How to Understand Multiple Choice Task to Score Band 9 in the IELTS Listening Test

The IELTS Listening test can be a challenging part of the exam, but with the right preparation and strategies, you can achieve a high band score. One important task type that you need to be prepared for is the multiple choice questions. In this blog post, we will provide you with some tips and guidance on how to tackle this task and score Band 9.

Understand the Format

Before diving into the strategies, it’s important to understand the format of the multiple choice task. You will be presented with a question followed by three possible answers (A, B, C), or a sentence that needs to be completed with one of the three given options. Your task is to choose the one correct answer or completion.

Read the Question Carefully

One common mistake test takers make is not reading the question carefully. Make sure you understand what the question is asking before listening to the audio. Look for keywords or phrases that will give you a clue about what to listen for. By having a clear understanding of the question, you can focus your attention on relevant information during the listening exercise.

Listen for Keywords

As you listen to the audio, pay attention to keywords or phrases that are related to the question. These keywords will often be the key to finding the correct answer. Listen for synonyms or paraphrases of these keywords in the audio and use them to guide your answer choice. Highlight or underline these keywords in your question paper so that they are easily identifiable when you review your answers.

Eliminate Wrong Answers

If you are unsure about the correct answer, try to eliminate the wrong options. Look for any information in the audio that directly contradicts one of the answer choices. Cross out these options so that you can focus on the remaining choices. Remember, even if you are not confident about the correct answer, you can still improve your chances of getting it right by eliminating the wrong choices.

Pay Attention to Detail

In multiple choice questions, the differences between the answer choices can sometimes be subtle. Pay attention to small details mentioned in the audio that might differentiate one option from the others. Be cautious of distractors that might try to lead you towards a wrong answer. Focus on the nuances of the information provided and make your choice accordingly.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Like any other skill, practice is key to improving your performance in multiple choice questions. Get familiar with the different question types and practice solving them under timed conditions. Use past papers and online resources to find practice materials that specifically target multiple choice questions. The more you expose yourself to this task type, the better you will become at identifying the correct answer.

Use Reliable Resources

While preparing for the IELTS Listening test, it’s important to use reliable resources that closely mimic the actual exam. Look for practice materials and sample tests provided by reputable sources, such as official IELTS preparation books or trusted online platforms. These resources will give you an accurate representation of the multiple choice questions you may encounter on test day.

By following these strategies and dedicating time to practice, you can improve your performance in the multiple choice task of the IELTS Listening test. Remember to stay focused, manage your time effectively, and trust in your preparation. Good luck on your IELTS journey!