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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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iconJun 30, 2025

Last answered by Reza

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Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
Yes, IELTS writing requires paragraphing especially if you look for a higher band score. If you have a look at the IELTS Writing Band Descriptors you will see that under one rating criterion (that is “Coherence and Cohesion”), paragraphing is required and use of it is awarded. IELTS band score calculator

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Jul 16, 2025
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iconSep 15, 2025

Last answered by Lewis

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Lewis Crannitch
IELTS Expert
Yes. For visa categories that accept IELTS, Immigration New Zealand recognises either IELTS Academic or General Training (they also accept IELTS One Skill Retake). If both Academic and General Training are accepted for your visa, many test takers find General Training to be the slightly easier option. As score requirements for different visas can change, always check the Immigration New Zealand website for the most up-to-date information.

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Sep 15, 2025
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iconMay 27, 2025

Last answered by Linda

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Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
Yes, the audio conversation will always follow the order of questions in the test. Make sure you pay attention to what the speaker(s) are saying so you can listen for the answer and understand when they are moving onto the next question.
May 27, 2025
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iconJun 17, 2025

Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
Firstly, remember that they appear in order in the text, so that can help you locate the answers quickly. Highlight the key word in the question and see if you can answer it. Compare your answer to the muliple choice options and see which one best fits. Make sure the whole sentence fits - not just 1 or 2 key words.
Jun 17, 2025
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iconJun 5, 2026

Last answered by Fahad

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Fahad Rafique
IELTS Expert
Specifically for Arabic speakers, writing long sentences is the key factor in losing points. You need to be precise and direct in English. While long, connecting sentences work well in Arabic, it is not the case for English writing. Avoid overusing words like and, also, or but as connectors; instead, use full stops and commas to break up your thoughts. Stick to your main points and give a straightforward answer. This doesn't mean you shouldn't explain your points thoroughly, just be concise with your grammar and use separate, shorter sentences. Finally, don't translate directly from Arabic to English. Rather, train yourself to think in English while writing.

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Jun 5, 2026
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iconJun 5, 2026

Last answered by Fahad

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Fahad Rafique
IELTS Expert
Specifically for Arabic speakers, writing long sentences is the key factor in losing points. You need to be precise and direct in English. While long, connecting sentences work well in Arabic, it is not the case for English writing. Avoid overusing words like and, also, or but as connectors; instead, use full stops and commas to break up your thoughts. Stick to your main points and give a straightforward answer. This doesn't mean you shouldn't explain your points thoroughly, just be concise with your grammar and use separate, shorter sentences. Finally, don't translate directly from Arabic to English. Rather, train yourself to think in English while writing.

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Jun 5, 2026
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iconJun 17, 2025

Last answered by Linda

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Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test focuses on questions about familiar topics, so be prepared to talk about your job or studies, including what you’ve done in the past and what you plan to do in the future. You should also be ready to speak about your hometown and your country.  Pay attention to the verb tense the examiner uses when they ask you a question and try to match it in your answer. For example, if they ask: “How long have you lived there?”, use the present perfect tense when you reply. Try not to repeat the same words the examiner used in the question. Instead of saying “I’ve lived there for 2 years” you could say something like “I’ve been in my flat for 2 years.” This shows the examiner you can paraphrase and use language flexibly.

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Jun 17, 2025
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iconMay 27, 2025

Last answered by Linda

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Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
Use your one-minute preparation time to plan what you’re going to say about your topic. Every task card will have three bullet points you have to cover in your description. Make sure you make notes for each point. Use the question words on the task cards to help you focus your ideas. For example: What? Where? How long? Why? If you have time, brainstorm any vocabulary you might need.   Practise this technique with different sample questions before the test, so you feel confident to speak about a wide range of topics.

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May 27, 2025
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iconJun 17, 2025

Last answered by Linda

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Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
IELTS Speaking Part 3 gives you the opportunity to talk about a topic in more depth. Don’t just stop after giving a short answer—try to say a bit more. Instead of waiting for the examiner to ask “Why?”, go ahead and explain your reason. This is a great way to show off your English skills. You could give more details by explaining the reasons for your opinion or giving an example. Try to use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.

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Jun 17, 2025
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iconJun 4, 2026

Last answered by Linda

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Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
Absolutely. In our IELTS preparation library you can filter study materials by target band score under the search bar. I'll also share the links to some of our popular videos and articles for test takers aiming for a band 7 below:     Video podcast: How IELTS is scored     Article: IELTS Writing Task 2: 7 steps towards a band 7     Video: 7 steps to help you reach a band 7

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Jun 4, 2026
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iconJun 16, 2025

Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
Highlight the key word in the question first. When looking at your options, see if any of them are closely related. This will help you focus. Also make sure the whole sentence is mentioned - not just one or two key words.
Jun 16, 2025
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iconJun 16, 2025

Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
Make sure you use sequencing words (e.g. next, then, finally, etc.) and include every step. Also, the use of passive voice helps as a process includes regular actions.
Jun 16, 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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