Dealing with Each Listening Question Type
The IELTS Listening test assesses your ability to understand spoken English in academic and everyday contexts. To score well, you need to recognize the 4 main question types and how to approach each. Here’s your complete guide with examples and strategies.
1. Multiple Choice Questions
These appear in all sections but increase in difficulty. There are two major formats:
Standard Multiple Choice
Choose the correct letter, A, B or C.
The lecturer will discuss how to produce:
A) Entertainment multimedia
B) Educational multimedia
C) Multimedia in general
Modified Multiple Choice
- One answer list for multiple questions: Which THREE groups use this? (Choose from A-E)
- Matching questions: Match statements 1-3 to options A-F
Pro Tips:
- Underline keywords before listening
- Be alert for distractors (e.g., “I thought X, but actually Y”)
- In matching, options may be used more than once
2. Completion Questions
Fill gaps in forms, sentences, or diagrams with words/numbers from the audio.
| Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Form Completion (Section 1) | Membership Form: Name: 1) ______ | Student No.: 2) ______ |
| Flow Chart (Sections 2-4) | Research Steps: 1. Select subjects → 2. Divide into → 3) ______ groups |
| Summary Paragraph (Section 4) | Hemp produces 8) ______ with high protein content. |
Critical Rules:
- Check the word limit (e.g., NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS)
- Check if numbers are allowed
- Mind the grammar: singular/plural, verb forms
3. Short Answer Questions
Answer concisely using words from the recording.
Example:
What TWO factors affect driver behavior?
1) ______
2) ______
Strategy:
- Predict possible answers (e.g., “weather”, “music volume”)
- Listen for synonyms (e.g., “road conditions” vs. “weather”)
- Spelling matters – write clearly!
4. Diagram Labelling
Label parts of maps, objects, or processes.
Example Instructions:
Label the diagram with NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS:
38) ______
39) ______
40) ______
Key Tips:
- Examine diagram first; existing labels give hints
- Use compass points on maps (e.g., North/South)
- Listen for directional language: “next to”, “below”, “beside”
Final Practice Strategies
- Predict answers during the 30-second preview
- Practice multitasking: read, listen, and write simultaneously
- Review spelling – academic and daily use words
- Simulate test conditions with official practice tests
Remember: The recordings play only once. Stay focused!