Essential Tests for IELTS Book: Detailed Overview

This guide provides a clear overview of the Essential Tests for IELTS book, including its structure, skill coverage, strengths, and limitations. You will also find study tips for using the book effectively and recommendations on where to buy official copies and audio materials.

I. Overview of the Essential Tests for IELTS Book

The Essential Tests for IELTS is a practical and highly recommended resource for IELTS candidates looking to familiarize themselves with real test formats and effectively improve their exam readiness. This book is geared toward focused, skill-by-skill test practice, making it a great companion for intermediate learners or those in the final stages of preparation.

• Book Title: Essential Tests for IELTS 

• Author: Mark Griffiths

• Language: English

• Skills Practiced: Listening, Writing, Reading, Speaking

Instead of providing instructional theory or general strategies, this book offers standardized IELTS-style practice tests that directly mirror the actual exam in structure, timing, and difficulty. Learners can approach each skill section individually, making the book adaptable for targeted practice based on personal weaknesses and goals.

Whether you’re studying for the Academic or General Training module (depending on your focus), this book offers a broad range of authentic tasks to help you build test confidence through regular, structured practice.

• For broader spoken practice alongside test drills, see English conversation books.

1. Detailed Content and Structure of the Essential Tests for IELTS Book

The Essential Tests for IELTS book is carefully structured to reflect the real IELTS exam, with four clearly divided sections corresponding to the core language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each section includes varied question types commonly found on the exam, offering learners the opportunity to get fully acquainted with the test style before exam day.

Listening Section

This part features a wide variety of IELTS Listening question types, designed to reflect the actual test’s four-part format. You will find:

• Form Completion

• Sentence Completion

• Table & Flowchart Completion

• Short Answer Questions

• Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ)

• Matching Information

• Map/Plan/Diagram Labelling

• True/False/Not Given

• Summary Completion

• Outline Completion

Learners can practice these types separately, making it easy to focus on weak areas. 

To boost vocabulary used in Reading and Writing tasks, consider supplementing with word power made easy book.

Reading Section

This section offers practice texts aligned with IELTS Academic reading passages and includes:

• Multiple Choice Questions

• True/False/Not Given

• Headings Matching

• Summary Completion

• Sentence Completion

• Diagram/Table/Flowchart Labeling

• Matching Information

• Short Answer Questions

Reading texts are followed by comprehension tasks that train you to scan, skim, and retain key details under time pressure.

Writing Section

The Writing portion provides two full-length test tasks:

• Task 1: Visual information (e.g., charts, tables, diagrams)

• Task 2: Opinion or problem-solution essays

While the book doesn't contain writing strategy tips, the writing prompts reflect common IELTS task types—making them ideal for timed practice and self-assessment.

Speaking Section

This last part is organized into the familiar 3-part IELTS Speaking format:

• Part 1: Personal questions (daily topics)

• Part 2: Long Turn with Cue Card

• Part 3: Discussion questions on broader issues

This section helps learners get used to the pacing and response structure of the Speaking test.

The book’s clear organization makes it easy for self-learners and teachers alike to integrate test practice into a structured study plan. Whether you work skill-by-skill or follow full mock test cycles, this title prepares you for real exam conditions with quality practice material.

2. Strengths and Limitations of the Essential Tests for IELTS Book

Before choosing any IELTS preparation book, it’s important to understand both its advantages and potential limitations. The Essential Tests for IELTS Book, while widely used and recommended, is most effective when learners are aware of where it shines—and where it may need to be supplemented.

Key Strengths

• Realistic test format: The book closely follows the actual IELTS exam structure, difficulty level, and question types. This allows learners to become very familiar with the test format, which can significantly reduce anxiety and improve performance under exam conditions.

• Skill-focused organization: Unlike some bundled "all-in-one" books, this resource organizes practice around the four IELTS skills—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. This makes it easy for students to focus on one area at a time, based on their personal needs.

• Diverse and well-chosen question types: The variety of tasks (especially in Listening and Reading) prepares learners for every major IELTS format. For example, the Listening section includes map labeling, multiple choice, and sentence completion exercises—offering strong coverage.

• Suitable for intermediate to advanced learners: For students already familiar with the basics of IELTS, this book offers a practical, test-rich environment that supports higher band scores through repetition and realistic practice.

Notable Limitations

• No theoretical content or strategies: The book does not include tips, techniques, or test-taking strategies. Students looking for step-by-step guidance (such as essay structures or Speaking responses) will need supplemental material.

• Not ideal for beginners: Because the book is designed purely for practice, it assumes learners already understand IELTS requirements. Beginners may struggle to use it effectively if they have not yet built foundational skills.

• No scoring guidance or band descriptors: The book provides answer keys, but lacks IELTS band score conversion charts or performance descriptors for Writing and Speaking. Learners aiming to self-assess may find it harder to evaluate their level accurately.

