Achieve the maximum score with tips for predicting answers in IELTS Listening!

In order to achieve a high band score in IELTS Listening, test takers preparing for the real exam cannot overlook some tips for predicting answers in IELTS Listening. So what are these useful tips? Let's explore the knowledge in the following article with PREP. Hopefully, the following knowledge will help you effectively prepare for the IELTS Listening exam at home!

1. Common types of information in the IELTS Listening test

As you may know, in the IELTS Listening test, we only have one chance to listen, with no repetition. This requires each test taker to be well-prepared to avoid losing valuable points. Mastering this skill will greatly support you in the short time you have to prepare for listening. The IELTS Listening test often asks test takers for the following information:

• Names: The test requires you to write down the names of people mentioned, including two groups of names: common names that are usually not spelled out, and uncommon names that are spelled out. Recognizable cues are words like "name," "called," or titles such as Mr, Ms, Mrs.
• Numbers: Some typical groups of information include phone numbers (recognizable cues: mobile, contact, phone number), amounts of money (recognizable cues: cost, pay, dollars, pounds, etc.), ages (recognizable cues: age, etc.), general number information (recognizable cues: number, etc.).
• Time: Date of birth (date of birth, born), information about hours, days, months in general (hour, time, date, start, when?).
• Occupation: Recognizable cues: occupation, career, work, profession.
• Location: Specific address (address), general address (where, near, next to, etc.).
• Objects: what, item, transportation (transport).
• Other information: type kind of + N.

2. Some specific examples of tips for predicting answers in IELTS Listening

Course start date (1): ________________ ➩ time

Course begins with (2): _______________ about business ➩ no clear cues

What students mustn't bring to class (3): ______________ ➩ objects

Visitors' car park: next to the (4) ____________________ ➩ location

Language classes available: Spanish and (5) __________ ➩ no clear cues

Name of Business Studies secretary: Sonia (6) __________ ➩ name

3. Steps for predicting answers in IELTS Listening

Step 1: Skim through to identify predictable information before attempting the questions

To predict the information effectively before answering the questions, skim through and accurately identify the main groups of information so that you can determine them correctly and not miss any relevant information.

Step 2: Memorize the 7 common types of information in IELTS Listening

4. Developing skills of predicting answers in IELTS Listening

Predicting answers in IELTS Listening test is a skill that can be developed with practice. Here are some strategies to enhance your prediction skills:

• Familiarize yourself with common question types: By understanding the different question types in the IELTS Listening test, such as multiple-choice, completion, or matching, you can anticipate the type of information you need to listen for.
• Pay attention to keywords: Listen for keywords or key phrases in the question that indicate the specific information you need to find. These keywords can help you focus your attention and predict the likely answer.
• Use context and clues: Often, the speaker provides clues or contextual information before or after the answer. Pay attention to the surrounding information and use it to make educated guesses about the answer.
• Understand the speaker's purpose: Consider the purpose of the speaker's words. Are they providing an explanation, giving instructions, or expressing an opinion? Understanding the speaker's intention can help you predict the type of information they are likely to provide.
• Practice active listening: Develop your listening skills by actively engaging with a variety of English audio materials, such as podcasts, news reports, or TED Talks. Practice predicting answers based on what you hear and check your predictions against the actual information.

5. Reviewing and analyzing practice tests

Regularly practicing with sample IELTS Listening tests is crucial for improving your prediction skills. After completing a practice test, review the answers and analyze the passages to identify patterns or recurring topics. This process will help you become familiar with common themes and types of information that frequently appear in the test. Utilize this knowledge to make more informed predictions in future listening exercises.

In conclusion, to predict answers effectively in IELTS Listening, you need to grasp the 7 common types of information in IELTS Listening. Above are all the tips for predicting answers in IELTS Listening to help you achieve a high band score in the listening test. Check out the IELTS Basic Plus course to be able to self-study and prepare for the IELTS exam effectively! Remember to approach the test with confidence, focus, and strategic thinking to maximize your success. Good luck!