IELTS Structure

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) consists of four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. This test evaluates the core English language skills. The duration is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, and it is available in two formats: Academic and General Training.

Listening - 30 minutes + 2 minutes for checking answers

• 4 recordings: everyday conversations, academic discussions, monologues.
• 40 questions: multiple choice, filling in blanks, matching.

Reading - 60 minutes

• Academic: 3 long texts on academic subjects.
• General Training: texts related to everyday life (advertisements, letters, instructions, etc.).
• 40 questions: matching, filling in tables, multiple-choice questions, etc.

Writing - 60 minutes

• Task 1: Describing a graph or process (Academic) or writing a letter (General Training).
• Task 2: Writing an essay on a given topic (analysis, opinion, discussion).

Speaking - 11-14 minutes

• Interview, speaking on a given topic, answering in-depth questions.

Each section is scored on a scale from 1 to 9. IELTS is ideal for proving your English proficiency for studying, working, or moving abroad.

Listening

The Listening section evaluates your ability to understand spoken English. There are 40 questions, and after 30 minutes of audio, you are given 2 minutes to check your answers. The four recordings progressively increase in difficulty.

1. Structure of the Listening Section

• Part 1: A dialogue from daily life (e.g., booking a hotel).
• Part 2: A monologue related to daily life or work (e.g., an announcement).
• Part 3: A discussion on academic topics (e.g., a project discussion).
• Part 4: An academic monologue (e.g., a lecture).

2. Types of Questions

• Multiple choice questions.
• Filling in blanks.
• Matching tasks.
• Filling in tables or diagrams.
• Short answer questions.
• Form completion.
• Placing labels on a map.

3. Scoring Criteria

• Accuracy of the response and alignment with the audio content.
• Adherence to the word limit.
• Correct spelling.
• Use of correct units (e.g., "km").

4. Scoring Calculation

The number of correct answers is converted into a Band Score ranging from 1 to 9.

5. Skills Assessed

• Attention to detail.
• Understanding the general content.
• Distinguishing between different opinions.
• Using context to understand the meaning.

6. Preparation Tips

• Read the questions beforehand.
• Focus on key words.
• If you miss an answer, move on to the next question.

7. Common Mistakes

• Leaving questions unanswered.
• Ignoring the word count limit.
• Misunderstanding the context.

8. Conclusion

The Listening section tests your attention, quick response, and ability to understand various accents. With regular practice and careful reading of the instructions, you can achieve a high score.

Reading Section

The IELTS test evaluates your reading skills. In this section, your ability to find information, understand the topic, and analyze content is assessed. The test consists of 40 questions, and 60 minutes are allocated to this section. Answers are graded either automatically (in the computer-based test) or manually (in the paper-based test).

1. Structure of the Reading Section

The format includes:

• Academic IELTS: 3 academic texts (scientific articles, magazines, analytical content)
• General IELTS: Several texts of varying lengths:
  • Personal letters, advertisements, instructions (Section 1)
  • Longer articles on general topics (Sections 2 and 3)

2. Types of Questions

Various types of questions are used in the test, each assessing a different aspect of your reading skills.

1. Multiple Choice: Choose one or more correct answers. These questions test your ability to understand the main ideas or information in the text.
2. Gap Filling: Fill in the blanks with appropriate answers from the text. Correct spelling and format are important.
3. Matching: Match headings or information to the appropriate sections of the text. These questions assess your ability to locate information.
4. True/False/Not Given: Check the accuracy of information in the text and decide if it is True, False, or Not Given.
5. Completing Tables or Charts: Fill in the blanks in tables or charts with information from the text.
6. Short Answers: Provide answers using words from the text (there may be a word limit).
7. Matching Paragraphs: Match each paragraph or part of the text to the most suitable heading.

3. Assessment Criteria

Scores are determined based on correct answers. The assessment criteria are as follows:

1. Accuracy: One point is awarded for each correct answer. Incorrect or partial answers (e.g., spelling errors or exceeding the word limit) are marked wrong.
2. Word Limit: If the answer requires "two words only," using three words makes the answer incorrect.
3. Spelling: All answers must be spelled correctly. Capitalization matters as well.
4. Word Forms: Using the wrong word form, such as "runs" instead of "run," makes the answer incorrect.

4. Scoring Table

Minimum points: 40 (one point for each correct answer). Scores are awarded on a scale of 1 to 9.

