Read the question before you listen and try to predict the answer.
Focus on the precise wording of the question. Don’t leave any questions blank.
Sometimes, during the conversation, the speaker may go back and change his answer – do not write down the first thing you hear.
Listen for information that is repeated or talked about more than once.
Look for clues in the question type.
Finally, don’t wait till the end to write everything down but take notes on the question sheet as the test continues.
There are four different recordings of English native speakers played as part of the IELTS Listening test. Each recording is only played once.
Recording 1 – A conversation between two people, for example a discussion after a visit to the movies. Recording 2 – One person speaking about an everyday topic, for example the types of local sports facilities Recording 3 – A conversation between up to four people set in an educational context, for example a student asking a professor questions about his assignment and receiving clarifications. Recording 4 – A monologue on an academic subject, for example a lecture in a class room.
The questions will test your ability to understand the main ideas and detailed factual information, the opinions and attitudes of speakers, and your understanding of the flow and purpose of the conversation.