Complete templates for all 20 question types with 79+/90 scoring examples. Free, no signup required.
6-7 sentence structure for graphs, charts, tables, and process diagrams
🔥 High Impact40-second structure for summarizing academic lectures
SpeakingPronunciation, pacing, and stress pattern strategies
SpeakingMemory techniques and recovery strategies
SpeakingCommon questions and quick response tips
Pronoun flow and connector logic strategy
ReadingCollocation and grammar-based selection
ReadingElimination strategy and keyword matching
ReadingNegative marking awareness strategy
ReadingContext clues and part-of-speech analysis
50-70 word template with note-taking structure
🔥 CriticalMemory techniques and spelling strategies
ListeningFollowing along and context-checking strategy
ListeningMain idea identification strategy
ListeningListening for specific information
ListeningCareful selection with negative marking
ListeningPrediction and listening strategy
ListeningContext and tone analysis
Use these structural frameworks to organize your ideas. Do NOT memorize word-for-word - adapt to each topic. Target: 220-260 words, 4 paragraphs.
Introduction (40-50 words): [Paraphrase topic] + [Your clear opinion] + [Preview 2 reasons] Body Paragraph 1 (70-90 words): First of all, [Reason 1]. This is important because [explanation]. For example, [specific example]. Therefore, [restate point]. Body Paragraph 2 (70-90 words): Furthermore, [Reason 2]. Although [counter-argument], [your rebuttal]. As a result, [consequence]. Thus, [conclusion]. Conclusion (30-40 words): In conclusion, [restate opinion]. Considering [both reasons], it is clear that [final summary].
Introduction:
The rise of social networking platforms has sparked debate about their impact on society. While some people believe that these platforms cause more harm than good, others argue they bring significant benefits. In my opinion, social media offers more advantages than disadvantages because it connects people globally and provides educational opportunities.
Body Paragraph 1:
First of all, social media allows individuals to maintain relationships regardless of geographical distance. This is important because families and friends who live in different countries can easily communicate through platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp. For example, international students studying abroad can video call their parents daily, reducing feelings of homesickness and loneliness. Therefore, social media strengthens personal connections that would otherwise fade due to distance.
Body Paragraph 2:
Furthermore, social networking sites serve as valuable educational resources for learners worldwide. Although some critics claim that social media distracts students from studying, this view is limited because many educational institutions now use platforms like YouTube and LinkedIn to share free learning materials. As a result, students from developing countries can access university lectures and professional courses without paying expensive fees, making education more accessible and democratic.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this essay has discussed why social media provides more benefits than drawbacks. Considering its ability to connect people across borders and democratize access to education, it is clear that social networking platforms play a positive role in modern society.
Introduction (30-40 words): [Paraphrase topic] has both benefits and drawbacks. This essay will discuss [the advantages and disadvantages]. Body 1 - Advantages (80-90 words): The first major advantage is [benefit 1 + explanation]. Another benefit is [benefit 2 + consequence]. Therefore, [summarize advantages]. Body 2 - Disadvantages (80-90 words): However, there are also significant disadvantages. One obvious problem is [drawback 1 + consequence]. In addition, [drawback 2 + impact]. Thus, [summarize]. Conclusion (30-40 words): In summary, [topic] clearly has both positive and negative aspects. [Balanced final statement or which side outweighs].
Introduction:
E-commerce has become increasingly common in today's digital world. While this trend offers several benefits to consumers and businesses, it also has some significant drawbacks. This essay will discuss the main advantages and disadvantages of online shopping.
Body 1 (Advantages):
The first major advantage is that online shopping provides convenience and saves time for busy individuals. This is important because customers can browse thousands of products from their homes without traveling to physical stores. Another benefit is that e-commerce platforms often offer lower prices compared to traditional shops, which helps families save money on essential items like groceries and clothing. Therefore, online shopping makes purchasing easier and more affordable for people with tight schedules or limited budgets.
