What Are the Best Books for Preparing for the IELTS Test?

Date of the last update: 11.03.2025

Discover which IELTS preparation books are worth your attention!

Are you planning to take the IELTS test but feel overwhelmed by the vast selection of study materials available on the market?

Our experts at the Lang LTC Online School have prepared a list of the best books for IELTS preparation. These books contain sample IELTS test tasks and are the primary resources we use in our IELTS preparation courses at Lang LTC.

podrczniki do IELTS

Discover the Best IELTS Test Preparation Books

IELTS Trainer

Published by Cambridge University Press

This book is the perfect choice for candidates who are just starting their IELTS journey.

It features “step-by-step” test explanations. The authors have included six full tests, breaking down the different task types and providing detailed information about the format alongside supplementary exercises.

The book builds confidence as students follow its guidance, completing additional exercises and typical exam tasks in the first two tests.

With this resource, learners will master test techniques across all four skills: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking.

Test Sets

Published by Cambridge English

These are authentic tests from Cambridge Assessment English, offering excellent practice because they are EXACTLY like the real exam.

The “IELTS 17 Academic” set, complete with answers and audio, includes FOUR full tests along with details on the test sections and scoring system. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the IELTS format and practice exam techniques. The book also contains answers, audio transcripts, sample writing responses, and QR codes for easy access to audio.

Moreover, our lecturers use individual materials from other textbooks, such as

Expert IELTS

Published by Pearson

This book provides students with comprehensive preparation for all parts of the exam. It helps achieve better scores and develop key skills needed for job applications, university admissions, or visa applications.

The book is divided into several sections:

  1. Test Training – focuses on introducing test structures and developing language skills.
  2. Test Practice – provides students with opportunities to test their knowledge through exam exercises.
  3. Task Analysis, Assess, and Improve – helps students identify strengths and areas for improvement.
  4. Expert Reference Section – includes exam strategies, assessment criteria, authentic recordings of the speaking test with response analysis, and model writing responses with tips to achieve the best score.

Mindset for IELTS

Published by Cambridge University Press

This book enhances students’ language skills, leaving them fully prepared for test day. Its unique combination of printed materials and online content allows you to customize the course length according to your needs. The thematic units cover each of the four skills in turn, making it easy to focus on specific areas.

Each level includes learning strategies, skill-building exercises, and exam practice designed to help students achieve their target scores. Online skill modules provide additional practice, while Corpus information modules help learners avoid common mistakes.

These books are excellent for both self-study and working with a teacher. They include sample test tasks, exam techniques, and scoring criteria.

We encourage you to explore our IELTS preparation courses to enhance your learning experience and achieve your desired score!