5 IELTS self-study tips to ace the test without breaking the bank
Juggling a demanding career and preparing for the IELTS test can be daunting. Long work hours, meetings, and other commitments leave little room for dedicated study time. But don't worry â with the right strategies and a bit of planning, you can make the most of your limited study time and achieve your IELTS goals.
Ready to conquer the IELTS, even with a busy schedule? Let's delve into strategies recommended for busy professionals, ensuring your path to IELTS excellence is both achievable and rewarding.
Create a realistic study plan
The first step to scoring for IELTS involves creating a study plan that aligns with your lifestyle. It's about working smarter, not harder. Here's how:
Assess your schedule: Take a close look at your daily routine. Where can you squeeze in some study time? Can you wake up 30 minutes earlier? Utilise your lunch break or dedicate a few hours on the weekend? Identify those pockets of time that you can dedicate.
Set achievable goals: Once you figure out your available study time, set specific goals for each session. Focus on mastering grammar rules like relative clauses, completing a practice reading passage, or practising a particular speaking task. Breaking down your goals into more manageable chunks will make them feel less overwhelming and help you track your progress.
Prioritise study time: Treat your study time like any other important appointment. Mark it in your calendar, set reminders, and avoid scheduling other commitments during those dedicated hours. Remember, consistency is key. Even short, focused study sessions can be helpful if you stick to your plan.
Utilise the IELTS by IDP App
In today's fast-paced world, technology can be your greatest ally. The IELTS by IDP app is designed to help busy professionals like you streamline your study process with effective preparation materials and expert guides so that you can make every minute count.
With the IELTS by IDP app, you can access video shorts, articles, podcasts and online preparation courses anytime, anywhere. This means you can transform your daily commute or lunch break into a productive study session, fitting IELTS preparation seamlessly into your busy schedule.
Focus on your weakest section
Even with the best study plan, you might find specific sections of the IELTS test more challenging than others. Identifying these areas early on is crucial for maximising your preparation time.
If you're new to the IELTS, familiarise yourself with the format and question types as part of your IELTS exam preparation. A familiarisation test will not only help you understand the test structure, but also identify the areas where you need to focus your efforts.
You might want to remove this part now our IELTS Progress Check practice test offer has closed (unless there is a regional prep offer you can link to that offers a practice test with an indicative band score?) Otherwise, I suggest removing the part about baseline scores and linking to IDP's free practice tests in the IELTS prep hub.
Once you've identified the skill area or task you need to spend more time honing, focus your study sessions on those skills. There are plenty of resources available to help you improve, including targeted practice exercises, online guides, and IELTS preparation courses. After taking the IELTS test, if you find that you've missed your target band score in just one section, consider the IELTS One Skill Retake option.
Leverage technology for learning
As a busy professional, you're likely no stranger to technology. There are numerous online resources and tools that can help you study smarter, not harder.
For instance, the internet is a treasure trove of IELTS preparation material. From practice tests and sample questions to video tutorials and expert tips, you can find a wealth of resources to suit your learning style and schedule. IDP, for example, offers a range of free IELTS preparation tools, including IELTS free practice tests, to help you get started.
Time management is equally important. Consider using productivity apps to block distractions, set timers for study sessions, and track your progress. These tools can help you stay focused and make the most of your limited study time.
Online courses also offer a flexible and convenient way to prepare for IELTS. Many platforms, such as the IELTS by IDP app, let you access preparation courses designed specifically for busy professionals, with self-paced modules and on-demand access to content.
Before you dive into your IELTS preparation, it's essential to gauge your current English language proficiency. IDP offers a free online English self-assessment tool to check your approximate English level, and suggest personalised preparation resources to help you along.
Tips for effective time management
Managing your time is crucial for success in any endeavour, especially when preparing for IELTS alongside a busy professional life. Here are some practical tips:
Time blocking: Schedule specific blocks of time for studying and treat them as non-negotiable appointments. This helps you create a routine and ensures that other commitments don't squeeze out study time.
Avoid multitasking: While it might be tempting to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously, research suggests that multitasking can decrease productivity. Focus on one task at a time to maximise your focus and retention.
Short study sessions: Instead of cramming for long hours, try breaking your study sessions into shorter, more frequent intervals. This can help you maintain focus and avoid burnout. Even 15-20 minute sessions can be helpful if you use them wisely.
Maintaining a work-life balance
While it's important to dedicate time and effort to your IELTS preparation, it's equally crucial to maintain a healthy work-life balance. A well-rested and balanced individual is more likely to perform well on the test.
Stress management: The pressure of juggling work and study can lead to stress. Incorporate stress management techniques into your routine, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or spending time in nature, to help you stay calm and focused, even during challenging times.
Healthy habits: Prioritise sleep, nutrition, and exercise. A good night's sleep helps you retain information and perform better on cognitive tasks. Eating a balanced diet fuels your brain and body, while regular exercise boosts your energy levels and improves your mood.
Taking breaks: Don't underestimate the power of breaks. Stepping away from your studies for a few minutes can help you clear your head, recharge, and return to your tasks with renewed focus.
Prepare for success with IDP
Preparing for the IELTS exam while balancing a busy professional life requires dedication, smart strategies, and the proper support. By creating a realistic study plan, utilising technology, targeted practice areas aligned with test format, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, you can maximise your limited study time and achieve your IELTS goals.
IDP can help you succeed. Tap on IELTS preparation resources, including the IELTS by IDP app, free online practice tests, and personalised study plans, are designed to fit your busy schedule and guide you towards your desired band score. Ready to take the next step? Book your IELTS test through IDP today!