Prep for your IELTS with a fresh study schedule for back-to-school season!

Jenn Author

Get your IELTS prep back on track with a smart study schedule just in time for back-to-school season.

It’s that season again…it is back-to-school time! It is always an exciting time for me and I love to meet new students in my IELTS courses. But it is also an exciting time for YOU -my IELTS students! This is our time to set new goals, make the most of our learning, and have a fresh start. However, to make the most out of your IELTS studies, you need effective study tips that will work not only for IELTS -but also for any studying you may do in the future, say at your dream university.

Here are 11 steps to study success!

Make a study schedule
One of the most important keys to success in your IELTS preparation is consistency. Setting aside dedicated time for your studies each day will help you achieve success. Whether it’s 30 minutes or two hours, having a routine will help you stay on track and make steady progress. At the very least aim for 20 minutes, even on a busy day!

Small bites, break it down
Have you ever tried to cram for an exam? It doesn’t work, that’s because studying for hours on end can be overwhelming. Break your study sessions into smaller, manageable chunks. Focus on one topic or skill at a time. This not only your studies more digestible but also helps retain the information you have studied.

Use flashcards
These are some of my favs! Flashcards are a fantastic tool for learning new vocabulary and concepts. Create flashcards with English words on one side and their meanings and an example sentence on the other. Review them regularly to reinforce your memory -every week as part of your schedule will help you retain the new vocabulary. We have to use new vocabulary to recall it. This will help in your Speaking Part 2 and Part 3 on the IELTS, not to mention the other 3 sections of the exam.

Set realistic goals for your studies
Set achievable goals for your IELTS preparation. Whether it’s mastering a certain number of vocabulary words each week or improving your speaking skills, setting reasonable goals will help you track your progress and stay motivated.

Consider SMART goals to get you started:
S -Specific
M -Measurable
A -Achievable
R -Relevant
T -Time Bound

Practice your listening and speaking skills
As we know there are four sections of the IELTS exam. Sometimes students worry they cannot improve their listening and speaking skills without a native speaker or non-native English-speaking friend to help them out. Good news, you can! Did you know you can use English audio materials like podcasts, songs, or movies? Of course, you can also find a conversation partner or join a conversation group to practice speaking regularly as well.

Reading regularly is a must
We should know that reading is an excellent way to expand our vocabulary and improve our comprehension skills. Get started today with newspapers, online articles, or simple books, and slowly work your way up to more advanced texts as your proficiency increases.

Keep a vocabulary notebook
Have a vocabulary notebook where you jot down any new words you come across. Include their meanings and example sentences. Remember to review your journal regularly to reinforce your vocabulary. One of the best tools for English learners is the Oxford Learner’s Dictionary. Use it to look words up and find their definitions.

Feedback is a good thing
It can seem intimidating, but don’t be afraid to ask for feedback from teachers, classmates, or conversation partners. Constructive criticism will help you identify areas for improvement and accelerate your progress. When we focus on our weaknesses, we can improve key areas faster to then bring them together with our strengths for a powerful package to take on the IELTS.

Use tech to supplement your studies
There are loads of language-learning apps and websites out there that can be used to make your studies more engaging and interactive. Some gamify and create healthy competition to supplement your studies. Give them a try to supplement your studies!

Practice creates confidence
Remember that language learning is a skill that improves with practice. And yes, you are studying for IELTS, but you are also working on your English language skills too! The more you use English in your daily life, the more confident and proficient you’ll become. It can be a challenge but try to think in English, write in English, and engage in English conversations as much as possible. Using English in these ways will help your recall ability in the exam.

Be patient and stay consistent
Studying for IELTS is an endurance event, and it takes time. You will likely encounter obstacles along the way. It’s so important to remain patient with yourself and keep consistency in your studies. Don’t be discouraged by mistakes. Instead, do what world-class athletes do and see them as opportunities to learn and grow.

Back-to-school season is a great time to set your IELTS success goals and recommit to your English studies! Follow these simple study tips to make the most of your IELTS journey and progressively improve your overall English skills -which will come in handy when you are out with friends in your dream location speaking English on a Friday night. Good luck!

Categories: : IELTS