Resitting the IELTS Test (Part 2)

If you are yet to achieve your IELTS goals and need to retake the test, you’ve come to the right place. In the previous part, we looked at the importance of being in a positive frame of mind and discovering all there is to know about the test pattern and marking scheme.  

Read on to find out what more you could do to avoid disappointment when you resit IELTS.

4. Identify areas that need improvement

There is little sense in retaking IELTS without first honing your language skills and improving your ability to use strategies and time effectively. And such improvement is only possible if you identify what went wrong in your previous attempt. Dissect your performance – for instance, think about where you lost time or identify which task types bamboozled you – and you should have all the answers. If targeted feedback is what you’re looking for, you could opt for the official IELTS practice test, IELTS Progress Check. That way, you will get to practise in timed conditions, and receive an official feedback report and indicative band scores afterwards.

5. Set realistic goals

To avoid disappointment, it is extremely important that you remain realistic throughout your IELTS journey, setting yourself attainable goals. Before you have another shot at passing the test, think whether you would want to prepare on your own or seek professional help (e.g. enrol on a preparatory course, get regular feedback from an IELTS expert). It is absolutely imperative that you make an informed decision at this stage so that you don’t falter. If there is a massive difference between your previous IELTS scores and the scores you require, it is best to enlist the help of a trained expert. They can tell you how exactly you would be able to build your test skills and improve your language ability. By assessing your current level of English, they can also determine how long you may have to prepare in order to pass IELTS. Remember, if you don’t make a significant effort to improve your English and/or test skills before retaking IELTS, your scores are unlikely to improve. So, stop feeling frustrated, pull your socks up and set your sights on getting those elusive IELTS scores you need.