Body 2 (Disadvantages):
However, there are also significant disadvantages to consider. One obvious problem is that customers cannot physically examine products before purchasing them. As a result, many people receive items that look different from online photos or have poor quality, leading to disappointment and the hassle of returns. In addition, increased online shopping reduces foot traffic to local businesses, leading to store closures and job losses in retail sectors. Thus, the convenience of e-commerce comes at a cost to product certainty and local economies.
Conclusion:
In summary, online shopping clearly has both positive and negative aspects. In general, while it offers unmatched convenience, consumers should remain cautious about quality issues, and societies must support local businesses affected by this shift.
Introduction (40-50 words): [Paraphrase issue] + [Mention both views] + [State you will discuss both + your opinion] Body Paragraph 1 (70-80 words): On the one hand, [supporters of first view] believe that [main argument]. The main reason is [explanation]. For instance, [example]. Consequently, [conclusion for this view]. Body Paragraph 2 (80-90 words): On the other hand, [those who favor second view] claim that [main argument]. This can be seen [in situations]. From this point of view, [reasoning]. Therefore, [your opinion embedded here]. Conclusion (30-40 words): Overall, [summary of both views]. Hence, [your balanced recommendation].
Introduction:
Investment in transport infrastructure has become a controversial issue in many countries. Some people argue that governments should prioritize improving public transport systems, whereas others think that funding should go toward healthcare and education instead. This essay will examine both perspectives before explaining why balanced investment is most beneficial for society.
Body Paragraph 1:
On the one hand, supporters of transport improvement believe that efficient public systems reduce traffic congestion and pollution. The main reason is that when buses and trains are fast and reliable, more citizens choose them over private cars. For instance, cities like Singapore and Tokyo have invested heavily in metro systems, resulting in cleaner air and shorter commute times. Consequently, they feel that transport infrastructure directly improves quality of life for millions of residents.
Body Paragraph 2:
On the other hand, those who favor alternative spending claim that healthcare and education create longer-term social benefits. This can be seen when countries with strong public health systems experience better overall productivity and lower medical costs. From this point of view, while transport is important, investing in hospitals prevents diseases and saves lives, which is more fundamental than travel convenience. Therefore, it seems more sensible to allocate budgets proportionally across multiple sectors rather than focusing exclusively on one area.
Conclusion:
Overall, although there are strong arguments on both sides, the discussion above suggests that governments should balance spending between transport and essential services like healthcare. Hence, a diversified approach ensures comprehensive development that benefits all citizens.
Introduction (30-40 words): [Paraphrase problem] + [State essay will discuss problems and solutions] Body Paragraph 1 - Problems (80-100 words): To begin with, the most serious problem is [problem 1 + consequence]. This leads to [negative result]. Another issue is [problem 2], which can result in [consequence]. If these trends continue, [future warning]. Body Paragraph 2 - Solutions (80-100 words): However, several measures could be taken to address these issues. Firstly, [solution 1 + expected result]. Secondly, [solution 2 + benefit]. By implementing these steps, [positive outcome]. Conclusion (30-40 words): In conclusion, although [problem] creates [issues], it can be [addressed] if [solutions mentioned]. [Call to action].
Introduction:
Traffic congestion is one of the most pressing issues facing urban areas today. Excessive vehicles on roads create numerous challenges for residents and city governments. This essay will first discuss the main problems caused by traffic jams and then suggest possible solutions to address them.
Body Paragraph 1 (Problems):
To begin with, the most serious problem is that traffic congestion wastes valuable time and reduces productivity. This leads to workers arriving late to their jobs and spending several hours per week stuck in vehicles instead of with their families or engaging in productive activities. Another issue is that traffic jams significantly increase air pollution through vehicle emissions, which can result in respiratory diseases and other health problems for city residents. If these trends continue, urban areas will become increasingly unlivable and unhealthy for future generations.
