Lesson 8 of 8 · 6 min read
Study plans and test day
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Most people need about two to three months of steady study to raise their score by one band. Start with a full practice test so you know your weakest section, then give it the most time.
4-week plan (you're close to your target)
| Week | Focus |
|---|---|
| 1 | Full practice test. Learn the format and question types for each section. |
| 2 | Your weakest section every day. Write two Task 2 essays and get them marked. |
| 3 | Timed practice by section. Speaking practice with a timer every other day. |
| 4 | Two full timed practice tests. Review your error log. Rest the day before. |
8-week plan (you need to move up a band)
| Weeks | Focus |
|---|---|
| 1–2 | Diagnostic test. Lessons on every section. 30 minutes of English reading or listening daily. |
| 3–4 | Vocabulary and grammar for your target band. One Task 1 and one Task 2 essay a week, marked. |
| 5–6 | Timed section practice. Three essays a week. Speaking with a partner or by recording yourself. |
| 7 | Full practice tests on Monday and Thursday. Fix the patterns in your mistakes. |
| 8 | One final full test early in the week. Light review only. Sleep well. |
Test day checklist
- Bring the same ID (passport or national ID) you used to book.
- Arrive early: late arrivals may not be allowed in.
- Listening: read ahead, never leave a blank (there's no penalty for wrong answers).
- Reading: watch the clock, about 20 minutes per section.
- Writing: Task 2 first if you prefer, as it's worth more. Leave 3 minutes to check.
- Speaking: smile, breathe, and treat it as a conversation. Ask the examiner to repeat a question if you need to.
Free official practice
- ielts.org: test format, sample questions and booking.
- The British Council and IDP both offer free practice tests on their IELTS pages.
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