sure you do now. You need to know how long each section is, and what to expect in the different parts.

You’ll also want to have a strategy ready for each section. For example…

• For listening, make sure you preview the upcoming questions whenever you have spare time. Don’t worry if you miss one question, just focus on the next ones
• For reading, don’t spend too much time on any 1 question
• For writing, know what you need to include and how you’re going to structure it.
• For speaking, focus on fluency and clarity, not just showing off your high-level language.

Tip #3: Stay Healthy

This one seems obvious, but if you are overly tired on the day of your test, it will be more difficult to perform well.

So make sure you do everything possible to be in good physical health for the test. This means not eating any strange foods and going to bed at a good time each night.

Also, arrive at the test center early so you’re not rushed.

Finally, during the test, stay mentally and physically relaxed. Try not to tense your muscles too much.

Final Week Preparation Summary

The three tips I’ve listed here aren’t that surprising, nor are they difficult. But if you follow them, you’ll be able to maximize your score on test day.

Keep them in mind and do well!