Avleen KaurSr. Executive Training
The IELTS Listening Exam assesses a candidate's ability to understand spoken English in various contexts. The test consists of four sections, each featuring a different listening scenario, ranging from everyday conversations to academic lectures. As the sections progress, they become increasingly challenging, introducing different accents and speaking speeds.
Candidates listen to various materials and answer 40 questions, utilising various formats such as multiple choice, short answers, and map labelling. The test lasts approximately 30 minutes, followed by 10 minutes to transfer answers to the answer sheet. Scoring is based on the number of correct answers, with results reported on a scale from 0 to 9. Proper preparation using practice materials and familiarization with various English accents can significantly enhance performance in this critical section of the IELTS exam.
Key Highlights of the IELTS Listening Exam
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Duration | 30 minutes for listening + 10 minutes for transferring answers. |
Sections | 4 sections, each with increasing difficulty. |
Questions per Section | 10 questions per section, totaling 40 questions. |
Types of Questions | Multiple choice, short answer, sentence completion, note completion, matching, and map labelling. |
Listening Material | Varied contexts: conversations, monologues, academic lectures, and everyday situations. |
Accents | Includes a range of English accents: British, American, Australian, and Canadian. |
Answer Format | Answers must be in the specified format (e.g., word limits, spelling accuracy). |
Scoring | Scores are based on the number of correct answers; band scores range from 0 to 9. |
Test Types | Available in both Academic and General Training versions. |
Equipment | Audio is played through headphones; sound quality is monitored. |
Preparation Materials | Practice tests, official IELTS practice materials, and IELS Training by Shiksha. |
NOTE: The IELTS Listening module is the SAME for both the categories of the IELTS exam - Academic and General Training.
Q. What is the IELTS Listening Exam?
The IELTS Listening Exam is one of the four components of the IELTS test, designed to assess a candidate's ability to understand spoken English in various contexts. It consists of four sections, each with increasing difficulty.
Q. What types of questions are included in the Listening test?
The test includes various question types, such as multiple-choice, matching, plan/map/diagram labeling, form completion, and short-answer questions.
Q. Are the recordings played only once?
Yes, each recording is played only once, so candidates must listen carefully and take notes during the playback.
Q. Is there a penalty for incorrect answers?
There is no penalty for incorrect answers in the IELTS Listening test; candidates are only scored on the number of correct answers.
Q. How is the Listening test scored?
The Listening test is scored out of 40, with each correct answer receiving one mark. The total score is then converted to the IELTS band score, which ranges from 0 to 9.
IELTS Listening Format for IELTS Academic
The IELTS Listening format is the same for both the IELTS Academic and IELTS General Exam. Here’s an overview of what is included in the IELTS Listening Paper:
Section | Description | Details |
---|---|---|
Format | Four audio recordings with different scenarios and question types | Each recording has 10 questions, making a total of 40 questions. |
Time | 30 minutes for listening, plus 10 minutes to transfer answers (paper-based test only) | 40 minutes in total for the paper-based test and 30 minutes for the computer-based test. |
Recording 1 | Conversation between two people in an everyday social context | Example: booking a hotel room or discussing a travel itinerary. |
Recording 2 | Monologue on a general topic, often informative | Example: a speech about local facilities or public events. |
Recording 3 | Conversation between up to four people in an educational or training context | Example: a group discussion between students or a student and teacher. |
Recording 4 | Monologue on an academic subject or lecture | Example: a lecture on biology, history, or psychology. |
Question Types | Multiple choice, matching, plan/map/diagram labelling, form/note completion, sentence completion, short answer | A mix of question types to test a range of listening skills, including detail and gist. |
Scoring | 1 mark per correct answer; no negative marking | Total out of 40 is converted to IELTS band scores (e.g., 39-40 correct = Band 9). |
Accents | Varied English accents (British, American, Australian, etc.) | Familiarity with different accents is recommended for accurate understanding. |
NOTE: There will be a word count limit for each set of questions - please pay attention to the word limit and how it changes for the next set of questions.
The IELTS Listening Test remains the same for both the Categories of the IELTS Exam- Academic and General Training like the IELTS Speaking test. Rigorous IELTS Listening Practice is essential before you make up your mind to take the IELTS Listening Test.
