IELTS Listening Question Types with Examples
Curious to know about the IELTS Listening Questions? Check out the IELTS Listening Question Types with examples to help get started with different questions and also familiarize yourself with the strategies and take a step towards scoring a band 8+.
Table of Contents
- Understanding the IELTS Listening Test
- 9 IELTS Listening Question Types
- 1. IELTS Listening Multiple Choice Questions
- 2. IELTS Listening Sentence Completion Questions
- 3. IELTS Listening Summary Completion Questions
- 4. IELTS Listening Short Answer Questions
- 5. IELTS Listening Map Labelling Questions
- 6. IELTS Listening Matching Questions
- 7. IELTS Listening Form/Note Completion Questions
- 8. IELTS Listening Flowchart Completion Questions
- 9. IELTS Listening Table Completion Questions
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The IELTS Listening is designed to assess your ability to understand spoken English in various contexts which is one of the most important components of the IELTS exam. Whether you're planning to study abroad, work in an English-speaking country, or migrate, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the IELTS Listening Question Types. This is important for scoring a higher band score by gaining the knowledge on How to Improve IELTS Listening Band Score from 6.5 to 8. Since there are different question types, it is important to understand how to attempt each of them as well as the strategies to be used.
To help you prepare, let's delve into the different IELTS Listening question types you'll encounter, providing band 8+ strategies and tips to maximize your performance. Remember that with consistent practice on each question type in the Listening Section, you will be able to achieve your desired band scores.
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Understanding the IELTS Listening Test
There are four parts in the IELTS Listening test with a total of 40 questions. Each section features a recording of a conversation or monologue where different topics are covered from everyday social situations to academic or professional ones. Each recording will be heard only once for which you should be familiar with the various types of questions.
The table below shows the structure breakdown of the IELTS Listening Section in respect to the description and skills tested to acquire a band 8+.
|
Section |
No. of Questions |
Description |
Skills |
|
1 |
10 |
Social needs such as conversation between two people or filling a form |
Understanding basic information in everyday contexts Listen for specific details |
|
2 |
10 |
Social contexts such as announcements or social conversations |
Identify information Listen for specific information |
|
3 |
10 |
Academic contexts such as conversation between students and a professor |
Understand conversation in academic settings |
|
4 |
10 |
Academic lecture such as lecture on a particular topic |
Listen for detailed information in academic speech Identify main ideas |
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9 IELTS Listening Question Types
The IELTS Listening exam entails different question types, all of which are approached differently. In this article, we will focus on the most recurrent question types of the IELTS Listening tests and give tips on how best to approach them.
The diagram below shows the different types of questions which you will encounter in the IELTS Listening Section.
To achieve a band score of 8+ in the IELTS Listening Section, you must first get familiar with the 9 IELTS Listening Question Types. It is suggested to do targeted practice on each question type before diving into the entire Listening Section.
1. IELTS Listening Multiple Choice Questions
The IELTS Listening Multiple Choice Questions would provide the test takers with three to four options. Based on the instructions, you need to either pick one or more right answers from the given options.
Tips to Attempt the IELTS Listening Multiple Choice Questions for a Band 8+
In order to achieve a higher band score, you must incorporate a few strategies to get the correct answer.
- Try to focus on the keywords given in the question.
- Listen for those keywords or for their synonyms in the recording. Therefore, get familiar with the concept of Paraphrasing : Definition & Purpose.
- Narrow down your answer by eliminating any options which would not be related to the question asked.
- In this type of questions, Distractors in IELTS Listening are quite common so you must listen carefully before choosing the right answer.
Example for IELTS Listening Multiple Choice Questions
Look at the audio transcript of the conversation between a customer and a hotel receptionist.
|
Receptionist: Good evening! Thank you for calling Grandview Hotel. How can I assist you today? Customer: Hi, I’d like to confirm my reservation for tonight. I should be arriving around 8:00 PM. Receptionist: Certainly! I see your booking here. Would you like to add any extra services? Customer: Yes, I’d like to include breakfast for tomorrow morning. Receptionist: Great choice! That will be an additional $10. So, with your room rate of $110, your total comes to $120. Customer: That sounds perfect. Thank you! Receptionist: You’re welcome! We look forward to seeing you at 8:00 PM. Have a great evening! |
Instruction : Choose the correct answer (A, B, or C) for each question.
