You need to be extremely ATTENTIVE! Even if you let your mind wander off for a second you’ll end up missing something crucial. You would need to practice a lot to remain attentive.
Do not forget to transfer your answers to the answer sheet. Nothing you write on the question paper will be marked.
Listen for the specific information by underlining the key words in questions.
There are always traps for deliberately confusing the candidates. Sometimes unnecessary information is given extra emphasis while important information is not spoken loudly or clearly.
Listen and note answers at the same time.
Try to guess in advance what the speaker will say; this will require attentiveness.
Pay attention to the word limit; for example, if you are asked to complete a sentence using no more than two words, if the correct answer is ‘leather shoes’, the answer ‘shoes made of leather’ would be incorrect.
Attempt all questions; there is no negative marking for incorrect answers.
Do not try to read all the contents of the reading material. Practice skimming and scanning techniques.
You must keep track of your time very closely. Most people get into trouble because they think it’s easy but it’s NOT. So, you will have to practice speed reading.
Never try to find answers by matching the words used in questions. Understand the question by reading it twice if you don’t understand it completely the first time.
Answers your answers directly on the answer sheet.
Write your name and candidate number in the spaces at the top of the page.
No extra time is given for transferring your answers to the answer sheet.
Do not waste your time on tough questions, move quickly onto the next one.
Keep it simple but you can also use fancy words if you’re sure about their meaning. You should also keep your text grammatically correct.
Plan your answers by jotting down points on your question paper.
Do not repeat ideas using different words.
Keep to the topic; do not beat about the bush.
You will lose marks for spelling, grammar and punctuation mistakes.
Do not exceed the given word limit.
The speaking test does not test your IQ, you will only be assessed on your ability to communicate in a coherent manner.
Speak more than the examiner.
Never feel shy while speaking.
Try speaking fluently and clearly. Neither too fast nor too slow. No “er er” while speaking. Try watching various TV and News programs and even parliamentary speeches.
Don’t take long pauses.
Ask for clarification if necessary.
Keep your volume loud enough to be recorded.
If you are asked to describe an experience, which never happened in your life, use your imagination and talk about as many details as you can.
Don’t leave any sentence unfinished. Like ending your interview at ‘and, so, or
Avoid using slangs or informal expressions.
Never finish speaking before the allocated time is over.
Record yourself before the test if you can so that you can go back and check your performance.