Chapter 1
Overview
Planning to study abroad is both a daunting and stressful task. There are occasions when you must make difficult selections, such as deciding on the best course for your further education, identifying the country of study, and selecting the appropriate university to provide your degree. Whatever course or location you pick, you will be expected to take a series of language competency exams to demonstrate to the admissions committee that you have no communication problems and are familiar with the medium of instruction of the course. If you are going to a country that accepts IELTS, let us help you get started on your path to a successful career by presenting you with a list of the best IELTS preparation books. Let’s get started!
Chapter 2
Top 15 Books for IELTS Preparation
#1. Barron’s IELTS Superpack
The Barron’s IELTS Superpack has been one of the finest general IELTS preparation books, suitable for both practitioners and academicians. If you’re getting ready to take the IELTS test for purposes of moving to Canada, such as Express Entry, this is our top recommendation.
It’s a four-book bundle that brings together all of Barron’s IELTS content into one handy package. It’s called an IELTS super pack for a reason! It contains the following items:
- Barron’s IELTS: There are four academic module practice tests, two general training module practice exams, online audio tracks, and a thorough topic review included in this package.
- IELTS Practice Exams plus MP3 CD: This bundle contains audio information on CD and online, as well as practice tests for 6 academic units and 6 general training examinations with complete answers.
- Essential Words for IELTS: This bundle includes audio CDs and online audio access, as well as 600 words that commonly appear in the IELTS exam. These words will help you expand your vocabulary.
- IELTS Strategies and Tips with MP3 CD: You may discover professional strategies for answering test questions here, as well as access to online and CD-based audio content.
Best Features
- It is really detailed.
- The Essential Words in the bundle are fantastic in guiding you through your IELTS preparation.
- It provides students with a comprehensive overview of the test as well as helpful preparation advice.
- It helps pupils gain confidence by gradually increasing the level of difficulty from easy to complex.
- Individuals who have used it have rated it as the best book for IELTS preparation tips and assistance.
- It also includes sample practice and activity papers for reading, writing, and listening.
- Overall, this helpful book provides excellent value for money and contains all the necessary study resources for your IELTS test preparation.
#2. The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS
The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS is appropriate for both academic and general study. It is designed to assist you in getting a good IELTS score by providing you suggestions and guidance from past test-takers.
It includes step-by-step instructions for all parts of the test, as well as 8 practice exams to enhance your knowledge and help you plan, prepare for, and pass your examination. Furthermore, all of the practice exams and listening exercises will be recorded on video and audio CDs.
Best Features
- It helps you prepare for all areas of the IELTS exam.
- It provides you with strategic guidance that is both current and useful.
- The book is based on data gathered from people who have given the IELTS test before.
- All of the eight practice exams include detailed answers.
- A DVD with listening and speaking exams is included with the package.
#3. Official IELTS Practice Materials
Official IELTS Practice Materials are a collection of exam materials prepared by the British Council, one of the official IELTS authorities. It includes example test questions and answers from all areas of the exam. These practice questions can help you anticipate the types of questions you will be asked on exam day.
These materials also explain how each component of the IELTS exam is graded and provide useful study advice. Teachers who assist students in preparing for the IELTS exam might also benefit from the book.
Best Features
- The book is beneficial to both teachers and students.
- Because the British Council is the official representative of the IELTS exam, the material in the book can be trusted.
- An audio CD/DVD is included in each volume of the book for listening test practice.
- It also includes remarks from “examiners.”
#4. Target Band 7: IELTS Academic Module How To Maximize Your Score
This is one of the most excellent IELTS preparation books for anyone who wants to perform well on the exam. Simone Braverman, a former test taker, wrote Target Band 7. She meant it to be comprehensible and straightforward, full of practical ideas and strategies. The book’s contents and approaches are based on personal experiences and analyses because the author herself has taken the exam.
It includes solutions to issues she encountered when taking the IELTS test. Many people have praised this book as the finest literary book for IELTS preparation, and they have reviewed it as such.
Best Features
- It is simple to read and understand.
- The author has taken the test before.
- It includes helpful test-taking advice, such as making better use of your time and becoming more organized.
- It is ideal for those aiming for a good IELTS score.
#5. Cambridge IELTS 15 Academic Student’s Book with Answers
Cambridge IELTS 15 is the most recent edition of the prestigious Cambridge IELTS Academic Series, released on July 1, 2020. The book is aimed at IELTS Academic students and includes four exams as well as a comprehensive answer section to help us prepare for and enhance our IELTS scores. In addition, authentic exam papers will offer you a greater sense of what to expect on your IELTS test.
