IELTS TIPS
What is the first thing you should do in the writing test?
PLAN!
What linking words can I use to express similarity?
•Similarly
•Likewise
•In the same way
•Correspondingly
•Just as
You must wear a mask!
It is mandatory to wear a mask.
Problem
•Issue
•Challenge
•Difficulty
•Obstacle
•Complication
There is a growing concern about the amount of plastic waste produced by modern societies.
There is an increasing worry about the amount of plastic waste generated by today’s societies.
What is the last thing you should do in the writing test?
PROOF READ
What linking words can express contrast?
However
Nevertheless / Nonetheless
On the other hand
Conversely
In contrast
You can't smoke here!
Smoking is prohibited.
Improve
•Enhance
•Boost
•Strengthen
•Advance
•Develop
•Elevate
Some people argue that governments should spend more money on healthcare instead of the military.
It is often argued that governments should prioritize funding healthcare over military spending.
How can you try to predict what you will hear in the listening test?
Predict the word type!
What linking words can express a result / consequence?
Therefore
Consequently
Accordingly
Thus
This leads to / this will lead to / this led to
It's going to be difficult, but it's realistic that we might finish the project.
It is feasible to finish the project.
Decrease
•Decline
•Drop
•Fall
•Reduce
•Diminish
•Plummet
With more people choosing to work from home, some believe that offices may become unnecessary in the future.
With more people opting to work remotely, some think traditional offices may no longer be necessary in the future.
What are some examples of keywords you should highlight in your reading?
Proper nouns, numbers, dates, etc.
What linking words can add more information?
Additionally
In addition
Furthermore
Moreover
Also
As well as
That's a lot of clouds! I really think it might rain.
It is likely to rain.
Increase
•Rise
•Grow
•Climb
•Surge
•Expand
•Escalate
Many people believe that social media has a negative impact on friendships and relationships.
A large number of people think that social media harms friendships and personal connections.
What is the first thing you should do in the READING section?
READ THE QUESTIONS!
What linking words can show the order of importance?
Primarily
Chiefly
Above all
First and foremost
Principally
Jane is really good, she can do her job very well.
Jane is very competent at her job.
Important
•Significant
•Crucial
•Essential
•Vital
•Key
Some people think that children should learn practical skills, like cooking or managing money, at school.
Some argue that students should be taught practical abilities, such as cooking and financial management, as part of their school education.