But it’s NOT the IELTS Listening prediction you are thinking about!
Yes, I do believe in fortune telling. 🔮 But… my version of it is a little bit different.
I believe that my future is dictated by my present. That’s why I believe in evidence.
And that’s exactly how I got a 9 in IELTS Listening — and helped so many others get 8s and 9s too. 🚀
I’m talking about predicting the IELTS Listening answers even before the recording starts.
But you might be thinking…
“Why should I predict answers when the answers are in the recording anyway?”
I’m so glad you asked. 😄
Why Predicting Answers is a Game-Changer 🧠
The answer is simple: predictions help you filter information.
In every IELTS Listening test, you’ll hear a lot of information — and not all of it is important. Some of it is just there to confuse you (yep, they do that on purpose 😅).
So when you predict your answers before the audio starts, you’re giving yourself a clear direction. You’re basically telling your brain:
“Look out for this type of information — ignore the rest.”
That way, you’re less likely to get distracted or make mistakes. You’re already halfway to the answer before the speaker even says it! 🙌
How to Predict Answers in IELTS Listening 📝
Let me walk you through it step by step.
✅ Step 1: Read the Questions Carefully
Of course, right? 😄 But really, this is so important.
Reading the questions carefully helps you understand exactly what you need to listen for. And this gives you evidence for your predictions.
✅ Step 2: Start Guessing — Yes, Guess! 😄
Look at the question and make smart guesses. Here’s how:
If the question starts with “What”, you know you’re listening for a thing or a name.
If it starts with “Where”, expect a place to be mentioned.
If it’s asking “How much”, you’re likely listening for a number 💰.
And so on.
But if there’s no question word?
👉 Create your own question!
For example, if the question is: “__________ is required before joining the course,”
Ask yourself: “What is required before joining the course?”
Then predict: “Maybe a payment? A registration form? A phone call?” In general, a noun should be the answer.
This way, you’re already preparing your brain to catch the right word when it comes.
Try This Tip in Your Next Practice Test 🎯
The next time you practice IELTS Listening, use this prediction strategy. And if you want even more support — like unlimited practice, strategies, and feedback — come join my Everything IELTS Preparation Plans. ❤️
But for now, start with a free practice test on the site: 👉 Free practice tests
I’ll see you there! Until then, have fun learning and keep believing in your present. Because it is shaping your future. ✨
Book your IELTS exam 👉 The Official Website of IELTS
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