How to Ace the IELTS Listening Gap-Fill Questions (With Free Worksheet and Audio!)

Henry Fadl

2 weeks ago

A student sitting for IELTS listening examination.

Introduction

Are you aiming for a Band 8 or higher on the IELTS Listening exam? One of the most challenging parts of the test is Section 1, where you need to complete notes using ONE WORD AND/OR A NUMBER. But don’t worry! This guide will walk you through the best strategies to master this question type and improve your listening skills. Plus, we’ve created a free worksheet based on real IELTS exam tasks and an audio file on our YouTube channel to help you practice effectively.

Why Gap-Fill Questions Matter in IELTS Listening
Gap-fill tasks test your ability to:

Catch specific details like names, numbers, and dates.
Understand context to predict answers.
Spell words correctly under pressure.
In Section 1, you’ll hear a conversation, often in a workplace or everyday setting, with straightforward language. The challenge lies in listening attentively and identifying the correct word or number to complete the notes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Excel in IELTS Listening Gap-Fill

1. Read the Instructions Carefully

Before the audio starts, pay close attention to the instructions. If it says “ONE WORD AND/OR A NUMBER,” don’t write more than this! Writing extra words could cost you marks.

2. Skim the Notes for Context

Use the 30 seconds provided before the audio begins to:

Look at the blanks and think about the type of information needed (e.g., a name, number, or job title).
Underline keywords around each blank to understand the context.
Example:
“497, Eastside, Docklands Becky…___. 1”
Here, you should expect a name after “Becky.”

3. Listen Actively

Focus on synonyms or paraphrased information. For example, if the notes say “time to contact,” the speaker might use “call her in the morning.”
Be aware of distractors. The speaker may correct themselves, so stay alert for the final answer.

4. Write Clearly and Check Your Spelling

Ensure your answer fits grammatically into the sentence.
Spelling mistakes or missing capitalization for proper nouns (e.g., Becky) will result in a loss of marks.

5. Practice, Practice, Practice!

The more you practice, the better your listening skills will become. Use authentic resources, like our worksheet and audio, to simulate the real test experience.

Free IELTS Listening Worksheet
Download our free worksheet for TEST 5, featuring a real exam-like task and follow along with the audio available on our YouTube channel. This activity is designed to boost your confidence and help you tackle Section 1 with ease.