The scoring table for Academic and General tests is as follows:

Number of Correct Answers	Academic Band Score	General Band Score
39–40	9.0	9.0
37–38	8.5	8.5
35–36	8.0	8.0
33–34	7.5	7.5
...	...	...

5. Test Techniques

• Scanning: Locate specific information in long passages.
• Understanding the Main Idea: Grasp the main idea of each paragraph or section of the text.
• Interpreting Information: Understand tables, graphs, and diagrams.
• Analyzing Arguments: Recognize relationships between ideas in the text.
• Drawing Inferences: Understand implied or directly stated information.

6. Preparation Tips

• Read the instructions for each question carefully.
• Understand the word limit for each answer.
• Avoid reading the entire text.
• Use skimming techniques to grasp the main idea quickly.
• Identify keywords in the text to locate information efficiently.

True/False/Not Given:

• If the information is correct - True.
• If the information is incorrect - False.
• If the information is not mentioned - Not Given.

Matching: Start with unique items (e.g., unusual names or dates).

Matching Paragraphs: Identify the main idea of each paragraph.

7. Common Mistakes

• Leaving a question blank if you don’t know the answer. If unsure, try guessing as it may not be marked wrong.
• Ignoring word limits. If the answer requires "one word," providing three words will be incorrect.
• Confusing "Not Given" with "False." Do not mix up unmentioned information with contradictory information.
• Reading the entire text. This can waste time.

8. Conclusion

The Reading section requires focus, speed, and accuracy. Regular practice with IELTS texts, studying different question types, and attention to detail will help you succeed in this section.

Speaking Section

The Speaking section in IELTS is evaluated by an examiner. It assesses how fluently, accurately, and appropriately you can speak English. The test lasts 11–14 minutes and is divided into three parts.

1. Structure of Speaking

• Part 1: Introduction and Interview (4–5 minutes)

The examiner asks questions about you:

• Your hobbies, work/studies, family, interests.
• General topics such as weather, travel, movies, favorite dishes.

This part assesses your ability to hold a natural conversation and answer simple questions.

• Part 2: Long Turn (3–4 minutes)

You are given a card with a topic and 1 minute to prepare. Example topics might include:

• "Talk about a book you recently read."
• "Describe a place you would like to visit."

You need to speak for 1–2 minutes, after which the examiner may ask some follow-up questions.

• Part 3: Discussion (4–5 minutes)

A deeper discussion of the topic related to Part 2: For instance, if you talked about a book in Part 2, the questions might be:

• "How do books influence society?"
• "Why is reading losing popularity?"

This part assesses your ability to reason, justify your opinions, analyze, and discuss more complex topics.

2. Evaluation Criteria

Speaking is evaluated based on four criteria:

1. Fluency and Coherence:
   • Ability to speak without long pauses, stammering, or overusing fillers like "um," "like," "you know."
   • Logical flow of ideas with the use of linkers (e.g., "however," "in addition," "for instance").
   • No confusion or abrupt jumps between topics.
2. Lexical Resource:
   • Diverse vocabulary, including idioms and phrasal verbs.
   • Use of appropriate words to describe complex ideas or emotions.
   • Errors such as incorrect word choice or repetition of the same expressions can lower your score.
3. Grammatical Range and Accuracy:
   • Use of a variety of grammatical structures: simple, complex, and compound sentences.
   • Correct use of tenses, conditionals, passive voice, etc.
   • Minimal errors, especially those that hinder comprehension.
4. Pronunciation:
   • Clear and understandable pronunciation, with minimal accent interference.
   • Appropriate use of intonation and speech rhythm.
   • Correct articulation of words.

3. How Speaking Is Evaluated

The examiner records the entire conversation for later review. Each part is evaluated individually, and the results are combined. The overall level of language proficiency is considered, not just the absence of errors.

4. How the Score Is Calculated

Each criterion (Fluency, Lexical Resource, Grammar, Pronunciation) is scored from 1 to 9. The overall Speaking score is the average of the four criteria. Example:

• Fluency: 6.5
• Lexical Resource: 7.0
• Grammar: 6.5
• Pronunciation: 7.0

Final Score: (6.5 + 7.0 + 6.5 + 7.0) / 4 = 6.75, rounded to 7.0.

