Table completion tasks are a common sight in the IELTS Listening test. They assess your ability to understand specific information from spoken audio and accurately input it into a table format. This guide, crafted by an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, will provide you with the essential knowledge and strategies to confidently tackle these tasks and boost your overall Listening score.
Understanding Table Completion in IELTS Listening
Table completion questions often feature in sections 1 and 3 of the Listening test. These sections typically involve conversations in everyday or academic settings, respectively. The information you need to fill in the table could be names, dates, places, numbers, or short phrases.
The table itself provides a structured overview of the information presented in the audio. It usually focuses on a specific topic with columns representing different categories of information and rows representing different items or aspects related to the topic.
Why Table Completion Matters
Mastering table completion is crucial for several reasons:
- Common Question Type: It appears frequently in the Listening test, so being proficient in it significantly contributes to your overall score.
- Specific Information Retrieval: It tests your ability to listen for and accurately identify key details within a larger context.
- Organization and Note-taking: It assesses your ability to organize information effectively while listening, a vital skill for academic and professional settings.
Effective Strategies for Table Completion
Here are some proven strategies to help you excel in table completion tasks:
1. Preview and Predict
Before the audio begins, utilize the provided time to carefully analyze the table:
- Identify the Topic: What is the main subject of the table?
- Analyze the Headings: What information does each column and row represent?
- Predict Possible Answers: Think about the type of information that might fit in each blank space.
2. Active Listening and Keyword Focus
- Focus on Keywords: Pay close attention to words and phrases related to the table headings and any provided information in the table.
- Listen for Signposting Language: Speakers often use specific phrases to signal transitions to new information or to emphasize key details. For example, “Now, moving on to…”, “The next point is…”, “It’s important to note that…”
- Note-taking: Develop a system for jotting down relevant keywords, abbreviations, and numbers as you listen.
3. Understanding Different Question Formats
Be aware of the various ways table completion questions are presented:
- Direct Questions: The question explicitly asks for the missing information.
- Indirect Questions: The question might paraphrase or reword the information needed, requiring you to infer the connection.
4. Pay Attention to Word Limits
Always adhere to the specified word limit for each blank space. If the instructions say “NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS,” exceeding this limit will result in an incorrect answer, even if the information is accurate.
Example from IELTS Listening Test
Let’s look at an example of a table completion task from an official IELTS practice test:
You will hear a conversation between a student and a university accommodation officer.
Complete the table below.
Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER for each answer.
| Type of Accommodation | Cost per week | Distance from University | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| University Halls of Residence | £150 | 10 minutes walk | Immediate |
| From next term | |||
| Shared Flat |
Audio Script:
“So, we also have a number of shared flats available off-campus. These are usually a bit cheaper, around £110 per week. However, they are located a bit further away, about a 20-minute bus ride from the university. Unfortunately, there are no vacancies available now, but some will be available from next term.”
Answers:
- Type of Accommodation: Shared Flat
- Cost per week: £110
- Distance from University: 20-minute bus ride
- Availability: From next term
Tips for Success
- Practice Regularly: Familiarize yourself with the format and different types of table completion tasks by practicing with past papers and mock tests.
- Improve Your Vocabulary: A wide range of vocabulary is essential for understanding different topics and keywords. Regularly learn new words and practice using them in context.
- Focus on Grammar: Pay attention to articles, prepositions, and plurals as these can affect your answers.
- Check Your Answers: Always double-check your spelling and grammar before transferring your answers to the answer sheet.
Conclusion
Table completion in the IELTS Listening test might seem challenging at first, but consistent practice and the application of these strategies will equip you with the necessary skills to approach these tasks confidently. Remember to carefully analyze the table, listen attentively for key information, and manage your time effectively. With dedication and the right approach, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your desired IELTS score.