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IELTS Listening Sections
There are four sections or parts on the IELTS Listening section. The first two sections of the IELTS Listening Test talk about the situations in everyday social contexts. The final two parts deal with situations set in educational and training contexts. Here is a breakdown of the IELTS Listening module's sections with examples are key things you must focus on in each of the sections:
Section | Description | Examples | Focus Areas |
---|---|---|---|
Section 1 | Social Situation – A conversation between two people in an everyday social context. | Booking a hotel room, arranging transportation, or planning an event. | Listen for names, addresses, numbers, and specific details. Identify information gaps and note-taking for accuracy. |
Section 2 | Monologue on a Social Topic – A single speaker provides information, usually in a non-academic setting. | A tour guide describing a tourist attraction, a speech on a local event, or an explanation of membership benefits. | Focus on main ideas, sequence of information, and specific details. Note the speaker's tone and purpose to capture the main points accurately. |
Section 3 | Academic Discussion – A conversation between 2–4 people, typically in an academic context. | Students discuss a project, tutor-student feedback, or a group discussion on a research topic. | Recognise individual viewpoints, relationships between ideas, and relevant supporting details. Track multiple speakers and distinguish between them. |
Section 4 | Academic Lecture – A monologue on an academic or research-related topic. | Lecture on climate change, historical event analysis, or a scientific topic. | Listen for structure (introduction, main points, conclusion), specific data or examples, and terminology. Focus on content comprehension and the speaker’s main arguments. |
Each section has ten questions, making a total of 40 questions in the Listening test. Applicants must have a strong vocabulary for IELTS to ace the Listening module. The sections get progressively harder, and each recording is played only once, so practice is essential!
IELTS Listening Question Types
There are various types of questions that the candidate encounters in the IELTS Listening exam. Every question has its own approach. Here is a list of the different types of questions you would come across in the IELTS Listening Test, along with examples for each type:
NOTE: The IELTS Listening Exam assesses your ability to understand spoken English in various contexts and situations. You will only hear each recording once, so listening carefully and practising good note-taking skills are essential. Remember to follow the instructions for each question type carefully and adhere to the word limits specified (e.g., "NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS"). Use a pencil to record your answers, and ensure you transfer all answers to the answer sheet within the allocated time. No extra time is provided after the test ends, and answers will be marked only as they appear on the answer sheet.
Tips for IELTS Listening Question Types
1. Multiple Choice
Tip: Focus on keywords and anticipate synonyms in the answer options, as the recording might rephrase the options rather than using the exact words.
-
Example:
- Question: What is the primary reason for the delay?
- A) Road construction
- B) Heavy traffic
- C) Weather conditions
- Correct Answer: If the speaker says, “There was congestion due to an accident,” this implies B (Heavy traffic) because "congestion" is a synonym for traffic.
- Incorrect Answer: Choosing A (Road construction) because it’s similar to a cause of delays. You must rely on the exact clue (in this case, “congestion”) given in the recording.
- Question: What is the primary reason for the delay?
2. Matching
Tip: Match based on clear clues in the recording. Be mindful of similar-sounding words that can be misleading.
-
Example:
- Task: Match each person (A, B, C) to their preferred activity.
- People: A) Anna, B) Ben, C) Carla
- Activities: 1) Hiking, 2) Swimming, 3) Reading
- Correct Answer: If Anna says, “I love reading books in my free time,” the correct match is A – 3 (Anna – Reading).
- Incorrect Answer: Choosing A – 1 (Anna – Hiking) because another person later mentions outdoor activities. This would confuse Anna’s preference for reading with another person’s interest.
- Task: Match each person (A, B, C) to their preferred activity.
3. Plan, Map, or Diagram Labeling
Tip: Familiarize yourself with the map layout or plan before the audio starts. Look for landmarks and directional cues. Listen for location cues (e.g., “next to,” “opposite”) and pay close attention to directions.
-
Example:
- Task: Label the locations in a building based on the description.
- Map Locations: A) Conference Room, B) Cafeteria, C) Main Hall
- Correct Answer: If the speaker says, “You’ll find the cafeteria directly opposite the main hall,” then B (Cafeteria) should be labelled opposite C (Main Hall).