5. Features and Recommendations

• Part 1:
  • Speak confidently and avoid short answers.
  • Instead of "Yes, I like movies," say: "Yes, I enjoy watching movies, especially action films because they keep me entertained and excited."
  • Add details and examples.
• Part 2:
  • Structure your response:
    • Introduction: "I’d like to talk about..."
    • Main part: Use past, present, and future for description.
    • Conclusion: "To sum up, this was an experience that..."
  • Use the preparation time to jot down key ideas.
• Part 3:
  • Justify your answers: "I believe reading is still important because it helps people improve their critical thinking skills. For instance, reading complex novels often requires readers to interpret and analyze the storyline."
  • Express hypothetical ideas: "If people read more, I think society would benefit from better-educated individuals."

6. Preparation Tips

• Practice with a partner: Ask them to pose questions in English.
• Use a timer: Practice to fit within the allotted time.
• Record yourself: Listen to identify weaknesses.
• Study examples: Watch videos of real Speaking exams.

7. Common Mistakes

• Short answers: The examiner expects you to elaborate on your thoughts.
• Excessive pauses: Indicate lack of confidence.
• Incorrect accent: Speak clearly and naturally, avoiding overexertion.

Conclusion

The Speaking section is an opportunity to showcase how well you can express your thoughts in English. Consistent practice, using a rich vocabulary, and confident delivery are the keys to a high score.

Writing

The Writing section of the IELTS is scored by examiners (including in the computer-based format). You complete two tasks (Task 1 and Task 2), which are scored according to strict criteria. Here's how the scoring process works:

1. Structure of the Writing Section

Task 1 (20 minutes):

• Academic IELTS: You are required to describe a graph, diagram, process, or table. The response must be at least 150 words.
• General Training IELTS: You write a letter (formal, semi-formal, or informal), also at least 150 words.

Task 2 (40 minutes):

• Write an essay on a given topic (e.g., expressing an opinion, analyzing a problem, discussing arguments). The essay must be at least 250 words.

2. Scoring Criteria

Both tasks are scored according to four main criteria. Each one contributes equally to your final score:

1. Task Achievement
   This evaluates how fully and accurately you have addressed the task:
   • In Task 1: You described the main trends, differences, and comparisons.
   • In Task 2: You considered all aspects of the question, presented a clear position (if required), and provided arguments and examples when necessary.
2. Coherence and Cohesion
   This evaluates the logic and structure of your writing:
   • You have a clear introduction, main body, and conclusion.
   • Ideas develop logically and are linked using transition words and phrases (e.g., "however," "moreover," "on the other hand").
   • No parts of the text are disconnected or illogical.
3. Lexical Resource
   This evaluates the range and quality of vocabulary:
   • You use a wide range of vocabulary, including appropriate terminology.
   • You avoid repeating the same words or phrases.
   • There are no errors in word choice or phrase selection.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy
   This evaluates the range of grammatical structures used:
   • You use simple, complex, and compound sentences.
   • You use tenses, prepositions, articles, and punctuation correctly.
   • There are very few grammatical errors.

3. How Scoring Works

All tasks are scored by experienced examiners who evaluate each task based on the four criteria.

Scores for Task 1 and Task 2 are weighted:

• Task 2 is more important, contributing 2/3 of the total score.
• Task 1 contributes the remaining 1/3.

4. How Key Aspects Are Scored

Text Organization

Examiners check for clear structure:

• Introduction with a clear statement of the topic.
• Main body, where you argue your viewpoint (Task 2) or describe data (Task 1).
• Conclusion summarizing key points.

Format Adherence

In Task 1 (Academic), descriptions should be objective and accurate.
In Task 1 (General Training), the writing style (formal/informal) must match the task.
In Task 2, a clear position and supporting arguments are required.

Vocabulary and Grammar

Repetitive words or clichéd phrases will reduce your score.
Grammatical or spelling mistakes that alter the meaning of the sentence can significantly impact your score.

Word Count Compliance

Texts that are below the minimum word count (150 words for Task 1 and 250 words for Task 2) will be penalized.
Rewriting the question in the introduction without adding new meaning will reduce your score.

5. Calculating Scores

Each task is scored on a scale from 1 to 9.
These scores are combined to give your overall Writing score.

6. Tips to Improve Your Score

Task 1:

• Focus on the key data, avoid describing minor details.
• Make comparisons where possible.

Task 2:

• Write a plan before starting (decide what to include in each part).
• Ensure your arguments are supported by examples.
• Use a rich vocabulary, but only words you're confident with.

General Tips:

• Practice writing within the allotted time.
• Review your text for mistakes.
• Learn how to structure essays and letters properly.

Writing is one of the toughest sections of the IELTS, but practicing and following the scoring criteria closely will help improve your result.