Body Paragraph 2 (Solutions):
However, several measures could be taken to address these issues effectively. Firstly, governments should invest in expanding public transportation networks such as metro systems and bus rapid transit, which would encourage commuters to leave private cars at home. Secondly, cities could implement congestion pricing schemes in downtown areas, so that drivers pay fees during peak hours, naturally reducing traffic volume. By implementing these steps, urban centers can achieve smoother traffic flow while simultaneously improving air quality and citizen wellbeing.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, although traffic congestion creates serious time-loss and health problems, it can be significantly reduced if authorities expand public transport and introduce pricing policies. Governments, urban planners, and individuals should work together to ensure that cities remain livable and sustainable.
Write ONE sentence summarizing the passage. Target: 45-70 words. Use connectors: although, while, because, which, and, thereby, thus.
"The passage/text discusses/examines [main topic], explaining that [key point 1], while also highlighting/noting that [key point 2], and concludes/suggests that [final insight/implication]."
Passage: "Climate change poses unprecedented risks to global food security. Rising temperatures affect crop yields in tropical regions, where many developing nations depend on agriculture for income. Simultaneously, extreme weather events such as floods and droughts destroy harvests unpredictably. Scientists recommend immediate action including drought-resistant crop varieties and improved irrigation systems to protect vulnerable farming communities."
Speak for 40 seconds. Use 6-7 sentences covering: Introduction → Key observations → Trends → Conclusion.
"This graph illustrates [topic] over [time period]. The data is presented in [units]. The highest value is [category] at approximately [number], while the lowest is [category] at around [number]. [Trend observation - increase/decrease/fluctuation]. Overall, the data shows [key conclusion]."
"This diagram illustrates the process of [topic]. The process begins with [first step], followed by [second step]. Subsequently, [third step] occurs, which leads to [fourth step]. Finally, [last step] completes the cycle. Overall, the diagram shows [number] main stages in [topic]."
"This pie chart represents the distribution of [topic]. The largest segment is [category] accounting for [percentage], followed by [category] at [percentage]. The smallest portion is [category] at [percentage]. In conclusion, [key insight about dominance or distribution]."
"This table presents information about [topic] across [categories/time]. According to the data, [highest observation] has the maximum value at [number], whereas [lowest observation] shows [number]. Furthermore, [comparison between two entities]. Overall, the table clearly demonstrates [pattern or conclusion]."
Listen to a 60-90 second lecture, then speak for 40 seconds summarizing it. Take quick notes during listening.
"The lecture discusses [main topic]. The speaker explains that [key point 1] and mentions [supporting detail]. Additionally, [key point 2] is discussed, emphasizing [detail]. The lecture also covers [key point 3]. Overall, the speaker concludes that [summary/implication]."
Notes taken during lecture: Solar/wind intermittent • Storage expensive • Grid needs upgrading • Costs dropping
Write 50-70 words summarizing a lecture. You have 10 minutes. Use past tense: "The speaker discussed..."
"The lecture was about [main topic]. According to the speaker, [key point 1]. Later, the speaker explained [key point 2]. Additionally, an important point was [key point 3]. Overall, the lecture highlighted [conclusion or implication]."
Use this flexible speaking framework to deliver clear, natural Read Aloud responses without sounding memorised. Focus on pausing, stress, and chunking the text rather than fixed sentences.
Step 1: Preview (3–5 seconds) - Quickly scan the whole sentence/paragraph. - Underline or mentally note: - Proper nouns (names, places) - Numbers and dates - Difficult words Step 2: Chunk the Text - Break the text into 3–4 logical groups: - Chunk 1: Intro phrase - Chunk 2: Main idea - Chunk 3: Extra details - Chunk 4: Final phrase (if long) Step 3: Speaking Pattern - Start with a steady pace (not too fast). - Use this rhythm for each chunk: - Slight pause before the chunk. - Slight stress on key content words (nouns, verbs, adjectives). - Drop your pitch gently at full stops. Step 4: Recovery Strategy - If you misread a word, keep going (do NOT stop). - If you skip a small word, continue the sentence fluently. - Maintain smooth tone and rhythm; fluency > perfection.
