Hello everyone! It's been a while since I've last posted here. Life has been quite busy. Lol. I'm excited (and, to be honest, a little frightened) to reveal something huge that I've decided to pursue in the next months: I want to take the IELTS exam, with the objective of scoring a Band 8 or 9. I realize this sounds like a great challenge, but I'm determined to give it my all. Yes, it appears to be an impossible task, but sometimes you have to aim high in order to push yourself. So, here's what I have planned, how I'm going to prepare, and how I'm going to stay motivated to do this almost impossible task.
For a while now, I’ve been considering taking the IELTS exam for a few reasons which include improving my career prospects, testing my English proficiency, and migrating to another country. That’s why I’m aiming for a Band 8 or 9—the level that shows fluency, precision, and native-like proficiency in English. To be honest, that's what I need to make it possible for me to be approved for migration. So, I really need to work hard for it!
I know this is ambitious. I know I’ll face some tough challenges along the way. But I’m ready to tackle it head-on. With that, let me share with you the things that I need to prepare for this venture.
Before diving into preparation, of course I need necessary tools: a computer and a headset. Well, this is because I'll just be reviewing at home. Additionally, I first need to understand exactly what I’m getting myself into. The IELTS exam consists of four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
Listening: 4 sections, 40 questions, 30 minutes.
Reading: 3 sections, 40 questions, 60 minutes.
Writing: 2 tasks, 60 minutes.
Speaking: 3 parts, 11-14 minutes (like an interview).
Each section tests different skills, so my prep has to be focused and balanced. To get a Band 8 or 9, I need to demonstrate near-perfect skills in all these areas.
I heard the hardest ones are the Listening and Speaking part. But I think they're all hard for a non-native speaker like me. Haha!
The first thing I did was take a practice test to gauge my current skill level. It was a little humbling, but it was also eye-opening. I realized where my strengths lie (I’m decent at speaking and listening) and where I need more work (reading speed and writing coherence, mainly). Knowing my weaknesses from the get-go helps me focus on the areas that matter most. I am really thankful that there are free resources on the internet that I can use for my review. I wish there are IELTS centers near to our city so that I can also attend actual sessions. Too bad there aren't. SO I need to resort with what's available online.
So, that's all for now. I'll keep you posted on my progress and hopefully I will survive this challenge. I am really looking forward to updating you with positive news in the future!
Let's remember the saying, "If there's a will, there's a way. Believe in yourself and everything will be possible."