4 tips for making a confident start on the listening test

One of the first questions you will typically get at the beginning of the listening test requires you to write down a name or phone number that is spelled out for you. It should be one of the easiest questions on the test. But if you miss it, or doubt that you got it right, it will affect your confidence. You will probably be feeling anxious enough already. No need to increase your anxiety by messing up one of the easiest questions on the test.

So make sure you get it right. Here are a few tips to help you.

(1) Concentrate and be ready to write the answer when you hear it. It will only be mentioned once. Listen for signpost sentences such as "Can you spell that for me, please"

(2) The answer may be involve a name that does not follow conventional phonics rules. For example, the name Gough (/gof/) doesn't contain the letter f, even though contains the /f/ sound. Similarly, names may contain silent letters, e.g., Thompson (silent 'h' and silent 'p') or Clarkeson (silent 'e'). So don't write down name you hear. Write down the letters.

(3) Be aware that sometimes the letters and numbers are mentioned rather quickly. For practice, download this free software: Spell It Out Loud

When you run the program, you will hear random letters of the alphabet spoken. Your task is to press the appropriate key on your keyboard. It's good practice, but once you're confident that you can get every letter you hear right, it's time to move on. No need to spend too long.

(4) Be aware that there are two common ways to say the letter Z. 'zed' (UK) and 'zee' (US). And be aware of any differences between the standard British and American pronunciations and they way they are pronounced in your own language. For example, the letter G is often pronounced "Ju" in Chinese, but it is never pronounced that way by native speakers.