Prompt (example text)
"Modern universities play a crucial role in preparing students for a rapidly changing job market by combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills."
How you speak (guidance)
- Chunk 1: Modern universities play a crucial role
- Chunk 2: in preparing students for a rapidly changing job market
- Chunk 3: by combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills
Read with clear stress on words like crucial, preparing, rapidly changing job market, and practical skills, while keeping speed moderate and avoiding long pauses.
For Repeat Sentence, use a memory + rhythm method instead of trying to remember every single word. Aim for 70–90% of the sentence with good fluency.
Step 1: Listen in 3 Parts - While listening, mentally divide the sentence into: - Start (who/what) - Middle (action) - End (extra detail) Step 2: Hold Key Words - Focus on: - Nouns (people, places, things) - Verbs (actions) - Numbers / time expressions - Ignore small grammar words if needed. Step 3: Speak Immediately with Rhythm - Start speaking within 1 second of the beep. - Use this pattern: - Say the full sentence in one smooth breath if possible. - Do not stop to correct yourself. - If you forget a part, finish with a simple ending like "…in the university" rather than staying silent. Recovery Line (when stuck) - If you completely lose the sentence: - Produce a grammatically correct short sentence using the topic words you remember. - Example: "The lecture was about environmental changes in the city."
Original audio sentence
"The library will be closed on public holidays, but online resources are still available."
Good 79+ attempt
"The library will be closed on public holidays, but online resources are still available."
Acceptable recovery attempt
"The library will be closed on public holidays, and online resources will still be available."
For Answer Short Question, keep responses one or two words and avoid unnecessary sentences or fillers.
Step 1: Identify Question Type - Definition: "What do we call a person who…?" - General knowledge: "Which season comes after spring?" - Image/description: "What do you see in this picture?" Step 2: Give Short, Direct Answers - Use: - One noun: "Doctor", "Thermometer", "Library" - Or a short phrase: "Solar energy", "Blood pressure" - No sentences like "It is a doctor." Step 3: If Unsure, Use Closest Logical Guess - Pick a related, common word rather than staying silent. - Keep tone confident and neutral.
Question: "What instrument is used to measure temperature?"
Answer: "Thermometer"
Question: "What do we call a doctor who looks after children's health?"
Answer: "Pediatrician" (or "Children's doctor")
Question: "What is the opposite of 'north'?"
Answer: "South"
Use a 3-layer approach: grammar, collocation, and meaning. Drag options only after checking all three.
Layer 1: Grammar Check - Identify the part of speech required: - Noun / verb / adjective / adverb / preposition. - Check subject–verb agreement and tense. - Eliminate options that do not grammatically fit. Layer 2: Collocation Check - Look for natural word partnerships: - "take responsibility", "strong influence", "play a role" - Use your collocation list or reading experience. - Remove options that do not usually go with neighbouring words. Layer 3: Meaning Check - Read the full sentence with your chosen option. - Ask: "Does this meaning make sense in the paragraph context?" - If two options fit grammar, choose the one that fits the topic and tone better. Final Pass - After filling all blanks, read the whole text once more. - Adjust any option that sounds unnatural in the full context.
Text:
"Many universities now ______ online courses to students who cannot attend campus classes."
Options: provide / develop / attend / decide
Layer 1 (Grammar): Need a verb after "now". All four can be verbs.
Layer 2 (Collocation): "provide online courses" and "offer online courses" are common; "attend courses" is usually with students, not universities.
Layer 3 (Meaning): Universities "provide" or "offer" courses to students; "develop" online courses is also possible but less direct here.
Best answer: "provide"
You see 4-5 sentences out of order. Arrange them in the correct logical sequence.
Step 1: Find the Introduction (30 seconds) Look for a sentence WITHOUT pronouns like "This," "It," "That." Mark it as FIRST. Step 2: Trace the Flow with Connectors (60 seconds) • "This/These/That" → follows a sentence introducing something • "However/Although/Yet" → introduces CONTRAST (middle) • "Furthermore/Moreover" → adds info (middle) • "Therefore/Thus/In conclusion" → signals END Step 3: Verify Logic (30 seconds) Read your final order aloud. Does it flow naturally?
