IELTS Listening Test – Tricks and Tips
IELTS Listening test tricks and tips, all you need to know about solving a DIAGRAM or MAP.
IELTS Listening:
Tips and Tricks for Diagram Labeling
Diagram Labeling is one of the common question types in the IELTS Listening test, especially in Section 2 or Section 4. You’ll be asked to label parts of a diagram, map, or plan based on what you hear in the audio. This task can be challenging as it requires careful listening and the ability to follow spatial and descriptive language.
Here are effective tips and strategies to help you excel in the diagram labeling task and score full marks:
- Analyze the Diagram Before the Audio Starts
Before the audio begins, you will have a few seconds to look at the diagram. Use this time wisely:
Study the diagram: Look at the layout, labels, and structure. Identify the different parts or sections. This will give you an idea of what information will likely be mentioned in the recording.
Read the instructions carefully: Make sure you understand how many words you can write and the type of information required (e.g., names of objects, locations, numbers).
Identify keywords and headings: Focus on the labels or numbers around the diagram. These will likely be mentioned during the listening and act as clues.
- Understand Spatial Language
In diagram labeling tasks, the speaker will often use spatial and directional language to describe the diagram. Learn and become familiar with these common directional phrases:
Left / Right / Straight ahead
Next to / Between / In front of / Behind
Above / Below / Under / Over
North / South / East / West
Opposite to / Adjacent to
When listening to the audio, pay close attention to these phrases as they will guide you in labeling the correct parts of the diagram.
- Pay Attention to Key Directions and Descriptions
The speaker will often use descriptive language to explain where things are located:
“The entrance is located to the north of the garden.”
“The library is next to the cafeteria, on the righthand side.”
Listen for the exact location and relationships between different parts of the diagram. The description might include directions (left, right, north, etc.) or size comparisons (bigger, smaller, etc.).
- Follow the Audio Sequence
The answers typically appear in the same order as the recording. As you listen to the audio, the speaker will likely describe the diagram in a logical order. This means you can follow along with the diagram as the speaker moves from one part to another.
Tip: Move your pencil across the diagram as the speaker describes the parts. This will help you visually follow the speaker’s instructions and prevent you from missing any crucial information.
- Use the Process of Elimination
If you are unsure about the correct answer for a particular part of the diagram, use the process of elimination:
Mark off the parts of the diagram that you have already labeled based on clear information from the audio.
If two or more parts are left, eliminate the ones that don’t fit based on the directions or descriptions provided.
- Practice Recognizing Paraphrasing
In the IELTS Listening test, the speaker will often paraphrase information from the diagram, meaning they will describe it differently than how it is presented in the question. Be ready to match the speaker’s words to what is shown in the diagram.
For example:
The diagram might say “next to the river” and the speaker might say “beside the water”.
The diagram might say “library”, but the speaker could refer to it as “the place where books are kept”.
- Check for Word Limits
Some diagram labeling tasks may have a word limit (e.g., “No more than two words”). Make sure to follow these instructions. If you exceed the word limit, your answer will be marked wrong, even if the content is correct.
- Focus on Predicting Answers
As you look at the diagram before the recording starts, try to predict what kinds of words or information you’ll need to listen for. For example, if the diagram shows a map of a city, you’ll likely need to listen for the names of places or landmarks. If it’s a diagram of a machine, you might need to label parts or functions.
- Write Answers Clearly
When transferring your answers to the answer sheet:
Spell correctly: Incorrect spelling will result in a lost mark.
Follow word limits: Ensure your answers are within the prescribed word limits.
Be precise: Don’t overcomplicate your answers. If the label is a single word like “engine”, don’t write “main engine of the car” unless it is specifically required.
- Practice Regularly
One of the best ways to improve in diagram labeling tasks is by practicing with real IELTS listening materials. Regularly practicing with sample tests will help you get familiar with:
The format of diagrams and maps.
The types of words you need to listen for.
Spatial and directional language.
Sample Diagram Listening Task
Below is a sample diagram labeling questions from the IELTS Listening Test. The diagram shows the layout of a museum. Listen to the audio and label the different areas.
| Exhibit Area | Description | Label |
||||
| A | Near the entrance, to the left | ________ |
| B | Opposite the gift shop | ________ |
| C | Adjacent to the café | ________ |
| D | Next to the exit | ________ |
Final Thoughts
A high score in the IELTS diagram labeling task is achievable with good preparation. Remember to:
Familiarize yourself with spatial and directional language.
Use the time before the recording starts to analyze the diagram.
Follow the sequence of the speaker’s description.
Practice regularly to improve your listening and diagram labeling skills.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to excelling in the IELTS Listening diagram labeling task!