One of the very renowned English language proficiency exams is the IELTS. If you want, you can take the IELTS computer based test (CBT) and on paper option. Many learners choose CBT, and the reason here is a familiarity with the online tools while you prepare. For example, some of you take IELTS practice test reading and for other skills of English. When you rehearse like this, you become aware of how to tackle questions during tests. This is not suitable for all or it is possible to be the best option for students. This doubt resolves when you move and first understand this in brief.
An Overview of IELTS Computer Based Test
As you all know, the IELTS computer based test is not conducted on paper. In this mode, you can go to your exam center and take this exam on the screen. If you need paper and a pen to form answers, you can use them. Also, students who face disability issues or special needs can choose this option.
Both PBT (paper-based test) and CBT (computer-based test) have the same difficulty level in the IELTS. Yet, there are pros and cons to choosing CBT. In the following section, you will learn about it in brief.
Pros of IELTS Computer-based Test
With the above details, you have learned about what is the IELTS computer based test system. Many students choose their exam options without being aware of the pros and cons. It might be possible they have no perfect guidance about exam functions. That is why here, you will learn about the benefits of choosing CBT. For better clarity, move and read further.
Easy Editing
One of the major benefits of choosing this option is easy editing. However, students face issues in organizing answers when they attempt tests on paper. But if you are solving questions on a computer, you will answer them. Especially for the writing section, this is more beneficial.
Automatic Word Count
When students take the IELTS exam, they have to be careful about the word limit. However, if you are giving the test on paper, you will face issues in counting the words and have to waste time. But on a computer, you can see the answer length on the screen, which means you do not need to count it. This will help save time and focus on all questions equally.
Less Crowded & Organized IELTS Centre
This is true every student wants their exam centers well-organized and less crowded. However, you can not deny it. This opportunity you get when choose the test on a computer. Especially candidates who are familiar with taking IELTS practice test reading. The reason is, in this section, you need proper silence and focus to read the long text.
Handwriting Doesn’t Matter
You will not deny that all students do not have good handwriting. In some cases, when you give the paper on paper, the examiner faces issues to check your answers. That is why if your response is correct and not easy to understand by them, you can lose marks. In that case, an IELTS computer based test can be a helpful option for you.
With the above details, you have read about the pros of computer test options in IELTS. Now, it is time to move ahead and learn how some students face issues or cons of choosing this option.
Cons of IELTS Computer-based Test
Not everyone is familiar with the digital tools or computers. Some students still like using a pen and paper to write their answers. By moving ahead, you will get a detailed review of the cons of using CBT.
Note Making & Highlighting Points Is Not Easy
Many students are not good at using computers. However, it sounds good that make notes and highlight points during exams. Well, for everyone, this is not easy. Some candidates prefer using a pen and paper to write important details. But this is not mandatory that every test center will provide you with these things.
Typing Sounds Might Distract You
This is one of the tricky issues that can trigger your mind and distract you. Many students like pin-drop silence when they attempt their exams. It is usual to take online IELTS practice test reading, writing, or listening. But when you sit in the exam hall, the typing sounds might distract you, and you lose focus.
Students May Face Difficulty to Increase Typing Speed
As mentioned above, not everyone is familiar with using a computer to write the answer. Some of you may also not be comfortable with this. The reason may be a lack of practice on the screen. When you do not rehearse online, you face more difficulty in typing the response within time. Sometimes, due to this problem, your spelling may be wrong.
You Will Not Get Extra Time to Transfer Your Answer
You must have an idea that when you appear for the paper-based test, you get extra time to transfer the answer in some sections. For example, in the listening segment, candidates receive 10 minutes extra, along with 30 to complete all the questions. But when you choose a computer-based test, you will only have 30 minutes to do it.
Conclusion
To conclude, with the above details, you have learned a lot about the IELTS computer-based test. Many students have different abilities to take the exams. Some of you are familiar with appearing online, and a few like using offline. However, it depends on you which option you find suitable. As you read, a computer test saves time, and often this is helpful for you. If you explore the IELTS writing mock test online, you will become more familiar with the CBT. Along with this, you can choose reading, listening, and speaking sample tests to improve your overall skills.
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