IELTS self-study: what to buy and how to use it

A band-by-band plan with the prep books people actually finish.

IELTS rewards routine more than talent. Take one full mock test first so you know your starting band, then spend most of your time on your weakest skill.

Step by step

  1. Do one timed mock test and record the four scores.
  2. Reading and Listening: one test section a day, then review every wrong answer and write down why.
  3. Writing: learn the task structures, write two essays a week and get them marked.
  4. Speaking: record yourself answering Part 2 cards; listen back for pauses and repeated words.
  5. Last four weeks: full timed tests on the same day and hour as your real exam.

What you need

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