You see a passage with 4 blanks. Choose from 5-6 options per blank. Graded on collocations + grammar + sentence meaning.
Step 1: Read Sentence Context (30 seconds) What word type is needed? (noun, verb, adjective, preposition?) Step 2: Eliminate Wrong Answers (20 seconds) Remove words that don't fit grammar or context. Step 3: Choose Best Fit (10 seconds) Pick the one that sounds most natural in context.
Verb + Preposition:
Adjective + Noun:
Read the question first, then skim the passage for keywords. One correct answer only.
Q: "What is the main purpose?" → Skim first + last paragraphs. Look for the BIG idea, not minor examples. Q: "According to the passage..." → Find the specific sentence. Don't infer; stick to what's written. Q: "What can we infer?" → Stay close to the text. Use "probably," "likely," "suggests" thinking. Q: "What does [word] mean?" → Never use dictionary definition. Test each option in the sentence. Q: "What is the author's attitude?" → Look for adjectives and word choice. Positive/critical language = tone.
Because of negative marking, aim for high certainty instead of selecting too many options.
Step 1: Read Question First - Identify: - What is being asked? (main idea, detail, inference) - Any words like "best describes", "according to the passage". Step 2: Skim Paragraph - Skim once for overall topic. - Then scan for keywords from the options. Step 3: Test Each Option Against the Text - Mark: - ✔ if clearly supported by the text. - ✖ if clearly contradicted. - ? if partly true / not clearly stated. Step 4: Final Selection Rule - Choose only: - ✔ options with strong, direct support. - Avoid options with ? unless you are confident there are very few correct answers. Negative Marking Reminder - More options ≠ more score. - 1–2 correct confident choices are better than 4 guesses.
If the passage clearly supports two statements and the others are only partially true, select only those two. Selecting extra "maybe" options can reduce your score due to negative marking.
You hear a sentence (3-5 seconds). Write it word-for-word. Each correct word = 1 point. Spelling matters!
Step 1: Listen (First Time) Don't write yet. Just listen and get the GIST of the sentence. Step 2: Write (Repeat Playbacks) Write the words you hear. If you miss one, leave a blank. Focus on: First 3-4 words + Last 2-3 words (graded heavier). Step 3: Polish (Remaining Time) Listen again if time allows. Fill in blanks using context clues.
You hear a talk. You see a transcript with INTENTIONAL ERRORS. Identify words that DON'T match what was said.
Listen VERY carefully to exact words. Errors are often subtle:
• Word replacements ("significant" instead of "major")
• Number changes ("2030" instead of "2020")
• Word omissions
Tip: Move your mouse cursor along with the audio.
Click immediately when a word sounds different.
Do NOT overthink. If you miss one, keep going.
Warning: Negative marking applies! Don't click if unsure.
For Highlight Correct Summary, your goal is to match the main idea + correct attitude, not just random details.
Step 1: Listen for Main Idea - In the first 5–10 seconds of audio, ask: - "What is the topic?" - "What is the speaker's purpose? (explain, argue, describe, compare)" Step 2: Note 3–4 Key Points - Write down: - Keywords (names, places, numbers) - The speaker's conclusion or recommendation. Step 3: Scan Options - Quickly remove summaries that: - Introduce a new topic not mentioned in the audio. - Strongly misrepresent the speaker's opinion (too positive/negative). Step 4: Choose the 'Best Match', Not 'Perfect Match' - Pick the option that covers: - Main topic - Main argument or conclusion - 2–3 key details - Ignore small differences in wording.
If the lecture discusses the advantages and limitations of online learning and concludes that a blended model works best, then the correct summary should mention both pros and cons and the idea of combining online and face-to-face teaching.
Any option that says online learning is "completely ineffective" or "the only future of education" would be too extreme and should be eliminated.
Read the question and all options BEFORE listening. Predict what to listen for.
