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How Sabiha raised her IELTS score from 6.5 to 8

We all love success stories, perhaps because they present an opportunity for us to follow the same path. Today we’re delighted to share with you Sabiha’s story of how she overcame the difficulties and improved her IELTS result from Band 6.5 to 8. Strict IELTS examiners in London did not break her spirit!

Band 8 in IELTSSabiha is a lovely 30 year old lady (an Urdu native speaker, originally from Pakistan) and one of our IELTS results competition winners. Here is what she said about her IELTS journey:

“This was my third attempt in IELTS, previously two overall band scores were 7 and then unfortunately 6.5 – which led me to work very hard this time as I wanted no loopholes in my effort. Finally I was successful in leaving quite an impression on my native English Speaking examiners in London.

To show proficiency in a language in an English speaking country is one very important factor, according to my experience – but the most important thing is to follow the techniques fully as the test itself is very tricky, especially in Reading. Guessing the answer actually doesn’t work. One has to have a very good reading comprehension along with the Skimming and Scanning techniques. I scored 7.5 in Reading and to be honest, I have literally worked for 8 months, only on Reading.

One of my friends here took IELTS last year. She had prepared for her test through “Ace The IELTS” and I think I was very fortunate to have this valuable book that really strengthened my skills all the way through. My Reading score in the last two tests was 6 and I was desperate to improve it, and this book gave me the confidence I wanted. Thanks for that.

For Listening, it’s all about how one utilises the time as well as having a sharp Listening comprehension. Always try to take a bird’s eye view of the next session when you get the time to check your answers. I scored 8 in it.

Writing is just about being focused on the topic. A good introduction, level-headed and logical arguments (in favour or against) and a very proper conclusion, with variety of words is the key.

Lastly, Speaking is though the easiest but a well-assessed test. Within 12 minutes, the examiner judges the candidate’s ability to give an opinion, to make comparisons and their overall language communication. I got 9 here.”

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Author

Simone Braverman is the founder of IELTS-Blog.com and author of several popular IELTS preparation books, including Ace the IELTS, Target Band 7, the High Scorer's Choice practice test series, and IELTS Success Formula. Since 2005 her work has helped 100,000's of students worldwide achieve their target IELTS scores and live their dream lives. When Simone isn't working on her next IELTS book, video lesson, or coaching, she enjoys playing the guitar or rollerblading.