1. What time does the customer plan to arrive at the hotel?
A) 6:00 PM
B) 7:00 PM
C) 8:00 PM
D) 9:00 PM
2. What additional service did the customer choose?
A) Late check-out
B) Breakfast
C) Spa services
D) Parking Question
3. How much will the customer pay for the room and services?
A) $100
B) $110
C) $120
D) $130
Answers :
1. C) 8:00 PM
2. B) Breakfast
3. C) $120
More IELTS Listening Multiple Choice Questions
Check out a few examples and remember to attempt the question first before diving into the answer and explanation.
2. IELTS Listening Sentence Completion Questions
In the IELTS Listening Sentence Completion, you will need to select a word or a number to fit the same in the given sentence. However, you need to consider the information given in the listening passage and copy the exact words mentioned. Remember to always read instructions since answers can vary, depending on the instruction.
Tips to Attempt the IELTS Listening Sentence Completion Questions for a Band 8+
As you prepare for this type of question, utilize a few tricks to hone your listening skills and also develop the skills to choose the correct answer.
- Listening to the main phrase which comes before and after the gap. Since you need to choose the correct word, this would make the sentence sound as if it should be derived from the audio itself.
- Be mindful of IELTS Grammar as well as word limit since the word chosen must be grammatically correct.
- Listen to the entire conversation before you attempt to answer the question.
- It is suggested to make notes in order to put the main pointers on paper.
Example for IELTS Listening Sentence Completion Questions
Look at the transcript of an example for IELTS Listening Sentence Completion Questions.
|
Welcome to today’s session about the university’s new facilities and services. We’re going to begin with an overview of the new student library and some of the additional services available to assist with your studies. The new library is located on Parkview Street, just a short walk from the main campus. It's a state-of-the-art building, spread over multiple floors, providing a variety of study environments. There are private study rooms for group work, individual study areas, and even quiet zones for those who prefer solitude. Before you attend any lectures, remember to check your timetable carefully. It’s vital that you know the room number and any special instructions in advance. Students who check their timetable early tend to have fewer problems and a more efficient university experience. Aside from the lecture halls, we also recommend making use of the university's resource center. The center offers a variety of resources, including research materials, online guides, and one-on-one consultations with staff members who can assist with your assignments and projects. As part of your course, you’ll gain practical experience in both technology and business management. This means you will participate in real-world projects where you can apply your learning in a professional setting. It’s a great opportunity to build your skills and prepare for the future. Lastly, don’t forget the Thursday lecture that’s specifically tailored for first-year students. It’s an important session that will help you connect with your professors, meet other students, and familiarize yourself with academic expectations. |
Instruction : Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS for each answer.
1. The new library is located on ________ Street, close to the main campus.
2. The library has a range of study environments, including private rooms for ________ work.
3. The course includes ________ experience in technology and business management.
4. The Thursday lecture is aimed at helping ________ students get to know their professors and academic expectations.
Answers :
1. Parkview
2. group
3. hands-on
4. first-year
Examples for IELTS Listening Sentence Completion Questions
There are a few examples to familiarize yourself with this question type.
3. IELTS Listening Summary Completion Questions
In the IELTS Listening Summary Completion, you will be assessed on your ability to identify the main ideas and specific details from the listening passage. The entire passage would be completely paraphrased but the audio would be in the same order as the question. The missing words can be nouns, verbs, adjectives, or numbers but it has to fit the context of the sentence.
Tips to Attempt the IELTS Listening Summary Completion Questions for a Band 8+
In order to answer the Summary Completion type of question, you need to first focus on a few tips to score a band 8+.
- Use the number of words in your answer based on the specific instructions provided.
- For getting the correct answer, the main ideas and specific details regarding the audio recording have to be understood. Remember that the missing words have a direct linkage with the content of the audio.
- The words you hear in the recording may not always have the same language given in the summary. You must be prepared to understand the context in the summary but the answer must be in the exact language spoken in the audio.
- Look through the summary for a minute before the recording starts to predict the kind of information which could be missing. In that way, the information would become relevant, and you listen with attention.
- Focus during the entire audio passage since it will be played only once. If you miss an answer, move on to the next question and continue listening carefully.