• Limited writing and speaking support: While it includes prompts for Writing and Speaking, it does not provide model answers, vocabulary suggestions, or guidance on how to approach each task. More explanation is often necessary for full preparation.

The Essential Tests for IELTS Book is ideally suited for:

• Learners at an intermediate level or above

• Anyone seeking to practice under real exam-style conditions

• Test-takers who already have some familiarity with IELTS strategy and want to refine timing, accuracy, and skill control

It is less suitable for absolute beginners or those looking for a complete IELTS study course with lessons and explanations.

For best results, this book should be used alongside a comprehensive IELTS preparation program or coaching, particularly to reinforce strategies and feedback on Writing and Speaking tasks.

•  If you need model answers and banded samples, see Get IELTS Band 9.

II. How to Use the Essential Tests for IELTS Book Effectively?

Owning a great IELTS practice book is only half the journey—knowing how to use it strategically is what turns practice into progress. The Essential Tests for IELTS Book is designed for test simulation and skill-specific improvement, not as a teaching guide. That’s why having a structured self-study approach is key.

Here are effective ways to study with this book across the four IELTS skills.

Listening and Reading: Build a Consistent Practice Routine

Start by selecting question types that challenge you most.

• Step 1: Practice question types by category
  Focus on one type per session (e.g. Map Labeling, True/False/Not Given) to strengthen accuracy and technique.

• Step 2: Time yourself under exam conditions
  Simulate the actual test environment. Use a timer for 30-40 minutes per Listening or Reading section.

• Step 3: Review mistakes in detail
  Check incorrect answers using the provided key, and analyze why you got them wrong—was it due to misreading, poor scanning, or unfamiliar vocabulary?

• Tip: Use a notebook to record repeated errors and review them weekly.

Writing: Use the Prompts for Timed Practice and Self-Assessment

The book includes full Task 1 and Task 2 prompts, ideal for paragraph planning and time management.

• Write under timed conditions: 20 minutes for Task 1, 40 minutes for Task 2.

• Focus on structure: Practice organizing your ideas with clear introductions, body paragraphs, and conclusions.

• Self-check or peer-review: Use online IELTS band descriptors to estimate your level or share drafts with teachers or peers for feedback.

• Supplement with model essays: Since the book includes prompts but no sample answers, reviewing high-scoring models elsewhere can boost development.

Speaking: Simulate Exam Conditions With Partners or Recordings

The book follows the standard 3-part format of the IELTS Speaking exam.

• Part 1: Practice answering fluently about familiar, everyday topics.

• Part 2: Time yourself with the one-minute preparation and two-minute speaking limit using cue cards.

• Part 3: Record yourself answering deeper, discussion-based questions for reflection.

• Tip: Use your phone to record and play back sessions. Track improvements in fluency, vocabulary, and pronunciation.

To practice typical Part 1 topics from cue cards, try dialogues in conversation about daily routine in english.

Create a Weekly Study Schedule (Sample Plan)

With discipline and strategic use, the Essential Tests for IELTS Book can help significantly sharpen your skills. Remember, it's not just about finishing the tests—it's about learning from each attempt to avoid the same mistakes on test day.

III. Where to Buy the Essential Tests for IELTS Book?

If you've decided that the Essential Tests for IELTS Book fits your preparation needs, the next step is to find a reliable source to obtain it. Whether you prefer a physical copy, a digital download, or access to accompanying audio files and answer keys, there are several buying or accessing options available.

Trusted Online Stores and Official Sellers

• Amazon

  • Availability: Often offers both paperback and Kindle versions.

  • Purchase benefit: Fast delivery with customer reviews for reference.

  • Note: Always check that the seller is verified or “Fulfilled by Amazon.”

• Book Depository

  • Ships internationally with free global shipping.

  • Good option if you're outside major delivery zones like the US or UK.

• Publisher’s Website

  • If the book is distributed through an official publisher (e.g., Delta Publishing or equivalent), buying directly ensures guaranteed authenticity.

• IELTS Training Centers or Bookstores

  • Many English language training centers and test prep institutions offer this book as part of their IELTS preparation package.

Is the PDF Version Available?

Some learners may look for a digital version of the Essential Tests for IELTS Book for easier access or budget reasons.

• Official eBook platforms (if applicable): Check if a licensed digital copy is available through major eBook providers.

• Free PDF versions shared online are often unauthorized or incomplete. Use caution—it’s recommended to use legitimate copies to ensure quality, fairness, and legality.

• If you’re using this book in a course, your school or training center might provide scanned versions with permission or school-specific materials based on the book.

For test reliability, content clarity, and long-term use, it’s best to invest in a printed or officially licensed digital copy. Not only will you get full access to content and materials, but you’ll also be supporting the work of professional educators and authors in the IELTS field.

PREP has reviewed the Essential Tests for IELTS book and shared test practice strategies for achieving the best results. Additionally, the link provides a free download of the PDF version with accompanying Audio. PREP hopes this article is helpful to you. Best of luck with your practice!