Do’s

  • Listen carefully to the introduction to each section. This will give you useful information about the situation and the speakers.
  • Use the time at the beginning of each section (and in the middle of Sections 1–3) to look through the questions and think about the topic.
  • Read the instructions for each task carefully. Remember to check the maximum number of words allowed.
  • Write all your answers as you listen – remember, you won’t hear the recording a second time.
  • Check that what you write makes sense in the context.
  • Pay attention to any examples that are provided.
  • Keep to the word limit: if you are asked for ‘NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS’, for example, then do not write more.
  • Try to answer all the questions, even if you don’t feel sure about an answer – you may have understood more than you think.
  • Transfer your answers at the end of the test. You have ten minutes for this, which is plenty of time.
  • Write clearly when you transfer your answers. If an answer isn’t clear on your answer sheet, you will lose the mark.
  • Check your spelling (and grammar, where necessary).

Dont

  • Don’t worry if you have to cross out or change an answer.
  • Don’t panic if you miss one question. Look ahead and concentrate on the next one.
  • Don’t try to rephrase what you hear. Write down the words you hear which fit the question.
  • Don’t write more than the maximum number of words or letters allowed for each answer.
  • Don’t copy any words that were printed before or after the gaps on the question paper when you transfer your answers to the answer sheet.
  • Don’t write more than one answer when only one is required. Even if one of your answers is correct, you will not receive a mark.