Example for IELTS Listening Summary Completion Questions
Look at the transcript of an example for IELTS Listening Summary Completion Questions.
|
Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining good health. It not only helps to improve cardiovascular fitness but also reduces the risk of developing diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Exercise is also known to have mental health benefits, including reducing stress and improving mood. Many experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week for adults. Activities like walking, swimming, or cycling can be effective and accessible forms of exercise. |
Instructions : Complete the summary below using NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER from the listening passage.
Exercise is crucial for maintaining both (1) ____________ and mental well-being. It reduces the risk of diseases such as (2) ____________ and hypertension. Experts suggest that adults should engage in at least (3) ____________ of moderate-intensity exercise each week.
Answers :
1. cardiovascular fitness
2. obesity
3. 150 minutes
Examples for IELTS Listening Summary Completion Questions
There are a few examples to familiarize yourself with this question type.
4. IELTS Listening Short Answer Questions
The IELTS Listening Short Answer Questions will require you to provide a short answer based on the instructions and according to the audio recording.
Tips to Attempt the IELTS Listening Short Answer Questions for a Band 8+
Always do a targeted study to level up your preparation for achieving a band score of band 8+. Let’s check out a few strategies now!
- Before the recording begins, read the question well so that you may know the keywords to be listening for.
- Listen for particular details as provided in the question such as numbers, dates, and names.
- Keep the word limit in mind for each answer and also look at whether you need to give a specific piece of information.
Example for IELTS Listening Short Answer Questions
Look at the transcript of an example for IELTS Listening Short Answer Questions.
|
Alexander Graham Bell is often credited with inventing the telephone. However, there were many inventors who contributed to its development. Bell received the first patent for the telephone in 1876, but other inventors, such as Elisha Gray and Antonio Meucci, also worked on similar ideas around the same time. Bell's invention revolutionized communication, and today, the telephone is an essential part of modern life. |
Instructions : Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS for each answer.
1.Who is credited with inventing the telephone?
2. In which year was the first telephone patent granted?
3. What did Bell's invention revolutionize?
Answers :
1. Alexander Graham Bell
2. 1876
3. Communication
Examples for IELTS Listening Short Answer Questions
There are a few examples to familiarize yourself with this question type.
5. IELTS Listening Map Labelling Questions
In the IELTS Listening Map Labelling Questions, you will hear a recording that describes a specific location. Based on the information you hear in the recording, you have to label a map, plan, or diagram.
Tips to Attempt the IELTS Listening Map Labelling Questions for a Band 8+
In this type of questions, you must always take notes for which use the following tips and prepare for the same.
- Understand the layout and the diagram before listening to the audio.
- Pay attention to the use of prepositions to figure out the correct position of the items such as "Next to," "behind," "on the left," etc.
- Be alert with any directions as well as landmarks which are mentioned in the recording.
Example for IELTS Listening Map Labelling Questions
Look at the transcript of an example for IELTS Listening Map Labelling Questions.
|
I am delighted to show you the plans for a proposed new extension to the reception area. Please turn your attention to the project in front of you. If you enter through the entrance doors and go around the shop corner, you will find on your left the new box office. From this position, the box office manager can both sell tickets and ensure that no visitors can enter the museum without paying. From here, if you walk towards the door on the far left, you will come across on your way, a children’s room where visitors can leave their children to play whilst they explore other spectators. Directly to the right to the children’s room is when we originally intended to locate the café, but we felt that it would be better placed in the bottom right corner of the plan where we can create a more intimate atmosphere. Due to generous donations, we now have the available funds to build a fantastic new multimedia room where visitors will have access to computers, cameras, and TVs. This exciting new space will be in the top right corner but it is safely away from the entrance doors. Finally, the showroom will be built in the top left corner directly opposite the new multimedia room. I hope that you are all as excited about these new spaces as I am. Now that I am finished, I would be happy to answer any questions. |
Instructions : Choose the Correct Option from A-H.
-
Box office ________
-
Children’s room ________
-
Café _______
-
Multimedia room ________
-
Showroom ________
Answers :
16. C
17. B
18. E
19. H
20. G
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6. IELTS Listening Matching Questions
For the IELTS Listening Matching Questions and Answers, it is important to note that a series of items or people would be related to the statements, descriptions, or answers recorded.
