In IELTS test skills, the test sections are usually arranged in order from easy to difficult. Most people think that Part 4 will be the most difficult part, but in Listening skills, most candidates have a headache when encountering Part 3. So what is the structure and common types of questions in IELTS Listening Part 3?
The following article will suggest common types of questions and test-taking strategies to help you score high in IELTS Listening - Part 3.
Overview of IELTS Listening Part 3
Listening Section 3 features a discussion between 2–4 speakers on an academic or research‑based topic. This may involve:
A professor and students discussing a research topic
A group discussion about a classroom lecture
While Parts 1 and 2 cover familiar everyday contexts, Part 3 focuses on academic and scientific content. You must stay alert throughout, tracking individual opinions, detailed information, or subtle negative statements that could affect your score. Part 3 also demands a robust vocabulary and subject‑specific knowledge.
Common Question Types in Listening Section 3
1. Completion – Fill in the blanks
You will complete forms, notes, tables, or flow‑charts by listening and selecting precise information. Be aware that audio speed is faster than in Part 1 and includes distractors.
Form Completion: Fill missing details in a form, typically personal or official information.
Note Completion: Fill in gaps in academic summary notes from a speaker or professor.
Table Completion: Complete a table based on the lecture, using column headers to guide you.
Flow‑chart Completion: Fill each step in a process diagram in logical order.
2. Multiple Choice
One of the most common types. You may need to select one correct answer or multiple answers. This tests your ability to follow both main ideas and supporting details throughout.
3. Matching Information
Match items from the question to options provided. This evaluates your ability to track the conversation and connect details from different speakers or points.
Suggested Strategy for IELTS Listening Part 3
Step 1: Read the instructions carefully
Identify the question type (Completion, Multiple Choice, or Matching), note word‑limit instructions (e.g. “ONE WORD ONLY,” “NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS”), and how many answers are needed.
Step 2: Underline keywords before listening
Highlight key terms in the questions such as:
Unchanged keywords: proper nouns (e.g. Jonathan), numbers, technical terms (e.g. NASA, amphibian)
Synonyms or paraphrases: nouns, verbs, adjectives that may appear in alternate form
Step 3: Listen actively and complete answers
Fill in blanks or select answers while tracking the entire audio. For Completion tasks, ensure you respect word limits and grammar, including singular/plural forms. Focus on synonyms used during the recording.
Step 4: Review your answers
Even if unsure, attempt every question rather than leaving blanks. A reasonable guess may earn partial credit.
Sample Practice Exercises for Listening Part 3
Try these example questions:
Questions 21–23 (Note Completion)
Questions 24–25 (Form or Table Completion)
Questions 26–30 (Multiple Choice / Matching)
Tips to Ace IELTS Listening Part 3
Practice regularly with mock tests and timed practice
Improve subject‑specific vocabulary related to common academic topics
Watch sample lectures or tutorials to enhance listening skills
Join IDP workshops or webinars for expert IELTS guidance
With focused training and familiarity, you can tackle Part 3 quickly and confidently.
Get IELTS Ready with IDP
If you want to get used to the actual test format and manage time effectively, enroll in IELTS mock tests on computer with IDP. You can also attend expert‑led IELTS events and access free preparation courses tailored to your needs.
Register for your IELTS test with IDP today!