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Is computer-based IELTS Test a good option for the test-takers?

If you believe that ‘Switching from the paper-based test to computer-based test is challenging’. Read the blog to watch your misconceptions getting clear.

To break this misconception, you should know:

  • What are the similarities and the differences between both the test formats?
  • What are the benefits of Computer-based IELTS test?
  • What are the challenges?

Things that are common between both the test format:

The computer-based IELTS Test is no different from the paper-based test; the timing, content and marking remain the same.

The differences between them:

You will only be able to take the test for the Reading, Writing, and the Listening section. Whereas, you have to still attempt the speaking section in face-to-face with the examiner.

There is only a minor difference in the Listening section. You get time to read before you start answering any part and you get 2 minutes in the end to review the answers. You get 10 minutes to copy and transfer the answer in the given space. (Some questions require typing and the others require you to drag the part of the text as an answer).

So, you get a total of 40 minutes to complete the listening section. (You have to answer a total of 40 questions in this section).

Benefits of Computer-based test:

1. Book at your convenience

As you switch to the computer-based test, you get a lot of options to choose from your convenient dates at your nearest exam centres. IELTS exam is held at different sessions throughout the day; so you can also choose your convenient timings and avoid hustles.

2. Get results faster

As the test is computer-based, you get the results within 3 to 5 days.

3. Option to edit

When you take the computer-based IELTS Test, you can easily edit your answer at any point of time.

4. Word Count becomes easy

Unlike the paper-based test, you need not spend time to keep a track on the number of words. You can put your entire focus on answering the questions.

5. Fewer people, more concentration

At the exam centre where you are taking the computer-based test, the number of test-takers is limited. Hence you can focus better and complete your test.

6. Saves time

You need not spend time on flipping the pages and look back to the answers to review them. Scrolling saves your time.

7. Reading becomes easy

Attempting the computer-based test gives you a better vision with the large screen, and it makes reading comfortable for you. You can also use the mouse arrow to track the text while reading.

8. Avoid fear of messy writing

You need not worry about messy writing as you need to type the answers. You can avoid both the fear of bad handwriting and aching hand attempting to write in good handwriting.

Challenges of computer-based test:

1. Typing speed

The typing speed can be challenging for the test-takers who are not used to typing using a keyboard. However, the typing speed can be improved with regular practice.

2. Fatigue

As there are instances where the test-takers do not have the habit of using the technology looking at the screen can cause fatigue to a few of them.

3. Nervousness

The test-takers who have no habit of using the technology can get nervous while taking the test. For instance, if there is a fault in the devices and also the ticking time increases the anxiety. Especially while attempting the listening section.

Conclusion:

The number speaks for itself. The number of advantages of the IELTS exam on the computer is more than that of the challenges. So, it’s a better option.

But the question is, how do you prepare yourselves for the computer-based test in a short while?

Here the professional platforms like IELTS Tutorials come into play.

Like you shifted from paper-based test to the computer-based IELTS test, it’s the time that you know that the IELTS preparation online is a better option.

You can enrol yourselves into online coaching on IELTS tutorials where you get personalized coaching, your learning will pick up speed, and it saves you a lot of time. Apart from these to practice further, you can take up the IELTS FREE mock test that will help you get familiar to the test environment and the test questions. Also, you can practice with the IELTS Tutorials mobile app that gives you a lot of questions to practice with the model answers, vocab and instructions to improve better. You will also receive guidance from the experts, make a note of all the tips & strategies and revise them every day.

Posted: November 23, 2020
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