Picture-based Questions in the IELTS Listening Test

Understand the task format: In picture-based listening questions, you are usually presented with one or more images—such as a photo, a diagram, or an illustration. Then, you will hear a short audio clip (a sentence, dialogue, or description), and your task is to choose the picture that best matches what you heard.

This tests your ability to:

• Listen for specific details
• Understand spoken descriptions
• Interpret visual information quickly

Preview the picture(s) before listening: Before the audio begins, take a few seconds to observe the picture carefully. Ask yourself:

• What is happening in the image?
• Who is in the picture?
• What objects or actions stand out?
• Are there any clues like time of day, location, or facial expressions?

Having an idea of what to expect can help you focus your listening.

Listen for keywords and clues: When the audio plays, listen closely for:

• Verbs – What action is being described?
• Prepositions – Words like next to, behind, in front of can point you to the right part of the image.
• Adjectives and Descriptions – These provide details about colors, size, number, or emotions.

Tip! Do not get distracted by everything in the picture. Focus on what is relevant to the audio.

Compare & Eliminate: If the task includes multiple pictures to choose from (like A, B, C, D), use the process of elimination:

• Cross out options that clearly do not match the description.
• Narrow it down based on the details you heard.

Do not overthink it! Trust your first instinct, especially if you have practiced well. Most test recordings are played only once, so it is important to stay focused and not dwell on one question for too long.

Practice with real examples: Use practice tests, apps, or videos with picture-based listening exercises. Pause after each question to reflect on:

• What helped you choose the answer?
• Were there any words you missed or misinterpreted?
• Did you rely more on the picture or the audio?

Over time, you will develop a sharper ear and a quicker eye for spotting the correct match.

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