IELTS Listening Sentence Completion Practice Test & Tips

In the IELTS Listening test, Sentence Completion is another common question type that assesses your ability to understand spoken information and fill in missing blanks in a sentence. 

Format:

• You will listen to an audio recording, a conversation or a monologue.
•  Includes a sentence with one or more missing words.
• You must listen carefully and fill in the blanks with the correct words or phrases.
  

Sample Questions:

Source: Cambridge English test paper

Source: Cambridge English test paper

1. Before you listen, carefully read the sentence:

Before the audio starts, always read the sentence. Focus on the words surrounding the blank, paying particular attention to the context and any hints that could point to the missing word. Keep an eye out for crucial terms like "reason," "cause," "time," or "place," as these provide you clues about what may be said.

2. Understand the Context

Listening to the audio can be fast; sometimes, information comes in all at once. By reading the sentence beforehand, you’re setting up expectations for the type of information you need to listen for. Understanding the context will help you predict what kind of word fits in the blank – a noun, verb, or adjective.

3. Pay Attention to Specific Details

Look out for to the important facts that could fill in the gaps as soon as the recording begins. Pay attention to specific words or numbers since the information you need will be directly tied to the sentence you're finishing. In the audio, these words are frequently emphasized or repeated.

4. Be mindful of synonyms and paraphrases.

The words in the sentence may not always match the exact wording in the recording. The speaker may reword the same message or utilize synonyms. For example, the speaker can say, "The seminar is scheduled to occur at the ____," and use a synonym for "scheduled" if the phrase states, "The seminar will take place in the ____." It's important to pay close attention.

5. Avoid Overanalyzing it

You can become anxious and complicate things too much at times. Remember that every statement is supposed to be simple. Spend less time second-guessing and more time trusting your gut. If you cannot determine the answer right away, proceed and return to it later if you have time.

6. Check Your Grammar

While filling in the blanks, ensure your answer fits grammatically. For example, use the correct form if the sentence needs a plural noun. Paying attention to grammar helps ensure that your answer makes sense and fits smoothly in the context of the sentence.

• Complex Sentences: You may become stressed by lengthy, intricate sentences. You can divide the text into manageable chunks and concentrate on the primary point.
• Distractors: The IELTS listening section commonly uses words or concepts that may sound similar to the right response. Watch out for terms that don't match the sentence but sound like the answer.
• Audio Speed: In audio, the speaker might speak quickly. To increase your capacity to hear every word, try listening to the audio materials faster if you have trouble keeping up.

• Practice Listening Regularly

You will become familiar with various accents and speech speeds the more you listen to various audio resources, including podcasts, news broadcasts, and IELTS practice exams. This will enhance your listening comprehension and make identifying specifics on the test easier.

• Familiarize Yourself with Different Accents

Listening to various sources will help you adjust to the substantial differences in British, American, Australian, and Canadian accents.

• Listen for Paraphrasing

It often includes paraphrasing or rephrasing of ideas. It’s important to listen actively and practice identifying paraphrased information, which can help you connect what you hear to the sentence you're completing.

• Use IELTS Practice Exams for Listening

Using official IELTS preparation resources or taking practice exams is one of the greatest methods to get ready. You will gain confidence, become more accustomed to the test format, and be better able to remember important details.

•  Practice Different Question Types

IELTS Listening Map/Plan/Diagram Labeling Questions
IELTS Listening Note Completion Practice Test
IELTS Listening Matching Questions
1200 Common Words in IELTS Listening Test