How to Tackle Short Answer Questions in IELTS Listening

The IELTS Listening test consists of four parts, with each part becoming progressively more difficult. Short Answer Questions are relatively rare but should not be overlooked.

Let IDP guide you through key strategies, important notes to avoid common pitfalls, and a sample exercise to get familiar with this question type.

Short Answer Questions in the IELTS Listening test require you to answer briefly (usually between one to three words) using information gathered from the audio. Word limits are clearly stated in each question.

This question type usually appears in Part 2 of the test and often involves everyday conversations, such as planning a weekend trip or discussing local lifestyles. Therefore, focus your preparation on familiar topics rather than academic or formal speeches.

Common format for Short Answer Questions in IELTS Listening:

Short Answer Question IELTS Listening

Step 1: Carefully Read and Analyze the Instructions

Before listening, carefully read the instructions and note the word limit for each answer. Each task may have different limits, such as: TWO WORDS AND OR A NUMBER or ONLY ONE WORD.

Use skimming to get a general understanding of the topic and content, and then apply scanning to identify keywords and essential details.

Step 2: Focus on Keywords and Predict the Answers

Underline important keywords such as nouns, verbs, or adjectives. These help you grasp the main idea and follow the flow of the audio.

For the paper-based test, underline keywords with a pencil. For the computer-based test, right-click to highlight directly on the screen.

Step 3: Stay Focused During the Listening

You only hear each recording once, so full concentration is essential. Pay attention to paraphrased words since the audio may not use the exact words from the questions.

Be cautious with words like “however” or “but,” as they can completely change the meaning of a sentence.

Example: “For most of the year, we are open from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. But during November, we welcome visitors from 10 a.m. and close at 4 o’clock.”

This means the opening hours change in November, which affects your answer.

Step 4: Write Your Answer and Check for Grammar or Spelling Errors

After confirming your answer, write it clearly according to the instructions. Never leave a blank answer. If you're unsure, use the context and grammar to make the most logical guess based on what you heard.

To score high in this question type, don’t miss these important tips:

• Allocate time wisely to read the questions, highlight keywords, and understand the topic.

• The answers follow the same order as the information in the audio, making it easier to track.

• Always stay within the word limit stated in the instructions to avoid losing points.

Christian and Brenda are in the office. Listen to their conversation and answer questions 1 – 7. Write NO MORE THAN FOUR WORDS AND OR A NUMBER for each answer. The recording is played once only.

Listen to the audio provided in the file.

1. What time did Christian stop drinking?

2. What was Christian celebrating last night?

3. What has Christian been drinking today?

4. What is Christian doing at the Christmas party?

5. Which park is the Holenton Hotel close to?

6. Which pub will they go to when they leave the office?

7. What time will everyone finish work today?

Answers:

1. 4:00 a.m or 4:00 in the morning

2. Jimmy’s 30th birthday

3. coffee

4. playing music

5. Green Park

6. The Red Lion

7. 4:30 p.m

We hope this article has provided you with useful strategies and tips to master the Short Answer Question type in the IELTS Listening test. If you’re not yet confident with this question type, explore IDP’s free preparation materials, sample tests, IELTS preparation courses, and expert video tutorials to enhance your skills.

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