- Incorrect Answer: Labeling the cafeteria next to the main hall because the speaker said “opposite.” Misinterpreting direction words will lead to incorrect answers.
- Task: Label the locations in a building based on the description.
4. Form Completion
Tip: Record exact details like dates and numbers accurately, as even small changes can make an answer incorrect.
-
Example:
- Form Field: Date of Event: __________
- Correct Answer: If the recording says, “The event will be held on the 15th of July,” the correct answer is “15th July” or “July 15” (format varies by test instructions).
- Incorrect Answer: Writing “July” alone or “15” without the month will be incomplete, as both parts are required for accuracy.
5. Note Completion
Tip: Identify key points, as irrelevant details are often distractions.
-
Example:
- Note Prompt: The library opens at __________ every day.
- Correct Answer: If the recording states, “The library opens at 9:00 AM every day except Sunday,” the answer is “9:00 AM”.
- Incorrect Answer: Writing “Sunday” because it was mentioned as an exception. Here, you need the regular opening time, not exceptions.
6. Table Completion
Tip: Focus on the structure of the table and the specific row or column being addressed.
-
Example:
- Table Prompt: Price per ticket: __________
- Correct Answer: If the audio states, “Each ticket costs $15,” the answer is “15” or “$15”, depending on formatting.
- Incorrect Answer: Writing “30” because the recording later mentions, “Two tickets would cost $30.” Make sure to answer only the specific question (single ticket cost).
7. Flowchart Completion
Tip: Follow the sequence in order and listen for connecting words that signal the next step.
-
Example:
- Flowchart Step: Step 3: Apply for a __________ permit.
- Correct Answer: If the recording says, “Once you’ve submitted your documents, you’ll need to apply for a temporary permit,” the answer is “temporary”.
- Incorrect Answer: Writing “parking” because the word “permit” was used. Only the descriptive adjective “temporary” answers the question.
8. Summary Completion
Tip: Summaries are paraphrased; listen for similar meanings rather than exact words.
-
Example:
- Prompt: The tour takes approximately __________ hours to complete.
- Correct Answer: If the speaker says, “The tour lasts around two hours,” then “two” or “2” (hours) is the correct answer.
- Incorrect Answer: Writing “a couple of” because it’s informal. Stick to a concise, direct answer as required by the question.
9. Sentence Completion
Tip: Listen for the context of the sentence to fill in the blanks accurately. The audio will often paraphrase the information. Answers must fit grammatically into the sentence.
- Example: If the sentence reads, "The conference will be held in ______," and the audio says, "The conference will take place at the downtown convention centre," your answer should be "downtown convention centre."
- Common Mistake: Mishearing or misinterpreting the paraphrased information.
10. Short Answer Questions
Tip: Use only the words needed to answer the question, adhering strictly to the word limit. Pay attention to the word limit specified (e.g., "NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS"). This helps you focus on the exact information needed.
-
Example:
- Question: What day is the event scheduled for?
- Correct Answer: If the speaker mentions, “The event is on Saturday,” then “Saturday” is the correct answer.
- Incorrect Answer: Writing “It is on Saturday” would be incorrect due to the word limit; keep it as brief as required.
IELTS Listening Tips and Strategies
The IELTS Listening Test might seem difficult as the test progresses. These are a few general IELTS Listening Tips and strategies to help you gain a good IELTS Listening score band.
