IELTS test – Skills for the Listening Module 1. Understanding the instructions 9 Read and listen to every word in the instructions very carefully. 9 Ensure that you follow them exactly and answer in the correct way. 2. Previewing and predicting 9 An announcer will briefly outline the topic, who is taking, and the situation. Try to listen carefully as this will help you to preview the questions. 9 Before the recording begins, you will be given 30 seconds to read and become familiar with the questions. 9 Try to predict what types of answer is required. For example, will it be a date, a name, or a number? 9 Check the differences between similar-looking pictures or diagrams. 9 Look for minor details such as different numbers or omissions. 9 You will be given 30 seconds after each section to look over your answers. If you are satisfied with your answers in the section you have just finished, move on to the next section. 3. Listening for specific information 9 Listen for key words and common connective words. 9 While you are actually writing your answers, you continue to listen to the information given in the recordings. 4. Checking and rewriting 9 Make sure you have answered every question. If you are unsure a particular answer, you should guess and write down what you think is the most likely answer. 9 Check that you have included only what is necessary in the answer. 9 At the end of the Listening Module, you are given 10 minutes to transfer your answers from the question paper onto the answer sheet. Make sure you have transferred them correctly.