Before Listening: Read the question and all options. Predict what to listen for. While Listening: Focus ONLY on information answering the question. Take quick notes. After Listening: Match notes to options. Most similar = likely correct.
For MCMA Listening, combine note-taking with strict option elimination to avoid negative marking.
Step 1: Read Options Quickly - Underline: - Extreme words (always, never, completely). - Strong opinions (useless, perfect). Step 2: Take Short Notes While Listening - Note: - Topic - 3–4 key points - Speaker's conclusion / recommendation. Step 3: Match Notes to Options - For each option, ask: - "Did the speaker clearly say this?" - "Is this only a small detail or the main point?" Step 4: Select Only Strongly Supported Options - Choose options that: - Match your notes almost exactly. - Reflect the main ideas, not tiny examples. Step 5: Negative Marking Control - Prefer 1–2 highly confident options. - Avoid ticking many "maybe" answers.
If your notes show the speaker emphasised environmental benefits and cost savings of public transport, but never mentioned tourism, then choose only the options that mention environment and cost, not tourism.
You hear a short talk. Fill in blanks in a partially complete transcript. Each correct word = 1 point.
Before Listening: Scan all blanks. Note if they're nouns, verbs, adjectives, or numbers. While Listening: Write words as you hear them (even if unsure of spelling). After Listening: Review answers. Check spelling. Guess based on context if unsure.
Select Missing Word is mainly about context + tone near the end of the recording. Do not guess too early.
Step 1: Read Options First - Quickly scan answer options. - Identify: - Part of speech (noun, verb, phrase) - Positive/negative tone - Academic topic hints. Step 2: Listen for Build-Up - Pay special attention to the last 5–8 seconds. - Predict what type of word fits before the beep: - Noun phrase, verb phrase, or connector. Step 3: Match Meaning and Tone - Choose the option that: - Completes the sentence grammatically. - Matches the emotional tone and logic of the final sentence. Step 4: Avoid 'Extreme' or Off-topic Options - Eliminate options that: - Change the topic suddenly. - Are too extreme or unrelated to the previous sentence.
If the lecturer says, "Therefore, if we do not act now, the effects on coastal communities will be...", the missing word will likely be a negative phrase such as "devastating" or "very serious", not something positive like "beneficial".
You have 10 minutes. Read a passage (150-300 words). Write ONE sentence (5-75 words) capturing the main idea + 2-3 supporting details.
Main Clause: [Subject] [verb - usually "is" or "discusses"] [main idea] Subordinate Clause 1: because/while/although [supporting detail 1] Subordinate Clause 2: and [connecting word] [supporting detail 2] Optional Clause: yet/therefore [limitation or conclusion]
Passage: "Climate change is accelerating at an unprecedented rate, threatening biodiversity and food security, particularly in developing nations that lack infrastructure to adapt..."
You see a prompt (agree/disagree, advantage/disadvantage, problem/solution). Write 200-300 words with clear structure.
Intro (2-3 sentences): Paraphrase the question → state your position clearly. Body 1 (3-4 sentences): Reason 1 → explanation → example or evidence. Body 2 (3-4 sentences): Reason 2 → explanation → example or evidence. Body 3 (Optional): Counter-argument → acknowledge it → refute. Conclusion (2 sentences): Restate position → summarize main reasons.
Intro: Paraphrase topic → state you'll discuss both advantages and disadvantages. Body 1 (Advantages): 2-3 advantages with explanations and examples. Body 2 (Disadvantages): 2-3 disadvantages with explanations and examples. Conclusion: State which outweighs (or if balanced) + final thought.
Intro: Introduce problem → state it's serious. Body 1 (Problem Details): Explain problem fully with causes/impacts. Body 2 (Solutions): Propose 2-3 realistic solutions with explanation. Conclusion: Restate problem importance + reiterate best solution.
You see a passage with 4 blanks. Choose from 5-6 options per blank. Graded on collocations + grammar + sentence meaning.
