What to focus on
Identify whether remaining losses come from difficult distractors, spelling, attention or one specific question type.
IELTS search guide
IELTS Listening 35 out of 40: protect a high score
When only five marks are lost, detailed review is more valuable than simply doing more easy tests.
Quick answer
Identify whether remaining losses come from difficult distractors, spelling, attention or one specific question type.
Side-by-side comparison
| Factor | Option / result A | Option / result B |
|---|---|---|
| Raw score | 35/40 | 87.5% |
| Lost marks | 5 | High-value review |
| Focus | Precision | Avoid easy slips |
| Next | Challenge + mock | Consistency |
Use practice evidence
Use recent attempts to identify the exact skill or task type causing repeated losses, then retest after focused practice.
Build a measurable loop
Diagnostic → targeted practice → timed retest → review is more useful than repeating full tests without analysing mistakes.
Related practice
Turn this guide into practice instead of stopping at the article.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do first?
Start with your weakest skill or most repeated error pattern.
How should I measure improvement?
Compare accuracy, band estimates and repeated error types across timed attempts.
Official-source check
Verify the latest IRCC language-test page before booking or submitting an immigration application.
Check IRCC language-test requirements