How it's scored
One mark per question; in the two-of-five format each correct letter is one mark, in either order.
Strategy & template
- 1Use the preparation time to read the stems and underline what each question is actually asking (a reason, a change, a decision).
- 2Expect all options to be mentioned. Listen for the speaker's final position: but, actually, in the end, having said that.
- 3Do not decide until the speaker moves to the next topic; the correction often comes a sentence later.
- 4In Part 3, track who says what; questions often ask what one of two speakers thinks, and the other speaker's view is a distractor.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Choosing the first option you hear a keyword for.
- Reading the options during the audio and losing the thread.
- In pick-two questions, writing the same letter twice or writing three letters.
Frequently asked questions
Why is IELTS listening multiple choice so hard?
Because the speakers mention every option and often change their minds. The correct answer is the speaker's final position, so you must listen to the end of the exchange before choosing.
Can I write answers in any order for choose-two questions?
Yes. In a two-of-five question each correct letter earns one mark regardless of order.
Practise Listening: Multiple Choice
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