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Did You Know That 'Stress' Could Impact Your IELTS Score?

Did You Know That 'Stress' Could Impact Your IELTS Score?

Ninan Lawrence Published:
July 15, 2023

Yes, you read it correctly! Stress could impact a person’s performance in the test, simply because the person is under stress and not able to focus on the task at hand. And the damage stress causes could be more in an IELTS test because the exam is well-timed. Unlike other exams, in IELTS, time is allocated separately for each section of the test.  IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a standardized test that opens the door to a bright future. It is one of the most trusted English language proficiency tests for a non-native speaker who wants to migrate to an English-speaking country like Canada.

The test report form plays a pivotal  role in Canadian immigration process and is accepted by the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada). There are 4 modules that needs to be taken up by those attempting the test – ListeningReadingWriting, and Speaking. It is understandable that sometimes, candidates feel anxious by what the test demands. Read on for some stress-burning tips.

 

The Two modes

To answer one of the most frequently asked questions, test takers have two modes to choose from. One is through computer and the other, through paper. However, many test takers find it difficult to make this choice. The answer is quite simple. You must understand what suits you the best. For computer-based test, the test taker must possess a decent typing speed while the paper-based test requires legible handwriting.

The only difference between the two modes is the availability of the test results. The computer-based test results are available online within 3-5 days after the test while the paper-based test takes up to 14 days.

Here are 7 Must-Know Tips to Reduce Your Stress While Attempting IELTS

Here are some pointers that will help you crack IELTS without any stress.

Stop aiming for perfection: while some test takers may benefit from possessing this attribute, it might be the very thing preventing a few. For example, when a test taker is so focused on writing a perfect answer for a task that could lead to running out of time for the rest of the questions. Therefore, keep in mind that perfection can at times hamper progress. Reduce your stress about being perfect and stick to what you know.

 

Do not linger too long on a single question: take the time to quickly review the full questionnaire before beginning to answer any questions to obtain a general idea of what is required. This will allow you some time to think about how you intend to approach each topic. Should you find yourself fixated on one question for far too long, move on to the subsequent one and come back to it later. IELTS practice tests taken prior to the real test are another approach to avoid devoting too much time to one question.

 

Utilize the flexibility of the IELTS to re-visit questions: the IELTS does allow you some flexibility when it comes to responding to the test questions, despite the challenge it may be. Test takers may easily go through the many pages of IELTS computer examinations by utilizing the forward and back arrows, unlike IELTS on paper tests.  Take full advantage of perks like these to ensure that all of your questions are answered promptly!

Be diligent in your IELTS practice: in addition to demonstrating your English language skills, this test also serves as a highly recognized credential by more than 9,000 organizations across 135 nations.  Therefore, this is not something to take lightly. Exam registration costs money in addition to the status it confers.  Make it a point to become familiar with the formats while preparing, stay consistent with your IELTS practice exams, and keep track of your progress. This allows in giving you a broad concept of what to anticipate during the actual test.

 

Take a break before the test: most candidates believe that preparing and revising every minute until exam day is a great method to retain as much material as possible.  This isn’t always the case, despite what everyone else perceives. Taking a break before the test can help you do better as it provides you time to rest and be ready for the IELTS. Test takers will be conscious of how mentally and physically difficult the IELTS test can be because of the various tests, forms, and everything in between. Moreover, set aside one or two days in advance to take a break and rest your mind.

Be optimistic and confident on test day: positive thinking and attentive self-talk practice can increase your confidence more than you might believe. One example is that if you use uplifting phrases to yourself and positive affirmations to overcome exam anxiety, this will change your negative ideas to positive ones. Your calm state of mind would then continue during the exam, and eventually boost your confidence. Keep your eyes on the prize and push on until you reach it. When English isn’t your first language, taking the IELTS could become complicated. However, daily practice will help you improve much more efficiently. 

 

Read, listen, and speak English constantly: when English isn’t your first language, taking the IELTS could become complicated. However, daily practice will help you improve much more efficiently.  This entails reading blogs and magazines on interests, keeping a daily journal or diary, and even watching movies or listening to podcasts online. However, speaking with or listening to native English speakers is one of the finest ways of truly enhancing your language abilities. Your pronunciation and tone would improve with repetition and practice, and your expertise in the English language would grow significantly.

Contact us for IELTS Training that meets your immigration requirements. Check out Owlspriority Immigration’s Canada Settlement Resources to learn about finding employment in Canada, making your initial days stress-free, etc.

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