Predicting Answers Before Listening
8 min read
Level: essential
In the IELTS Listening test, prediction is your greatest weapon. You have a few seconds before each recording starts—use them wisely to anticipate what you are about to hear.
How to Predict Effectively:
- Identify word types: Is it a noun (name, place, object), a verb, or a number (date, price, phone)?
- Check the context: A conversation at a library will use different vocabulary than a lecture on marine biology.
- Listen for signposts: Words like "however," "on the other hand," or "firstly" tell you where the answer might be.