Step 1: Read Sentence Context (30 seconds) What word type is needed? (noun, verb, adjective, preposition?) Step 2: Eliminate Wrong Answers (20 seconds) Remove words that don't fit grammar or context. Step 3: Choose Best Fit (10 seconds) Pick the one that sounds most natural in context.
Verb + Preposition:
Adjective + Noun:
Q: "What is the main purpose?" → Skim first + last paragraphs. Look for the BIG idea, not minor examples. Q: "According to the passage..." → Find the specific sentence. Don't infer; stick to what's written. Q: "What can we infer?" → Stay close to the text. Use "probably," "likely," "suggests" thinking. Q: "What does [word] mean?" → Never use dictionary definition. Test each option in the sentence. Q: "What is the author's attitude?" → Look for adjectives and word choice. Positive/critical language = tone.
You see 4-5 sentences out of order. Arrange them in the correct logical sequence.
Step 1: Find the Introduction (30 seconds) Look for a sentence WITHOUT pronouns like "This," "It," "That." Mark it as FIRST. Step 2: Trace the Flow with Connectors (60 seconds) • "This/These/That" → follows a sentence introducing something • "However/Although/Yet" → introduces CONTRAST (middle) • "Furthermore/Moreover" → adds info (middle) • "Therefore/Thus/In conclusion" → signals END Step 3: Verify Logic (30 seconds) Read your final order aloud. Does it flow naturally?
You hear a lecture (60-90 seconds). Write a summary in 50-70 words. Use past tense: "The speaker discussed..."
Sentence 1: "The speaker discussed/explained/presented [main topic]." Sentences 2-3: "Key points included [point 1] and [point 2]." Sentence 4: "The speaker emphasized that [important conclusion]." Sentence 5 (Optional): "This suggests/demonstrates [broader implication]."
Before Listening: Read the question and all options. Predict what to listen for. While Listening: Focus ONLY on information answering the question. Take quick notes. After Listening: Match notes to options. Most similar = likely correct. ⚠️ Multiple Answer Warning: ALL selected answers must be correct. If 1 is wrong, you get 0 points. Strategy: Only select options you're CERTAIN about. Better 2 correct than 3 with 1 wrong.
You hear a short talk. Fill in 10 blanks in a partially complete transcript. Each correct word = 1 point.
Before Listening: Scan all blanks. Note if they're nouns, verbs, adjectives, or numbers. While Listening: Write words as you hear them (even if unsure of spelling). After Listening: Review answers. Check spelling. Guess based on context if unsure.
You hear a sentence (3-5 seconds). Write it word-for-word. Each correct word = 1 point. Spelling matters!
Step 1: Listen (First Time) Don't write yet. Just listen and get the GIST of the sentence. Step 2: Write (Repeat Playbacks) Write the words you hear. If you miss one, leave a blank. Focus on: First 3-4 words + Last 2-3 words (graded heavier). Step 3: Polish (Remaining Time) Listen again if time allows. Fill in blanks using context clues.
You hear a talk. You see a transcript with INTENTIONAL ERRORS. Identify words that DON'T match what was said.
Listen VERY carefully to exact words. Errors are often subtle:
• Word replacements ("significant" instead of "major")
• Number changes ("2030" instead of "2020")
• Word omissions
Tip: If unsure, mark it and move on. Come back after reviewing the rest.
Use these ONLY when you blank out or miss content. They score 1-3 points instead of 0. A nervous imperfect attempt is always better than silence!
If you completely blank out in Describe Image, Retell Lecture or Essay, do not stay silent and do not spam a memorised template. A short, nervous but structured answer still scores more than 0.
For true emergencies only, use the simplified backup frameworks on the dedicated page below. Practice your normal templates first, and keep this as a last-minute safety net.
Use this only when you truly panic in the exam – it is a backup, not your main strategy.
Replace basic words with these academic alternatives to elevate your writing and speaking.
Don't overuse synonyms. Use 2-3 academic alternatives per paragraph. Accuracy beats complexity - if you're unsure, use basic words correctly.
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