Effectively Tackling Diagram Labelling in IELTS Listening with 4 Steps

Diagram Labelling in IELTS Listening, much like Map Labelling questions, is a common occurrence in Part 2 of the exam. However, many test-takers often find themselves bewildered by this question type, leading to potential loss of marks. To aid candidates in navigating Diagram Labelling questions more effectively, PREP has compiled a concise yet comprehensive guide consisting of four steps to excel in this format within the IELTS Listening section.

I. Overview of Diagram Labelling in IELTS Listening

1. What is the Diagram Labelling in IELTS Listening?

A Diagram Labelling question tests your ability to understand detailed descriptions and relate them to information presented in diagram format.

2. Format of Diagram Labelling in IELTS Listening

Diagram Labelling questions typically involve a diagram or illustration accompanied by a series of blanks representing labels or descriptions that need to be filled in based on the information provided in the audio recording.

3. Some common issues when practising this question type

• The main problem is test takers focus too much on understanding every detail of the diagram. Unfamiliar diagrams can cause panic and waste time. This is a test of your reading skills, not technical knowledge. Try to generally understand the diagram's purpose while focusing more on relating audio details to diagram labels.
• Another major issue is failing to quickly identify relevant audio sections containing answers, wasting time listening to everything.
• Marks are also lost by incorrectly writing numbers of words or spelling mistakes on the answer sheet.

Please refer to the following article:

• 4 steps to conquer the Plan/Map Labelling task in IELTS Listening

II. 4 Steps to Master Map Labelling Questions in IELTS Listening

Step 1: Determine what the diagram illustrates

Begin by carefully examining the diagram provided. Identify the subject matter or theme depicted in the diagram, whether it's a geographical map, a floor plan, or a schematic representation of a system. Understanding the nature of the diagram will provide context for the information you need to fill in the blanks.

Step 2: Predict suitable answers for each blank

Based on your understanding of the diagram and any accompanying instructions, predict suitable information to fill in each blank space. Pay attention to context clues and grammatical hints that can guide your predictions. Test-takers are required to fill in the information themselves, so ensure that your predictions align with the context of the diagram. Additionally, check the instructions to determine the allowable number of words per answer.

Step 3: Listen and fill in predicted answers

During the audio recording, listen attentively for relevant details that correspond to the blanks in the diagram. Take clear and concise notes as information is provided, ensuring that you capture key details accurately. If you happen to lose your place while listening, make a note of the time to facilitate finding your spot again quickly. As the recording progresses, fill in the blanks with the predicted answers based on the information provided.

Step 4: Check your work against the audio recording

Before submitting your answers, it's crucial to double-check your work against the audio recording. Verify that the information you've filled in aligns accurately with the details provided in the recording. Check for any discrepancies or errors in your answers and make corrections as needed. Leaving blanks on the answer sheet will result in lost marks, so ensure that all blanks are filled with the appropriate information.

III. Some helpful tips for Diagram Labelling in IELTS Listening

• Make sure you know how many words to write, the question will tell you. For instance, in the example above, you're only allowed to write 'one or two words'. If you write more, you'll lose points. Remember, numbers count as one word, and hyphenated words like 'modern-day' also count as one word.
• Figure out what type of word you need (like a noun, verb, or adjective). This will help you find the right answer.
• The answers might not be in the same order as the paragraphs.
• Start with the easiest questions first. You're more likely to get them right. If a question seems too hard, skip it and come back to it later.
• Try to guess the answer before you read the text. This can help you find the right answer.

IV. Some exercises on Diagram Labelling in IELTS Listening with detailed answers

V. Start Your IELTS Journey 

Hopefully, the information provided above proves useful for IELTS candidates preparing for the exam. If you want to master IELTS exam. Explore our advanced IELTS prep programs below:

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