Best Features
- The book thoroughly describes the different types of questions, which will help you prepare.
- It splits the helpful hints into sections.
- It is detailed.
#6. IELTS Practice Tests Plus 2 with Key and CD Pack
The IELTS Practice Tests Plus 2 is a fantastic study guide for all four segments. It also includes strategies for achieving a high score. It is one of the best IELTS prep books available and is perfect for both academic and general training examinations, thanks to the way it breaks down the components of a correct and incorrect answer. Its audio scripts and helpful hints will also aid your progress.
Best Features
- Sample answers with explanations and notes are included throughout the book.
- It is simple to use.
- It includes six complete tests.
- Several techniques for achieving a high score are discussed in the book.
#7. Ace the IELTS: IELTS General Module Preparation Book How to Maximize Your Score
This ‘Ace the IELTS Book’ provides a broad overview of the IELTS test structure and the kind of questions asked. Simone Braverman, a renowned writer and former IELTS test taker, has written the third version. This third version includes example tests and questions as well as detailed coverage of the areas addressed.
The readers of this book have praised it as being easy to grasp and one of the finest IELTS books available to any aspiring candidate. As a result, this book is required reading for every student who wants to obtain laudable results in their IELTS examinations.
Best Features:
- It is appropriate for candidates who want to focus on the IELTS general module.
- You may improve your IELTS results by learning how to do so.
- This module includes a grammar and an essay writing e-book.
- It includes recommendations from the University of Cambridge.
- It provides practical suggestions for improving your abilities in only a few weeks.
#8. Cambridge IELTS Trainer – Practice Test with Answers
Cambridge English’s IELTS Trainer includes six full practice tests as well as exam hints to help you prepare for your examinations. It is one of the finest IELTS preparation books since it provides professional guidance that is simple to understand.
The first two papers include step-by-step instructions on how to complete each one. Additional practice exercises are based on a series of exam papers from actual test takers and focus on areas where pupils are most likely to require help.
Best Features
- It also contains the solutions to the questions.
- Two exam papers with step-by-step instructions.
- It includes audio CDs for the listening tests as well as practice exams for the other areas.
#9. Kaplan’s IELTS Prep Plus with 8 IELTS Practice Tests: Academic + General Training Module (2019-2020)
Kaplan’s IELTS Prep Plus with 8 IELTS Practice Tests is an excellent resource if you’re looking for one of the finest IELTS preparation books that present the test’s best techniques. It has unofficial but well-designed practice tests. A bundle of materials for self-study that includes Kaplan’s practice test and one or more official practice exams would be ideal.
Best Features
- It has a lot of good practice questions that will help enhance your English language skills.
- Levels of difficulty are reasonable.
- It provides valuable hints that will assist you in passing the test.
#10. Mometrix IELTS Preparation Book: IELTS Secrets Study Guide and Practice Test Questions for General Training and Academic 2021–2022
The Mometrix IELTS Book for General Training and Academic 2021–2022 is an excellent book that will help you pass the IELTS exam. Practice exam questions, hints, methods, and video lessons are all included.
Best Features
- It is cost-effective.
- You will find it easier to master challenging topics with the help of video tutorials.
- It covers all four sections of the test.
#11. Cambridge Vocabulary for IELTS with Answers
This is the advanced edition of the book “Cambridge Vocabulary for IELTS.” It stands out among other IELTS prep books since it concentrates on vocabulary for applicants aiming for a score of 6.5 or higher. In addition, the book includes helpful hints on how to approach complex IELTS exam tasks.
Best Features
- It offers helpful vocabulary-building strategies and advice for students aiming for a 6.5 or higher band.
- Every page in the book has practice test tasks.
- It includes complex language structures such as collocation and paraphrasing.
#12. Cambridge Grammar for IELTS Preparation Book with Answers
When it comes to language, the book “Cambridge Grammar for IELTS” is among the top IELTS grammar books available. It also aids in the development of your listening abilities. Moreover, several activities from the Academic and General Training, Reading, Listening, and Writing modules are included in the book. You will also benefit from the grammatical explanations and dictionary.
Best Features
- The book includes a variety of realistic and practical tasks comparable to those found on the test.
- It may be used for self-study or last-minute preparation.
- Grammatical explanations and a glossary are included.
