IELTS and TOEFL are basically English language tests to judge the applicants’ proficiency in English language. The tests are conducted throughout the year so you can choose dates that are most convenient with you. Whatever dates you choose, make sure that you are well prepared for it. An English test may sound simple, but you will not be able to nail it unless you have practiced enough and are equipped with the strategies to complete all the questions within stipulated time. The test takers are tested on four skill sets, namely – Reading, Listening, Speaking and Writing - which in essence are core elements of any language.
Many students, despite attaining education in English medium schools, are intimidated by the test, but let me assure you that with a few simple steps, students or for that matter anyone can ace the test with flying colors.
Follow 6 Simple Steps to Ace the TOEFL or IELTS Test:
1. Know the Pattern:The pattern of each test is different. Though, you are required to appear for all the skill sets – Reading, Listening, Speaking and Writing – the pattern of each section is way different than the other. The number of questions and type of questions are also very different for all the sections. Therefore, familiarity with the structure, types of questions and knowing how you need to proceed efficiently is of prime importance. Moreover, since each section is allotted a specific time, the test taker is expected to finish within that time frame. And no, there is no facility of taking more time in one section and adjusting it in the next, so, learn to maintain a pace wherein you can attempt all questions correctly within the timeframe assigned.
2. Take at least a month to prepare:If your English language skills are good then we’d suggest you give a month to prepare yourself. However, if English is not your forte, we’d recommend you to take anything between 2-3 months. In the first week, attempt individual sections, then move on to completing two sections together, and from the 3rd week onwards you should complete all four sections in one go (You can get free Practice Tests on Khan Academy). Once you get the hang of practicing all sections, start giving mock-tests. During your preparation you must give at least 4 mock-tests, 1 every fourth day starting the fourth week, and keep track of your progress.
3. Read the Questions Carefully:Often students don’t read questions carefully and lose out on easy answers. These careless mistakes can cost marks. To minimize damage, underline key words in the question to keep track of what you need to do and what kind of an answer you are looking for. Do not rush the question. Read and respond carefully before moving on to the next question.
4. Make Note of Repeated Mistakes:When you give the mock tests, make sure to note the mistakes you are committing. Sometimes some students keep repeating their mistakes, without noticing that they are making the same ones over and over. The idea of taking mock tests is to identify if there are any recurrent errors. Learning from your mistakes and rectifying errors will help you scale up your scores. A good way for avoiding such errors is to find the reason for each incorrect answer. Knowing the reasons will keep you away from replicating mistakes.
5. Read, Listen and Watch English News and Channels: While you are preparing for the test, it is essential that you read as much as you can. Inculcating reading habits will change your thought process, empower you with more vocabulary to express yourself and help you understand a variety of texts, academic and non-academic. Listening to and watching English News or Movies or Series will further enhance your skills. Choose programs or series of your interest as they would hold your attention and compel you to understand the topic in discussion. Till the time you are done with your test do not waste time on any other language.
6. Practice, Practice and Practice:There is no alternate to practice; and hence the more you practice the better you shall become. Practicing the same types of questions over and over empowers you with the ability to quickly spot answers. Also, once you know the pattern and have been practicing it for a while makes it easier to identify what you are looking for.
You must take into account that the level of language used in these tests is similar to the level you will get in an academic setting in universities abroad. Thus, you must take the practice tests as a foundational experience, which will prepare and equip you to handle college level education.
Be assured, if you follow these 6 simple rules, you can clear the TOEFL/IELTS test with flying colors. Not only this, the variety of questions that you will practice during the one-month period will stimulate your cerebral juices so much so that you will find a new control over all your subjects. So, what are you waiting for? …… Get Started!