What is Most challenging task in IELTS Academic Test?

Unveiling the Challenges: Insights from the Take IELTS Survey

In a recent survey conducted by the official Take IELTS Twitter account (@takeielts), participants were asked to vote for the most challenging section of the IELTS test and provide reasons for their choice. The survey, which received a total of 293 votes, aimed to gather insights into the areas where test-takers face the most difficulty.

Which do you find the most difficult section of the IELTS test?

Tell us why.#IELTS #TakeIELTS #IELTSTest

— Take IELTS Official (@takeielts) June 13, 2023

Among the four sections, the results revealed that the majority of respondents found the IELTS Academic Writing section to be the most challenging, garnering 34.8% of the votes as on June 15th 2023. This could be attributed to various factors such as the need for coherent organization, proper grammar usage, and the ability to express ideas effectively within the given time constraints. Test-takers often find it demanding to meet the specific requirements of the task prompt and to maintain a consistent level of vocabulary and grammar throughout their essay.

Coming in second place was the Speaking section, which received 25.6% of the votes. This section involves face-to-face interaction with an examiner, which can be nerve-wracking for some individuals. The need to think on one’s feet, provide coherent responses, and demonstrate fluency and accuracy in real-time speaking situations can pose a challenge.

The Reading section was deemed the most difficult by 21.5% of the participants. This section requires candidates to comprehend and analyze complex texts from various sources, including academic articles, newspapers, and magazines. The time pressure, coupled with the extensive range of vocabulary and different question types, often proves to be a hurdle for test-takers.

Lastly, the Listening section was considered the most challenging by 18.1% of the respondents. This section assesses candidates’ ability to comprehend spoken English in various contexts, such as conversations, lectures, and discussions. Factors like the fast pace, unfamiliar accents, and the need for focused concentration contribute to the perceived difficulty of this section.

Overall, the survey results highlight the varying degrees of difficulty experienced by test-takers across the different sections of the IELTS test. While the Writing section emerged as the most challenging, it is important to note that each section demands specific skills and strategies for success. With proper preparation, targeted practice, and a thorough understanding of the test format, candidates can work towards improving their performance in all sections of the IELTS test. Here are the 10 tips to improve and achieve a band score of 7 or higher in Academic Writing Task.