Pacing Yourself
Managing your time during the IELTS test is essential for success. Below are some tips to help you pace yourself effectively:
- Use a Timer or Watch: Wear a watch or use a timer to keep track of time. Start the timer at the beginning of the test and check it periodically after each passage or set of questions.
- Allocate Time Per Question: Aim for slightly more than half a minute per question. If you manage time well, you may complete the test ahead of schedule.
- Adjust Your Speed: If you're falling behind, speed up slightly, but don’t rush too much. If you're ahead, slow down to ensure accuracy.
- Catch Up Efficiently: If behind, don't skip questions. Instead, spend a little less time on each one until you gradually get back on track.
- Reviewing Time: If you finish early, use the remaining time to go over any skipped questions. Start with the earliest ones and spend no more than half a minute on each.
Effective Guessing Strategies
Since the IELTS does not penalize wrong answers, making educated guesses can help boost your score. Here are some key techniques to use:
- Random Guessing: Always guess if you're unsure. Picking an answer that seems correct without fully knowing it can often lead to mistakes due to distractions or similar options.
- The $5 Test: Use this mental test to determine if you're confident in eliminating choices or marking an answer. You only eliminate choices if you're truly willing to bet $5 on it. Similarly, mark your “best guess” only if it passes the $5 test.
- Predefined Random Guessing Strategy: If you must guess, choose the first option remaining after eliminating others. This strategy ensures you guess randomly without relying on chance alone.
Guessing Techniques in Action
1. Slang vs. Scientific Language
In general, prefer scientific or analytical answers over casual or slang terms, as they tend to be more precise and formal.
- A. To compare the outcomes of two different kinds of treatment.
- B. Because some subjects insisted on getting one or the other of the treatments.
Correct answer: A (scientific and analytical approach)
2. Avoiding Extreme Statements
Reject extreme or uncompromising answers and favor more nuanced statements with qualifying language.
- A. Bypass surgery should be discontinued completely.
- B. Medication should be used instead of surgery for patients with mild coronary artery blockage.
Correct answer: B (rational and hedged wording)
3. Similar or Opposite Answer Choices
When you find two answer choices that are opposites, one of them is often correct. Consider related answers in the same “family” of options.
- A. Plan I or Plan II can be conducted at equal cost.
- B. Plan I would be less expensive than Plan II.
- C. Plan II would be less expensive than Plan I.
- D. Neither Plan I nor Plan II would be effective.
Correct answer: A, B, or C (all related to cost comparison)
4. Recognizing Hedging Words
When the question asks for a conclusion or assumption, look for answers that include hedge phrases like *likely*, *may*, *sometimes*, or *usually*. Avoid answers that use definitive terms like *always* or *exactly*.
- A. The phenomenon occurs exactly under these conditions.
- B. The phenomenon may occur under these conditions.
Correct answer: B (more flexible and hedged)
Summary of Guessing Techniques
- Use the $5 test to confidently eliminate choices that you are sure about.
- Only pick your "best guess" if it passes the $5 test.
- If unsure, guess randomly by choosing the first remaining option.
By following these pacing and guessing strategies, you can optimize your performance on the IELTS test and maximize your score potential.