READING

 Familiarize yourself with key academic vocabulary

 Practice reading without using a dictionary. This will help you improve your reading comprehension without the
need to understand every word.
 Concentrate on the areas in the passage that the questions pertain to. Skim the passage, read the questions,
then read again for more details.
 You will usually be asked a main idea question, at least two vocabulary questions, some detailed question and
inference questions.
 You will not have the time to re-read a whole passage in detail.
LISTENING
 Simulate a real testing environment- when practicing for the listening section, only play the CD once. This will
train your ears to listen fully the first time.
 During the real exam do not look back at listening questions you have already answered.
 Learn to listen for main ideas, presentation and key details.
SPEAKING
 Although it is best use much of the time as possible with you oral response, it is okay to hesitate a moment or
two before giving your response.
 Sum things up in the end with a short conclusion.
 Try to only use words that you feel comfortable pronouncing- you will lose points for poor pronunciations.
 Do not use vocabulary or idioms that you do not fully understand as you will lose points for their improper use.
WRITING
 Memorize phrases from practice tests that show you how to make connections in the first part of the writing
section.
 Keep your writing simple and clear.
 Only use vocabulary and punctuation you are sure of.
 Spend time planning your essay before you write it. This will save you time in the long run!
 While practicing for the essay section, find a format you are comfortable with and use that format every time.
 Use lots of supporting examples
 Make your writing easier to read by using transitions (memorize a list of them).
 Leave time at the end to check over your essay.