Ever since the covid-19 took place, the world, specifically the businesses, adapted the online life.
With everything becoming more flexible and feasible than ever, IELTS also didn’t lag behind. They introduced their computer based tests and made life far easier.
However, a question that often lingers in the minds of many is ‘how to prepare for computer based IELTS?”
Well, now that you are here, you don’t have to worry about this anymore. In this article we have mentioned all the strategies, tips, and tricks along with other knowledgeable sections that will be of great use to you. So, let’s get started!
Understanding the Computer-Based IELTS:
Nowadays, computer based IELTS are highly preferred over paper based IELTS for numerous reasons.
Firstly, computer based IELTS are more flexible and convenient for the appearing students. Secondly, the test results are received within a week, which is quite earlier than the paper based test, which takes several weeks to provide the results.
In addition to this, in this tech savvy era where youngsters have great typing skills, they are able to gain benefit from the fact that instead of writing each answer on a paper, they will have to type down their response resulting in saved time.
Overview of test format:
The format of paper based and computer based IELTS exams do not differ. They both have the same typical format divided into four sections; listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
In the listening section, individuals are expected to hear certain recordings and answer the questions that are based on the recording.
In the reading section, test takers are given a passage to read. The passage consists of several questions and mcqs at the end, which the individuals are expected to answer correctly.
In the writing section, there are two tasks; essay writing and summary of a graph/chart.
In the speaking section, individuals are tested with their ability to interact in person. The examiner engages the test taker in a conversation on a certain topic and evaluate their ability to speak fluently.
Key Skills Tested:
In each of the four sections of an IELTS exam, language skills are assessed.
For instance, in the listening section, an individual’s ability to comprehend and understand English is tested.
In the reading section, the test taker’s ability to read the written passage is tested, which then helps in drawing out a conclusion if the individual is capable of reading and understanding written English.
In the writing section, an individual’s ability to write down English accurately and grammatically correct is tested.
In the speaking section, the test taker’s ability to speak English is assessed. The core focus of this section is to test the fluency, accent and pronunciation of English words.
Strategies for excelling in listening, reading, writing, and speaking:
For the listening section, it is recommended to listen to different English conversations in movies or recordings on YouTube and try to understand what’s being said in the first attempt. This requires high focus and dedication.
For reading, practice skimming the content and finding out the main ideas of the passage, which helps in answering the questions.
For the writing section, you have to write plenty of essays. One strategy you may apply in this regard is to read written essays on the internet or resource books recommended by people to make your essay more professional and appealing to the reader.
For the speaking section, it is important to practice speaking English fluently, use connecting words and participate in debates.
Now, let’s move on to discuss the strategies for computer based ielts preparation!
Preparation Steps:
Here are a few steps to excel in computer based ielts:
- Carefully go through the test format. Remember that it consists of 4 sections: listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
- If you’re opting for a computer based IELTS, make sure to understand the CB IELTS interface to avoid any confusion during the exam
- If you’re giving a CB exam, then regularly practice typing skills to finish the exam within the tight deadline.
- Attempt plenty of practice tests
- Type as many essays as possible and turn on spelling/error checker to improve your sentence structure and/or spellings.
- Set a timer and attempt to practice test
Test Day Tips:
As an individual appearing to give the IELTS exam for the first time, it is quite probable, but also totally normal to feel anxious. So, here are a few tips that might save you from the last-minute stress.
- Stay calm and focused
- Reach the venue at least 20 minutes before
- Organize all the necessary documents in a file and keep it anywhere near your sight.
- Make sure to attentively hear the instructions given by the exam instructors regarding the paper or computer based IELTS test
Strategies for managing stress and time during the exam:
The pre-exam anxiety is real especially when preparing for computer based ielts exam which is apparently a new thing with an unfamiliar interface. Therefore, we have come up with a few tips that may be helpful for you;
- Take deep breaths frequently
- Remain calm
- Drink sufficient water
- Allot and manage time for each section/question and try to attempt it accordingly
- Try not to skip any answer. You can make a guess, but do not leave an empty space.
Resources for Preparation:
- Go through the official IELTS website and review the practice exams, and attempt the sample questions.
- You can also get an IELTS preparation book, which is commonly available in book stores. It is recommended to purchase the one published by Cambridge University Press or Oxford University Press as their sample questions will help you thoroughly prepare for the exam.
- In addition to this, the official IELTS website also has a section of online practice tests, which is of great use, especially if you’re giving a computer based exam.
- Other than these, if you think you need a teacher, then you can enroll in an institute or hire a private tutor to get the right guidance needed to clear the IELTS exam.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, it can be summarized that the two kinds of IELTS exams, computer and paper based, have no difference in the pattern other than the basic concept that a computer based test is online and requires typing skills whereas paper based requires quick writing skills.
Additionally, this article has suggested strategies to manage exam day stress and provided some interesting test day tips as well as resources so that you receive the perfect score in your IELTS exam.
After reading this article, I expect you candidate’s to follow the structured approach to pass the exam and remember not to give up on hard work and practice as they are the key behind success.
I hope this article answered your question, “how to prepare for computer based IELTS?”
FAQs
How is the computer-based IELTS different from the paper-based version?
A computer based IELTS exam is attempted online, whereas a paper based exam has to be physically given. However, while the method of attempting the exams may differ, there is no difference in the pattern as it includes the typical 4 sections; reading, listening, writing, and speaking.
Are there any specific typing skills required for the computer-based IELTS?
Yes, since computer based IELTS entirely relies on your typing, it is essential to build quick typing skills while ensuring there is no grammatical error.
How can I practice for the speaking section in the computer-based format?
For the speaking section in the computer based format, it is recommended to record yourself while answering the sample questions available on the website.
Is there a difference in difficulty between computer-based and paper-based IELTS?
No, there is no difference in the two kinds of exams. However, if you’re a slow typist or if you make a lot of typing errors with a habit of not reviewing it, then the computer-based exam may be difficult for you.
Are there any recommended resources for computer-based IELTS preparation?
A few recommended resources for computer based IELTS preparation include official ielts website, Ielts resource books, Ielts preparation apps and games, and online practice quizzes.
What should I do if I face technical issues during the computer-based IELTS exam?
In case of a technical issue during the computer based ielts exam, it is recommended to inform the test center staff and remain patient.
