1. IELTS Listening Overview
The IELTS Listening test is the same for both the Academic and General Training modules. You will listen to four recorded conversations and monologues and answer 40 questions. The test lasts 30 minutes, with an extra 10 minutes to transfer answers if using the paper-based version.
2. Test Structure & Sections
- Section 1: Conversation in a social context (e.g. booking tickets)
- Section 2: A monologue in a social context (e.g. a guided tour)
- Section 3: Academic conversation (e.g. students discussing an assignment)
- Section 4: Academic monologue (e.g. university lecture)
3. Question Types in IELTS Listening
- ✅ Multiple Choice
- ✅ Matching
- ✅ Plan/Map/Diagram Labeling
- ✅ Form, Note, Table, Flow-chart Completion
- ✅ Sentence Completion
- ✅ Short Answer Questions
4. Listening Strategies
- 🎧 Read the questions before the audio begins.
- 🖊️ Highlight keywords in the question.
- 🧠 Focus on synonyms — don’t wait for exact words.
- ⏳ Don’t spend too long on one question.
- ❌ Don’t panic if you miss an answer — stay focused on the next one.
- 📄 Use capital letters when in doubt (especially for paper-based tests).
5. Listening Band Score Guide
Each correct answer earns 1 point. Here’s a general idea of score mapping:
- 39–40 = Band 9
- 37–38 = Band 8.5
- 35–36 = Band 8
- 32–34 = Band 7.5
- 30–31 = Band 7
- 26–29 = Band 6.5
6. Recommended Practice Resources
- 🌐 IELTS.org – Official Listening samples
- 📘 Zofico Listening Pack – Simulated audio + question booklets
- 📚 Cambridge IELTS Series
- 🎧 BBC Radio & Podcasts – Great for natural accents
7. Final Listening Tips
- ✅ Practice listening to different English accents (UK, Australian, Canadian)
- ✅ Watch English shows with subtitles, then without
- ✅ Take notes during audio, but don’t over-focus
- ✅ Familiarize yourself with paraphrasing and traps in the audio
- ✅ Simulate full-length listening tests with timer
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