The reading portion of the IELTS might be complex, mainly if you’re not familiar with its structure or time limit. However, by taking the IELTS reading mock test, your performance can be greatly improved. It is because it will replicate the actual exam settings. Further, if you want to maximize the benefits of these IELTS mock tests for reading practice, timing is essential. In this article, you will know when it is best to take the IELTS mock test free online to improve your confidence and readiness. Also, it is vital to know about the reading section of this exam. So, let’s dive into this first!
Know the IELTS Reading Section
The reading section of the IELTS test is meant to show your familiarity with written English in various situations. The reading section, for the most part, has three parts and presents almost 40 questions. They can be general interest, academic, or narrative in nature. However, some question types are true/false/not given, short answers, match headings, and complete sentences.
Also, to finish it in 60 minutes, time management is vital. The real test is when you have to find similar details quickly and select the correct answers. Yet, it is when questions are meant to confuse you. If you practice with the IELTS reading mock test, you won’t get confused by the questions. But when to take this mock test? If you do not have the answer, then read the next section!
When to Take IELTS Mock Tests?
There are three phases of your practice journey for the IELTS test preparation. However, take the IELTS mock test free online for the reading section according to these phases. Let’s know about it in detail:
1. Initial Practice Phase
It is the phase 3-4 months before your IELTS exam. In the initial stage of practice, you must focus on expanding your vocabulary and knowing the format of the reading section. Also, explore the various question types you may get in the exam. Moreover, it is suggested that you take a mock test before 3-4 months of the exam for evaluation. It acts as a baseline and helps you to find areas that need more work and time. After this mock test, give yourself time to improve your reading speed, understanding skills, and approach to attempt the exam.
2. Mid-Practice Phase
Start taking the mock tests once a week about two months before the exam date. Till this point, you know the format of the reading section very well and strategies for answering diverse questions. Moreover, by taking an IELTS reading mock test every week, you may improve these strategies by practicing them within the time limit. After attempting a mock test, review your answers carefully to identify your mistakes. Thus, by finding them, you may stay more focused and improve them.
3. Last Practice Phase
In the last month before your IELTS exam, start taking mock tests two times a week. By now, you are improving your skills, focusing on weak points, and building confidence for the test. However, it is better to replicate the actual test setting closely at this phase. Also, take the mock test in one go without any barriers, and ensure you follow the time limit. It will help you to develop strength and manage your time during the actual test.
Thus, the above-mentioned time is the best time to take the mock test for your IELTS exam practice. It makes sure that you are ready to ace the reading part on the exam day. But how do online mock tests help you in your preparation? Let’s learn it now!
How Online Mock Tests Help with Reading?
The IELTS mock test free online is the best approach to improve your reading skills. However, the mock test simulates the actual exam formats. It helps you to get familiar with the entire pattern of the exam and various question types. If you practice within the time limit, you can manage the exam time more efficiently. Also, exposure to a range of texts helps you to improve your skimming and scanning skills.
Moreover, the mock tests that offer answers and justifications are helpful. It is because it helps you to know why some answers are correct. When you check your errors, you will find areas that need more time and work. Also, it helps you to develop strategies to ace the complex types of questions, like true/false/not given. Thus, regular practice with a mock test increases your self-assurance and improves your overall skills in the reading part of the IELTS exam.
Conclusion
To sum up, practicing with the IELTS reading mock test at key stages during your study process is helpful. However, with the mock test, you can significantly improve your exam readiness. You may maximize these tests’ efficiency, pinpoint your weak areas, and develop the endurance required for success.
Further, it is only possible if you know when and why to take these mock tests. With the guidance and support of expert tutors like gradding.com, you will learn the right time to take mock tests. Also, for effective IELTS reading practice, taking the mock test is the best way. If you make correct use of practice exams, you are ready to ace the test and feel confident when you go in.