Tips to Attempt the IELTS Listening Matching Questions for a Band 8+
With the following tips, you can focus on this question type and would be able to practice to get the desired band score of 8+.
- Pay close attention to the order in which the details are given within the recording.
- Match the options based on specific details such as names, numbers, and key facts.
- Listen for specific words for matching words.
Example for IELTS Listening Matching Questions
Look at the transcript of an example for IELTS Listening Matching Questions.
|
Sarah: I take the bus to work every day, but I often get frustrated because it never arrives on time. I wish the schedules were more reliable. James: I know many people say cars cause pollution, but I still think they are the best way to travel. They’re faster, more comfortable, and I don’t have to wait around like I do for a bus. Emily: I really enjoy cycling, and I’d love to use my bike more often. But honestly, I find it quite dangerous in the city. There aren’t enough bike lanes, and the traffic is just too hectic. Robert: I think if we want to reduce traffic congestion, we should make people pay more to drive their cars. Maybe higher taxes could encourage people to use public transport instead. |
Instructions : Listen to the audio and match the people (A–D) to their opinions (1–5).
People:
A. Sarah
B. James
C. Emily
D. Robert
Opinions:
-
Thinks public transport should be free.
-
Believes cars are more convenient than buses.
-
Prefers cycling but finds it unsafe in the city.
-
Feels that public transport is often unreliable.
-
Supports higher taxes for car owners to reduce traffic.
Answers :
A – 4
B – 2
C – 3
D – 5
7. IELTS Listening Form/Note Completion Questions
For the IELTS Listening Form/Note Completion Questions, you are required to answer a form or complete the given note. The particular detail that needs to be addressed is the missing detail for which you will have to listen carefully for the information.
Tips to Attempt the IELTS Listening Form/Note Completion Questions for a Band 8+
Remember to first focus on acquiring the key skills to attempt this question type before attempting the complete listening test.
- Before the recording starts, look at the form or the note completion to discern what information is blank and try to predict the answer based on that.
- Note the grammar and word limit as the instructions must be followed.
- Look at the spellings since if you make a mistake in spellings, your band scores will be affected.
Example for IELTS Listening Form/Note Completion Questions
Look at the transcript of an example for IELTS Listening Form/Note Completion Questions.
|
Receptionist: Good morning, City Conference Center. How can I help you? Michael: Hi, I’d like to register for the upcoming business conference. Receptionist: Sure! Can I have your full name, please? Michael: Yes, it’s Michael Jones. Receptionist: Thank you. And your email address? Michael: It’s michael.jones@gmail.com. Receptionist: Great! Now, your contact number? Michael: It’s 0789 985 237. Receptionist: Okay. And which date will you be attending? Michael: I’ll be coming on the 15th of September. Receptionist: Noted. Finally, which session would you like to attend? Michael: I’d like to join the Leadership Development session. Receptionist: Perfect! You’re all set. |
Instructions : Write ONE WORD AND/OR A NUMBER for each answer.
Conference Registration Form
Name: Michael (1) _______
Email: michael.jones@ (2) _______.com
Phone Number: (3) _______ 985 237
Conference Date: (4) _______ September
Preferred Session: (5) _______ Development
Answers :
1. Jones
2. gmail
3. 0789
4. 15th
5. Leadership
8. IELTS Listening Flowchart Completion Questions
In the IELTS Listening Flowchart Completion Questions, you are required to fill in the missing information on the flowchart according to the audio you hear. The flowchart typically indicates a process or sequence of events with gaps to be filled with words or phrases from the listening.
Tips to Attempt the IELTS Listening Flowchart Completion Questions for a Band 8+
Let’s dive into the tricks which you can use while attempting the IELTS Listening Flowchart Completion Question and take a step towards getting a band 8+.
- Before the audio starts, study the flowchart and study the headings, numbers, and arrows.
- Take notice of any keywords or numbered steps in the flowchart as these will help direct the information you seek.
- As you listen, note down the information that fills up each of the flowchart's gaps.
- Observe the general sequence in the flowchart. Make sure that the information you are filling makes sense contextually for the process.
