I’ve taken the IELTS twice, once in 2011 and again in 2015. The first time, I scored a perfect 9 in Listening. The second time, I scored 8. Before the first exam, the only preparation I did was to complete one Cambridge IELTS mock test. I found that I had only gotten one question wrong, and afterward, I didn’t do any focused listening practice. The second time, I went in completely unprepared and didn’t score full marks due to a brief lapse in attention during the test, which caused me to miss part of the recording.
I’m not sharing this to boast, but to make a point: focused IELTS Listening preparation is not strictly necessary. What I mean by "focused preparation" is buying or downloading a heap of so-called IELTS Listening practice books, question banks, or tips and tricks, then drilling them endlessly day after day. I believe this kind of preparation isn’t only unnecessary—it can actually be counterproductive.
That may sound counterintuitive, but here are two reasons why:
1. Imagine all English listening materials as a large circle. IELTS-specific prep materials are just a small circle within it. Their scope and depth are limited. If you base your studies entirely on that small circle, you’ll never go beyond it.
2. Most IELTS Listening practice materials are extremely dull. Using them can create psychological resistance, making you procrastinate and reducing your study efficiency.
Now, let me share some of my personal strategies for achieving a high IELTS Listening score without focused test prep:
1. Mastering Synonym Substitution
Anyone who's taken the IELTS or practiced with real past tests knows this: synonym substitution is a key feature of the IELTS Listening test. For example, you might hear “take care of” in the audio, but the question or answer may use “look after.” In context, they mean the same thing.
This means that as part of your preparation—especially vocabulary—you should train yourself to understand English words in English, not just in your native language. Once you know basic vocabulary, move on to learning English definitions. For instance, if you learn the phrase “look after,” you should also know that it means “to take care of.” That way, you’re also learning synonyms naturally.
Think about it: If you hear an English word, then mentally translate it into Chinese (or your native language), and then try to recall the English synonym that matches that meaning, you’ll waste valuable cognitive processing time. This delay can be critical in the fast-paced IELTS Listening section, causing you to lose focus and miss answers.
2. Rapid Note-Taking and Recall Skills
IELTS recordings are only played once. Some question types require you to listen to a long section before you can piece together the right answer. This tests your ability to take quick notes and recall key information—a skill that directly relates to studying in an English-speaking university.
I know many Chinese students who meet the minimum IELTS score but still struggle in class once they go abroad. Some even have to record lectures and replay them at home just to understand the content.
If IELTS Listening tests lecture comprehension, then why not prepare by actually listening to real academic lectures? Many top universities publish their courses on MOOC platforms like Coursera and EdX for free. These are excellent tools to simulate real classroom listening.
For example, if you’re studying computer science, try Harvard’s famous CS50 course on EdX. Through lectures, quizzes, discussions, and assignments, you’ll get a taste of what studying abroad is like—all while improving your English listening, reading, and writing skills. It’s a win-win.
I personally recommend Duke University’s *“Think Again”* series on Coursera. First, most Chinese universities don’t offer critical thinking courses. Second, critical thinking is exactly what IELTS Writing Task 2 and Speaking Part 3 assess.
3. Extensive Listening & Using Fragmented Time Wisely
Most IELTS candidates are either students or working professionals. Both groups have limited time to study, and often need to squeeze in study sessions around busy schedules. That’s why using fragmented time effectively is key.
My advice: invest in a comfortable pair of Bluetooth headphones. This way, you can listen to English audio content anytime, anywhere—while running, cycling, commuting, or lying in bed before sleep.
What should you listen to? My recommendation is: follow your interests. Do *not* waste time listening to boring IELTS recordings or question banks.
In China, we have platforms like Ximalaya and Lizhi for audio content. Similarly, overseas there are countless options. Download a podcast app (e.g., Podbean), and subscribe to shows that interest you. Make it a habit to use every spare moment for listening practice.
If you’re not sure where to start, browse the top charts on Podbean for popular shows in the U.S. At first, limit your subscriptions to no more than three. Stick with them for a while and you’ll notice your listening ability improve.
Audiobooks are also a fantastic option. If you can afford it, use platforms like Audible to buy nonfiction audiobooks. You’ll improve your listening and broaden your knowledge at the same time.
4. Meditation and Focus Training
You may wonder: why did I score 9 the first time but only 8 the second time? Did my English get worse?
Not really. The real reason was a loss of focus during the second test. I simply zoned out for a few seconds, missed part of the recording, and had to guess a few answers.
I’m not alone—many people have the same problem. In our hyper-distracted digital age, it’s harder than ever to stay focused, whether it’s during an exam, at work, or even while watching a movie.
IELTS Listening is the most attention-demanding part of the test. That’s why this last tip isn’t about English—it’s about training your focus.
Our minds are like wild horses. Try closing your eyes and telling yourself not to think about anything. Most people can’t do it. After months of research, I’ve found one of the best ways to train focus: meditation.
Modern neuroscience confirms that meditation significantly boosts attention span. Many famous figures, like Steve Jobs, Yuval Noah Harari (author of *Sapiens*), and Ray Dalio, are long-time meditators.
I won’t go into detail here, but if you want to try, download the Headspace app. Start with the free “Take 10” program—10 minutes a day for 10 days. It’s a great introduction. If you want to go deeper, read *10% Happier* by Dan Harris.
Action Plan
If my approach resonates with you, here’s a step-by-step guide to get started with IELTS Listening prep:
1. Get an English-English dictionary and use flashcard tools like Memrise or Quizlet to build vocabulary.
2. Find a MOOC on Coursera or EdX related to your major or personal interests and start learning.
3. Download Podbean (or any podcast app you like), subscribe to a few podcasts you enjoy, and start listening during your downtime.
4. Install the Headspace app and begin a regular meditation practice to improve focus.
Stick with these habits, and not only will your IELTS Listening score improve, but your overall English proficiency will grow stronger—long after the test is over. These habits will serve you well during your studies and life abroad, giving you a richer and more rewarding experience.
If you really feel the need for IELTS-specific practice materials, the official Cambridge IELTS series is more than enough. Just use it to familiarize yourself with the test format shortly before your exam.
Let me know if you’d like a PDF version, a summary, or even a design layout for this article!
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