Here are some of the things that you should avoid doing during your listening test.

1. Don’t let time pass.

Every second given is precious to you. With how the listening test is set last year (2016), you will be given 20-40 seconds to read 2-5 questions depending on which part you are at.

You should not let the time go wasted. Make it a habit to go through as many questions as you can or go back to double check if you have understood it correctly.

Even if you think you have completely understood and ready for the questions for one specific extract, if you still have some time, go read the other questions from another extract!

2. Don’t panic

Panic is the last thing you want to do during a listening test. It can take away your focus. It can crush you.

Of course, a lot of people panic because they have not had enough practise prior to the test. But if you have, remember, plan your listening strategy, write things down on the test paper while listening, jot down important information so you can go back to the questions and double check, etc.

Do whatever you think you need to do, but don’t let fear take you down!

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3. Don’t day dream.

This is something I don’t get. Every year, I will see some students go ‘soul-searching’ mode during their listening test. While the audio is playing, they would look out to a certain direction, they would stare at the window , anything but their papers. I just do not get how they would be able to even catch a word if all they do is day dream.

I am guessing a lot of this comes from the fact that the learner has already given up without trying. One thing you should know is that, listening is completely different from writing. If you are not that good at writing, it does not mean that you will suck at listening too. My go-to-attitude for my learners is always to die trying rather than waving the white flag!

Make sure you get enough rest and eat well to stay awake throughout the test.

4. Don’t come unprepared – stationery wise!

It will be a shame if you are mentally prepared for the listening test but fail to bring your weapons (stationery: correction liquid, extra pen, sharpened pencils etc) to the battlefield.

This will be a huge mistake if it happens, Once the audio starts, it is not going to wait for anyone. It is a bad idea to borrow stationery from your classmates at times like this.

A) You will be distracted.

B) Your friend will be distracted.

C) Your friend will not have time to entertain you and you better hope your little situation is still manageable.

Hope this can help you better prepare for your listening test!