Tip/Strategy | Description | Example | Suggestion |
---|---|---|---|
Read Instructions Carefully | Understand question requirements, like word limits and answer format. | For "no more than two words," a three-word answer is incorrect. | Double-check instructions to avoid errors based on format or limits. |
Preview Questions | Skim questions during pauses to anticipate information needed. | In a map task, look at locations and potential directions. | Underline keywords to stay focused. |
Focus on Keywords | Listen for specific words and phrases matching questions. | For "years," listen for "2010," "last decade," or similar time markers. | Identify synonyms, as questions often use paraphrasing. |
Stay Calm if You Miss a Word | Missing one answer shouldn’t disrupt the focus on upcoming questions. | If you miss a name, move on to the next question. | Practice letting go of missed answers to maintain focus. |
Practice Note-Taking | Jot down key points quickly to avoid forgetting details. | Take notes on terms, dates, and concepts in lectures. | Use shorthand or symbols to speed up note-taking. |
Familiarize with Accents | IELTS audios include different accents; practising helps reduce misunderstandings. | Listen to British, Australian, and American accents on similar topics. | Use podcasts or other recordings for exposure to diverse accents. |
Watch Out for Distractors | Speakers may add details or correct themselves. | "The cost is $30, no, actually $20 per ticket." | Stay alert for changes; the last statement is often the answer. |
Practice Using the Answer Sheet | Familiarity with the answer sheet helps with timing and reduces errors. | Download and fill out a sample answer sheet during practice. | Aim to transfer answers in 10 minutes to simulate real test conditions. |
Recordings Are Played Once Only | You have one chance to listen and write answers immediately. | Practice listening once and answering immediately. | Strengthen multitasking by reading, listening, and writing at once. |
Use a Pencil for Answers | A pencil allows for corrections and is recommended for both listening and reading. | Write all answers in pencil on the answer sheet. | Correct any errors during the transfer time. |
Know the Scoring System | Each question is worth one point; scores are based on correct answers out of 40. | A score of 30/40 might result in a Band 7. | Familiarize yourself with band score descriptors to set target goals. |
Capital Letters or Lowercase | You may use either capital or lowercase letters for all answers if consistent. | Both "GARDEN" and "garden" are acceptable. | Choose one style (all caps or lowercase) and stick to it. |
Observe Word Count Limits | Each question specifies a word limit; check this to avoid errors. | “No more than two words and/or a number” allows up to two words and one number. | Focus on “and/or” and keep within the word count exactly. |
Use Correct Grammar and Spelling | Answers must fit the grammar and spelling requirements of the sentence. | Answer "at the hospital" instead of just "hospital" if required. | Review spelling and grammar while transferring answers. |
Count All Words and Numbers | Every word and number counts, even small words like "a" or "the." | "A holiday" is two words, while "1950" is one word. | Stay within word limits by counting carefully, including small words. |
Follow Required Letters or Words | Pay attention to instructions for letters or words in answers, especially in MCQs. | For MCQs, write only the answer letter, like "B" or "C." | Verify the answer format before transferring to avoid errors. |
Know Question Types Well | Familiarize yourself with all IELTS question types and strategies for each. | Practice multiple-choice, matching, and note-completion questions. | Each type has unique strategies, so practice each individually. |
Focus on Finding Specific Answers | Aim to find specific answers rather than understanding all details. | Ignore extra information unrelated to questions. | Concentrate on answers, as irrelevant details are included to distract. |
Be Ready for Fast-Paced Answers | Answers may appear close together or in quick succession. | Three or four answers might be mentioned consecutively. | Stay attentive and preview questions to follow along smoothly. |
Look Ahead to Upcoming Questions | During pauses, skim upcoming questions to anticipate new topics. | Review the next three questions to stay aware of upcoming topics. | Move to the next question as soon as you answer the current one. |
Take Notes While Listening | Jot down keywords to retain important information. | Note key terms or numbers mentioned in the audio. | Practice shorthand to keep up with the audio while taking notes. |
Watch for Gaps Between Answers | There may be pauses between answers; don’t panic. | A long gap may occur between answers, especially in lectures. | Underline keywords to stay focused on questions during pauses. |
Stay Alert for Common Traps | Answers may change mid-sentence or be paraphrased differently. | A speaker might say, "It was originally $50, but now it’s $30." | Focus on final statements, as corrections are often mid-sentence. |
Mind Singular/Plural Forms | Singular/plural misinterpretations can lead to wrong answers. | Write "student" instead of "students" if only one is implied. | Listen carefully for distinctions in nouns, as they can be traps. |
Guess If Unsure of an Answer | There is no penalty for wrong answers, so fill in every blank, even if unsure. | If unsure, make a guess that fits contextually with other answers. | Avoid blanks; guessing may help you score extra points. |
These are some of the expert tips for the IELTS Listening section, which applicants can incorporate when they take up IELTS Listening practice tests.
