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Mastering IELTS: Insider Advice from a Top Scorer (Band 8)

Mastering IELTS: Insider Advice from a Top Scorer (Band 8)

IELTS High Scorer's Advice Band 8 Tips October 2023

Achieving a high score in the IELTS exam is a significant milestone, and for those of you aiming for Band 8, it often seems like a daunting challenge. That’s exactly why we keep gathering valuable insights from successful candidates who know first-hand what it takes.

One such achiever is Laura Fernandez from Spain, who scored an impressive Overall Band 8.0 in the IELTS test. Laura’s story is truly inspiring, because it proves that with the right preparation materials and dedication, you can conquer the IELTS exam and achieve your desired score.

Laura’s superpower was her comprehensive approach to exam preparation. When asked about her advice for fellow candidates, she emphasised the importance of a well-rounded preparation focusing on all four skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking.

Best IELTS test result October 2023

Laura said,

“To be honest, I would recommend all candidates taking the IELTS test to prepare themselves very well in all four skills. It is true that grammar and vocabulary are important, but many tend to focus a lot on these aspects and not so much on reading and listening comprehension, for example”.

Another piece of advice Laura shared resonates deeply with IELTS test takers: the value of mock tests. She stressed the importance of practicing with a variety of mock tests, perfecting your skills and time management in real exam conditions.

“They should do as many mock tests as they can because they will never be enough,”Laura said, adding a touch of humour to her earnest recommendation.

Laura credited her success to the resources she used during her preparation. She mentioned relying on High Scorer’s Choice practice test books, which evidently played a pivotal role in helping her achieve her remarkable Band 8.0 score. The right study materials can make a significant difference, because nothing can replace targeted practice and valuable insights into the exam format and question types.

As you’re about to hit the books, remember Laura’s advice: focus on all four skills, don’t neglect reading and listening comprehension, and practice with a variety of mock tests. And last but not least – get in touch if you feel stuck and need help! That’s what we’re here for.

New IELTS Speaking questions from India – October 2023

IELTS Speaking New Questions India October 2023

KB took the test in India very recently and remembered the following IELTS Speaking questions:

Preparation Tip: Do a practice session where you answer all of these questions and record yourself. If you don’t have enough ideas for questions on a particular topic, research it and write down some vocabulary words and how to use them in a sentence.

After recording your answers, listen to them and look for fluency (frequent pausing, self-correction, hesitation) or pronunciation problems. Then re-record the questions you’re not happy with, and this time try to sound more fluent and pronounce the words better. Take a Speaking Mock Test online, read your Examiner’s feedback and learn how to score higher.

Speaking test

Part 1 (Interview)

– What is your full name?
– Where are you from?
– Do you work or study?
– Do you like your work?
– Do you have friends?
– Are you in touch with them?
– How often do you spend time with your friends?
– What do you usually enjoy doing together?
– Can you tell me about your best friend?

Part 2 (Cue Card)

Describe a house you would like to own in the future. You should say

– what kind of house it would be
– where you would like it to be
– what features or facilities you would like it to have

and explain why you would like to own such a house in the future.

Read & listen to a Band 9 answer about your dream home here

Part 3 (Discussion)

– How many types of houses are there in your area?
– What are the advantages of living in an old house?
– What are the disadvantages of living in an old house?
– Why do young people prefer to live in the cities?
– In terms of housing, what are the main differences between living in urban areas and rural areas?
– Are there advantages to living in rural areas compared to urban areas, especially concerning housing?