Master Spelling and Numbers

In the IELTS Listening test, accuracy in spelling and writing numbers is essential. A correct answer can become wrong due to a simple spelling mistake or an incorrectly formatted number.

Spelling

For questions that require you to write a word, your spelling must be perfect. The audio won't provide the spelling, so you need to rely on your own knowledge. Common errors include:

• Silent letters: Forgetting letters that aren't pronounced, like the 'k' in know or the 'p' in receipt.

• Vowel sounds: Confusing vowels that sound similar, like 'a' and 'e' or 'i' and 'y'.

• Double letters: Missing a double letter, as in accommodate or necessary.

If you're unsure of a spelling, a helpful tip is to write down the word phonetically and then correct it as best you can. The transfer time at the end of the test is a good opportunity to review your spellings.

Numbers

Numbers are very common in the listening test, especially for phone numbers, addresses, prices, and dates. Be prepared for how they are pronounced:

• Phone Numbers: Digits are often said individually. For example, "020 7946 0987" is said as "oh two oh, seven nine four six, oh nine eight seven."

• Prices: Listen for words like "dollars," "pounds," "cents," or "euros." For example, "$15.50" might be said as "fifteen dollars and fifty cents" or simply "fifteen fifty."

• Dates: Be familiar with different formats. "March 2nd" or "the second of March" can be written as March 2 or 2nd March.

A critical part of your practice should be writing numbers in the exact format required. For example, if a price is given as "$15.50" in the audio, writing "15.5" may be marked as incorrect. Always write down the complete number as you hear it.