#13. English Collocations in Use: IELTS Preparation Book with Answers
This book is appropriate for IELTS students at the intermediate and advanced levels. It assists you in improving your spoken English and making you sound more fluent. This book has 60 lessons on various themes, each containing two pages of practice exercises and theory, totaling approximately 1,500 collocations.
The English Collocations in Use is one of the most effective IELTS preparation books you will discover to obtain a band 6.5+ on the test.
Best Features:
- The book is intended to assist you in achieving a band score of 6.5 or above.
- It is a fantastic book that helps you improve your English skills to the level of native speakers.
- It may be used as a self-study tool.
#14. New Insight into IELTS: Preparation and Practice Book with Answers
This book provides complete IELTS preparation and practice. It allows you to gradually develop the methods, language, and test strategies you will need for the IELTS exam. This book will benefit academic, general training applicants, as well as individuals whose present level is approximately band 6.
Best Features:
- This book includes a thorough introduction to the test and a detailed answer key.
- It may be used in the classroom or for self-study.
- It includes valuable hints and methods.
#15. Road to IELTS
Basically, Road to IELTS is not a book. It is an online course that includes tutorial videos, mock exams, and other interactive activities. It comes in three different versions:
- The free IELTS practice papers are the basic version. This document can be downloaded to obtain a broad idea of what constitutes the IELTS exam.
- The last-minute edition is the second option. Candidates who enrolled for the IELTS test through the British Council are eligible for it. You may access nine free films, 100 interactive tasks, guidance, tutorials, and two practice exams for each of the four categories if you fall into this group.
- The third option is the full version. The complete edition, which contains more than 300 exercises, a comprehensive online course, and nine practice exams, is available for $50.
Best Features:
- It has a lot of good practice tests.
- There are several free features available.
- It is engaging and interactive.
Why Should You Prepare for IELTS Online?
1. Convenience and comfort at home
It is much more comfortable to study for the IELTS at home since you will save a lot of time. You may create a relaxing environment for yourself and study for the IELTS online. Online instruction is more convenient than classroom training in this case since you may access the top IELTS tutoring program from anywhere in the world.
2. Cost-effective
Preparing for the IELTS while at home allows you to save money on gas and other forms of transportation. You do not need to relocate to another city or country to receive the best IELTS preparation. Furthermore, you will not be charged exorbitant rentals for living in a location far from your home. Some online IELTS training packages are less expensive than classroom instruction, allowing you to worry less about the expense of IELTS preparation.
3. Enough preparation time
You will have ample time to prepare for IELTS online and obtain the highest possible score. You may access your online learning material at any moment and begin answering questions; if you have any doubts, you can contact the instructor. This will allow you to concentrate on your IELTS preparation and analyze your skills from the comfort of your own home.
4. Personal attention
Students can obtain personal attention from the trainer throughout the lectures while studying for IELTS using an online teaching method. IELTS preparation online is a wonderful method to minimize diversions and focus on the exam. Students are forced to concentrate during the sessions since there are fewer distractions from the outside world, and they can listen and understand what is being delivered.
5. Access test portals anytime, anywhere
You can practice, learn, and take exams from anywhere at any time with online test preparation. You can take lessons from your phone, take practice exams on the road, and ask the instructor additional questions from anywhere on the planet.
6. Tracks your progress
Online IELTS preparation follows a systematic strategy in which the exam you are given has a time limit, and faculty members may track your progress on the test site. It is a transparent procedure in which both the instructor and students can assess and measure their development.
7. Work on weak areas
Rather than taking a traditional approach to IELTS study, online IELTS preparation allows you to focus more on your weak areas. To get the required IELTS band scores, you might focus more on your weak areas, whether it be reading, writing, speaking, or listening.
These seven factors can assist you in making a quicker decision. This is the ideal time for applicants to take the IELTS exam. Depending on the scenario in your location, you can take the paper-based or the computer-delivered IELTS. Whatever your choice may be, preparing for the IELTS now will undoubtedly boost your confidence and help you get the best possible results.
Conclusion
It is possible to have an extremely high IELTS score. You must, however, be well prepared. The exam preparation process can be taxing, especially if you are unfamiliar with the structure and are just getting started. But, with persistence, a desire to learn, a lot of practice, and, of course, IELTS preparation materials, you can get through this level.
You may prepare for the IELTS exam in various ways, but IELTS preparation books are the best resource for progress, especially if you want to self-study and aspire for a high band score.