Example for IELTS Listening Flowchart Completion Questions
Look at the transcript of an example for IELTS Listening Flowchart Completion Questions.
|
Okay. Can you quieten down please? Now, today I’m going to talk to you about your assignment. We’ve been studying the effects of the exchange rate. So I’m going to give you a project to do on this. Right. Can you make some notes while I’m talking? The first thing that I’d like you to do in order to prepare this is to select where you’re interested in. I mean, which country. And therefore which currency you’re going to be operating in. Okay. Now the purpose of the project is to make money and I’m hoping some of you will make a significant amount. So I want you to suppose that you have 100 pounds that you will have to invest purely in the rises and falls of the exchange system. In other words, you’ll be trying to predict rates. This is a project that you’ll be doing together. But before you work together, you’ll have to go off and research what you need to know about the economy of that country and how well it’s doing or is expected to do in the near future. You could all make up a little information sheet with your notes on. Clearly legible. Because then I want you to get together. We can do that next week. And to go around and read about each other’s countries. When you see how well or badly each country is doing, I want you to decide what your exchange rate is going to be against all the other currencies. After that is all sorted, what you’re going to do is go around the other students and attempt to sell your money to the others. Remember this will depend on the success of your country’s economy and the rate you fixed for your currency. Now, you’re not allowed to just swap currencies with each other, but you may wish to buy from the other countries. But you must do a proper transaction. All the way through this, you must keep your accounts properly for each transaction. I’ll give you one week to do this and then we will set a time for the deals to finish, a bit like the stock exchange. And at that point, I will ask you to calculate how much you have made. Is that clear? |
Instructions : Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER for each answer.
Answers :
1. Select
2. Invest
3. Research
4.Sell
5. Buy
6. Calculate
Track your progress with the Compilation of Latest Actual Tests for IELTS Listening: Guide to Focus on Listening Skills for a band 8+.
9. IELTS Listening Table Completion Questions
The IELTS Listening Table Completion Questions examine a listener's ability to locate precise details within a listening passage and show how that information fits into the given table. Such questions could be numerical data, names, dates, locations, or any other critical information.
Tips to Attempt the IELTS Listening Table Completion Questions for a Band 8+
With the specific knowledge on the strategies to attempt the IELTS Listening Table Completion Questions, you would be able to attempt this question with confidence.
- The missing information in the table could be names, places, dates, facts, figures, etc. While listening to the recording, pay attention to specifics in order to find the correct answer.
- Besides just listening to the audio, understanding the context of the table is critical for identifying what information goes where.
- Since the same wording might not be used in the table, listen for either synonyms or any paraphrase of the words in the table.
Example for IELTS Listening Table Completion Questions
Look at the transcript of an example for IELTS Listening Table Completion Questions.
|
Receptionist: Good morning! Welcome to the City Fitness Center. Are you looking for a membership? Customer: Yes, could you explain the different options available? Receptionist: Of course! We have three membership plans. The Basic membership costs £20 per month. It includes access to the gym and swimming pool, but there are no additional benefits. Customer: Okay. What about the Standard membership? Receptionist: The Standard plan is £30 per month. It gives you access to the gym, swimming pool, and fitness classes. Plus, you get free parking. Customer: That sounds good. Is there a Premium option? Receptionist: Yes, the Premium membership costs £45 per month. It includes everything in the Standard plan, plus access to the sauna and personal training sessions. Customer: That’s great! I’ll think about it. |
Instructions : Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER for each answer.
Fitness Center Membership Options
|
Membership Type |
Cost per Month |
Facilities Included |
Additional Benefits |
|
Basic |
£ (1) _______ |
Gym, Swimming Pool |
None |
|
Standard |
£30 |
Gym, Pool, (2) _______ |
Free Parking |
|
Premium |
£ (3) _______ |
Gym, Pool, Classes, Sauna |
(4) _______ Training |
Answers :
1. 20
2. fitness classes
3. 45
4. personal
Awesome work! The IELTS Listening Question Types with Examples would help you get a better score in the Listening section. With the right strategy and techniques followed according to the question types, you will not only enhance your listening skills but also build confidence. By practising with the IELTS Listening Recent Actual Tests with Answers, you will develop a good chance of success and achieve a band score of 8+.
Good luck with your IELTS preparation, and remember that practice makes perfect!
Need guidance? Feel free to interact with our IELTS experts.
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