Test technique - listening strategies

This is really practical and effective stuff.

Know it and use it is my advice.

1. Be completely familiar with the test format and directions. Study and practice are key.
   
2. Don't waste time reading the directions. You should already know them. Begin the questions immediately.
   
3. Don't worry if some of the content is unfamiliar. You'll still be able to answer all questions.
   
4. You will hear the passages one time only during the test, so focus and listen carefully.
   
5. Visual cues such as photos or pictures can help you understand the passages. Use them.
   
6. Take careful notes. Focus on the main points and key supporting material. Avoid writing down too many unnecessary details.
   
7. Determine the question type and use appropriate strategies.
   
   • For gist questions, listen carefully to the beginning of the passage to develop an initial idea about the gist of the passage. Then, confirm or adjust your understanding as you listen.
   
   • For detail questions, listen carefully to the details in the passage and find the best answer.
   
   • For function questions, listen carefully to what the speaker says in the part of the passage that is repeated. Then draw a conclusion about the speaker's reasons.
   
   • For stance questions, listen carefully to what the speaker says in the part of the passage that is repeated. Then draw a conclusion about the speaker's feelings.
   
   • For organization questions, listen carefully to each of the points and consider how they are organized. Then look for the best answer.
   
   • For relationship questions, listen carefully to each of the points in the passage and consider how these points might be related. Then look for the best answer.
   
8. If the answers are not so clear-cut, then choose the best answer.
   
9. Think carefully about a question before you answer it. You cannot return to a question later in the test. You have only one opportunity.
   
10. Do not spend too much time on a question you are unsure of. If you truly do not know the answer to a question, simply guess and go on.
    
11. Be aware of time. Use the timer at the top of the screen.
    
12. Be sure to complete all of the questions, even if you have to guess.
    

Listening is a very energy consuming exercise. Taking notes really helps you conserve your energy for concentration and selection rather than memory. It also takes away the doubts that arise when we try to do listening by memory only.
It's also very important to remember that all passages are real communication. Refer to your common sense, your knowledge of the world, and your instinct and emotions to help you give better answers.

Dave