How to Score 9 Bands in IELTS Listening?
Getting a desirable IELTS Listening Band Score can be tricky as it requires a lot of practice, strategies, and time management skills. A rigorous IELTS preparation can help students aim for their desired scores. But if you aim for a high IELTS Listening band score in its listening test, here are the essential tips that will elevate your IELTS listening band score in no time. Check out the ways to score 9 bands in IELTS Listening in the section below:
1. Understand the Test Format Thoroughly
- Familiarize yourself with the types of questions you will face: multiple choice, matching, plan/map/diagram labelling, form/note/table/flow-chart completion, sentence completion, and short-answer questions.
- Practice each type of question individually to know the strategies for each one.
2. Develop Active Listening Skills
- Practice listening actively to understand not just the main ideas but also details, paraphrasing, and implied information.
- Listen to diverse audio materials in English, including lectures, conversations, news, and podcasts from various English-speaking countries (e.g., BBC Radio, NPR, TED Talks).
3. Practice with IELTS Materials and Realistic Conditions
- Use official IELTS practice tests and materials, as these mirror the exam closely.
- Set up practice sessions in a quiet environment, using headphones, and simulate test conditions, including the time limits.
- Get used to hearing the audio only once, as you will not have the opportunity to replay it in the test.
4. Work on Speed and Accuracy
- Speed is crucial in IELTS Listening, as you need to read, listen, and write answers simultaneously.
- Practice reading questions quickly and identifying keywords before the audio starts.
- Avoid taking extensive notes that might slow you down; jot down only essential keywords.
5. Identify and Focus on Keywords
- As you read each question, underline or highlight keywords to know what information you need to listen for.
- Watch for synonyms or paraphrases in the audio, as they often do not repeat exact words from the questions.
6. Use Prediction Skills
- Try to predict the type of answer that might come up (e.g., a place, date, number, noun, or verb).
- This helps in focusing on the relevant part of the audio without being distracted by irrelevant information.
7. Pay Attention to Distractors
- Be mindful that IELTS often includes “distractors” where speakers change their answers or correct themselves.
- Stay focused and avoid writing down answers too quickly; wait until the speaker confirms.
8. Stay Focused on the Flow of Information
- In the IELTS Listening test, answers follow the sequence of the recording. Train yourself to follow the flow of information logically.
- If you miss one answer, let it go and focus on the next one to avoid losing further points.
9. Practice Note-Taking and Abbreviations
- Develop shorthand symbols and abbreviations for frequently used words to help with note-taking.
- Practice making quick, concise notes without missing the next bit of information.
10. Be Conscious of Spelling and Grammar
- Spelling errors and grammatical mistakes can lower your score, even if the answer is correct in meaning.
- Practice checking spelling and grammar as you transfer answers to the answer sheet.
11. Use the 10-Minute Transfer Time Wisely
- During the last 10 minutes, transfer answers carefully and double-check spelling, word limits, and grammar.
- Ensure you understand whether answers require a letter (e.g., "A," "B") or a word and follow accordingly.
12. Build Stamina and Focus
- The listening test requires intense concentration. Practice staying focused throughout a full test without breaks to build endurance.
- Train your mind to focus on audio without letting minor distractions break your attention.
13. Improve Pronunciation Awareness
- Familiarize yourself with different English accents, such as British, American, Australian, and Canadian.
- Practice listening for subtle pronunciation differences to avoid confusion, especially with similar-sounding words.
14. Stay Calm and Manage Test Anxiety
- Develop techniques to stay calm and focused during the test, especially if you miss an answer.
- Remember, missing one answer is not the end—keeping your focus can help you score well overall.
15. Use Online Resources and Apps
- Use resources like British Council’s IELTS Listening practice tests, and apps like “IELTS Prep” or “IELTS Listening Test” to strengthen your skills.
- Regular use of these resources can help you get accustomed to the type of vocabulary and sentence structures common in IELTS listening.
Sample Schedule for Practice:
- Daily: 30-45 minutes of listening to varied English media and practising note-taking.
- Weekly: 1-2 full listening practice tests under exam conditions.
- Before the Exam: Review common IELTS vocabulary, practice weak areas, and do at least one timed practice test.
