IELTS Experience & Tips – 2 Weeks of Prep & Test Insights

My IELTS Experience & Key Takeaways

Preparation Timeline

• Studied for 2 weeks while preparing for another test.

• Used GEL IELTS platform for Listening & Reading mock tests.

• Writing prep: 2 days using IELTS Advantage and IELTS Liz.

• Speaking prep: Minimal—only watched Band 9 YouTube videos on test day.

  
  

Listening & Reading

• GEL IELTS mocks felt harder than Cambridge book tests (scored 7-7.5 vs. 8-9).

• The actual test didn’t feel much easier than the mocks—recordings and passages were still challenging.

• Key tip: Do full Listening → Reading → Writing mock tests in one sitting to build stamina.

Writing

• Followed IELTS Advantage's free Essay Builder course to understand Task 2 basics.

• Key lesson: Focus on clear, well-developed ideas rather than complex vocabulary.

• Struggled with time management due to a clunky keyboard, which impacted both tasks.

Speaking

• Did not formally prepare—just watched Band 9 YouTube videos in the morning.

• Flunked Part 2 because I didn’t read the cue card properly.

• Despite this, the test wasn’t as intimidating as expected.

• Challenge: My spoken English isn’t strong as I communicate mainly in Arabic daily.

Most Important Tip

• Simulate the full test (Listening → Reading → Writing) in one go without checking answers in between.

• This builds mental endurance and helps you get used to moving forward without certainty, just like in the real test.

🌟 Good luck to everyone preparing for IELTS! Hope this helps. 🌟

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