What is IELTS?
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is one of the world's most popular English proficiency tests. It's accepted by over 11,000 organizations worldwide for study, work, and immigration purposes.
IELTS Format Overview
The test has 4 sections:
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1. Listening (30 minutes)
4 recordings with 40 questions
Accents: British, American, Australian
You hear each recording only once#
2. Reading (60 minutes)
3 passages with 40 questions
Academic or General Training versions
Passages increase in difficulty#
3. Writing (60 minutes)
Task 1: Describe a graph/chart OR write a letter (150+ words)
Task 2: Essay on a given topic (250+ words)#
4. Speaking (11-14 minutes)
Part 1: Introduction and general questions
Part 2: Long turn (speak for 2 minutes on a topic)
Part 3: Discussion (deeper questions on Part 2 topic)Scoring System
IELTS uses a band score from 1-9:
Band 9: Expert user
Band 8: Very good user
Band 7: Good user (often required for universities)
Band 6: Competent user
Band 5: Modest userPreparation Timeline
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3-6 Months Before
Take a diagnostic test to know your level
Identify weak areas
Create a study schedule
Build vocabulary systematically#
1-2 Months Before
Practice full tests under timed conditions
Focus on your weakest section
Work on time management
Practice speaking with a partner/teacher#
1-2 Weeks Before
Review common mistakes
Do final practice tests
Prepare mentally and physically
Don't cram—rest is important!Top Tips for Each Section
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Listening
Read questions before each recording starts
Write answers as you hear them
Don't leave blanks—guess if needed#
Reading
Skim passages first for main ideas
Don't read word-by-word
Manage your time (20 min per passage)#
Writing
Plan before you write
Use a variety of sentence structures
Leave time to check for errors#
Speaking
Don't memorize scripts—examiners notice
Extend your answers naturally
It's okay to self-correctGet Personalized IELTS Prep
At TAKALAM, we offer targeted IELTS preparation focused on the Speaking and Writing sections—the areas where personal guidance makes the biggest difference. Our lessons are tailored to your target band score.
Ready to achieve your IELTS goals?
