How to get 9 bands in IELTS Listening

Listening is the module in which scoring 9 bands can be a cakewalk for IELTS listening if you know the right tips and tricks. The other 3 modules can be harder to score but listening is the only module where 9 bands is not rocket science.

To crack this module some simple tips and tricks are:

1. Skim the questions quickly before the recording starts and during the 30 seconds given. Underline the keywords like ‘WHERE’ and ‘WHO’ which indicate you should listen for specific things like places and people.

2. It is important to listen to the introduction to each section. This will give you useful information about the situation and the speakers.

3. Use the time at the beginning of each section {and the middle of section} to read the questions ahead and think about the topic.

4. You should read the instructions for each task carefully. Remember to check maximum number of words allowed. If the instructions say “Use No More Than Three Words”, then you can use One or Two or Three words but not Four words. You should wisely choose the three words from the conversation which should not destroy the meaning of the answer. Check that what you write makes sense in the context.

5. Write all your answers on the questions paper as you listen. Remember you won’t hear the recording a second time.

6. Answer all questions even if you don’t feel sure about an answer because there is no negative marking.

7. Wait until the end of test to transfer your answers. You have ten minutes for this which is plenty of time.

8. Write clearly when you transfer your answers. If an answer is not clear on your answer sheet then you will lose a mark. It is highly recommended to write all the answers in capital letters on the answer sheet to avoid errors regarding the capitalization of proper nouns.

9. If any part of the answer [especially blanks] is already printed on the question paper [for e.g. $,am,pm], do not copy it on the answer sheet.

10. Do not over write and do not give two answers for one question unless asked in the question.

11. Check your spellings and grammar where necessary.

More about IELTS here.