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We've collected the most frequently asked questions from our IELTS test takers, covering every stage of your IELTS journey. Our IELTS experts have provided answers and shared their unique insights.

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Last answered by Reza

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Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
A very good question. This is an indicator of how cohesive and coherent a piece of writing is. Referencing and substitution is when we use words like pronouns (him/her, this/that, these/those, it), and articles (a/an, the). Substitution and referencing help avoid repeating ideas and making sentences clearer.
Jun 30, 2025
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Last answered by Reza

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Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
Paraphrasing is a great strategy for when you're not fully sure what to say or how to say it. Sometimes you may not remember an exact word, so don’t stay quiet and try to explain what you mean. You can use words with a similar meaning. Also, sometimes if you feel you did not express an idea clearly, it does not hurt to say it again using different words.

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Jun 30, 2025
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Last answered by Reza

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Reza Tasviri
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It’s always good to have a close look at the IELTS Writing band descriptors to understand what band 8 needs. You need to be able to answer all parts of the question, so read the question first carefully. Focus on organisation; link your ideas logically and use paragraphing well. Use more complex words and use them only when you are confident when your are using them correctly, and make sure you use varied grammar and avoid making common mistakes. Reviewing your writing is always a good idea.

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Jun 30, 2025
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Last answered by Reza

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Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
I assume you mean how to move to band 4.5 from a lower band. Practice with different IELTS writing tasks; look at the questions and try to think of answers, write down your ideas, first in words and then in sentences. Then try to put your ideas in order. See if you can use some linking words (for example, and, so, but, in summary). Try to use a few complex structures, for example “if” sentences and push yourself to use a few new words every time you practice.

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Jun 30, 2025
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Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
The IELTS test offers various access arrangements for those who need additional support. This includes arrangements for dyslexia and other learning difficulties. Your test center will require some time to facilitate the arrangements, which may include extra time for your exam, so make sure to contact them well before you would like to sit the test. You will need to provide the test center with a medical certificate from a specialist doctor that states why you require specific arrangements. Your test center will then organise a test date and inform you of the arrangements that have been approved for your test.

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Jun 30, 2025
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Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
If you wake up on the morning of your test date feeling unwell, please contact our customer support team. They may ask you to obtain a medical certificate and will then work to reschedule your test date. If you are in the middle of your test and you begin to feel unwell, please tell the test day invigilation staff immediately. It is best that you head home and rest rather than continue with the test. You won't be able to perform your best if you are feeling sick! Contact our customer support team within 5 days of your test to request a rescheduling of your test. They may ask you to obtain a medical note from a doctor.

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Jun 30, 2025
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Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
In terms of content and test questions, neither of the formats is easier than the other. It all depends on which format makes you feel most comfortable. Some people are happier writing with pencil and paper, whereas others feel most at home on a computer typing the answers. Whatever makes you feel most comfortable will be the best option for you.
Jun 30, 2025
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Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
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The IELTS test isn't a job interview, so don't feel like you need to wear your best clothes. The most important thing to do is dress in clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident. This will be different for everyone but find what works for you. Also, make sure you dress for what the temperature might be in the test room, so even if it is hot outside bring a light jacket just in case. Remember, though, you are not allowed to wear bulky jackets, hats or scarves in the test room and will be asked to remove them before entering.

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Jun 30, 2025
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Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
It is fine to cross it out and write your answer again. Just make sure it is done clearly. In the IELTS on Computer test, you can delete your response easily.
Jun 26, 2025
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Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
Many test centres will be open for testing on the weekends, and some may test during the evenings. However, this won't be the same for all test centres. Please go to the website to check test availability near you.
Jun 26, 2025
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Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
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The Listening component is not always first. The order of the components is different between IELTS on Computer and IELTS on Paper. It may also depend on where in the world you are taking the test. It will either be Listening, Reading then Writing, OR Writing, Reading then Listening. Please contact your closest test centre to confirm the order for your test if needed.

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Jun 26, 2025
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Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
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Yes, you can! All you must do is select the word/s that you want to highlight, right click and select highlight.
Jun 26, 2025
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Fahad Rafique

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Canada

16 years

Experience

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IELTS Expert

Hello! I'm Fahad, and I've been a part of IELTS since April 2010. Having been born and raised in the UAE and then migrating to Canada, I can truly say that IELTS takes you places. I firmly believe that success belongs to those who actively seek it. I'm here to help answer any questions you may have about IELTS and guide you on how to take that crucial first step toward achieving your international dreams – whether it's study, migration or work. I look forward to supporting you!!

Last online Aug 2, 2025

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Jess Christie

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Australia

8 years

Experience

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IELTS Expert

Hi, I'm Jess and I’m an IELTS Expert who has worked in the world of IELTS for 7 years. I help test takers do the best they can in the IELTS test by providing them with helpful tips to ensure they have a smooth test day. I am originally from regional Victoria in Australia, but I was an international student when I went to Ireland for University. I came back and decided to work in the world of international education, which led me to IELTS.

Last online Jun 25, 2025

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Lewis Crannitch

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New Zealand

2 years

Experience

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IELTS Expert

Hi, I’m Lewis. I’ve worked with IELTS in New Zealand since 2017 and taught English in Japan, China, and NZ. Having also learned a language myself in China, I understand the challenges test takers face. I track English proficiency requirements in NZ and deliver IELTS Masterclasses and familiarisation sessions to support preparation, share resources, and make test day easier. I look forward to connecting with you on your IELTS journey.

Last online Sep 15, 2025

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Linda Alley

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Australia

11 years

Experience

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IELTS Expert

Hi! I’m Linda. I’m here to help you reach your IELTS goals by answering any questions you might have about the test and how to prepare. You may have seen me on our video podcast, IELTS Prepare by IDP. I also create learning materials and blog posts for IELTS test takers. Over the past 10 years, I’ve taught English as a Second Language to students from all over the world, so please get in touch if you have any questions on how to improve your language skills.

Last online Sep 16, 2025

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Reza Tasviri

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Australia

18 years

Experience

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IELTS Expert

Hi, I’m Reza. I’m here to help you with advice on how to effectively use your knowledge of English to get the best outcome in your IELTS test. I can answer questions on what the test asks you to do, how it assesses your performance, and how you can show you have what it takes. I’ve been involved with IELTS for 17 years now. I’ve been an English Language teacher for 27 years and a lifelong learner (English is not my first language. I started when I was 17 and haven’t stopped since).

Last online Jul 9, 2025

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Rocco Nigro

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Australia

26 years

Experience

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IELTS Expert

Hello, my name is Rocco and I am one of the IELTS Experts here at IDP. Since 1995, I've been involved in English language teaching, teacher training, assessment and academic management, which has helped me develop a wealth of knowledge about the IELTS test. I enjoy meeting students and test takers from all over the world. If you have any questions about how to do your best in the IELTS Listening, Reading, Writing or Speaking tests, I can give you some good approaches to help you on test day.

Last online Jun 18, 2025

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Vincent Blokker

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Australia

11 years

Experience

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IELTS Expert

Hi! I’m Vincent, and I'm here to help you succeed in your IELTS journey. I live in the beautiful city of Melbourne, Australia, but I work with students from all over the world. I can help with advice and resources and answer your questions about IELTS. I also write blogs with tips for the test and have created study materials for IELTS. I’m an expert on any questions about the organisations, universities, and governments that accept IELTS for work, study, or your visa. Feel free to contact me!

Last online Jul 1, 2025

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