How to prepare effectively for the IELTS in 30 days? Study plan

Date of the last update: 30.10.2025

Spending 30 days preparing for the IELTS exam is an ambitious but achievable goal – especially for learners at a B2 level or close to a band score of 6.0. The key to success is consistency, intensity, and a smart strategy. We’ve prepared an integrated 4-week study plan that also includes tips on tracking your progress and recommended learning resources.

Table of contents:

1. IELTS in 30 days – study assumptions and goals
2. Weekly IELTS study plan – Integrated schedule
3. Recommended IELTS study materials
4. Summary

You can read this article in 4 minutes.

IELTS in 30 Days – Study assumptions and goals

• Starting level: B2 (band score 6.0 or higher)
• Daily study time: 4–6 hours (intensive plan), around 2 hours (moderate plan)
• Duration: 30 days
• Goal: Increase band score by 0.5–1.0+, build exam strategies, understand task types, and improve time management
• Focus: All four IELTS sections (Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking), with emphasis on weaker areas

Weekly IELTS study plan – Integrated schedule

Week 1: Building the foundation

Goal: Understand the test format, assess your level, and establish a knowledge base

• Take a full IELTS mock test – simulate real test conditions and analyze your results
• Daily practice: 1 Reading + 1 Listening section
• Vocabulary: Learn 5–10 new words daily (flashcards, apps, context usage)
• Grammar revision – tenses, sentence structures
• Media immersion: podcasts, TED Talks, shows with English subtitles

Week 2: Skill development

• Rotate practice: Each day focus on a different component (Reading, Writing, Speaking, or Listening)
• Start practicing Writing Task 1 and Task 2
• Speaking: Record your answers, work with cue cards
• Error analysis: Identify common mistakes and weak spots

Week 3: Exam conditions

• Every 2–3 days: full IELTS test under timed conditions
• Focus on exam strategies: skimming, scanning, paraphrasing
• Time-limited writing practice
• Keep an error log for regular review
• Practice speaking with a partner or AI

Week 4: Polishing & review

• Take 2 full mock tests under realistic exam conditions
• Practice Speaking – focus on fluency and coherence
• Writing: work on argumentation, paraphrasing, and linkers
• Revise topic-based vocabulary
• Last 2 days: rest and mental preparation

Tracking your IELTS study progress

1. Take mock tests and analyze your results and mistakes
2. Keep an error log – note your errors and correct versions
3. Weekend self-assessment: Speaking (recordings), Writing (essays), Reading/Listening (timing + accuracy)
4. Key progress indicators: rising scores, faster task completion, fewer mistakes, more confidence

Recommended IELTS study materials

When preparing for the IELTS exam, it’s crucial to use reliable materials that help develop all four language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

1. Mock tests – Sample test tasks with answer keys are essential for familiarizing yourself with the exam format.
2. IELTS Pre-Testing – At Lang LTC, you can take a free IELTS mock exam under near-authentic test conditions, and your work is assessed by certified examiners.
3. Study books – There are many IELTS prep books available on the market; check out our list of recommended titles to guide your study.
4. IELTS Express Course – If you’re short on time or need expert guidance, you can join our fast-track online IELTS course.
5. IDP IELTS App – A free official IELTS study app developed by IDP Australia, one of the co-owners of the exam.

Summary

Preparing for the IELTS in 30 days requires discipline, structure, and flexibility. An integrated study plan, use of AI-powered tools, consistent daily practice, and regular error analysis are key components of success. No matter your starting point, with the right approach, you can improve your score and confidently face exam day.