By following these strategies and maintaining a consistent, focused practice, you can significantly increase your chances of achieving a Band 9 in IELTS Listening.
IELTS Listening Exam Do's and Don'ts
Many candidates face issues with what to believe while preparing for the paper and what to ignore. Here are a few do's and don'ts which would help you to use your time wisely and get a better band with the right IELTS Listening Practice.
IELTS Listening Do's | IELTS Listening Don'ts |
---|---|
Check your headphones before the exam starts | Be afraid to seek help if your headphones aren’t working |
Read instructions and underline key information | Forget to paraphrase the sentence before you listen to the audio |
Make notes as you listen | Try to understand every word, and look out for the answers |
Keep listening even after you feel you have got the answer because it might change | Forget that the recording is played only once |
Check your spelling and keep all the letters capitalised if you need to | Forget to check your grammar & spelling |
Aim to answer every question as there is no negative marking for incorrect answers | Miss out on answering any questions as there is no negative marking for incorrect answers |
IELTS Listening Tutorial
Check out an exclusive video for a detailed understanding of the IELTS Listening section from our expert trainer below:
This video will help those who wish to have a higher score on IELTS Listening test or are aiming for an overall good band score on IELTS Listening section.
IELTS Books for Listening Module
Below are a few resources to prepare for IELTS Listening Test:
- The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS.
- Barron's IELTS Superpack.
- Simone Braverman's Target Band 7.
- IELTS Listening Practice Tests
These resources or books for IELTS will help applicants gain knowledge about IELTS Listening in detail because there are separate approaches towards each question type in the IELTS Listening module. Hence, following the correct strategy is crucial to gain better bands in the IELTS Listening Test.
Learn about the IELTS exam in detail: FREE Online IELTS Videos
IELTS Listening FAQs
Q. Can I write on the Listening question paper for IELTS?
A. Yes, you may write on the question paper when attempting IELTS Listening module and make notes if you need to. In fact, it is recommended to write and have some keywords ready before you put them on the final answer sheet. Making notes helps you to remember what you heard in the audio, because the audio is played only once and the answers won’t be repeated. Also keep a note that you need to transfer the answers correctly in your answer sheet in those last 10 minutes of your listening paper. Sometimes candidates forget or miss out on transferring the answers correctly in the sheet, so keep sometime to do so.
Q. What accents can I expect in the IELTS Listening module?
A. IELTS is an international exam so you might hear a variety of different accents in the recording for the Listenibg module. You should have a good practice for all the accents before you take the exam, because it might become a hindrance in getting a good band. Understanding different accents might become a challenge but it can be overcome by listening to different podcasts, watching movies and news. This would help in improving your listening skills for various accents.
Q. How can I improve my listening skills for IELTS Listening module?
A. Listening is one of the scoring modules in IELTS if practiced wisely. There are various sources from where you can practice and score a higher band. Firstly, practice is a must. Books like IELTS official Cambridge series, Barron's IELTS Super back and many more. Listening to podcasts and, watching movies, Watching English news, talking in English regularly would improve the skills as well as your confidence till you reach the date of your exam.
Q. Is it possible to get 7 and above bands in a month practice on IELTS Listening test?
A. Yes, it is very much possible to get a good score with a month of dedicated practice session. But you need a certified trainer’s help so that you do not waste a single second on irrelevant sources. It is essential to use your time wisely while practicing for IELTS, because every question has a different approach and a strategy. Also, one has to be realistic in such context, if you have issues understanding English. Then the first approach should be to learn the basic skills rather than focusing on the IELTS paper. With that you can aim for a higher band because IELTS requires you to have at least basic level of English to clear the paper.
Q. Can I write my answers in short forms/ acronyms for IELTS Listening module?
A. No. Short forms / acronyms are not allowed. There are several acceptable abbreviations you can use in all parts of IELTS, such as 10am / 10 a.m., 100m, 5kg, amongst some others. In a few cases, even some well-known acronyms are allowed, such as UK, US and yes — IELTS. However, to avoid losing marks, you should always try to write the full form of a word if you can spell them (correctly). So, if the answer is, for example, New England, then do not write ‘NE’.
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