Blog
Short, practical reads on strategy, tips and study plans. Pick a topic or start with the lead story.
Start here1 Nov 2026
The Writing Task 2 structure that works for every question type
One four-paragraph frame, adapted to opinion, discussion, problem-solution and two-part questions.
Read the article
How to read the band descriptors
The public band descriptors are the examiner's checklist. Here is how to use them on your own answers.
Six Task 1 visuals and how to open each one
Line graph, bar chart, pie chart, table, map and process: what to describe in each, and one overview pattern for all.
Paper or computer? Choosing the IELTS format that suits you
The test content and the scoring are the same. What changes is how you work, and what to practise.
The IELTS Speaking test, part by part, with what examiners listen for
Eleven to fourteen minutes, three parts, one examiner. What happens, how long it lasts and how to use each part.
How your IELTS band score is calculated, step by step
Raw marks, criteria, rounding and the one rule most learners get wrong: how the overall band is rounded.
Task 1 language bank: describe any graph with the right words
Verbs, adverbs and comparison phrases for trends, with a model sentence for each pattern.
Collocations for Writing: ready phrases for the ten most common topics
Learn ten topics with the phrases that go with them, then use each in a sentence of your own.
Fluency or accuracy: what Speaking examiners really reward
A common worry is whether to speak fast or speak correctly. The criteria answer it.
IELTS Reading question types and how to approach each one
Seven common question types, what each tests, and the single habit that helps most with each.
A 12-week IELTS study plan you can adapt to your own life
Three phases, one weekly rhythm, and how to bend the plan around your hours and weak skills.
IELTS Listening: what each of the four sections asks of you
The sections get harder in a predictable way. Know the pattern and you know where to focus.
Ready to put it into practice?
Take a practice set or see what each band looks like in a model answer.